New Energy Storage Safety

Since the publication of the first Energy Storage Safety Strategic Plan in 2014, there have been introductions of new technologies, new use cases, and new codes, standards, regulations, and testing methods. Additionally, failures in deployed energy storage systems (ESS) have led to new emergency response best practices.

Any failure of an energy storage system poses the potential for significant financial loss. At the utility scale, ESSs are most often multi-megawatt-sized systems that consist of thousands or millions of individual Li-ion battery cells.

Energy storage safety gaps identified in 2014 and 2023. Several gap areas were identified for validated safety and reliability, with an emphasis on Li-ion system design and operation but a recognition that significant research is needed to identify the risks of emerging technologies.

Therefore, to maximize the efficiency of new energy storage devices without damaging the equipment, it is important to make full use of sensing systems to accurately monitor important parameters such as voltage, current, temperature, and strain. These are highly related to their states.

Energy storage has emerged as an integral component of a resilient and efficient electric grid, with a diverse array of applications. The widespread deployment of energy storage requires confidence across stakeholder groups (e.g., manufacturers, regulators, insurers, and consumers) in the safety and reliability of the technology.

The main safety concerns with thermal energy storage are all heat-related. Good thermal insulation is needed to reduce heat losses as well as to prevent burns and other heat-related injuries. Molten salt storage requires consideration of the toxicity of the materials and difficulty of handling corrosive fluids.