Technical Guidelines for Building Energy Storage Systems

What are the fire and building codes for energy storage systems?

However, many designers and installers, especially those new to energy storage systems, are unfamiliar with the fire and building codes pertaining to battery installations. Another code-making body is the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Some states adopt the NFPA 1 Fire Code rather than the IFC.

Why do we need a standard protocol for energy storage?

Standard protocols are needed for testing and comparing TES systems to each other as well as comparing TES to other types of energy storage. Wide variation in building codes can be a barrier to new technology implementation. Codes and standards will need to be updated, or new ones developed, to capture TES.

Do energy storage systems need a CSR?

Until existing model codes and standards are updated or new ones developed and then adopted, one seeking to deploy energy storage technologies or needing to verify an installation’s safety may be challenged in applying current CSRs to an energy storage system (ESS).

What is energy storage system installation review and approval?

4.0 Energy Storage System Installation Review and Approval The purpose of this chapter is to provide a high-level overview of what is involved in documenting or validating the safety of an ESS as installed in, on, or adjacent to buildings or facilities.

Are energy storage systems safe for commercial buildings?

For all of the technologies listed, as long as appropriate high voltage safety procedures are followed, energy storage systems can be a safe source of power in commercial buildings. For more information on specific technologies, please see the DOE/EPRI Electricity Storage Handbook available at: TABLE 1. COMMON COMMERCIAL TECHNOLOGIES

What are the goals of the energy storage safety workshop?

The goals of the workshop were to: 1) bring together all of the key stakeholders in the energy storage community, 2) share knowledge on safety validation, commissioning, and operations, and 3) identify the current gaps in understanding, managing, standardizing and validating safety in energy storage systems.