Energy storage system fire emergency response

What should first responders know about energy storage systems?

This document provides guidance to first responders for incidents involving energy storage systems (ESS). The guidance is specific to ESS with lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, but some elements may apply to other technologies also. Hazards addressed include fire, explosion, arc flash, shock, and toxic chemicals.

What should first responders know about ESS systems?

Each manufacturer has specific response guidelines that should be made available to first responders prior to activation. ESS systems come in many shapes and sizes. They may be affiliated with renewable systems (wind, photovoltaic systems, etc) or used as standby power.

Do I need NFPA 855 for a stationary energy storage system?

For this reason, we strongly recommend applying the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 855 Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems along with guidance from the NFCC Grid Scale Battery Energy Storage System Planning. Further information can be found in the NFCC BESS Planning Guidance Document.

How many Arizona fire fighters were injured responding to an ESS fire?

In 2019, four Arizona fire fighters were seriously injured responding to a fire where trapped gases from an ESS exploded. The IAFF and UL Solutions, funded through a Department of Energy grant, began researching residential ESS fire incidents to provide fire fighters data and tactical considerations for effective response.

What does NFCC ESS stand for?

(National Fire Chiefs Council) NFCC advise as best practice, safety measures and risk mitigation, to be developed in collaboration with your local FRS. TWFRS recognises the use of batteries (including lithium-ion) as Energy Storage Systems (ESS) is a new and emerging practice in the global renewable energy sector.

What is an ESS system?

ESS systems come in many shapes and sizes. They may be affiliated with renewable systems (wind, photovoltaic systems, etc) or used as standby power. ESS Systems can be installed in single family homes too large commercial and utility applications.