Requirements for using energy storage batteries

What is a battery energy storage system?

A battery energy storage system (BESS) is an electrochemical device that charges from the grid or a power plant and then discharges that energy to provide electricity or other grid services when needed.

Are battery energy storage systems safe?

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 28, 2025 — Today, the American Clean Power Association (ACP) released a comprehensive framework to ensure the safety of battery energy storage systems (BESS) in every community across the United States, informed by a new assessment of previous fire incidents at BESS facilities.

Who uses battery storage?

Battery storage is a technology that enables power system operators and utilities to store energy for later use.

Are new battery technologies a risk to energy storage systems?

While modern battery technologies, including lithium ion (Li-ion), increase the technical and economic viability of grid energy storage, they also present new or unknown risks to managing the safety of energy storage systems (ESS). This article focuses on the particular challenges presented by newer battery technologies.

What are the IEC requirements for repurposing a battery?

Others by the committee include IEC 63330-1 (general requirements for repurposing of secondary cells, modules, battery packs and battery systems), IEC 62933-4-4 (environmental requirements for battery-based energy storage systems (BESS) with reused batteries) and IEC 62933-5-3 (safety requirements for grid-integrated EES systems).

How can battery storage facilities be regulated?

In addition to working with fire officials and state policymakers to advance safety standards, the industry has developed a framework to help local governments effectively regulate the construction of battery storage facilities.