What is an energy storage system?

Powering the Future: Safeguarding Today with Energy Storage Systems According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an energy storage system (ESS), is a device or group of devices assembled together, capable of storing energy in order to supply electrical energy at a later time.

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.

What is a battery energy storage system?

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) stabilize the electrical grid, ensuring a steady flow of power to homes and businesses regardless of fluctuations from varied energy sources or other disruptions. However, fires at some BESS installations have caused concern in communities considering BESS as a method to support their grids.

Why do we need energy storage systems?

Growing concerns about the use of fossil fuels and greater demand for a cleaner, more eficient, and more resilient energy grid has led to the use of energy storage systems (ESS), and that use has increased substantially over the past decade.

When was a battery energy storage systems fire safety symposium held?

We hosted a Battery Energy Storage Systems Fire Safety Symposium on July 24, 2025, at the California Natural Resources Agency in Sacramento, CA. - Updates on state initiatives to local fire departments and officials. Watch the Recording

How do ESS fire protection systems work?

These layers of protection help prevent damage to the system but can also block water from accessing the seat of the fire. This means that it takes large amounts of water to efectively dissipate the heat generated from ESS fires since cooling the hottest part of the fire is often dificult.