What is a battery cabinet?

A battery cabinet is a particular type of storage cabinet that reduces the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. These innovative cabinets create a safer environment in which workplaces can charge and store their li-ion cells.

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.

Should batteries be used for domestic energy storage?

The application of batteries for domestic energy storage is not only an attractive ‘clean’ option to grid supplied electrical energy, but is on the verge of offering economic advantages to consumers, through maximising the use of renewable generation or by 3rd parties using the battery to provide grid services.

How many nickel manganese cobalt lithium-ion batteries were stored at Gateway?

The facility held about 15,000 nickel manganese cobalt lithium-ion batteries. Following the incident, EPA has required the Gateway facility to conduct extensive environmental monitoring during battery handling and disposal operations and submit detailed work plans and progress reports.

Are lithium battery fires a safety concern?

While BESS technology is designed to bolster grid reliability, lithium battery fires at some installations have raised legitimate safety concerns in many communities. BESS incidents can present unique challenges for host communities and first responders:

What happened at Gateway energy storage facility?

On May 15, 2024, Gateway Energy Storage Facility in San Diego, California, experienced a BESS fire with continued flare-ups for seven days following the fire. The facility held about 15,000 nickel manganese cobalt lithium-ion batteries.