Can energy storage systems be installed in certain areas?

Energy storage systems can pose a potential fire risk and therefore shouldn’t be installed in certain areas of the home. NFPA 855 only permits residential ESS to be installed in the following areas:

Who should use this energy storage guide?

This guide is designed specifically for homeowners with single-family or two-family homes interested in installing energy storage systems.

What is an energy storage system?

An energy storage system is something that can store energy so that it can be used later as electrical energy. The most popular type of ESS is a battery system and the most common battery system is lithium-ion battery.

What are the benefits of a home battery storage system?

Home battery storage systems offer resilience and additional energy savings, especially when paired with solar. They can help you weather a blackout, avoid expensive grid electricity, and let you use power from your solar panels, even after the sun goes down.

How many kilowatt-hours can a solar system store?

Systems in these locations are also limited to 40 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of storage capacity. In all other locations noted above, the size limit is 80 kWh. On the exterior walls of the home, it’s important to note that systems cannot go within 3 feet of doors or windows leading directly into the home.

How many batteries can be installed in a house?

You can install a maximum of 80 kWh of batteries on exterior walls of the home, and a maximum of 80 kW of batteries inside of a detached structure. If batteries are installed, either inside the home or in an attached garage, a smoke detector must be installed in the room or closet where the batteries are being installed.