What's new in energy storage safety?

Since the publication of the first Energy Storage Safety Strategic Plan in 2014, there have been introductions of new technologies, new use cases, and new codes, standards, regulations, and testing methods. Additionally, failures in deployed energy storage systems (ESS) have led to new emergency response best practices.

What are the three pillars of energy storage safety?

A framework is provided for evaluating issues in emerging electrochemical energy storage technologies. The report concludes with the identification of priorities for advancement of the three pillars of energy storage safety: 1) science-based safety validation, 2) incident preparedness and response, 3) codes and standards.

Can energy storage systems be scaled up?

The energy storage system can be scaled up by adding more flywheels. Flywheels are not generally attractive for large-scale grid support services that require many kWh or MWh of energy storage because of the cost, safety, and space requirements. The most prominent safety issue in flywheels is failure of the rotor while it is rotating.

What are the gaps in energy storage safety assessments?

One gap in current safety assessments is that validation tests are performed on new products under laboratory conditions, and do not reflect changes that can occur in service or as the product ages. Figure 4. Increasing safety certainty earlier in the energy storage development cycle. 8. Summary of Gaps

What are the different types of energy storage?

Batteries are currently the most common form of new energy storage deployed because they are modular and scalable across diverse applications and geographic locations. This section covers Li-ion, lead acid, flow, Zn-based, and high temperature batteries. Li-ion and lead acid batteries are considered commercially mature technologies.

What are the safety concerns with thermal energy storage?

The main safety concerns with thermal energy storage are all heat-related. Good thermal insulation is needed to reduce heat losses as well as to prevent burns and other heat-related injuries. Molten salt storage requires consideration of the toxicity of the materials and difficulty of handling corrosive fluids.