Battery Energy Storage Systems
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. Battery ESS are the most common type of new installation.
2nd Annual Battery Engergy Storage Systems (BESS) Safety Symposium
August 20, 2026 – Orange County, CA
Building on last year’s success, the Office of the State Fire Marshal will host this year’s symposium in conjunction with the NASFM Conference. Join fire service leaders, code officials, and industry experts as they share insights and best practices in the rapidly evolving BESS landscape.
Learn More
Energy Storage Systems Webinar
Navigating Fire Safety in a Battery-Powered World
| Organization | Resource | Date Shared |
| Fire Safety Research Institute | Online Training Available: The Science of Fire and Explosion Hazards from Lithium-Ion Batteries | 2/7/2025 |
| Fire Safety Research Institute | New online training - Fire Service Considerations with Lithium-Ion Battery ESS | 2/7/2025 |
| Fire Safety Research Institute | Firefighter Safety and Photovoltaic Systems | 2/7/2025 |
| Texas A&M Engineering | TEEX Launches Resources and Training for First Responders on Electric Vehicle and Energy Storage System Emergencies | 2/10/2025 |
Residential
- Limited to ≤ 20kWh unit size.
- Specific code language for detached one- and two-family dwellings.
Commercial
- Retail and manufacturing facilities, etc.
- Limited to 600 kWh unit size.
Utility
- Front-of-meter installations under exclusive control of the operating utility.
- Be familiar with potential hazards relevant to the type of energy storage systems being inspected.
- Procure and be prepared to use the appropriate personal protection equipment.
- Review and print out/download relevant technical documents.
- Understand what aspects of the energy storage systems need to be reviewed.
- Have a Safety meeting prior to entering the site.
- General inspection of the overall site.
- Inspection of the energy storage systems equipment (Exterior and Interior).
- Commission plan.
- Emergency operation plan.
- Fire and explosion control summary.
- Signage.
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