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Battery Energy Storage Systems

Powering the Future — Safely

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As the global demand for renewable energy and grid resilience grows, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) have become essential infrastructure for managing power generation, stability, and reliability. However, these innovative technologies bring unique fire protection and life safety challenges. Engineering Fire Protection (EFP) provides industry-leading expertise in the design, analysis, and risk management of BESS facilities, ensuring safety, compliance, and operational continuity from concept to commissioning.

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Understanding the Challenges of BESS Fire Protection

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Unlike traditional facilities, BESS projects require specialized technical understanding due to their unique combination of electrical, chemical, and thermal hazards. The evolving nature of lithium-ion battery technology and varying configurations—ranging from containerized systems to large-scale energy farms—demands a holistic, code-driven approach.

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EFP’s specialists recognize the key challenges of BESS fire protection, including:

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  • Thermal runaway risk and cascading fire propagation control

  • Coordination with local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) to interpret emerging codes and standards

  • Integration of fire alarm, suppression, and ventilation systems with battery management and monitoring controls

  • Navigating evolving codes and standards, such as NFPA 855, UL 9540, UL 9540A, and IFC Chapter 12

  • Site-specific hazard mitigation for indoor, outdoor, or hybrid BESS installations

  • Emergency response coordination and pre-incident planning with fire departments and facility operators

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Our team combines technical excellence with deep regulatory experience to help clients achieve safe, compliant, and cost-effective BESS deployments.

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Our BESS Services

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EFP provides comprehensive consulting and design services tailored for the unique demands of BESS facilities, from initial concept through commissioning and operation.

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Consulting Services

  • Hazard Mitigation Analysis (HMA) per NFPA 855 and UL 9540A

  • Emergency Response and Preparedness Planning

  • Due Diligence and Risk Assessments for new and existing systems

  • Thermal Runaway Modeling and Fire Growth Simulations

  • Coordination with AHJ and Stakeholder Facilitation

  • Incident Investigation and Post-Event Forensics

  • Site and Layout Optimization for Fire Safety and Accessibility

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Design Services

  • Fire Alarm and Fire Protection System Design

  • Special Hazard Suppression Systems (clean agent, water mist, aerosol, and hybrid technologies)

  • Detection and Ventilation Integration Design

  • Explosion Venting and Pressure Relief Design

  • Smoke Management and Containment Engineering

  • Acceptance Testing, Commissioning, and Third-Party Review

  • Code Compliance and Value Engineering Reviews
     

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