In the realm of renewable energy, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are increasingly powering homes and businesses. However, when improperly installed or commissioned, they present substantial safety hazards. It is imperative that a licensed electrician handles the installation of a BESS.
Understanding Battery Energy Storage Systems:BESS, colloquially known as batteries, store renewable energy from sources like solar and wind for later use. Diverse in types, sizes, and technologies, they play a pivotal role in enhancing the reliability of renewable energy. These systems, at times, contribute excess power to the main grid.
Risks Associated with BESS:Incorrectly installed or commissioned BESS can result in various safety hazards:
- Electric Shock:
- Battery cells, when interconnected, can deliver a severe electrical shock.
- Components such as energy regulators and inverters may have hazardous voltage parts.
- Fire and Explosion:
- Lead-acid batteries may generate explosive gases during charging, requiring proper ventilation.
- Lithium-ion batteries can produce flammable gases in case of faults.
- Excessive temperatures, component failure, or loose connections may lead to fire and explosions.
- Flash Burns:
- Short circuits or faults in batteries with higher energy storage capacities can cause arc flashes with temperatures capable of causing severe injuries or fires.
- Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals:
- Damaged or degraded battery casings may leak electrolyte, resulting in toxic fumes, burns, corrosion, or explosions.
Managing Risks:
For Workers:
- Adhere to safe work practices.
- Perform only tasks for which you are licensed and competent.
- Prioritize your safety and that of others.
- Cooperate with management to meet health and safety requirements.
For Businesses (PCBUs):
- Comply with the Electrical Safety Act 2002 and Work Health and Safety Act 2011.
- Follow a four-step risk management process.
Four Steps to Manage Risk:
Step 1: Identify the Risk:
- Evaluate battery technology appropriateness.
- Ensure proper installation according to guidelines.
- Consider potential overheating or overcharging.
- Assess management of accidental chemical spills.
Step 2: Assess the Risk:
- Use the risk assessment template to evaluate potential harm and likelihood.
Step 3: Control the Risk:
- Work through the hierarchy of controls.
- Choose control measures that effectively eliminate or minimize risks.
- Refer to applicable codes of practice.
Step 4: Review Risk Controls:
- Regularly review control measures to maintain a safe work environment.
- Make adjustments in response to identified issues or changes.
By fostering collaboration between workers and management and adhering to established safety measures, the risks associated with BESS can be effectively managed.
Standards and compliance
Other relevant standards include:
AS 1319 | Safety signs for the occupational environment |
AS 1530.4 | Methods for fire tests on building materials, components and structures - Fire-resistance test of elements of construction |
AS 3011.2 | Electrical installations - Secondary batteries installed in buildings - Sealed cells |
AS/NZS 4509.1 | Stand Alone Power Systems - Installation |
AS 4086.2 | Secondary batteries for use with stand-alone power systems - Installation and maintenance |
AS/NZS 3000 | Electrical installations (known as the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules) |
AS/NZS 5033 | Installation and safety requirements for photovoltaic (PV) arrays |
AS/NZS 4777.1 | Grid connection of energy systems via inverters - Installation requirements |
AS/NZS 4777.2 | Grid connection of energy systems via inverters - Inverter requirements |
AS 62040.1.1 | Uninterruptible power systems (UPS) - General and safety requirements for UPS used in operator access areas |
AS 62040.1.2 | Uninterruptible power systems (UPS) - General and safety requirements for UPS used in restricted access locations |
AS/NZS 60529 | Degrees of Protection Provided by Enclosures (IP Code) |
AS/NZS 60898.2 | Circuit-breakers for overcurrent protection for household and similar installations - Circuit-breakers for AC and DC operation |
AS/NZS 60947.3 | Low-voltage switchgear and control gear - Switches, disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and fuse-combination units |
AS/NZS 60950.1 | Information technology equipment - Safety - General requirements |
IEC 62109-1 Ed. 1.0 (English 2010) | Safety of power converters for use in photovoltaic power systems - Part 1: General requirements |
IEC 62109-2 Ed. 1.0 (Bilingual 2011) | Safety of power converters for use in photovoltaic power systems - Part 2: Particular requirements for inverters |
Codes of practice