Are We Playing with Fire? Concerns About Battery Storage Risks

This article explores the growing concerns and implications surrounding battery energy storage systems (BESS) in urban areas, particularly in New York City's Staten Island. City councillor Robert Holden warns of the dangers posed by these installations, especially their potential fire hazards, while highlighting the need for more renewable energy storage solutions. As demand for renewable energy rises, so does the urgency for effective and safe storage technologies.

Last updated: 25 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• BESS installations are vital for enhancing renewable energy storage, yet they pose significant fire risks.
• Recent fires at BESS facilities have raised concerns over safety and regulation.
• Experts advocate for unified safety standards across the European Union and beyond.
• Alternative energy storage technologies exist but are considered niche compared to BESS.
• Community engagement and safety measures are essential as these facilities proliferate.

Understanding Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are large-scale facilities designed to store electrical energy using advanced battery technologies, predominantly lithium-ion batteries. These systems play a crucial role in stabilising the grid, particularly as the share of renewable energy sources like solar and wind continues to grow. By storing excess energy generated during peak production times, BESS allows for electricity to be dispatched when demand surges, particularly in the evening when households switch on their lights.

Why BESS is Crucial for Renewable Energy

The transition to net-zero emissions by 2030 necessitates a significant increase in renewable energy production. According to industry insights, Europe installed 1.9 gigawatt-hours of battery capacity in 2022, enough to power approximately 4,000 homes. However, this figure must rise dramatically to meet the increasing energy demands and the growing reliance on intermittent renewable sources. Experts like Driese Acke, the deputy chief executive of SolarPower Europe, advocate for a tenfold increase in battery deployments within the EU by 2030.

The Dangers of BESS Facilities

Fire Risks and Recent Incidents

Despite their importance in energy storage, BESS facilities have raised alarm bells due to their vulnerability to fires. A notable incident occurred in February 2023 when a BESS facility in Essex caught fire, taking nearly 24 hours to extinguish. Similarly, a fire at a large BESS plant in California resulted in the evacuation of 1,500 residents. Such incidents highlight the potential dangers associated with BESS installations, particularly thermal runaway, a phenomenon where batteries overheat and lead to fires.

What is Thermal Runaway?

Thermal runaway refers to a chain reaction within a battery that can result in overheating and combustion. This reaction can be triggered by various factors, including manufacturing defects, short circuits, or physical damage. Once initiated, thermal runaway can produce flammable and toxic gases, posing serious risks not only to the facility but also to nearby communities. The spread of fires can be exacerbated if battery cells are not properly shielded or separated within the installations.

Regulatory Challenges and Community Concerns

The Need for Stricter Regulations

Robert Holden's concerns reflect a broader sentiment among community members who feel that their safety is being compromised as BESS facilities are sited near residential areas. The lack of harmonised regulations across the European Union complicates the issue further. Currently, safety standards and guidelines vary significantly between countries, leading to potential inconsistencies in safety practices and emergency responses.

Community Engagement and Safety Measures

Community opposition to BESS installations is growing, particularly in areas like Aberdeenshire, where local residents are voicing concerns about fire risks and potential environmental impacts. Campaigners argue that developers often disregard the needs and safety of nearby residents. In response, companies such as Blackford Renewables insist on their commitment to community engagement and safety, promising to implement advanced fire suppression systems and collaborate with emergency services.

Alternatives to BESS Technology

Exploring Other Energy Storage Methods

While BESS technology dominates the landscape, there are alternative energy storage systems available. These include:

• Cryogenic Storage: This method involves chilling air into liquid form for storage. When the liquid warms up, it expands and can drive turbines to generate electricity.
• Hydropower Systems: Traditional hydroelectric systems release water from higher reservoirs to lower ones, generating energy through turbines.

However, experts like Professor Robert Dryfe highlight that these alternatives are relatively niche compared to widespread BESS technology. The urgency to transition to renewable energy at scale necessitates more robust and efficient energy storage solutions.

Environmental Concerns in Battery Production

The Impact of Mining for Battery Materials

The environmental implications of battery production are significant and cannot be overlooked. The extraction of materials such as cobalt raises humanitarian and ecological concerns, particularly in regions where mining practices are unregulated. Addressing these issues is vital for the widespread adoption of battery technologies, as public sentiment increasingly favours sustainable practices.

Future of Battery Safety

Advancements in Battery Technology

While current battery technologies pose risks, advancements are underway to improve safety. Newer battery systems are being designed with enhanced fire suppression systems and more fire-resistant chemistries, promising to mitigate risks associated with thermal runaway. Greater investment in research and development is essential to ensure that future BESS installations are safer and more efficient.

The Path Forward for BESS

The increasing reliance on renewable energy sources makes large-scale power storage absolutely necessary. As Professor Dryfe asserts, the shift towards renewables means that the construction of reliable power storage solutions is not optional but imperative. The challenge lies in balancing the need for energy storage with community safety and environmental sustainability.

FAQs

What is a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)?

A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a facility that stores electrical energy using battery technology, primarily lithium-ion batteries, to help stabilise the grid and manage energy supply and demand.

What causes fires in BESS facilities?

Fires in BESS facilities can be caused by thermal runaway, which may occur due to short circuits, physical damage, or manufacturing defects, leading to overheating and combustion.

Are there alternatives to BESS technology?

Yes, alternatives to BESS technology include cryogenic storage and traditional hydropower systems, though these methods are less commonly used for large-scale energy storage.

How can community concerns about BESS be addressed?

Community concerns can be addressed through better engagement by developers, implementation of advanced safety measures, and adherence to stricter regulatory standards for BESS installations.

What are the environmental impacts of battery production?

The environmental impacts of battery production include concerns over mining practices for materials like cobalt, which can have negative effects on local ecosystems and communities.