The Evolution of Energy Storage Systems

As the world increasingly embraces renewable energy sources and endeavors for sustainability, the significance of Energy Storage Systems (ESS) has grown exponentially. ESS plays a vital role in balancing energy supply and demand, improving grid stability, and ensuring uninterrupted power delivery. In this blog, we delve into the captivating history and development of ESS, alongside the parallel advancements in safety testing.

ANCIENT ORIGINS

Our narrative commences over 2,200 years ago in Baghdad, Iraq, where it's believed the earliest battery was conceived. A rudimentary clay pot, approximately 6 inches tall, housed a copper foil-wrapped tube submerged in grapefruit juice or vinegar. When connected to an iron rod, this primitive battery produced a low-intensity current—a rudimentary form of energy storage.

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN

Fast forward to the 18th century, Benjamin Franklin coined the term "battery" to describe arrays of charged glass plates. Luigi Galvani's studies on nerve impulses laid the groundwork for inventors like Alessandro Volta, who developed the first genuine batteries. Though these early batteries were far from today's sophisticated systems, they initiated our journey into energy storage.

FROM LEAD-ACID TO LITHIUM-ION: BATTERY EVOLUTION

The 20th century witnessed remarkable advancements in battery technology. Lead-acid batteries powered initial electrical systems, followed by rechargeable variants. However, it was the emergence of lithium-ion batteries that revolutionized energy storage. Initially employed in consumer electronics, these compact powerhouses quickly found applications in larger-scale systems, including electric vehicles and grid storage.

ENERGY STORAGE SAFETY: A CRITICAL FOCUS

Yet, as ESS technologies advanced, so did safety concerns. Lithium-ion batteries, initially deployed without comprehensive safety understanding, led to notable incidents in consumer electronics. Simultaneously, their potential for large battery systems became evident. Safety incidents like the 2013 Storage Battery Fire at The Landing Mall in Port Angeles highlighted the necessity for robust safety measures.

PROGRESS IN SAFETY TESTING

Safety testing for ESS has become paramount. Areas of focus for engineers and compliance managers now include:

• Electrical, Thermal, and Mechanical Abuse Testing: Ensuring batteries can endure extreme conditions.
• Failure Propagation Testing: Understanding how failures disseminate within batteries and systems.
• Suppressants and Delivery Systems: Developing effective fire suppressants.
• Large-Scale Thermal and Fire Testing: Simulating real-world scenarios.

STANDARDS AND CERTIFICATION

Numerous standards guide the safety assessment of ESS, including but not limited to:

• UL 9540, UL9540A
• NFPA 1, NFPA 70, and NFPA 855
• IEC 62619
• UL1642, UL1973, IEC 62933
• UL1741, IEC 62109-01

THE PATH FORWARD: NOVEL TECHNOLOGIES AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

As we embrace new energy storage technologies—such as advanced aqueous batteries—safety research must keep pace. Grid-scale systems, with their complexity and power electronics, demand thorough testing. Stakeholder input, subject matter expertise, and full-scale testing are vital to ensure safe adoption and informed risk management.

In conclusion, the evolution of ESS mirrors our pursuit of sustainable energy. Let's continue this journey as manufacturers, engineers, and product managers, prioritizing safety and innovation equally.