On this page, Washington residents and community members can learn about emerging energy systems, find safety information, and understand what to do in an emergency.
Understanding energy safety
Here are some plain-language answers to the questions we hear most often about battery energy storage systems (BESS) in your community.
Q: What is a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)?
A: A BESS stores energy for later use, improving grid reliability and supporting renewable energy. A BESS helps to provide consistent power flow, especially during high demand periods.
Q: Are BESS installations safe?
A: Safety standards and monitoring systems have improved over the years. Properly designed and maintained systems have reduced the frequency of incidents and reduced risks.
Q: What causes battery fires?
A: Most incidents result from thermal runaway due to overheating from a poorly designed battery management system, physical damage or manufacturing defects. In Washington state, batteries must be certified under UL 9540, a testing standard that seeks to make batteries safer.
Q: What is thermal runaway?
A: A thermal runaway occurs when a battery cell short-circuits and heats uncontrollably. As heat spreads between cells in a module, it can start a chain reaction where the batteries keep generating heat from the chemical reaction.
Q: What should I do if I suspect a battery hazard?
A: Stay clear of the area, call 911, and report any smoke, odor or unusual heat.
Q: What can the Energy Safety Program do for my community when it is considering BESS or other energy storage systems?
A: The Energy Safety Program can provide technical assistance in the form of best practices, current standards, and meetings with local planners to discuss any questions or concerns. For more information, please contact our office.
Three safety tips for residents
- Don’t attempt to extinguish a battery fire yourself.
- Report any unusual signs immediately to emergency services.
- In case of an on-site emergency, contact your local emergency services by dialing 911.