BESS Fire Protection
Systems
BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM FIRE SAFETY
Engineered to Control Thermal Runaway, Propagation and Vapour-Cloud Risk
Equipro designs application-specific BESS fire protection and fire suppression systems for lithium-ion battery energy storage installations. Our engineered approach combines early detection, significant heat absorption, Cold Fire-enhanced water systems, propagation control, defensive cooling and integrated flammable-vapour management.
THE BESS FIRE PROBLEM
BESS Fire Suppression Is Not Simply a Flame-Control Problem
A lithium-ion battery in thermal runaway can continue generating heat and releasing flammable and toxic gases after visible flames have been suppressed. A credible BESS fire protection strategy must therefore address the underlying thermal event, not only the external fire.
The protection objective is to detect failure early, absorb heat, limit cell-to-cell and module-to-module propagation, manage flammable off-gases, reduce vapour-cloud explosion risk and prevent escalation beyond the BESS unit of origin.
Thermal Runaway
An exothermic battery failure in which heat is generated faster than it can be dissipated, causing rapidly rising cell temperature and continued internal reaction.
Propagation
Heat transfer from a failing cell can trigger neighbouring cells, modules, cabinets or containers, allowing a local event to escalate into a major incident.
Flammable Off-Gassing
Damaged lithium-ion cells can release hydrogen, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds before and during visible fire.
Vapour-Cloud Explosion
Accumulated battery gases may ignite or deflagrate when mixed with air and exposed to an ignition source, creating serious risk to people and infrastructure.
Toxic and Corrosive Emissions
A BESS incident can generate hazardous smoke, toxic gases and corrosive products that affect responders, nearby communities and the environment.
Re-Ignition and Stranded Energy
Damaged cells may remain energised and unstable after visible fire has ended, creating a continuing risk during monitoring, recovery and removal.
THE ENGINEERING PRINCIPLE
Thermal Runaway Requires Significant Heat Absorption
Thermal runaway is driven by internal exothermic reactions. Once initiated, a lithium-ion cell can continue generating heat even after visible flames have been extinguished and external oxygen has been reduced.
A BESS fire protection system must therefore do more than interrupt combustion. It must remove heat quickly enough to reduce cell temperature, limit heat transfer to neighbouring cells and slow or arrest propagation through modules, cabinets and containers.
This is why Equipro prioritises water-based BESS fire suppression systems and Cold Fire-enhanced water technologies. Their purpose is not simply flame knockdown, but rapid thermal control, heat absorption and reduction of the energy driving the event.
Flame suppression is not the same as thermal runaway control.
01
Heat Generation Continues
The internal battery reaction may continue after flames are suppressed, allowing temperatures to rebuild and further cells to fail.
02
Oxygen Reduction Is Insufficient
Removing oxygen may control flaming combustion without stopping the underlying thermal event within the cell.
03
Propagation Is Driven by Heat Transfer
Energy released by a failing cell can transfer into neighbouring cells and modules, creating a cascading thermal event.
04
Cooling Changes the Outcome
Effective heat absorption reduces temperature, limits thermal exposure and improves the prospect of containing the event within the unit of origin.
WHY CONVENTIONAL SYSTEMS FALL SHORT
Flame Suppression Is Not Thermal Runaway Control
Gas suppression systems, clean agents and condensed aerosols can have valid roles in protecting switchgear, inverters, control equipment and other ancillary electrical hazards. They may also suppress visible flaming combustion inside a BESS enclosure. Aerosol and gas suppression systems do not provide the significant heat absorption required to control lithium-ion thermal runaway unless application specific evidence demonstrates otherwise.
However, lithium-ion thermal runaway is driven by internal heat generation and can continue without external oxygen. A system that does not provide significant heat absorption should not be presented as complete BESS thermal runaway protection unless application-specific testing demonstrates propagation control.
NON-COOLING SYSTEMS
Gas, Clean Agent and Aerosol Suppression
Can Suppress Visible Flame
These systems may interrupt flaming combustion within an enclosed space.
Limited Heat Absorption
They do not remove substantial heat from cells undergoing thermal runaway.
Propagation May Continue
The internal battery reaction can continue after flame knockdown, allowing temperatures to rebuild.
Vapour Risk Remains
Flammable battery gases may continue accumulating inside the enclosure after discharge.
HEAT-ABSORBING SYSTEMS
Water Additive Based BESS Fire Protection
Removes Heat
Water-based systems can absorb energy from the battery array and surrounding enclosure.
Reduces Thermal Exposure
Cooling can limit heat transfer to adjacent cells, modules and neighbouring equipment.
Supports Propagation Control
Early application can improve the prospect of containing the event within the unit of origin.
Integrates with Vapour Management
Cooling can be combined with gas monitoring, ventilation, explosion protection and inert-gas flushing.
Equipro evaluates suppression technologies against the complete BESS hazard: heat, propagation, flammable off-gassing, vapour-cloud explosion risk and post-event stability.
A LAYERED PROTECTION STRATEGY
From Early Detection to Safe Recovery
A credible BESS fire protection strategy must address the complete incident lifecycle. Detection, isolation, heat removal, propagation control, Vapour Cloud Explosion (VCE) risk reduction, environmental containment and recovery planning must operate as one integrated system.
The correct sequence depends on the battery chemistry, enclosure design, ventilation, site layout, water availability, neighbouring risks and the intended fire and rescue service response.
01
Early Detection
Identify abnormal temperature, smoke, electrolyte off-gassing or flammable gas before the event develops into sustained thermal runaway.
02
Shutdown and Isolation
Disconnect the affected battery system, isolate electrical energy and transmit clear alarm information to operators and emergency responders.
03
Heat Removal
Apply a water-based medium capable of absorbing sufficient heat to reduce cell temperature and thermal exposure.
04
Propagation Control
Limit the transfer of heat and fire between cells, modules, cabinets, containers and adjacent infrastructure.
05
VCE Risk Reduction
Detect, dilute, vent or otherwise manage flammable battery gases to reduce the likelihood and consequence of a Vapour Cloud Explosion.
06
Exposure Protection
Protect neighbouring BESS units, buildings and critical equipment using fixed cooling, deluge or defensive water application.
07
Environmental Containment
Control drainage, contaminated runoff and potential pollutant pathways through planned isolation and containment measures.
08
Recovery and Re-Entry
Monitor residual heat, gas concentration and stranded energy before inspection, removal, recommissioning or safe re-entry.
No single fire suppression technology can replace a complete, application-specific BESS fire strategy.
BESS FIRE PROTECTION SOLUTIONS
Solutions Engineered Around the Hazard
Equipro does not apply one suppression system to every battery energy storage risk. The correct solution depends on the size and configuration of the BESS, the enclosure geometry, access, water supply, ventilation, neighbouring exposures and the required fire strategy outcomes.
Our BESS fire protection solutions range from localised cabinet intervention to hybrid internal suppression, broad-area deluge and external defensive cooling.
EQUIPASS
Localised Cabinet and Enclosure Protection
EQUIPASS provides automatic, localised fire protection for individual battery cabinets, sub-enclosures, UPS cabinets and associated electrical compartments.
The pneumatic detection tube is routed close to the hazard. When exposed to sufficient heat, it activates the system and enables water with 3% Cold Fire to be discharged directly at or close to the developing fire.
Automatic local activation
Direct or indirect discharge
No external electrical power required
Suitable for new or retrofit installations
EQUINOX-HP HYBRID
High-Pressure Water Mist and Inert-Gas Flushing
EQUINOX-HP is a project-specific hybrid system for enclosed BESS rooms, containers and larger defined volumes.
The first phase uses high-pressure water mist with 3% Cold Fire to absorb heat, control flaming and reduce propagation potential. The second phase uses sustained nitrogen flushing to dilute and displace residual flammable vapours and reduce Vapour Cloud Explosion (VCE) risk.
High-pressure water mist
Extended nitrogen purge
3% Cold Fire enhancement
Integrated thermal and vapour management
DELUGE AND SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
Cold Fire-Enhanced Broad-Area Protection
Larger BESS installations may require broader water distribution, longer discharge duration or protection across multiple elevations.
Equipro can engineer Cold Fire-enhanced deluge, sprinkler and dry-pipe systems for internal suppression, external cooling and protection of adjacent assets.
Open deluge systems
Sprinkler-based protection
Dry-pipe fire-service connections
Internal or external application
Image courtesy of UniFire
DEFENSIVE WATER MONITORS
External Cooling and Exposure Protection
Remote water monitors can provide external cooling where internal intervention is unsafe, impractical or unnecessary.
Cold Fire-dosed monitor systems can support boundary cooling, protect neighbouring containers and reduce the likelihood of cabinet-to-cabinet or container-to-container escalation.
Remote defensive operation
Protection of adjacent infrastructure
Container and exposure cooling
Supports fire and rescue service tactics
WHY COLD FIRE
Enhancing Water for Faster Thermal Control
Water remains one of the most effective and practical media for absorbing large quantities of heat during a lithium-ion battery fire. Cold Fire is used to improve the performance of that water through enhanced wetting, penetration, cooling and fire control.
Equipro selected Cold Fire because BESS fire protection must do more than suppress flame. It must reduce peak heat, shorten the thermal event, limit propagation potential and improve the efficiency of the available water supply.
The result is a water-based suppression approach designed to act earlier, transfer heat more effectively and reduce the duration and scale of the developing incident.
01
Heat Absorption
Cold Fire enhances the ability of water to remove heat from the battery array, enclosure surfaces and surrounding materials.
02
Wetting and Penetration
Reduced surface tension allows the solution to spread more effectively and reach areas that plain water may not wet as efficiently.
03
Reduced Fire Duration
Faster thermal control can shorten the active fire event, reducing prolonged heat release, off-gassing and exposure to neighbouring assets.
04
Water Efficiency
Improved suppression performance can reduce the total volume and duration of water application required to control a severe fire event.
Cold Fire does not replace water. It is selected to make water more effective against the heat, penetration and re-ignition challenges associated with lithium-ion battery fires.
TESTING, CERTIFICATION AND EVIDENCE
From Open Battery Cells to a Sealed 120 kWh Battery Pack
Equipro’s evidence base extends from exposed lithium-ion battery arrays through enclosed e-bike and industrial battery hazards, automatic sprinkler protection for a fully developed electric-vehicle fire and a large-scale test involving a sealed 120 kWh EV battery pack.
The systems tested include portable extinguishers, hose reels, automatic sprinklers and high-pressure water mist using water enhanced with 3% Cold Fire. The tests examine heat removal, visible-fire control, propagation, surrounding temperatures, thermal radiation, exposure protection, enclosure integrity and resistance to re-ignition.
These tests were not all conducted on complete Battery Energy Storage System installations and must not be represented as generic BESS certification. They do, however, provide relevant evidence of the fundamental lithium-ion battery fire-control principles that must then be engineered and validated for the intended BESS application.
The evidence progresses from exposed cells to increasingly complex and enclosed hazards, culminating in external cooling of a sealed 120 kWh battery pack in which thermal-runaway propagation was arrested without direct agent contact with the cells.
The Lithium-Ion Battery Test Programme
01
EXPOSED BATTERY ARRAYS
Portable Lithium-Ion Extinguisher
The EQUINOX 9-litre extinguisher using water enhanced with 3% Cold Fire was independently tested by APPLUS+ against NMC lithium-ion battery arrays above 85% state of charge. The protocol was based on NTA 8133 and EN 3-7.
OUTCOME:
The battery fire was extinguished and no re-ignition occurred during the required 20-minute monitoring period.
02
ENCLOSED E-BIKE HAZARD
Automatic High-Pressure Water Mist
The EQUINOX-HP system was independently tested inside an enclosed bicycle structure containing an e-bike battery deliberately driven into thermal runaway. Internal propagation, external fire spread, adjacent-bicycle protection, temperatures, radiation, enclosure integrity and re-ignition were assessed.
OUTCOME:
The event was controlled within the enclosure, adjacent bicycles were protected and no re-ignition was observed during the prescribed monitoring period.
03
INDUSTRIAL BATTERY EQUIPMENT
Electric Pallet-Truck Hose-Reel Test
An EQUINOX hose-reel system supplied water enhanced with 3% Cold Fire to an electric pallet truck containing an enclosed lithium-ion battery undergoing thermal runaway. The cells were not directly exposed to the extinguishing stream.
OUTCOME:
Visible fire was extinguished, surrounding thermal exposure was controlled and no re-ignition occurred during the monitored period.
04
FULLY DEVELOPED EV FIRE
Automatic Sprinkler Car-Park Test
An automatic sprinkler system using water enhanced with 3% Cold Fire was independently tested by APPLUS+ against a fully developed EV thermal-runaway fire in a representative enclosed car-park configuration.
OUTCOMES:
• No propagation to the adjacent vehicle positioned 0.75 metres away
• Temperatures at the assessed positions remained below 60°C
• Thermal radiation at 2 metres remained below 2.5 kW/m²
• Nearby vehicle components and surrounding exposures were protected
• Structural ceiling temperatures remained within the evaluated criteria
05
DIRECT UNDER-VEHICLE INTERVENTION
Full-Scale EV Battery Protection
A separate full-scale test evaluated direct water-based intervention beneath an electric vehicle and towards the battery-pack area.
OUTCOME:
The test supports the principle of delivering effective cooling to the area of greatest thermal exposure while limiting escalation to neighbouring assets.
06
LARGE-SCALE SEALED BATTERY PACK
Sealed 120 kWh EV Battery Pack
A sealed 120 kWh lithium-ion EV battery pack weighing approximately 850 kg was deliberately driven into thermal runaway.
The cells remained enclosed within the sealed battery pack. Cold Fire-enhanced high-pressure water mist was applied externally and had no direct contact with the cells.
The EQUINOX-HP system activated approximately 12 seconds after thermal-runaway initiation. The event was brought under control and further cell-to-cell propagation was arrested within 1 minute and 10 seconds.
OUTCOME:
External cooling arrested propagation inside a sealed battery pack without direct agent contact with the cells.
FEATURED LARGE-SCALE TEST
Propagation Arrested Inside a Sealed 120 kWh Battery Pack
The importance of this test lies not simply in visible-flame reduction. The lithium-ion cells were inaccessible inside a sealed 120 kWh EV battery pack.
The EQUINOX-HP system applied high-pressure water mist enhanced with 3% Cold Fire externally to the sealed pack. The suppression medium had no direct contact with the cells.
Despite this, sufficient heat was removed through the battery-pack structure to bring the thermal-runaway event under control and arrest further cell-to-cell propagation within 1 minute and 10 seconds.
This provides important evidence that effective external cooling can influence internal propagation within an enclosed battery assembly. The result is relevant to repurposed EV battery packs, second-life energy storage and enclosed battery modules used within BESS applications.
120 kWh
Sealed battery-pack capacity
Approximately 850 kg
Battery-pack weight
T+12 seconds
Approximate EQUINOX-HP activation
1 minute 10 seconds
Event controlled and propagation arrested
HOW THIS EVIDENCE SHOULD BE INTERPRETED
This was a large-scale lithium-ion battery research and development test, not generic certification for every BESS configuration. Its significance is that external heat removal arrested propagation inside a sealed battery pack without direct agent contact with the cells.
A complete BESS design must additionally address battery chemistry, state of charge, module and rack construction, enclosure geometry, detection, activation, ventilation, flammable off-gassing, Vapour Cloud Explosion (VCE) risk, water supply, runoff containment, neighbouring exposures and emergency response.
Independent APPLUS+ Testing Across Multiple Delivery Systems
The APPLUS+ programme evaluates complete application arrangements rather than the Cold Fire additive in isolation. It considers the battery hazard, delivery system, discharge method, thermal exposure, propagation, radiation and resistance to re-ignition.
PORTABLE EXTINGUISHER
Open Lithium-Ion Battery Arrays
A 9-litre EQUINOX extinguisher using water enhanced with 3% Cold Fire was independently tested against NMC lithium-ion battery arrays above 85% state of charge.
The APPLUS+ protocol was based on NTA 8133 and EN 3-7 and evaluated complete discharge, extinguishment and re-ignition performance.
OUTCOME: The battery fire was extinguished and no re-ignition occurred during the required 20-minute monitoring period.
HOSE REEL
Electric Pallet-Truck Battery Fire
A manually operated EQUINOX hose reel supplied water enhanced with 3% Cold Fire to an electric pallet truck containing an enclosed lithium-ion battery undergoing thermal runaway.
APPLUS+ assessed visible-fire control, battery and equipment temperatures, surrounding thermal exposure, radiation and re-ignition.
OUTCOME: Visible fire was extinguished, thermal exposure was controlled and no re-ignition occurred during the monitored period.
HIGH-PRESSURE WATER MIST
Enclosed E-Bike Propagation Test
The automatic EQUINOX-HP system was independently tested inside an enclosed bicycle facility containing an e-bike battery deliberately driven into thermal runaway.
The test evaluated internal propagation, external spread, adjacent-bicycle protection, enclosure integrity, surrounding temperatures, radiation and re-ignition.
OUTCOME: The event was controlled within the enclosure, adjacent bicycles were protected and no re-ignition was observed during the prescribed monitoring period.
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER
Fully Developed EV Car-Park Fire
A Cold Fire-enhanced automatic sprinkler system was independently evaluated against a fully developed electric-vehicle thermal-runaway fire in a representative enclosed car-park configuration.
The assessment considered propagation to an adjacent vehicle, temperatures at distance, thermal radiation, structural exposure and conditions relevant to evacuation and fire-and-rescue intervention.
OUTCOME: No propagation occurred to the adjacent vehicle positioned 0.75 metres away. Temperatures remained below 60°C at the assessed positions and radiation at 2 metres remained below 2.5 kW/m².
The APPLUS+ programme progresses from exposed battery arrays through enclosed industrial and mobility hazards to a fully developed EV fire, using multiple suppression delivery methods rather than relying on one isolated test configuration.
FLAMMABLE GAS MANAGEMENT
Vapour Cloud Explosion Risk Must Be Engineered Out
Lithium-ion cells can release flammable gases before, during and after visible fire. If those gases accumulate inside a battery cabinet, container, room or connected space, they may form an ignitable atmosphere capable of producing a Vapour Cloud Explosion (VCE).
Suppressing visible flames does not automatically remove this hazard. A BESS fire protection strategy must consider gas detection, enclosure ventilation, pressure relief, ignition control, dilution, inerting and the potential for delayed ignition.
The objective is to prevent flammable gas concentrations from reaching dangerous levels and to reduce the consequences if ignition still occurs.
How VCE Risk Develops
Cell Failure
An internal fault, overheating event or external fire initiates cell decomposition and gas release.
Off-Gas Accumulation
Flammable and toxic vapours collect within the enclosure, particularly where ventilation is limited or obstructed.
Ignitable Concentration
The gas and air mixture enters a flammable range and becomes capable of rapid combustion.
Delayed Ignition
An electrical arc, hot surface, flame or other ignition source initiates combustion after gas has accumulated.
Deflagration or VCE
Rapid flame propagation creates pressure capable of damaging doors, panels, enclosures and nearby infrastructure.
Required Engineering Controls
Early Off-Gas Detection
Identify abnormal gas release before smoke, flame or major heat development.
Gas Concentration Monitoring
Monitor relevant flammable gases and trigger alarm, shutdown or ventilation responses.
Controlled Ventilation
Dilute and remove flammable vapours without creating unsafe discharge conditions elsewhere.
Pressure Relief
Provide engineered relief paths where enclosure pressure could otherwise rise rapidly.
Ignition Source Control
Reduce the likelihood that accumulated vapours are ignited by electrical or thermal sources.
Inert-Gas Flushing
Where appropriate, sustained inert-gas flow can dilute residual flammable vapours after cooling and suppression.
Cooling controls the thermal event. Gas management controls the hazardous atmosphere. A robust BESS fire strategy must address both.
INCIDENT CONTROL STRATEGY
“Let It Burn” Should Not Be the Default BESS Fire Strategy
Allowing a battery energy storage system fire to continue burning may occasionally become an operational decision when intervention is unsafe or effective control is no longer achievable. It should not, however, be treated as the default basis of fire protection design.
A prolonged uncontrolled event can increase thermal propagation, toxic and corrosive emissions, smoke-plume duration, contaminated runoff, damage to neighbouring assets and disruption to surrounding communities. It can also place a greater operational burden on the fire and rescue service.
The preferred engineering objective is early detection, isolation, significant heat removal, propagation control, Vapour Cloud Explosion (VCE) risk management and protection of adjacent infrastructure.
PASSIVE OR CONTROLLED-BURN APPROACH
Consequences of Allowing the Event to Continue
Extended Heat Release
Continued cell failure can sustain high temperatures and increase the likelihood of propagation through the battery installation.
Prolonged Hazardous Emissions
A longer event can release greater quantities of toxic, corrosive and environmentally harmful combustion products.
Escalation Beyond the Unit of Origin
Radiant heat and direct flame exposure may threaten neighbouring containers, buildings, utilities and critical infrastructure.
Greater Community Impact
Smoke plumes, exclusion zones, road closures and public-health concerns can affect nearby residents and businesses.
Complex Recovery
Long-duration incidents can increase structural damage, contaminated debris, cleanup requirements and operational downtime.
ENGINEERED INTERVENTION APPROACH
Objectives of Active BESS Fire Protection
Detect Earlier
Identify abnormal heat, smoke or battery off-gassing before the event reaches maximum severity.
Remove Heat
Apply an effective cooling medium to reduce thermal exposure and the energy driving propagation.
Limit Escalation
Contain the event within the smallest practical battery unit and protect neighbouring exposures.
Manage the Hazardous Atmosphere
Integrate gas detection, ventilation, pressure relief or inerting to address VCE risk.
Support Emergency Response
Provide responders with clearer system status, safer operating conditions and defined intervention options.
Controlled burning may be an emergency operational outcome. It is not a substitute for an engineered strategy intended to prevent escalation and reduce consequences.
WATER AND ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING
Water Supply and Runoff Must Be Designed as Part of the Fire Strategy
Water remains one of the most effective media for absorbing heat during a lithium-ion battery fire, but its use must be engineered carefully. The design must consider flow rate, duration, available storage, supply resilience, access for the fire and rescue service and the means of containing contaminated runoff.
A fixed system that detects and intervenes early may reduce the duration and total scale of water application compared with a prolonged uncontrolled fire. This does not remove the need for drainage isolation, containment and environmental planning.
The objective is to provide sufficient cooling capacity while preventing contaminated firewater from spreading into surface water, groundwater, drainage systems or neighbouring property.
01
Required Flow and Duration
Determine the water demand needed to cool the affected BESS unit, protect exposures and support the intended emergency response.
04
Runoff Containment
Provide drainage isolation, bunding, shut-off arrangements or dedicated containment capacity for contaminated firewater.
02
Supply Resilience
Consider mains capacity, tanks, pumps, redundancy and the consequences of supply interruption during a prolonged incident.
05
Pollution Pathways
Assess how firewater, electrolyte residue and combustion products could reach drains, watercourses, soil or neighbouring land.
03
Early Intervention
Automatic fixed suppression can begin cooling before manual firefighting resources are established, potentially reducing escalation and total water demand.
06
Post-Incident Management
Plan for sampling, controlled removal, treatment, disposal and environmental reporting after the event.
FIRE PROTECTION OBJECTIVE
Control the Event Earlier
Early cooling is intended to reduce heat release, limit propagation and shorten the period during which water application may be required.
ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVE
Contain What Is Used
All water-based designs must include a credible method for capturing and managing contaminated runoff.
The correct question is not whether water creates runoff. It is whether the site has been engineered to provide effective cooling and contain the resulting firewater safely.
STANDARDS, EVIDENCE AND VALIDATION
BESS Fire Protection Must Be Proven for the Intended Application
Battery energy storage systems vary significantly in chemistry, cell format, state of charge, cabinet design, enclosure volume, ventilation, spacing, electrical arrangement and fire loading. A suppression result achieved in one configuration cannot automatically be transferred to another.
Standards, listings and test protocols provide an important framework, but they must be interpreted against the actual design objective. Testing should demonstrate whether the proposed system can detect failure, control heat, limit propagation, manage Vapour Cloud Explosion (VCE) risk and protect neighbouring assets under credible operating conditions.
Equipro therefore separates product approval from application validation. A component may be certified for a particular function without the complete BESS installation being proven for every battery arrangement or hazard scenario.
01
Battery Chemistry
The test basis must reflect the relevant cell chemistry, format, energy density and likely thermal runaway behaviour.
04
Detection and Activation
The test must account for how quickly the system detects abnormal conditions and begins effective intervention.
02
State of Charge
Battery state of charge materially affects heat release, gas generation, propagation behaviour and incident severity.
05
Discharge Arrangement
Agent quantity, flow rate, pressure, duration, distribution and access to the heat source must reflect the proposed installation.
03
Enclosure Geometry
Cabinet layout, module spacing, ventilation routes, obstructions and nozzle position influence suppression performance.
06
Performance Outcome
Evidence should address temperature, propagation, flame control, gas behaviour, re-ignition, exposure protection and post-test stability.
PRODUCT APPROVAL
What the Component Is Certified to Do
Listings and approvals may confirm performance against a defined product standard, agent classification or system function. Their scope must be stated accurately.
APPLICATION VALIDATION
What the Installed System Must Demonstrate
The complete design must show that it can achieve the required fire-strategy outcomes for the specific battery installation and site conditions.
A credible BESS fire protection claim must clearly identify what was tested, how it was tested and which performance outcomes were demonstrated.
ENGINEERING AND PROJECT SUPPORT
BESS Fire Protection From Risk Assessment to Commissioning
Effective BESS fire protection begins before a suppression system is selected. The battery technology, enclosure design, site layout, operating conditions, neighbouring exposures, emergency response arrangements and environmental constraints must first be understood.
Equipro supports battery energy storage projects through fire-risk analysis, protection strategy development, system selection, application-specific design and coordination with project stakeholders.
Our objective is to develop a technically defensible strategy that addresses thermal runaway, propagation, Vapour Cloud Explosion (VCE) risk, water supply, contaminated runoff and safe post-incident recovery.
01
Hazard and Risk Review
Assess the battery chemistry, energy capacity, enclosure arrangement, operating environment and credible failure scenarios.
05
Testing and Validation
Establish the evidence required to demonstrate that the proposed design can achieve the intended performance outcomes.
02
Fire Strategy Development
Define the required outcomes for detection, isolation, cooling, propagation control, VCE risk reduction and exposure protection.
06
Stakeholder Coordination
Support discussions with developers, consultants, insurers, authorities, environmental specialists and the fire and rescue service.
03
System Selection
Select the most appropriate combination of local suppression, water mist, deluge, sprinkler, inert-gas flushing or defensive cooling.
07
Installation and Commissioning
Coordinate system installation, functional testing, documentation, training and handover against the approved design.
04
Application-Specific Design
Develop the detection, activation, discharge, water-supply and control arrangements around the actual battery installation.
08
Lifecycle Support
Provide inspection, maintenance, system review and reassessment when the battery configuration or site risk changes.
NEW PROJECTS
Design the Strategy Early
Integrate fire protection, water supply, drainage, ventilation and emergency access before the site layout becomes fixed.
EXISTING INSTALLATIONS
Review the Current Protection
Identify gaps between the installed systems, the actual battery hazard and the required fire-strategy outcomes.
SYSTEM CHANGES
Reassess After Modification
Changes to battery chemistry, capacity, modules, cabinets or operating conditions may invalidate previous design assumptions.
The most effective BESS fire protection system is one developed around the actual hazard, the required performance outcomes and the wider site fire strategy.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
BESS Fire Protection Questions
Battery energy storage fire protection is often misunderstood because thermal runaway, visible fire, propagation and flammable gas hazards are not the same problem. These questions explain the core engineering principles behind an effective BESS fire strategy and the support Equipro can provide throughout a project.
What is the main fire risk in a BESS installation?
The principal risk is lithium-ion thermal runaway. A failing cell can generate heat internally, release flammable and toxic gases and transfer sufficient heat to trigger neighbouring cells, modules or cabinets. The fire strategy must therefore address heat, propagation and the hazardous atmosphere.
Is extinguishing the visible flame enough?
No. Visible flame suppression may reduce combustion, but the internal battery reaction can continue generating heat. Effective BESS fire protection must provide sufficient cooling to reduce temperature and limit further propagation.
Can gas or aerosol suppression stop thermal runaway?
Gas, clean-agent and aerosol systems may suppress visible flame and protect ancillary electrical equipment, but they provide limited heat absorption. They should not be treated as complete thermal runaway protection unless application-specific testing demonstrates the required propagation-control outcome.
Why are water-based systems used for BESS fire protection?
Water can absorb substantial quantities of heat and reduce thermal exposure to adjacent cells, modules and equipment. When designed correctly, water-based systems can support early cooling, propagation control and exposure protection.
What is a Vapour Cloud Explosion?
A Vapour Cloud Explosion (VCE) can occur when flammable battery gases accumulate, mix with air and are ignited. This can create rapid flame propagation and damaging pressure within a cabinet, container, room or connected space.
Should a BESS fire simply be allowed to burn out?
Controlled burning may become an operational outcome when intervention is unsafe or no longer practical, but it should not be the default fire protection strategy. Early detection, cooling, propagation control and exposure protection are intended to reduce the duration and consequences of the event.
Does using water create an environmental risk?
Contaminated firewater can create an environmental risk, which is why water supply, drainage isolation, containment and post-incident disposal must be designed as part of the complete fire strategy. The solution is effective cooling combined with controlled runoff management.
Can one tested system be used for every BESS installation?
No. Battery chemistry, state of charge, cabinet geometry, ventilation, detection method, discharge arrangement and site conditions all influence performance. The installed design must be validated against the intended application and required fire-strategy outcomes.
Does a BESS site need a fire risk assessment?
Yes. A BESS site requires a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment during the construction, commissioning and operational stages. The assessment must reflect the changing hazards and temporary or permanent arrangements at each stage. Equipro provides BESS fire risk assessments and ongoing fire-safety support throughout the project lifecycle.
Can Equipro support a BESS planning application?
Yes. Equipro can support planning authorities and project teams in assessing the fire-safety aspects of a BESS application. This can include reviewing the proposed fire strategy and liaising with the fire and rescue service and other statutory bodies so that all parties are fully informed.
How much does a suitable BESS fire protection strategy cost?
As a broad project-planning guide, an appropriate Equipro BESS fire protection system and supporting strategy will typically represent approximately 1–2% of the total BESS project cost. The final cost depends on the battery configuration, site layout, required performance outcomes and supporting infrastructure.
Can BESS fire protection systems be purchased or rented?
Yes. Equipro can supply suitable BESS fire protection systems either for outright purchase or through a rental arrangement, subject to project requirements and commercial assessment.
Can fire protection be retrofitted to an existing BESS site?
Yes. Existing BESS installations with no fire protection, limited protection or systems that do not adequately address thermal runaway can often be upgraded in the field. Equipro can survey the site and develop a retrofit strategy using localised cabinet protection, water mist, deluge, sprinkler, gas management or external defensive cooling.
Can Equipro review an existing BESS fire protection system?
Yes. Equipro can independently review the installed detection, suppression, ventilation, gas monitoring, water supply, runoff containment and emergency response arrangements and identify gaps in the current protection strategy.
At what stage should Equipro become involved in a BESS project?
Equipro should ideally be involved during the earliest design and planning stages. Fire protection can affect container spacing, access, water supply, drainage, ventilation, planning submissions and the overall site layout. Early involvement generally produces a more effective and economical solution.
What information does Equipro need to assess a BESS project?
Equipro will normally require information on the battery chemistry, cell and module format, total energy capacity, state of charge, cabinet or container arrangement, ventilation, site layout, water supply, drainage, neighbouring exposures and proposed emergency response.
Can Equipro work with battery manufacturers, system integrators and insurers?
Yes. Equipro can work alongside battery manufacturers, system integrators, developers, consultants, insurers, risk engineers, principal contractors and facilities teams to align the fire protection strategy with the battery design and wider site requirements.
Does Equipro provide emergency planning, training and ongoing support?
Yes. Equipro can support site-specific emergency response plans, operating procedures, post-incident arrangements, operator training, planned inspection, maintenance, functional testing and lifecycle review.
For project-specific advice, the battery configuration, enclosure design, site layout and required fire-strategy outcomes must be reviewed together.
START WITH THE ACTUAL HAZARD
Build a BESS Fire Protection Strategy That Can Be Defended
Every battery energy storage project has a different combination of chemistry, capacity, enclosure design, ventilation, site layout, water availability, neighbouring exposures and emergency response constraints.
Equipro can review the complete risk and develop an application-specific strategy covering thermal runaway, propagation, Vapour Cloud Explosion (VCE) risk, water supply, runoff containment, emergency planning and post-incident recovery.
We support new developments, existing operational sites, retrofit projects, planning applications, insurers, system integrators and authorities requiring clear, evidence-led fire engineering advice.
Fire protection should be engineered into the project before thermal runaway becomes an emergency response problem.
Request a BESS Fire Engineering Review
Send us the available project information and we will identify the technical, operational and environmental issues that should be addressed before a fire protection system is selected.
— Battery chemistry and total energy capacity
— Cabinet, container or room configuration
— Site layout and separation distances
— Existing detection and suppression systems
— Water supply, drainage and containment
— Planning, insurer or fire and rescue service requirements
Available for UK and international BESS projects.