Energy Storage Permitting Guidebook Version 1 - Flipbook - Page 34
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Appendix
APPENDIX D: SolarAPP+ Introductory Slide Deck
The presentation linked below describes the 5-step process AHJs will complete to adopt SolarAPP+. The
presentation provides step-by-step instructions for beginning the process to adopt SolarAPP+ and resources
to support the user through the process. Welcome to SolarAPP+ is available at https://docs.google.com/
presentation/d/1Uf4Wc0OojgMHxMbB6Zy155b0_gF2w5OW/edit#slide=id.p13.
APPENDIX E: UL 9540 Certification, UL 9540A
Test Method, and NFPA 855 Standard
Fire safety in energy storage systems is paramount due to the potential risks associated with high-energy
density technologies like lithium-ion batteries. Ensuring safety requires adherence to stringent standards and
regulations such as UL 9540, UL 9540A, and NFPA 855.
UL Solutions provides two key standards that are frequently confused, UL 9540 and UL 9540A.
UL 9540, the Standard for Safety of Energy Storage Systems and Equipment, was first introduced in 2016 and
updated in 2020. If a product is UL 9540 listed, this means the ESS meets a specific set of standards for safe
operation published by UL Solutions. Although the standard itself is voluntary, both the National Electric
Code and International Residential Code require ESS to be UL 9540 listed.
UL 9540A is a method for testing ESS for fire safety. The UL 9540A test, now on its fourth edition, subjects
an ESS to thermal stress and measures how the unit performs. The test typically proceeds through various
stages starting at the cell level and moving to the module, unit, and, for certain kinds of equipment, the
installation level.
NFPA 855 Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems “applies to the design,
construction, installation, commissioning, operation, maintenance, and decommissioning of stationary
energy storage systems (ESS), including mobile and portable ESS installed in a stationary situation and the
storage of lithium metal or lithium-ion batteries.” NFPA 855 provides guidelines for the design, installation,
operation, and maintenance of these systems to mitigate fire hazards and ensure the safety of occupants
and responders.
Key considerations for fire safety and installation energy storage systems include:
Location and Installation: NFPA 855 mandates that energy storage systems be installed in locations
compliant with applicable building and fire codes. Systems should be installed away from combustible
materials and in areas with proper ventilation to dissipate heat.
Battery Chemistry: Different battery chemistries have varying risks and requirements. Lithium-ion
batteries, commonly used in energy storage systems, require specific handling and safety precautions
due to their thermal runaway potential.
Thermal Management: Effective thermal management systems are crucial for preventing overheating
and thermal runaway in energy storage systems. This includes active cooling mechanisms and
temperature monitoring to ensure batteries operate within safe temperature ranges.