Concerns are rising regarding the placement of battery energy storage systems (BESS) in New York City, particularly in Staten Island, where city officials express unease over their proximity to residential areas and gas stations. City councillor Robert Holden questions the rationale behind such placements, citing potential safety risks associated with these facilities. BESS units utilize lithium-ion batteries, similar to those in laptops and electric vehicles, and are crucial for storing renewable energy from sources like solar and wind.
The demand for battery storage is increasing in line with renewable energy targets, especially in Europe, where installations totaled approximately 1.9 gigawatt-hours last year. Experts suggest that to meet these targets, particularly the EU’s goal of attaining 750 gigawatt-hours of battery storage by 2030, a significant increase in BESS installations is necessary. However, current technologies aren’t without limitations, particularly concerning fire risk.
Recent incidents, such as a prolonged fire at a BESS facility in Essex, UK, and another in California that led to mass evacuations, highlight the dangers involved. These fires can occur due to thermal runaway—a situation triggered by various factors that can lead to explosive reactions within batteries. The scale of battery installations, which often contain millions of cells, poses a risk for rapid fire spread if not adequately managed.
Local communities, as seen in Aberdeenshire, UK, are opposing proposed BESS projects due to safety concerns. Campaigners argue that considerations for nearby residents are insufficient. In response, companies like Blackford Renewables claim they are working on community engagement and are focused on safety.
Experts advocate for standardized regulations across the battery storage sector to enhance safety measures. While nations are developing technical guidelines, the lack of cohesive regulations continues to slow down the expansion of BESS facilities. The transition to renewable energy necessitates the development of robust storage solutions, with improved battery technologies entering the market to mitigate safety issues.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czjvdpzw71po?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss