What is an Energy Storage System?

An energy storage system (ESS) is a technological solution designed to capture, store and subsequently release energy as required. The key function of energy storage systems is to enable efficient energy management and utilisation by effectively storing surplus energy generated during periods of low demand or rich supply, and subsequently discharging it during high-demand periods or when the supply is limited.

What types of energy storage systems exist?

Several types of energy storage systems are available. They are different based on their characteristics, scalability, response time and cost-effectiveness. Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) BESS includes lithium-ion, lead-acid and flow batteries. The batteries store electrical energy chemically and can be used in a wide range of applications, from small-scale devices like electric vehicles to large-scale grid-level storage. Pumped Hydro energy storage This system uses the gravitational potential energy of water. Excess electricity is used to pump water to an elevated reservoir. During times when energy is needed, the water is released, flowing through turbines to generate electricity. Compressed air energy storage (CAES) In this system, excess electricity is used to compress air and store it in underground caverns or tanks. When energy is required, the compressed air is released and expands, driving a turbine to produce electricity. Flywheel energy storage These systems store energy in a rotating mass. Excess electricity is used to accelerate the flywheel to high speeds, and when energy is needed, the rotational energy is converted back to electricity. Thermal energy storage systems This method stores energy in the form of heat or cold. It can be achieved through materials like phase-change materials, where excess energy is used to change the material's phase (e.g., from solid to liquid), and the stored energy is released when needed.

What are the benefits of using energy storage systems?

Energy storage systems offer several benefits in various applications and industries. The integration of renewable energy sources into the power grid poses major challenges due to their unpredictable nature. Energy storage systems address these challenges. They act as a bridge between energy production and demand. An energy storage system allows the excess energy produced during periods of surplus generation to be stored. Thereby they help to decrease the gap between supply and demand. Consequently, when energy generation falls short, these storage systems can deliver the stored energy, ensuring a stable power supply.

What are Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)?

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are integral components of energy management, designed to efficiently store electrical energy in batteries for subsequent utilisation. BESS includes lithium-ion, lead-acid and flow batteries. These systems have a central function in grid operations. BESS captures excess electricity during periods of low demand and effectively releases it during peak demand or in situations of power outages. Due to this, BESS enhances grid stability and reliability while optimising the utilisation of available energy resources. BESS can be used in a wide range of applications, from small-scale devices like electric vehicles to large-scale grid-level storage.

What are the potential hazards associated with energy storage systems?

Energy storage system implementation is essential for promoting sustainability. However, this technology can introduce new hazards and safety risks. Several factors can be safety risks for energy storage systems, such as: Overcharging/Overheating Inferior components or materials/physical damage Inadequate system design Failure to maintain minimum clearances during installation Lack of Maintenance Any of these aspects can lead to fires or explosions and jeopardise both the safety and sustainability of energy storage systems. Additionally, to these safety risks, energy storage systems are often integrated with electrical grids or renewable energy sources. Poor integration, control system failures or inadequate protection measures can result in grid instability, power quality issues or electrical outages. This can have a negative impact on both the energy storage system and grid operations.

How can safety testing and certification help mitigate hazards for energy storage systems?

A comprehensive risk assessment by an expert team can help identify potential hazards and determine the necessary safety measures for energy storage systems to mitigate those risks. Regular safety audits, involving rigorous testing procedures and inspections are essential to assess the overall safety performance of energy storage systems. By obtaining a certification you can ensure compliance with the necessary standards and regulations for your energy storage systems.

How can I get my energy storage system certified?

TÜV SÜD is your trusted, independent third-party technical service provider and energy storage systems testing expert. Our holistic approach and commitment to safety will optimise the reliability of your energy storage systems. We guide you through the complex process with our global network of accredited testing laboratories. Trust our expertise to safeguard your products, meet regulatory requirements and gain faster market access.

Are there specific safety standards and regulations for energy generation and storage systems?

Various standards exist for energy generation and storage systems.

The Importance of Energy Storage Systems

Energy storage systems (ESS) play a significant role in progressing global sustainability efforts by increasing the availability and reliability of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar and reducing the reliance on fossil fuels.

An energy storage system captures, stores, and releases energy as needed, enabling efficient energy management. It stores surplus energy for later use during high-demand or limited-supply periods. These systems can be found in numerous industries and applications, such as energy companies, grid system providers, or commercial and industrial operations. Thus, they are essential for moving towards sustainable energy solutions.

WHY IS TESTING OF ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS IMPORTANT?

Stationary Storage Systems are vital components in energy management. To gain market acceptance, they must not only be safe and reliable but also adhere to the diverse legal and technical requirements of their target countries.
Testing energy storage systems offers several advantages for manufacturers and their customers:

Build Customer Trust: Assure your customers that your products meet the highest safety standards for energy storage systems.
Gain a Competitive Edge: Enhance your market position by shortening lead times and streamlining processes. Collaborate with us for support throughout the entire testing and certification journey.
Mitigate Risks: Detect design issues early on, minimizing the chances of costly redesigns. Ensure that your product adheres to international regulatory standards.
Broaden Market Reach: Make your energy storage systems compatible with global requirements.

HOW TÜV SÜD CAN SUPPORT YOUR ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM BUSINESS

TÜV SÜD provides services to help Energy Storage System operators and suppliers overcome industry challenges.

Our services for your energy storage systems

TÜV SÜD has extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of energy storage systems. Our expert team optimises the reliability of your energy storage systems and other energy storage products through our holistic approach and commitment to safety.

We serve the needs of our global customers locally through our expanding network of laboratories in North America, Germany, China, South Korea, Japan, Thailand and Singapore. With our global network of experts, you can rely on us to help you enter international markets and provide local support.

TÜV SÜD can support you in the fields of:

Safety testing of stationery batteries and other storage devices
Identification and mitigation of risks
Grid Code testing services
EMC, and wireless/radio services
Environmental testing service
Risk assessment for energy storage systems
Evaluating the reliable and efficient performance of energy storage systems

Choose TÜV SÜD as your trusted partner and join us in creating a safe and more sustainable world.

OUR EXPERTS IN ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS

Kristijan Cizmar

TÜV SÜD

Storage systems, and generation plants are key components of the energy transition. We support you with all approval-relevant topics from electrical safety to EMC and grid connection guidelines.

Bernd Kreitmeier

TÜV SÜD

We understand that energy storage systems are the cornerstone of a sustainable energy future. Through our expertise, we are supporting the safety and reliability of energy storage systems, paving the way for a cleaner, more resilient, greener world.

Vitaliy Ilkiv

TÜV SÜD

At TÜV SÜD we offer a full scope of Energy Storage testing, certification services and provide you with regulatory guidance to get your products to the market on time.

By obtaining an energy storage system certification, you can demonstrate to your customers and stakeholders that you mitigate risks and hazards, and that you are committed to creating a safer and more sustainable world. Feel free to contact us at [email protected].

ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS

WHY IS TESTING OF ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS IMPORTANT?

HOW TÜV SÜD CAN SUPPORT YOUR ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM BUSINESS

Our services for your energy storage systems

OUR EXPERTS IN ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS

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