Site Plan, Solar and BESS Layout

The proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) features a 4 hr, 40 MWh battery. We have set-aside two areas within which the BESS can be located, as indicated in the plan as BESS1 and BESS2, but it is important to note that the actual size of the BESS is significantly smaller than these areas. In fact, our proposed BESS system is less than one tenth the capacity of the nearby TerraGen BESS. The total area we have set aside in the plan is far larger than what is needed, to give flexibility in the final location of our containerized BESS solution. We expect the BESS system to take up approximately one acre, far less than the approximately 14 acres marked BESS1 and BESS2 in the plan, within which the one-acre BESS system would be located. An indicative size and potential location of the BESS within the marked areas are shown in the layout above.

We fully acknowledge the importance of ensuring compliance with NFPA 855 and the additional safety requirements the County is evaluating. 

The proposed BESS 115 kW / 251 kWh units are fully compliant with NFPA 855. Each unit is housed in a self-contained containerized enclosure that is equipped with advanced fire suppression systems, including perfluorohexanone extinguishing agents. This clean agent fire suppression system is particularly effective in mitigating risks from thermal runaway, providing rapid fire containment without damaging the system components or the surrounding environment. Additionally, the systems feature industrial-grade temperature control, ensuring that heat buildup is carefully managed to prevent any potential incidents. 

Furthermore, the design features a containerized BESS solutions with scalability and additional layers of protection in mind. If required, a secondary enclosure that includes even more advanced HVAC systems and additional fire suppression measures, tailored to meet the most stringent fire safety regulations, can be provided. This approach has been successfully implemented in other projects where enhanced protection was needed. 

We are confident that this system not only meets but exceeds the current industry standards for fire safety and hazard mitigation, and we are fully prepared to comply with any further recommendations from the County’s technical study or fire department.

The Safety Advantages of LFP Battery Energy Storage Systems

Introduction

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are crucial for enhancing the reliability and efficiency of energy infrastructure. Among the various battery technologies, Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries stand out for their superior safety and reliability compared to traditional Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) batteries. This white paper explores the safety benefits of LFP BESS.

Understanding Battery Technologies

Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) Batteries: Commonly used in a variety of applications, including consumer electronics and electric vehicles, Li-Ion batteries provide high energy density. However, they are susceptible to thermal runaway, a condition where the battery can overheat and potentially ignite.

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) Batteries: A subtype of Li-Ion batteries, LFP batteries utilize iron phosphate as the cathode material. They are renowned for their excellent safety profile, long lifespan, and stable chemical structure which is naturally resistant to thermal runaway.

Key Safety Advantages of LFP Batteries

  1. Thermal Stability:

    • LFP Batteries: Exhibit significantly higher thermal stability compared to other Li-Ion batteries. Studies have shown that LFP batteries are much less likely to overheat and catch fire, making them safer for large-scale energy storage .

    • Li-Ion Batteries: Particularly those with certain cathode materials, are more prone to thermal runaway, posing greater fire hazards if not managed properly .

  2. Chemical Composition:

    • LFP Batteries: The iron phosphate used in LFP batteries is chemically more stable and less reactive, reducing the risk of harmful reactions within the battery. This contributes to their safer profile under various operating conditions .

    • Li-Ion Batteries: Typically use cobalt-based cathodes, which are more reactive and can pose greater risks if the battery is damaged or improperly handled .

  3. Safety Under Stress:

    • LFP Batteries: Can withstand higher levels of physical and electrical stress without compromising safety. Tests have shown that LFP batteries do not experience the same degree of degradation or failure under stress as other Li-Ion batteries, making them more resilient in real-world applications .

    • Li-Ion Batteries: Require more stringent protective measures to ensure safety, especially in high-stress environments .

Impact on First Responders

  1. Reduced Risk of Fire and Explosions:

    • LFP batteries’ higher thermal stability means a lower likelihood of thermal runaway, thereby reducing the chances of fires and explosions. This directly translates to a safer environment for first responders, who are often the first on the scene in emergencies involving BESS .

  2. Easier and Safer Management:

    • The chemical stability of LFP batteries simplifies the management and mitigation of potential hazards during emergency situations. First responders can perform their duties with reduced risk of encountering dangerous chemical reactions or fires .

  3. Enhanced Public Safety:

    • By deploying LFP BESS, communities can ensure a safer energy storage system, minimizing the risks to both the public and first responders. The reduced risk profile of LFP batteries contributes to overall community safety and emergency preparedness .

Practical Benefits of LFP Batteries

  1. Enhanced Safety:

    • Utilizing LFP BESS reduces the risk of fires and explosions, ensuring safer installations and operations .

  2. Improved Reliability:

    • LFP batteries offer a longer lifespan and more stable performance, which translates to fewer maintenance issues and better long-term reliability .

  3. Regulatory Compliance:

    • LFP BESS align with stringent safety regulations and standards, facilitating smoother compliance processes and reducing regulatory burdens .

  4. Public Safety Assurance:

    • The use of LFP BESS contributes to overall public safety by minimizing the risks associated with energy storage systems .

Conclusion

LFP Battery Energy Storage Systems present a compelling case for safer, more reliable, and compliant energy storage solutions. Their superior thermal stability, stable chemical composition, and resilience under stress make them an ideal choice for a wide range of applications. By opting for LFP BESS, stakeholders can ensure enhanced safety and reliability in their energy infrastructure, significantly benefiting first responders and the communities they serve.

References

  1. Thermal stability of Lithium-ion batteries: Case study of NMC811 and LFP cathode materials.

  2. Review of safety principles for lithium-ion battery packs.

  3. Safety and reliability of lithium-ion batteries: A review. Journal of Energy Storage.

  4. Performance and safety analysis of lithium iron phosphate battery technology in energy storage systems. Energy Science & Engineering.