Since their market launch in the early 1990s, lithium-ion batteries have found their way into a wide variety of applications including stationary energy storage in smart grids. This is an application that is predicted to grow rapidly, not least because of the increasing expansion of renewable energy generation and the associated decentralization and stabilization requirements of such energy sources.

Li-ion battery storage systems cover a large range of applications from generation to consumption, helping to stabilize frequency and voltage, and balance variations in supply and demand. Li-ion batteries combine high energy materials with highly flammable electrolytes.

Early and reliable fire detection is therefore a must when designing fire protection systems for Li-ion battery systems. Rapid extinguishing is also essential and can be ensured by the use of automated extinguishing systems using an appropriate agent.

This paper discusses the development of a managed-risk fire protection concept for stationary Li-ion battery energy storage systems.