Battery Energy Storage Systems

The UK government has set the ambition of achieving clean power by 2030. This will require decarbonisation of existing fossil fuel power generation sources and transition to renewables such as wind and solar that rely on weather to generate electricity.

Renewable energy sources, unlike traditional power stations, cannot simply be switched on and off to match changes in electricity demand. As a result, maintaining a stable electricity supply requires effective ways to capture and store energy when it is generated but not immediately needed.

One of the primary methods for doing this is through battery energy storage systems (BESS). These large-scale batteries store excess energy during periods of low demand and can release it very quickly when demand increases. In this way, they provide near-instant support to the National Grid, helping to balance supply and demand and ensure a reliable electricity system.

When considering grid scale BESS installations, these are typically with an energy capacity of one megawatt hour (MWh) or greater, using variants of lithium-ion battery technology and situated in an open-air environment.

Battery Energy Storage Systems are considered infrastructure projects, so they are approved through a planning application process. They are generally not subject to Building Regulations (as amended) consultations, except in cases where there are additional on-site buildings that may fall under those rules.

Because of this, the fire and rescue service is not a statutory consultee as part of planning applications for BESS developments. Depending on its capacity, a BESS may also require a generating licence to operate. Generating licences are issued by Ofgem in Great Britain. In addition, BESS sites are not currently classified as Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) for the purpose of planning.

Information for developers, planners and designers of BESS

In the UK, fire and rescue services are not currently statutory consultees for Battery Energy Storage System developments. However, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) advises that, as best practice, safety measures and risk mitigation should be developed in collaboration with the local Fire and Rescue Service. Further information can be found in the NFCC Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Position Statement.

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service encourages developers, planners and designers of BESS installations to make contact at the earliest possible stage. Early engagement allows us to provide advice on your proposal and highlight relevant considerations set out in the NFCC Grid scale energy storage systems planning – Guidance for fire and rescue services.

This approach helps us to identify site-specific risks and supports our legal duty under the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004 to make provision for extinguishing fires and protecting life and property in the event of fire.

To inform us of any potential development or to discuss it further please contact BESSenquiries@notts-fire.gov.uk.