The Importance of Safe BESS Installation in Homes
08/08/2025
As more households embrace renewable energy and the benefits of battery storage, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are becoming a common sight in homes across the world. These systems provide flexibility, support sustainability, and can help reduce energy costs. However, with great power comes the responsibility to ensure your battery system is installed and functions safely.
A BESS stores a large amount of electrical energy, often in lithium-ion batteries. While these batteries are reliable and efficient, they can also cause fire, explosion, and electrical hazards if not installed or managed correctly. Most incidents are preventable with the right precautions in place, so safe installation is critical.
Five tips for safe BESS installation:
1. Choose certified products and professionals
- Always buy BESS batteries and equipment that meet global safety standards (e.g. UL9540/UL9540a/UL1973).
- System design, installation, and maintenance must be completed in line with electrical Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems, NFPA 855, and industry good practice guidelines. Use designers, suppliers, and electrical technicians holding relevant qualifications and certifications.
- Ensure that the BESS system has inbuilt explosion prevention or venting systems.
- Make sure that building occupants have all original BESS documentation, including installation and operating instructions, and that they are familiar with correct BESS operation and servicing requirements.
2. Location, location, location
- If you can, locate the BESS in a detached building away from the main home or other important structures. Otherwise, the BESS should be installed outside on non-combustible exterior walls at least 1 metre away from doors and windows, and secure it against potential tampering.
- If installing the BESS in an attached garage (or inside unoccupied utility space) cannot be avoided, ensure it's in a separate fire compartment with a 60-minute fire rated separation from living areas. Internal doors should be certified fire rated doors with self-closing devices fitted by a qualified professional.
- Make sure the emergency services can easily reach your battery in case of fire and avoid fitting the BESS unit in concealed spaces. It is particularly vital to avoid installation of BESS under stairs, in cupboards, adjacent windows, near escape routes and in loft spaces.
- Protect BESS from mechanical damage (e.g. install a suitable barrier where there is a risk of vehicle impact).
- Ensure that BESS are located in compartments/locations where temperatures will not exceed the safe operating temperature specified by the BESS manufacturer.
3. Install robust automatic fire detection systems
- Make sure your system includes interlinked automatic smoke, heat, and combustible gas detectors (in accordance with BS5839 and by a BAFE accredited installer1 that will alert you early if something’s wrong.
4. Plan for emergencies
- Clearly mark the unit and enclosure so the Fire & Rescue services know they're dealing with a battery energy storage system.
- Your installer should fit an emergency isolation switch that allows the Fire & Rescue Service to turn off the system quickly if needed.
- Keep an emergency response plan handy, so everyone knows what to do if something goes wrong.
5. Keep up with maintenance
- Check alarms and detectors weekly to make sure they work.
- Have your battery system checked by a professional at least once a year.
Powering the future safely
Safe BESS installation isn’t just about protecting your property - it’s about safeguarding people and making sure we can all enjoy the benefits of clean energy with peace of mind.
By following these steps, you’ll help ensure your battery system is an asset, not a risk.
If you’d like to learn more, you watch this helpful webinar on BESS safety held recently by Zurich Club Blue in conjunction with Zurich Resilience Solutions. Zurich Resilience Solutions' guide outlines the 7 Critical Fire Safety Considerations for BESS projects. You can download it here.
You can also read the UK government's guidelines here.
And remember, if you’re thinking about installing a BESS, or want to check if your current system is safe, ask a qualified installer or reach out to your insurance provider for advice.
