Standard testing procedure for BESS in India

The standard testing and safety procedures for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in India are currently being formalized under the Draft Central Electricity Authority (CEA) (Measures relating to Safety and Electric Supply) (First Amendment) Regulations, 2025

These draft regulations outline comprehensive safety, monitoring, and operational standards for BESS installations. Here's a summary of the key provisions:


๐Ÿ”ง Core Safety and Testing Requirements for BESS

1. System Design & Fault Tolerance

  • BESS must be designed with two-fault tolerance, ensuring safe operation or shutdown even after two independent faults (e.g., overcharge, short circuit)

2. Battery Management System (BMS)

  • Must continuously monitor:
    • Voltage
    • Temperature
    • Current
    • Thermal runaway
  • Should trigger alarms and automatic shutdown if parameters exceed OEM limits

3. Power Conversion System (PCS)

  • Must operate fully automatically and unattended.
  • Should include:
    • Grid synchronization
    • Self-protection
    • Diagnostic capabilities

4. Battery Container Standards

  • Must be explosion-proof and have:
    • Forced ventilation
    • Automated louvers for gas release
    • Ingress protection
  • Minimum distance:
    • 7.5 meters from buildings
    • 3 meters between containers
    • If not feasible, Large Scale Fire Testing (LSFT) is required

5. Fire Safety & Suppression

  • Containers ≥200 kWh must have automatic water-based fire suppression systems.
  • Must include:
    • Smoke, gas, heat, and flame detection
    • Emergency lighting
    • Manual emergency stop buttons

6. Environmental & Structural Safety

  • Electrolyte spill containment for liquid-based batteries.
  • Proper grounding and fencing (minimum 1.8 meters).
  • CCTV, motion sensors, and alarms for security

7. Testing & Audits

  • Independent third-party fire safety audits are mandatory.
  • SOP for audits to be issued by CEA within 3 months.
  • Fire safety personnel must undergo specialized training

These draft regulations are open for public feedback and are expected to become the national standard for BESS safety and testing in India.

 

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