Huawei: Enhancing Safety in Commercial and Industrial Energy Storage Systems (C&I ESS)

Challenge: With the growing adoption of renewable energy technologies, battery energy storage systems (ESSs) are becoming essential for ensuring clean energy utilisation. Particularly in commercial and industrial (C&I) settings, ESSs are employed to enhance energy self-sufficiency, lower electricity costs, and ensure stable power supply. However, the application of battery ESSs introduces safety concerns, as accidents can pose threats to the environment and personnel.

Solution and Implementation: Recognising the significance of ESS safety, Huawei collaborated with TÜV Rheinland to address C&I ESS safety challenges. They aimed to improve safety across three dimensions: device safety, asset safety, and personal safety.

• Device Safety: Huawei implemented stringent access and mass production standards for battery cells. They conducted comprehensive tests, including cycle tests and crush tests, to ensure cell safety from the source. Real-time management of cell parameters, smart safety pre-warning, multi-level power terminal temperature detection, and multi-level overcurrent protection were incorporated to maintain stable operation and prevent failures.
• Asset Safety: Huawei designed an active fire suppression system with multiple sensors, exhaust modules, and fire suppression modules. This system actively detects and mitigates fire risks, minimising potential asset loss caused by ESS failure.
• Personal Safety: Huawei introduced top explosion venting technology compliant with NFPA 68 standards. This feature aims to protect personnel in the event of uncontrolled explosions. The design was rigorously tested and verified to ensure its effectiveness.

Key Metrics of Success:

• Reduction in fire and explosion incidents in C&I ESSs.
• Enhanced personnel safety through top explosion venting technology.
• Decreased economic losses and casualties in C&I settings.

Implementation Timeline: The project involved extensive research, collaboration, and development. The safety solutions were integrated into Huawei’s C&I ESS products for ongoing deployment.

Conclusion: Huawei’s collaboration with TÜV Rheinland to enhance safety in C&I ESSs showcases a commitment to innovation and safety. Their multi-dimensional safety approach addresses device, asset, and personal safety, contributing to a more secure and sustainable energy landscape. This project demonstrates the potential of technology-driven solutions in overcoming safety challenges and driving industry-wide progress. Huawei is comitted to working with the industry to provide safer and more reliable ESS products and make green electricity available to every industry and business.