Household energy storage, what qualifications are required?

In light of the pressing challenge posed by global climate change, a sweeping global movement towards green and low-carbon energy transformation is gaining rapid momentum. Among the diverse array of solutions emerging, household energy storage has emerged as an increasingly favored choice for families worldwide.

The demand for household energy storage can be broadly classified into two primary categories. In regions characterized by high electricity prices, such as Europe and the United States, the installation of household solar storage takes precedence as families seek to optimize electricity consumption and achieve substantial cost savings. Conversely, in areas plagued by unreliable power grids like Africa, the primary objective is to secure a consistent and dependable supply of electricity.

Energy storage stands as a critical technology and indispensable component that underpins the development of new power systems. To ensure the safety and reliability of these systems, different countries and regions have established rigorous certification standards and entry thresholds.

Overview of Certification Systems:

North America: UL Certification System

The UL certification system, renowned in the field of energy storage, particularly in North America, places a strong emphasis on safety testing. The certification process typically spans approximately two months and includes notable certifications such as:

UL 9540: This certification focuses on conducting mechanical, electrical, and environmental tests on fully packaged energy storage systems.

UL 9540A: Addressing fire protection concerns, this certification mitigates the risk of thermal runaway in energy storage products through comprehensive tests covering installation parameters, ventilation requirements, fire protection facilities, strategies, and countermeasures.

UL 1973: This certification mandates a range of tests for lithium battery packs utilized in energy storage, ensuring safe operation in demanding conditions such as combustion, overcharge protection, overdischarge protection, and temperature shock.

Europe: CE Certification System

The CE certification system holds prominence in Europe and encompasses safety requirements for energy storage batteries and battery systems. It entails meticulous tests conducted on batteries, battery modules, and battery management systems (BMS), evaluating critical aspects like external short circuits, impact resistance, thermal abuse, overcharge protection, and thermal runaway spread. Noteworthy certifications within this system include IEC/EN 62619 and IEC/EN 62477 or IEC/EN 62109.

Australia: CEC Certification System

Specific to Australia, the CEC certification system focuses on safety standards for energy storage power conversion systems (PCS). It comprehensively covers protection against electric shock, energy-related risks, fire hazards, thermal damage, mechanical and noise damage, and environmental stress during operation, storage, and transportation.

Japan: JIS Certification System

Japan has implemented the JIS certification system for energy storage systems, although specific details regarding the system are not provided in the article.

Furthermore, the globally applicable UN38.3 certification ensures the safety and performance of lithium batteries during transportation. It subjects the batteries to a series of rigorous tests, including simulations, high and low-temperature cycles, vibrations, impacts, and short circuits. Additional certification requirements may be applicable for batteries exceeding specific cell or package quantities.

Additionally, for products with batteries originating from China (excluding Hong Kong), an air/sea transport identification report is indispensable. This report must undergo a thorough review and issuance by a dangerous goods identification agency authorized by the Civil Aviation Administration of China.

Reference Pictures of basic certifications

The home storage system predominantly comprises three key components: a solar storage inverter, a BETA+ energy storage battery, and a comprehensive energy management system. The integration of these elements enables households to harness renewable solar energy, efficiently store excess power, and even facilitate electric vehicle charging. By intelligently managing energy usage through data analysis and control systems, families can effortlessly embrace green energy, curtail household electricity expenses, and effectively address challenges such as grid instability and power outages. These advancements propel us closer to realizing the ambitious global dual carbon goals.

As the world unites in the pursuit of combating climate change, household energy storage systems are poised to play an increasingly pivotal role in fostering sustainable and low-carbon living for present and future generations.

Read more about "Eskom tells "Use batteries to avoid load-shedding" but at what cost?"