What are the risks of a lithium-ion battery energy storage system?

The potential dangers of lithium-ion battery energy storage systems (BESS) can generally be classified into several categories, namely fire and explosion risks, chemical risks, electrical risks, stranded energy risks, and physical risks.

Is there a market for electricity storage in Italy?

The market for electricity storage in Italy is growing very fast. However, the legislative framework is fragmented and does not fully cover all the main features of this market. Until a few years ago, the legislation only mentioned pumped hydro and did not acknowledge any other forms of energy storage.

Can batteries be used for energy storage in Italy?

In Italy, batteries have become an attractive technology for electricity storage projects although they are not traditionally used.

What is Gestore Servizio Energetici?

Gestore Servizio Energetici (GSE) is the state-owned company which promotes and supports renewable energy in Italy. It fosters sustainable development by providing support for renewable electricity generation and renewable energy storage, and by taking actions to build awareness of environmentally-efficient energy uses.

Can a lithium-ion Bess be a fire hazard?

The challenge in safeguarding a lithium-ion BESS lies in the fact that it presents a concurrent risk of both fire and explosion. Most fire suppression methods, such as sprinkler systems, are designed assuming the occurrence of ignition.

Who owns pumped hydro storage facilities in Italy?

Originally, pumped hydro storage projects in Italy were developed by the then state-owned electricity companies. However, after the electricity market was liberalised, most of these projects are now owned by commercial companies, with Enel being the main operator in the field. Enel, which is partially owned by the Italian government with 25.5% of the company’s shares, is the main operator in the field of pumped hydro storage.