While catastrophic fire events in clean energy infrastructure are relatively rare, their consequences can be severe.

Analyses of publicly reported battery energy storage system (BESS) incidents indicate that the majority of incidents—frequently estimated at approximately 89%—originate outside of the battery cells themselves, often involving balance-of-system components such as electrical infrastructure, controls, or integration-related issues.

When early warning signs go undetected, minor issues can escalate into system failures, leading to ignition, fire, or thermal runaway.

Understanding this progression is critical for managing risk in modern energy systems.

Read the guidebook to learn more about:

• Understanding risk in clean energy systems

• Fire escalation pathways

• Prevention: Reducing fire risk

• Detection: Identifying developing hazards

• Suppression: Controlling incidents and limiting escalation

• A layered approach to clean energy fire protection