CEA proposes safety norms for battery energy storage systems in 2025 draft

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has released the Draft First Amendment to the Central Electricity Authority (Measures relating to Safety and Electric Supply) Regulations, 2025. 

The amendment introduces new safety requirements for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). These draft regulations are open for public comments until 20 July 2025.  

A new chapter, X-A, has been added to the existing regulations. It outlines the safety framework for BESS, covering equipment design, installation, monitoring, and emergency measures.

The amendment defines key components of BESS, including:

• Battery Management System (BMS): Monitors voltage, temperature, and other parameters.

   

• Power Conversion System (PCS): Converts power between DC and AC.

   

• Battery Containers: Required to be explosion-proof and equipped with forced ventilation.

   

The draft regulations specify several key safety requirements for BESS. These include fire and explosion protection across all system levels, along with emergency shut-down mechanisms if critical thresholds such as temperature or voltage are exceeded. BESS installations shall include hazard detection and suppression systems, ensuring risks such as smoke, gas leaks, or thermal runaway are promptly managed. A minimum distance of 7.5 meters must be maintained between battery containers and exterior walls, unless validated through large-scale fire testing. Proper ventilation is required to prevent the build-up of flammable gases. Additionally, security measures like CCTV and motion sensors must be installed, and emergency lighting and signage should be in place to support safe access and evacuation.

For battery systems above 200 kWh, a water-based fire suppression system is mandatory. The installation must undergo a third-party fire safety audit, and the report is to be submitted to the Electrical Inspector.

CEA will also issue a list of applicable standards and standard operating procedures within three months of notification.