How AERMOD‑Based Plume Analysis Enhances Safety in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
Overview: As Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) become more widely used in the global shift to renewable energy, safety during worst‑case events — like fires or thermal runaways — is a major concern. During such incidents, toxic gases and smoke can be released into the air, posing risks to workers, emergency responders, and surrounding communities. Plume modelling — especially using a tool called AERMOD — helps predict and manage these risks effectively. sgurrenergy.com Why This Matters During a thermal event in a BESS, the system can emit harmful substances such as: • Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) • Carbon Monoxide (CO) • Hydrogen Chloride (HCl) • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) • Fine particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10) • Hot smoke rising unpredictably These emissions can be dangerous for human health and the environment if not properly managed. sgurrenergy.com What Plume Modelling Does Plume modelling with tools like AERMOD allows engineers and safety planners to: ✔ Quantify the amount of toxic emissions released in an incident
✔ Predict how and where pollutants disperse into the air ✔ Estimate potential exposure at site boundaries and nearby public areas ✔ Plan emergency responses, including evacuation or shelter‑in‑place strategies ✔ Ensure compliance with air quality standards ✔ Inform design decisions for ventilation and safety systems ✔ Build trust with regulators and local communities through transparent analysis data sgurrenergy.com Typical Plume Analysis Steps 1.Desktop Study & Data Review: Analyze weather (1–5 years), land use, past incidents, and fire suppressant data. 2.Hazard & Source Definition: Use data from fire test standards (e.g., UL 9540A) and equipment manufacturers to establish emission rates, gas types, temperature, and release conditions. 3.Air Dispersion Modelling: Run simulations under various weather conditions using tools like AERMOD, PHAST, or SAFETI. 4.Impact Analysis: Measure predicted ground‑level concentrations at critical points — such as site boundaries, public access points, and sensitive locations like schools or hospitals. 5.Recommendations: Provide suggestions such as improved ventilation layouts, emergency protocols, community alert systems, and documentation for environmental impact assessments. sgurrenergy.com
Looking Ahead As BESS installations scale up globally, plume modelling is becoming essential — not optional — for safety planning. By integrating tools like AERMOD early in the design and permitting process, clean energy projects can be developed without ignoring environmental and public safety concerns.
