Aug. 16 Virtual Energy Storage Systems Workshop

As homes, businesses, and other properties evaluate and install energy storage systems (ESS), often paired with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, the Sustainable Energy Action Committee has decided to offer a series of workshops on safety and risk considerations associated with ESS permitting.

The series will include virtual events and in-person events, beginning with an online workshop on Wednesday, Aug. 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. PDT. Fill in the form on this page to register. There is no cost to attend.

At the Aug. 16 workshop, SEAC members and invited guests will provide an overview of ESS technology, safety standards, tests, codes, and common issues with permit applications and plan review. The sessions will include ample time for Q&A. We invite you to bring questions and concerns.

The workshop is designed for building departments, fire departments, installers, and manufacturers.

Building Energy Storage Systems Safety and Risks

Virtual Workshop 8/16/23

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. PDT

Moderator: Toyah Callahan, Program Director, Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC)

9:00 a.m. Welcome and opening remarks

9:05 a.m. Overview of session structure

9:10 a.m. Session 1: ESS safety and risks

Attendees will hear presentations from

• Manufacturer representative Charles Picard, Staff Engineer, Regulatory Compliance, Tesla
• Fire safety representative Kevin Reinertson, Deputy Fire Marshal, Office of Fire Marshal, CAL FIRE/Riverside Fire Dept.

Topics include

• Types of ESS
• Why ESS are being deployed
• ESS safety standards
• ESS codes
• Emergency response

9:50 a.m. Q&A

10:00 a.m. Break

10:05 a.m. Session 2: UL 9540 safety standard & UL 9540A test standard

Attendees will hear a presentation from

• UL representative Bruce Johnson, Regulatory Services Regional Manager, UL Solutions

Topics include

• Overview of the UL 9540A test procedure covering what it is and what it’s not
• When authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) and installers should look at a UL 9540A report
• What AHJs and installers should look for in the reports
• Common issues

10:35 a.m. Q&A

10:45 a.m. Break

11:00 a.m. Session 3: Common issues with permit applications, plan review, and inspections

Attendees will hear presentations from

• AHJ representative Doug Harvey (tentative), Building Official, St. Lucie County, FL, Planning and Development Services
• AHJ representative Doug Smith, Building Inspector, Code Consultant and Plan Reviewer, West Coast Code Consultants
• Industry representative Mark Rodriguez, Senior Jurisdiction Specialist, Sunrun
• Industry representative Jeff Spies, President, Planet Plan Sets

Topics include

• Interconnections between batteries, utility services, and generators
• Residential location requirements
• What makes a complete application

11:40 a.m. Q&A

11:50 a.m. Break

12:00 p.m. Session 4: Open discussion

Panelists from the three sessions will participate in an open discussion. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions and provide comments.

12:55 p.m. Concluding remarks

1:00 p.m. Close

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