Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are expanding rapidly in the context of the global energy transition. However, this growth is accompanied by new risks, particularly fires linked to lithium-ion batteries and their thermal runaway. According to the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), more than 85 BESS incidents have been recorded worldwide since 2011. Meanwhile, a report from Energy Storage shows that around 26% of inspected storage systems have issues related to fire detection and suppression. These numbers highlight the critical importance of implementing a robust automatic fire detection and suppression strategy from the design stage of any BESS installation.
Key challenges of automatic detection and suppression : why early detection is essential
The study “Safety and Reliability Analysis of Reconfigurable Battery Energy Storage System” (MDPI, 2024) reports that 57% of BESS failures occur within the first two years of operation, indicating that the initial operating phase is particularly vulnerable. According to Battery Power, only ~11% of BESS fires/explosions are directly caused by a defective battery module, while ~65% originate from “operational and integration issues”, such as improper installation or inadequate cooling.
In other words: efficient system detection and management can make the difference between a simple warning and a major disaster.
Why automatic suppression must be designed specifically for BESS
Traditional fire suppression systems (water-based or foam-only systems) have major limitations when applied to BESS installations due to factors such as flammable gas buildup, thermal propagation risks, sensitive electrical equipment, and confined spaces. When combined with a condensed aerosol solution such as Stat-X, they become both more effective and faster to activate.
Selected solutions must therefore:
- act before rapid fire propagation (via automatic detection)
- limit collateral damage to equipment and facilities
- operate effectively in confined environments with interconnected battery racks
- remain modular and adaptable to each site’s risks and configuration.
Our distinctive solution : Stat-X Condensed Aerosol Fire Suppression
Stat-X is specifically designed for BESS risks. Here’s why:
- BESS installations are usually housed in closed rooms or containers; the Stat-X aerosol system is optimized for these confined volumes.
- Aerosol technology reduces the risk of electrical damage, leaves no corrosive residue, and enables faster system restart.
- Integrated detection + suppression: by combining suitable detectors (smoke, thermal radiation, gas) with automatic suppression, we deliver a turnkey fire safety solution for BESS.
- Compliance and technical excellence: Stat-X is certified by DNV and other major industry bodies, ensuring high reliability and performance.
- Lower fire risk also improves insurance coverage and operational continuity.
What Should You Do Next?
- Watchthe Stat-X system explainer video
- Download the Stat-X brochure
- Contact us for a customized needs assessment
- Provide reassurance to insurers, clients, and employees by implementing high-quality protection
With GS Environnement and the Stat-X solution, you choose not only safety, but also performance, peace of mind, and regulatory compliance.
Don’t leave your BESS installation exposed, act today.

