BESS Certificate of Approval and Site-Specific
Two FDNY-related processes for battery energy storage systems in NYC are the BESS Certificate of Approval and BESS Site
Figure 1: A simplified project single line showing both a battery energy storage system (BESS) and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). The UPS only feeds critical loads, never losing power.
Some BESS suppliers mandate uninterrupted power to maintain the operation of thermal management systems, ensuring battery temperatures remain within desired limits to minimize degradation. BESS fire safety standards, such as NFPA 855, outline minimum requirements for backup power for fire safety systems.
UPS systems are cheaper upfront. But their batteries wear out faster and aren't designed for daily use. BESS systems are more expensive initially, but they offer long-term savings through energy arbitrage, grid incentives, and durability (especially with lithium iron phosphate batteries). Which One Should You Choose?
With the global shift toward clean energy, BESS technology is evolving as a more efficient, scalable, and sustainable alternative to traditional power backup systems. While UPS remains vital for short-term protection, modern industries increasingly rely on BESS for long-duration energy management and resilience.
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