Why Certifications Matter

Lithium-ion batteries are highly regarded for their compact size, high energy density, and long lifespan, but they can pose serious risks if improperly handled or manufactured. When built using low-quality materials, assembled incorrectly, or damaged, they can become prone to overheating, electrolyte leakage, fires, or explosions. Due to their thermal instability, a single battery cell can overheat and ignite, which can lead to a dangerous domino effect, spreading the fire to surrounding cells. Additionally, transporting lithium-ion batteries presents a unique set of risks. Classified as Category 9 hazardous materials, they can become hazardous if exposed to uncontrolled environmental conditions or mishandled during transit. This is particularly dangerous as fires caused by lithium-ion batteries are difficult to extinguish with standard fire suppression systems and often produce toxic fumes.

However, when lithium-ion batteries are properly designed, manufactured, and used within their intended conditions, they are generally safe and reliable. Safety issues typically arise from external damage, improper usage, or poor-quality materials, which underscores the need for strict safety standards and certifications. Ensuring that batteries meet rigorous guidelines reduces the risks of overheating, fires, or other hazards, making certifications essential for minimizing potential dangers and ensuring reliable performance across different applications..

Certifications are crucial in ensuring the safety and reliability of lithium-ion batteries. These certifications rigorously test the battery's electrical performance, thermal stability, and resistance to environmental stresses. Through certification, manufacturers must adhere to stringent safety guidelines that minimize risks like thermal runaway, fires, and leakage, offering an extra layer of protection for both consumers and manufacturers. Without these industry standards, the risks posed by lithium-ion batteries would be much higher, especially in large-scale applications like energy storage systems or mass transportation.

Overview of Key Certifications

Global Certifications

• UN38.3

  UN38.3 is a globally recognized safety standard that governs the transportation of lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries, which are considered Class 9 dangerous goods due to potential fire risks. This standard ensures that batteries can be safely transported by air, sea, rail, or road by defining requirements for testing under various environmental, mechanical, and electrical conditions. It applies to batteries at every stage of the transportation process, whether they are shipped independently or within a device. Compliance with UN38.3 is crucial for manufacturers to gain global market access, as regulators worldwide have adopted this protocol. The standard also includes guidance on classification, packaging, and design for shipping batteries securely.

• IEC 62619

  IEC 62619 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that outlines the safety requirements for lithium-ion batteries used in industrial applications, such as energy storage and electric vehicles. It focuses on ensuring that these batteries meet stringent criteria for electrical and mechanical safety, including resistance to external impacts and thermal stability. This certification is crucial for lithium-ion batteries as it mitigates the risks of thermal runaway, which can lead to fires or explosions, thus ensuring their safety and reliability in high-demand environments like energy storage systems.

Americas Certifications

• UL 9540

  UL 9540 is a safety standard that certifies complete Energy Storage Systems (ESS). It ensures that all components of an ESS, such as the battery and inverter, work together safely and efficiently. To achieve UL 9540 certification, the battery must comply with UL 1973 and the inverter must meet UL 1741 standards. This certification is crucial for the overall safety and performance of energy storage systems in various settings.

• UL 1973

  UL 1973 specifically addresses the safety of batteries used in stationary energy storage systems. It tests the battery’s ability to handle both normal and abnormal conditions, including factors like electrical and mechanical safety, thermal runaway, and environmental impact. This certification is focused on ensuring that the battery is safe, though it does not evaluate long-term performance or reliability.

• CSA Certification

  CSA certification ensures that a product complies with Canadian safety, performance, and environmental regulations. For energy storage batteries, this certification involves rigorous testing for electrical and mechanical safety, thermal stability, and environmental impact. Batteries certified by CSA are considered safe and reliable for use in Canadian energy storage systems, providing assurance of compliance with Canadian laws and industry standards.

European Certifications

• CE Marking

  The CE marking is a mandatory certification for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA), signifying compliance with the health, safety, and environmental protection standards set by the European Union. For energy storage batteries, this certification ensures that the product meets the necessary safety and environmental requirements. Products carrying the CE mark are deemed safe, reliable, and suitable for use within the EEA. Manufacturers must undergo thorough testing to achieve CE certification, ensuring that their products adhere to strict EU regulations.

• UKCA

  The UKCA marking is the post-Brexit version of the previous EU CE rules, created for products sold in the UK.

• IEC/EN 62477

  IEC/EN 62477 ensures the safety of power electronic converters in lithium battery storage systems. It covers essential safety aspects like electrical, thermal, and mechanical protections, ensuring secure integration into energy storage applications.

• BattG

  The BattG (Battery Act) requires companies in Germany to manage the collection and disposal of used batteries. Manufacturers must create or join take-back systems, ensuring proper disposal and recycling to minimize environmental and health risks. This regulation encourages sustainable battery handling by safely managing hazardous materials and recovering valuable resources.

• VDE

  VDE certification is widely recognized in Germany and other parts of Europe, ensuring compliance with strict safety and quality standards, both nationally and internationally. It is crucial for products that must meet electrical safety and environmental requirements, guaranteeing the safe operation of energy-related systems and appliances.

• CEI 0-21

  CEI 0-21 is essential for systems installed in Italy, governing how energy storage systems and renewable energy sources connect to the national grid. It ensures these systems meet safety and technical requirements, maintaining grid stability and power quality.

Conclusion

When purchasing energy storage batteries, certifications like UL 1973, IEC 62619, UN38.3 and CE are key factors to consider. These certifications ensure that the batteries meet stringent safety, quality, and environmental standards. By selecting certified batteries, you're investing in solutions that are not only safe and reliable but also environmentally sustainable. Certified products help protect users, build market trust, and drive the growth of clean energy technologies, making them essential for a sustainable energy future.