Energy storage systems play a vital role in modern electricity grids, enabling the integration of renewable energy sources, improving grid stability, and providing backup power during outages. However, these systems are vulnerable to damage from power surges, which can occur due to lightning strikes, switching operations, or grid disturbances. Surge protection is essential for ensuring the safety, reliability, and longevity of energy storage systems.

Protecting Critical Components

Energy storage systems consist of various critical components, including batteries, inverters, control systems, and monitoring equipment. These components are sensitive to voltage spikes and can be damaged by power surges. For example, batteries are susceptible to thermal runaway and cell degradation if subjected to overvoltage. Inverters, which convert DC power from the batteries into AC power, can malfunction or fail if exposed to surges. Surge protection devices (SPDs) can safeguard these components by diverting excess voltage away from sensitive equipment.

Key Components Susceptible to Surge Damage

1. Patohi:
   • Vulnerable to overvoltage caused by external surges, which can lead to thermal runaway, electrolyte leakage, and cell degradation.
   • Internal faults or short circuits within the battery system can also generate high current surges, damaging the battery cells.
2. Pūtahurahu:
   • Convert DC power from the batteries into AC power […]