Electric Energy Storage Systems (EES). Part 4-2: Environmental Impact Assessment in Case of Failure of a Battery in an Electrochemical Energy Storage System

This document establishes comprehensive guidelines for evaluating the environmental impacts resulting from battery failures within electrochemical energy storage systems integrated into power grids. It specifically addresses the fourth and second part of a broader series focused on energy storage, targeting the assessment of hazards posed by electrolyte leakage, thermal runaway, gas emissions, and other hazardous byproducts during malfunction events. The text outlines standardized methodologies for identifying potential ecological risks, including soil and water contamination, as well as air quality degradation associated with specific failure modes in various battery chemistries. It provides technical criteria for quantifying the severity of environmental consequences under defined operating conditions and accident scenarios. Furthermore, the document details procedures for risk characterization, enabling stakeholders to understand the magnitude of impact and to implement appropriate mitigation strategies. By setting uniform testing protocols and evaluation frameworks, this publication aims to facilitate consistent safety assessments across different regions and applications, ensuring that the deployment of storage technologies accounts for their potential environmental footprint in the event of internal system failures.