Powering Confidence: Large-Scale Fire Testing for Battery Energy Storage Systems

As Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) become essential for renewable energy integration and grid stability, safety is non-negotiable. With recent updates to NFPA and CSS requirements now mandating compliance, Large-Scale Fire Testing (LSFT) has emerged as one of the most critical steps in the process. LSFT is a specialized testing process used to evaluate how BESS behaves during extreme fire scenarios. Unlike small-scale tests (e.g., UL 9540A), LSFT is performed on full-size BESS systems or large assemblies to reflect real-world installations. LSFT provides critical data for spacing, containment and fire protection strategies, reducing risk and helping meet regulatory requirements.

Why LSFT is Required

Recent updates to NFPA 855 and the introduction of CSA C800 have made LSFT mandatory. These standards recognize that traditional small-scale testing alone cannot fully capture the dynamics of large, multi-unit installations. LSFT is now the industry benchmark for validating system safety; reducing risk; and protecting lives, property and investments. For a deeper look at how CSA C800 defines test requirements and performance metrics, see our previous blog on UL 9540A vs. C800: How LSFT is Reshaping BESS Design + Compliance.

Our LSFT Facility

Following the recent acquisition of Safety Management Services, Inc. (SMS), Jensen Hughes now operates a large-scale fire and explosion test range at the Tooele Army Depot near Salt Lake City, Utah. This remote and secure facility enables us to conduct full-scale fire tests on systems of all sizes – from small BESS units to utility-scale installations – under controlled real-world conditions. Our team can measure critical parameters such as fire behavior, gas emissions and propagation potential to deliver actionable insights and compliance certainty. 

Why Partner with Jensen Hughes 

When you work with Jensen Hughes, you receive high value in terms of risk mitigation. We understand the sensitivity of cost and time associated with LSFT. Jensen Hughes does not just meet the LSFT requirement – we serve as your trusted partner. We ensure that LSFT is done right. That includes providing a list of value-ranked recommendations as well as assistance in their implementation (e.g., ventilation systems, explosion control systems). Jensen Hughes provides the following service highlights and expertise: 

• Compliance with NFPA 855 + CSA C800: We enable you to meet the requirements of the latest standards without delays.
• Risk Assessment + Mitigation: Our tests provide hard data to understand fire propagation risks and mitigation.
• Expertise + Infrastructure: We have decades of fire protection engineering experience combined with a facility built for large-scale testing.
• Advanced Post-Test Services: Beyond testing, we offer post-test modeling (e.g., wind speed and direction scenarios), engineering analysis (plume modeling) and design services for safety features, helping you optimize your system for real-world conditions.

We’ve Got Your Back

Whether you’re a utility scaling up energy storage, an integrator designing next-generation systems or an OEM bringing innovative solutions to market, Jensen Hughes is ready to support you every step of the way. With our expanded LSFT capabilities, you can move forward with confidence knowing your systems have been tested to the highest standards.

Let’s Get LSFT Done Right, Together

Contact us today to learn more about our LSFT services and how we can help you achieve compliance, safety and peace of mind.