UL Solutions Introduces Certification Pathway for DC Energy Storage Systems, Simplifying Reviews of Modular Installations

New certification program supports flexible system configurations and helps reduce complexity when modular installations undergo certification and code authority review.

• The certification addresses modular DC energy storage systems that connect evaluated subsystems, including power conversion systems.
• Compatible subsystem models are documented in the UL Product iQ^® certification database for verification by code authorities.
• Evaluations address electrical safety, communication and interoperability between the system and identified subsystems.

NORTHBROOK, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS), a global leader in applied safety science, today announced a new certification pathway designed to help manufacturers of modular direct current (DC) energy storage systems, used for backup power for critical infrastructure and grid-scale energy storage, bring systems to market with greater flexibility and clearer documentation for installation reviews.

An energy storage system captures energy so it can be stored for later use and provides electricity to the grid or to a building’s wiring system. A battery energy storage system can help save energy by reducing the number of times electricity must be converted from one form to another, including conversion between alternating current (AC) and DC. It can also simplify the connection to solar panels, backup generators and other equipment. Many of these systems use a modular design, allowing manufacturers to combine different components for a project. However, confirming that those components work safely together can make certification and installation reviews more complex.

The new certification program offers manufacturers an alternative to seeking a full matched-assembly system listing at the outset. When a compatible subsystem is identified, the resulting certification documentation can provide manufacturers, developers and code authorities with information about the evaluated configuration.

“Modular energy storage designs require a clear way to demonstrate how the system and its critical subsystems work together,” said Wesley Kwok, vice president and general manager of the Energy and Industrial Automation group at UL Solutions. “This certification program gives manufacturers, developers and code authorities documented information about evaluated system combinations while supporting a more flexible approach to DC energy storage system design.”

Through the new certification program, UL Solutions evaluates the DC energy storage system with each identified subsystem to applicable requirements of UL 9540, the Standard for Energy Storage Systems and Equipment. The evaluation addresses electrical, communication and interoperability between the system and its evaluated subsystems. Compatible subsystem models are documented in the UL Product iQ^® certification database under the DC energy storage system certification category, allowing code authorities to verify evaluated combinations.

UL 9540 testing covers electrical, electrochemical, mechanical and other types of energy storage technologies used in systems intended to supply electrical energy. Its evaluation framework includes charging and discharging, protection, controls, communication between devices and other system-level considerations.

Learn more about UL Solutions energy storage system testing and certification services at UL.com/services/energy-storage-system-testing-and-certification.

About UL Solutions

A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions Inc. (NYSE: ULS) transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, advisory offerings and software solutions that support our customers’ product innovation and business growth. The UL Mark serves as a recognized symbol of trust in our customers’ products and reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing our safety mission. We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and complex supply chains, and grow sustainably and responsibly into the future. Our science is your advantage.