BESS systems are consolidating their position as the strategic solution for maintaining power supply when the grid fails.
On 28 April, a massive blackout severely affected Spain and Portugal. Subsequent investigations confirmed what many feared: even the most modern power grids can collapse when faced with certain unexpected events. This incident has once again brought the need for energy backup systems to the forefront, and with it, the growing adoption of BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) installations.
But as investment in storage solutions increases to ensure continuity of supply, there's a risk that often goes unnoticed: lightning strikes on these critical facilities.
BESS as a solution... but are they protected against lightning?
BESS systems are essential for maintaining the operation of industrial facilities, logistics centres, critical infrastructure and renewable energy plants during a blackout. However, their high energy density, sensitive electronic components and location in isolated areas make them particularly vulnerable to both direct and indirect lightning strikes.
A lightning strike can:
- Damage battery modules and control electronics.
- Compromise the safety of the facility.
- Disrupt its response capability during grid failures.
- Cause economic losses or even fires if not properly managed.
Lightning protection for BESS plants: our speciality
At INGESCO, we’ve been protecting infrastructures against lightning for over 50 years. Today, we are also working closely with engineering firms, developers, and manufacturers to provide specialised protection for BESS systems.
What do we offer?
- Real risk analysis by location, using precise lightning density data across Spain.
- Customised protection and prevention system design, compliant with national and international standards.
- External lightning protection with conventional systems, ESE air terminals (Early Streamer Emission), hybrid systems, and optimised earthing systems.
- Storm detection and warning systems to anticipate risks and validate post-storm events.
- Technical validation of the system after each storm, ensuring the entire installation remains operational.
Ensuring continuity is not enough: it must be shielded.
And that’s only possible with comprehensive solutions that protect before, during, and after every storm.
Are you planning a BESS installation?
At INGESCO we help you to design an integral protection shield so that your storage system is always protected against atmospheric electrical discharges.
Contact us and we will advise you.