Cooling of energy storage systems and battery storage systems

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) and energy storage solutions are a central component of the energy transition – in industry, infrastructure, commerce and increasingly also in neighborhoods. For storage systems to work reliably, efficiently and safely, one thing is crucial: controlled thermal management. As a solution specialist for ventilation, cooling and blower technology from ebm-papst, Breuell & Hilgenfeldt supports you in the selection and design of suitable components – from targeted electronics cooling to robust cabinet and container ventilation. In this article, you will find out what special requirements battery storage systems and energy storage systems place on cooling, which cooling concepts have proven themselves and what options modern fans and blowers offer.

As a solution specialist for ventilation, cooling and blower technology from ebm-papst, Breuell & Hilgenfeldt supports you in the selection and design of suitable components – from targeted electronics cooling to robust cabinet and container ventilation.

In this article, you will find out what special requirements battery storage systems and energy storage systems place on cooling, which cooling concepts have proven themselves and what options modern fans and blowers offer

Why is cooling so critical for battery storage systems?

In battery and energy storage systems, heat is mainly generated by:

Consequences of heat build-up

– Charging and discharging currents (losses in cells and connectors)

– Power electronics such as inverters, DC/DC converters and power supply units

– BMS , controls, relays, fuses and other components

– Ambient conditions such as high outside temperatures or direct sunlight

A sophisticated cooling system ensures:

Temperature is therefore one of the most important factors influencing the safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness of a storage system.

Special requirements for the cooling of battery storage systems and energy storage systems

1. temperature homogeneity

In addition to the maximum temperature, uniform temperature distribution within a battery system is particularly important. Large temperature differences between individual modules can accelerate ageing and reduce the usable capacity. The aim is to avoid hotspots and ensure controlled, homogeneous temperature control.

2. dynamic load profiles

Battery storage systems often operate under highly variable load conditions. The cooling system must therefore:

– react quickly to peak loads,

– adapt flexibly to partial load operation,

– be controllable in an energy-efficient manner .

3. demanding ambient conditions

Many energy storage systems are operated in containers, switch cabinets or outdoors. This results in requirements for protection class, dust/moisture protection and corrosion resistance.

4. security and redundancy

Depending on the size of the system, redundant fan concepts (N+1), speed/status monitoring and defined emergency running strategies play an important role.

5. efficiency and noise development

Modern energy storage systems must operate economically and be as quiet as possible – especially when installed in residential or mixed-use areas. Efficient fans with intelligent control make a decisive contribution to this.

Requirements for fans and blowers

Air cooling (direct or indirect)

Air cooling is a widely used and proven concept for small to medium-sized systems.

Advantages: Simple implementation, scalable, service-friendly.
Challenges: Careful air routing and filter maintenance required.

Air/air or air/water heat exchanger

Advantages: Protection against dust and moisture.
Challenges: Condensation management required.

Liquid cooling

Liquid cooling is often used for high power densities or very compact designs.

Advantages: High cooling capacity, very good temperature homogeneity.
Challenges: Higher system costs.

Hybrid solutions

In many projects, a combination of liquid-cooled battery modules and air-cooled power electronics has proven its worth.

Requirements for fans and blowers

Sufficient pressure build-up to overcome filters
EC technology for high efficiency and controllability
Integrated monitoring and diagnostic functions
Quiet operation thanks to optimized aerodynamics
Robust design for continuous operation under load

Interpretation in practice - what information is relevant?

Among other things, we need the following for a targeted design:

Heat loads (continuous and peak power)

Desired temperature ranges

Installation site and surroundings

Protection requirements (IP, corrosion)

Air flow and pressure losses

Maintenance and service requirements

Sophisticated thermal management is a decisive factor for the safety, service life and cost-effectiveness of battery and energy storage systems. As a solution specialist for ebm-papst, Breuell & Hilgenfeldt supports you in the selection and design of suitable technology.

Do you have any questions or would you like some advice?

We will be happy to answer any questions you may have and look forward to hearing from you.

You can reach us Monday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.