Is BESS Electromagnetism Study always necessary?

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) have become key parts of the energy transition. They make it possible to manage renewable intermittency, provide auxiliary services to the grid and also optimize the use of electrical infrastructures.

However, as with any high-power electrical installation, it is essential to ensure its compatibility with the environment, both in environmental and social terms. This is where the question arises: is it necessary to carry out a BESS Electromagnetism Study? The answer is yes, especially if we want to rigorously evaluate and demonstrate the safety of people against exposure to magnetic fields.

What is a BESS Electromagnetism Study?

A preventive, technical and regulatory analysis

The objective is none other than to verify that magnetic field levels in areas with human presence, whether they are workplaces or residential centers, are below the legal limits established by Royal Decree 1066/2001 based on the international recommendations of the ICNIRP (international association for protection against non-ionizing radiation), the maximum limit being 100 microteslas for public exposure to magnetic fields at a frequency of 50 Hz.

How is an Electromagnetism Study performed?

Technical methodology based on simulation and regulations

Our studies combine technical experience with calculation tools, so we carry out the following work within each study:

• Electromagnetic simulation using specialized software, applying the simplified Maxwell equations and the real geometry of the system.
• 3D models of the environment evaluating critical points 1 meter high and 0.2 m from the perimeter, as required by regulations.
• Evaluation of components in isolation, to avoid interfering with the results.

What components are being analyzed?

Comprehensive evaluation of the system

This type of study analyzes the magnetic fields generated by the alternating current electrical equipment of the BESS system (transformers, energy conversion systems (PCS), power lines...) under real operating conditions through simulations. Batteries are excluded, since they are direct current generators, whose magnetic field is fixed, rather than variable and is neglected.

What regulations apply?

Legal framework and recommendations

The most relevant legal limits and technical guidelines to consider are:

• Royal Decree 1066/2001 on exposure to electromagnetic fields.
• RD 337/2014: technical conditions of AT electrical installations.
• UNE-EN 62110 and 62226 standards.
• Recommendation of the Council of the European Union 1999/519/EC.
• ICNIRP which issues international recommendations based on scientific evidence.

What results are obtained?

Quantified values and visual representations

Our reports include heat maps and comparative graphs, plan and sectional models, tables of maximum values and clear conclusions that answer the question: is the installation safe for the environment?

For this Environmental Ideas it has a technical team of electrical and environmental engineers who understand administrative and industry requirements and offers personalized studies for each installation as well as a fluid dialogue with the parties involved and technical rigor and clear language.

Are you developing a battery project?

We propose to you the realization of a BESS Electromagnetism Study to go beyond compliance with the legal requirement and turn it into a commitment to safety, transparency and technical quality of the project. Contact us if you need to evaluate your installation. We will help you with a study adapted to the peculiarities of your project and its environment.