Energy storage cabinet battery current sound

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are relatively new to the US, and communities are only just starting to become aware of the noise issues they can create. BESS's are generally large power storage facilities, often comprised of hundreds of battery units the size of shipping containers spread over many acres of land.

Here are a few solutions for battery energy storage site noise reduction. Inverter units may be outfitted with manufacturer noise-reducing kits, but this often isn't enough to significantly reduce noise emissions at property lines.

Sound from inlet and outlet airflow vents, as well as fans and pumps are emitted from each battery enclosure. The sounds from these systems are similar to rooftop heating ventilation and cooling units in residential and commercial buildings.

Inverter units may be outfitted with manufacturer noise-reducing kits, but this often isn't enough to significantly reduce noise emissions at property lines. Battery storage container air conditioning units must be configured to maximize noise shielding in the direction of residential receptors.

Batteries: Rechargeable battery units are the core of the Battery Energy Storage System. Battery units (often 20 ft. in length and 8 ft in width and height) include cooling systems to maintain optimal operating temperature. The cooling systems use fans and condensing units which can generate noise levels up to 92 dBA at 1 m from the equipment.

In July, 2022, NMS was retained to conduct a detailed noise study for a new Battery Energy Storage Facility near Los Angeles (for confidentiality purposes, no identifying client or site information is included in this article). The facility consisted of over 300 batteries, over 60 PCS units and two transformers covering about 6 acres of land.