To support renewable energy targets, sites with augmented grid power supply and storage infrastructure are commonly being constructed in Queensland. These include Battery Energy Storage Sites (BESS), Solar Farms and Wind Turbines.
The rapid advancement of renewable energy technology means that these sites present unique hazards for fire service response, such as live electricity, stranded energy and unique battery chemistry behaviour that challenges conventional firefighting approaches. As a result, considerable risks are presented to firefighters who respond to this type of infrastructure during emergency incidents.
Our Department can provide advice and support with regards to the proposed design of these facilities. This advice takes into account the safety and protection of the community, environment and responding firefighters.
As an Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authority Council member, we have collaborated with stakeholders nationally and internationally to assist with the development of a number of national guidelines relating to the operation, modification or design of this type of infrastructure. These guidelines provide information relating to incidents involving Photovoltaic and Battery Energy Storage Systems. You can find the AFAC guidelines on their website as linked below:
- Large-scale battery energy storage system installations
- Battery Energy Storage Systems Commercial and Industrial Installations
- Utility PV Array Installations
We advocate a holistic approach to fire and emergency risk management for such sites.
If you wish to engage with us regarding your Commercial BESS, Solar Farm or Wind Farm, please email your enquiry to CIS@fire.qld.gov.au. The team will then contact you at our earliest convenience.
Renewable Energies Forms
Request for meeting
Use this form to request a meeting with us about your renewable energies premises.
Request for QFD visit
Use this form to request QFD to conduct a visit to your premises. There are two types of visits relevant to renewable energy premises as explained below
Site visit
A site visit is for members of the Complex Infrastructure Section to attend the premises and provide clarity in relation to fire fighting intervention capability based on what fire safety installations are available.
Fire crew familiarisation visit
A fire crew familiarisation visit involves the attendance of your local fire crews to understand site-specific information vital to providing the correct response approach in case of an emergency. Ideally, this visit should occur prior to commissioning.