Guidance on the Safety of Battery Energy Storage Systems

The European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) on 14 November 2023 published the Guidance on the Safety of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) On-board Ships.

BESS installations on board ships have been increasing in number and installed power as battery technology also develops.

There are more than 800 battery ships in operation across the world, 60% of which are known to be operating in Europe, using batteries onboard for propulsion either in pure electric or hybrid functions.

The Guidance aims at supporting maritime administrations and the industry by promoting a uniform implementation of the essential safety requirements for batteries on-board of ships.

The development of the Guidance was supported by an extensive Group of Experts who brought essential knowledge on the requirements of classification societies, industry standards and available research.

Download the Guidance here.

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LINK TO THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE