Viridi, a Buffalo-based company, has achieved cETLus certification for its RPS150 energy storage system, confirming compliance with the UL 9540 safety standard. This certification was awarded shortly after a public demonstration where the RPS150 successfully contained a thermal runaway incident to a single cell, showcasing its safety features. The certification is valid for both the United States and Canadian markets, facilitating more deployments in populated areas.
The testing was conducted by Intertek Testing Services, a recognized laboratory, which performed comprehensive evaluations of the RPS150’s electrical, mechanical, and thermal safety. The assessment confirmed that the system can effectively isolate malfunctioning cells and minimize gas emissions, which is critical for maintaining safety in indoor environments.
Each RPS150 unit offers 150 kilowatt-hours of energy storage and can be combined into larger multi-megawatt configurations. During the recent demonstration, conventional lithium-ion batteries failed catastrophically, while the RPS150 maintained complete containment, with firefighters on-site reporting no flame spread beyond the initial cell.
Jon M. Williams, CEO of Viridi, stated that the successful demonstration under real-world conditions further validates the design’s robustness. Following this achievement, logistics operators are now planning to implement the RPS150 in enclosed facilities, indicating a growing confidence in the product’s safety.
Recent data indicates an uptick in battery-related fires, with New York reporting 277 incidents in 2024, up from 268 in the previous year. Phoenix has seen a doubling in battery fire incidents, correlating to prolonged emergency responses due to cell propagation. This trend is prompting insurers and regulatory bodies to mandate certified equipment for permits and insurance coverage.
Market analysts predict that the demand for compact energy storage systems suitable for indoor use could exceed three gigawatt-hours annually by 2027. Viridi is ramping up production at its facility located at the former American Axle site in Buffalo, with plans to double its manufacturing capacity in the coming year. The company is also seeking equivalent certifications in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, further expanding its market reach.
Williams emphasized the importance of delivering high-performance solutions that prioritize safety, aligning with the increasing market demand for reliable energy storage technologies.
