GRP Grating and Handrailing for Battery Storage (BESS)
Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are a growing part of the energy system. Byggkomposit supplies GRP products for safe, electrically non-conductive access around battery containers.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) play an increasingly important role in the electricity grid — as balancing capacity for renewables, for frequency response and as local support in industrial and property sites. When new BESS installations are built, specific requirements apply to the materials surrounding battery containers, inverters and DC connections. GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) is used today for access routes, platforms and handrailing in this type of installation.
Byggkomposit supplies GRP structures to contractors and utilities expanding battery storage — both grid-connected sites and industrial installations. The material is electrically non-conductive, available in fire-rated grades and has a low self-weight, which can simplify installing sections without a crane. Fire rating, load and electrical safety should always be verified against the project's technical documentation and risk assessment.
Reference images
Properties relevant to BESS installations
Six properties of fibreglass composite commonly specified on BESS projects.
Electrically non-conductive
GRP does not conduct electricity, which is relevant when working near containerised battery modules and DC connections.
Fire-rated grades available
GRP panels are available in fire-rated grades for battery containers and service walkways. The required fire class should be verified against project documentation.
Fast installation
Pre-assembled, low self-weight sections can help contractors meet installation programmes on BESS projects.
Gritted anti-slip surface
An anti-slip surface in all weathers, relevant for service technicians moving through narrow walkways between containers.
Simplified earthing design
A non-conductive material can simplify earthing design compared with steel structures in the same environment.
Corrosion resistant outdoors
BESS installations often stand outdoors for long periods. GRP does not rust and normally needs no protective coating.
Applications at battery storage sites
Service walkways between containers
Larger BESS sites consist of rows of containers with narrow service walkways between them. GRP grating and platforms give staff anti-slip, non-conductive surfaces to move on. The low self-weight of the sections makes them easy to lift away during service work.
Access platforms and maintenance landings
Tall containers and stacked BESS modules require platforms for access to roofs, ventilation and control equipment. GRP platforms with integrated handrailing can be installed without welding near live equipment. Loading and fixings should be sized and verified for each installation.
Handrailing and fall protection
GRP handrailing around roofs, ramps and container crossings can meet fall protection requirements without introducing conductive metal into an electrically sensitive environment.
Cable ladders and installation details
GRP pultruded profiles and composite cable trays can complement the electrical installation and simplify earthing design. The material resists moisture, but any effect on EMC should be assessed for the system in question.
A new sector with specific material requirements
The BESS market is growing and project timelines are often short. GRP products can be a suitable choice when electrical safety and fast installation both need to be addressed. We are happy to discuss fire rating, sizing and documentation for your battery storage project — the final specification is always confirmed against the project's requirements.
Want to explore Dura Composites' global reference projects in BESS? Read more about GRP in BESS and battery storage at Dura Composites (opens in a new tab).
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