At ECI Enterprise Ltd, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality renewable energy installations that adhere to the latest industry standards. With the recent publication of PAS 63100:2024, many installers are wondering how this new guidance might affect their work and MCS certification for battery storage installations. In this post, we break down what PAS 63100:2024 means for the industry and what you need to know moving forward.
What is PAS 63100:2024?
PAS 63100:2024 is a new specification developed by BSI (British Standards Institution) and sponsored by the UK government. While not a British Standard, it sets requirements for fire safety in the installation of small-scale electrical energy storage systems (EESSs) in domestic dwellings, particularly for stationary secondary battery systems. One key area of focus is the safe placement of battery storage products, including within loft spaces.
This document was drafted with input from a wide range of industry experts and underwent public consultation before its publication. Importantly, PAS 63100:2024 is referenced in the 3rd edition of the IET Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems, which states that it “should be considered” (section 11.2.2) and, in relation to battery location, “should be used” (section 11.2.3).
What Does This Mean for Installers?
While PAS 63100:2024 is not currently part of any UK regulations such as Building Regulations, nor is it directly referenced in the Battery Storage Installation Standard (MIS 3012), it is indirectly linked due to the requirement for compliance with the latest edition of the IET Code of Practice.
The use of the word “should” in the IET Code of Practice allows for some flexibility, as it indicates a recommendation rather than a mandatory requirement. However, following best practices outlined in PAS 63100:2024 could be beneficial for installers looking to future-proof their work and align with evolving industry standards.
What’s Next?
The MCS Battery Storage Working Group recognizes that this guidance may create some uncertainty for contractors striving for compliance. As of now, there are no immediate changes to MIS 3012, meaning installers can continue operating under the existing standard. However, the Working Group is set to meet in July 2024 to assess whether and how PAS 63100 should be incorporated into MIS 3012. Any proposed updates will go through a public consultation process before being finalized.
Our Commitment to Quality and Compliance
At [Your Company Name], we are committed to staying at the forefront of industry standards and ensuring our installations meet the highest benchmarks for safety and efficiency. We will continue to monitor updates from MCS and provide our customers with the most reliable and up-to-date battery storage solutions.
For more information or to discuss how PAS 63100:2024 may impact your installation, feel free to reach out to our expert team. Together, we can navigate these industry changes and ensure safe, high-quality renewable energy solutions for all.