Landlords in Northern Ireland risk fines for non-compliance with safety laws

by Featured NewsSafety

New rules come into effect for electrical safety in Northern Ireland

Landlords in Northern Ireland will be required to complete electrical safety checks every five years or face penalties, according to Electrical Safety First.

From 1 April 2025, all new private tenancies must have an inspection of the hardwired electrical installation, including socket outlets, consumer unit and wiring.

Checks must be carried out by a qualified and competent person, and a report issued to the landlord. If faults are identified, remedial work must be completed within 28 days.

Northern Ireland joins other UK nations in safety standardisation

With the introduction of the new legislation, all devolved nations in the United Kingdom now require five-yearly electrical safety inspections for private rented homes.

Electrical Safety First stated the law would affect more than 100,000 privately rented homes across Northern Ireland.

Lesley Rudd, chief executive of Electrical Safety First, said: “Whilst we know good landlords already do all they can to ensure their tenants and properties are safe, these new laws will require all properties within the private rented sector to have their electrical systems checked, and to ensure faults are rectified.”

Evidence from England shows impact of five-yearly checks

Electrical Safety First reported that following the introduction of identical legislation in England in 2022, thousands of faults were discovered and fixed.

Data from 98 local authorities in England revealed nearly 7,000 electrical faults were identified in the first year. These included high-risk issues such as exposed live wiring, overheating cables and damaged sockets.

Hazards were categorised from ‘C1 – Danger Present’ to ‘C2 – Potential Danger’. The charity said these checks contributed to safer living environments for tenants.

Enforcement measures and landlord support materials

Under the new rules, all tenancies granted before 1 April 2025 must comply by 1 December 2025.

Landlords who fail to meet their obligations may face prosecution or financial penalties.

Electrical Safety First stated: “A landlord who fails to comply with any of their duties under the regulations will be committing an offence.”

The charity has published a dedicated guide for landlords in Northern Ireland, which includes advice on hiring qualified inspectors, documentation, remedial actions and regulatory obligations. The guide is available at: https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/ni

New electrical safety rules apply to private rental homes in Northern Ireland: Summary

From 1 April 2025, all new private tenancies in Northern Ireland must comply with new electrical safety legislation requiring five-yearly checks of hardwired installations.

Landlords must use a competent person to inspect sockets, consumer units and wiring. A report must be provided, and faults fixed within 28 days.

The law covers over 100,000 rented homes. All tenancies existing before 1 April must comply by 1 December 2025.

Landlords who do not meet the requirements may face a Level 5 fine or a fixed penalty notice.

Electrical Safety First has published guidance for landlords on how to comply with the new rules.

This law brings Northern Ireland into line with the rest of the UK, where similar rules are already in place.

Electrical Safety First reported that in England, nearly 7,000 faults were found and remedied during the first year of inspections.

Government of India issues Quality Control Orders for electrical appliances and industrial equipment safety

by Featured NewsSafety

Government of India issues 187 QCOs requiring BIS certification

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has reported that 187 Quality Control Orders (QCOs) have been issued by various regulators and ministries in India.

These QCOs mandate compulsory BIS certification for 769 products.

According to BIS, the QCOs are issued under the BIS Act, 2016 and serve as a mechanism for enforcing conformity with Indian Standards.

The certification requirements apply across multiple sectors, including industry and construction.

The QCOs are introduced in the interest of public safety, environmental protection, fair trade, and national security.

Manufacturers of products listed in the QCOs must meet Indian Standards and obtain BIS certification.

A full list of products under compulsory certification is available on the BIS website.

Electrical appliances and machinery included under new safety QCOs

The Government of India has issued two horizontal Quality Control Orders in 2024 focusing specifically on the safety aspects of products.

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade has released the Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2024.

This order requires all electrical appliances for household and commercial use, with rated voltages up to 250 V (single phase) or 415 V (three phase), to be BIS certified unless already covered by another QCO.

Separately, the Ministry of Heavy Industries has issued the Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulation) Order, 2024.

This QCO includes 20 categories of machinery and electrical equipment and their components under mandatory BIS certification.

BIShosts safety sessions across Indian cities to promote labour protection

BIS branch offices have organised Manak Manthans focused on labour safety at the workplace.

These events were held in cities including Gwalior, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Hubli, Chennai and Dehradun.

The sessions aimed to engage stakeholders such as government agencies, industries, and standards organisations to encourage the implementation of safety practices.

BIS stated that these sessions helped increase awareness about workplace safety standards and their role in reducing risks and injuries.

BIS defines Indian Standards for respiratory, fall and fire protection

BIS has outlined Indian Standards aimed at enhancing occupational health and safety in sectors such as mining, construction, chemical processing, and manufacturing.

Respiratory protection standards include IS 9473:2002 for filtering masks and IS 10245 (Part 2):2023 for firefighting self-contained breathing apparatus.

Fall prevention is addressed through the IS 3521 series, covering equipment like full-body harnesses, lanyards, anchorage systems and rescue gear.

Fire safety standards include IS 16890:2024 for firefighter suits, IS 16874:2018 for gloves, and IS 15683:2018 for fire extinguishers.

These standards are intended to minimise health risks and hazards for workers by ensuring the availability and use of compliant safety equipment.

India mandates BIS certification for 769 products under national safety regulations: Summary

The Bureau of Indian Standards has confirmed that 187 Quality Control Orders have been issued across India requiring BIS certification for 769 products.

These orders are authorised by the BIS Act, 2016 and apply to a range of sectors for reasons including public health and national security.

Two new QCOs mandate BIS certification for electrical appliances and industrial machinery.

Sessions hosted by BIS across several Indian cities have promoted labour safety standards.

BIS has also published specific Indian Standards for respiratory protection, fall prevention and fire safety.

These standards provide manufacturers and employers with clear requirements for equipment used in hazardous work environments.

This information was presented in a written reply by Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Shri B.L. Verma in the Rajya Sabha.

SGS approved by Singapore Civil Defence Force to certify fire safety products

by Featured NewsSafety

SCDF accreditation enables SGS to issue certificates for fire safety products in Singapore

SGS has been accredited by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) as a Certification Body authorised to issue Certificates of Conformity (CoC) for fire safety products exported to Singapore.

According to SGS, the approval allows companies targeting Singapore to benefit from reduced certification times and more direct market access, particularly for products requiring SCDF approval.

SCDF is the authority responsible for enforcing fire safety design and compliance in Singapore under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Certification targets stricter fire safety requirements in Singapore

Singapore maintains strict fire safety regulations, particularly for fire-resistant materials and protection components used in construction.

SGS stated that the SCDF accreditation allows it to support businesses in aligning with Singapore’s regulatory framework while also meeting requirements in neighbouring markets.

SGS noted that its certification capabilities may support companies expanding into Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.

Fire safety compliance in renewable energy and digital sectors

SGS reported that demand for fire safety certification has increased in the renewable energy and energy storage sectors due to Singapore’s national target of achieving Net Zero by 2050.

The company added that as Southeast Asia sees increased investment in digital infrastructure and clean energy, fire safety compliance is becoming a greater requirement for companies working in those areas.

SGS stated that its certification model can support faster market access for these sectors.

Integrated testing and certification process aims to reduce timelines

SGS said that its model combines local testing in China with certification issued in Singapore.

This approach is designed to reduce certification times and costs for manufacturers, particularly in sectors like energy storage.

The company added that this system helps manufacturers meet SCDF compliance while improving efficiency across product development and production processes.

SGS approved by Singapore Civil Defence Force to certify fire safety products: Summary

SGS has received accreditation from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) as a Certification Body.

This enables SGS to issue SCDF-approved Certificates of Conformity (CoC) for fire safety products exported to Singapore.

The SCDF, operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs, oversees fire safety design and compliance.

The approval allows companies to access Singapore’s market more efficiently and may support market expansion into Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.

SGS stated that the demand for fire safety compliance is growing in sectors such as renewable energy and energy storage due to environmental policy targets and infrastructure investments.

The company offers an integrated certification model using testing facilities in China and certification issuance in Singapore.

This approach aims to reduce approval timelines and support clients with regulatory compliance.

SGS also holds accreditations from other international authorities including HOKLAS in Hong Kong, as well as bodies in North America and the European Union.

Compensation claims against UK fire services highlight injury and liability issues

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Fire service negligence claims cost Avon and Cambridgeshire over £270,000 since 2020

Figures obtained by No Win No Fee Solicitors Co show that Avon Fire & Rescue Service and Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service have paid out a combined total of £274,000 in public and employer liability claims since 2020.

Avon Fire & Rescue Service, which covers Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, paid out £218,000.

Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service, which covers Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, paid out £56,000.

As reported by No Win No Fee Solicitors Co, the combined total covers successful claims related to alleged negligence resulting in injuries to employees or damages to members of the public.

Breakdown of claims lodged and settled from 2020 to 2024

Between 2020 and 2024, 182 liability claims were lodged against Avon Fire & Rescue Service, with 71 of those settled.

The number of claims increased year on year from 2020 to 2022, reaching 55 that year.

In 2023/24, Avon reported a decrease to 47 claims.

Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service received 88 liability claims during the same period.

Of these, 27 were settled.

The service saw a reduction in claims in the most recent reporting year, with 16 compared to 25 in 2023.

Common reasons for public and employee claims

Motor-related incidents were the most common cause of claims for both services.

Avon Fire & Rescue Service recorded 156 motor-based claims and 18 public liability property claims.

Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service reported 80 motor-based claims and 6 employer liability cases.

In both services, firefighters can face injuries such as burns, crush injuries, smoke inhalation, stress, or falls from height.

According to No Win No Fee Solicitors Co, members of the public may also submit claims related to road traffic collisions involving fire engines or property damage during callouts.

Legal context and public safety considerations

No Win No Fee Solicitors Co said firefighters who believe their employer was negligent may be eligible to claim compensation.

Fire services have a legal duty of care to protect their employees from avoidable harm.

Speaking to No Win No Fee Solicitors Co, solicitor Lucy Parker said: “Submitting a claim against the fire service when there is a perceived fault can lead to positive change in procedures and training, helping to prevent the same mistakes from occurring again.

“It is not just about your individual case, but about the safety of the community as a whole.”

She added: “Whether you’re an employee claiming for workplace injuries or a member of the public claiming for property damage against a fire service, the specific legal grounds and procedural requirements will differ.

“If you feel that a fire service is at fault, then you should seek legal advice to see whether you have any grounds to submit a claim.”

Fire service negligence claims cost Avon and Cambridgeshire over £270,000 since 2020: Summary

No Win No Fee Solicitors Co reported that Avon Fire & Rescue Service and Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service have paid £218,000 and £56,000 respectively in public and employer liability claims since 2020.

Avon received 182 claims, 71 of which were settled.

Cambridgeshire received 88 claims, settling 27.

Motor-related incidents were the most common type of claim in both services.

Public claims included property damage and road traffic incidents involving fire engines.

Employee claims included injuries sustained during training or emergency response.

Legal duties require services to take reasonable steps to ensure safety.

Solicitor Lucy Parker said that claims can contribute to improvements in safety procedures.

Both services saw a drop in claims in the most recent reporting year.

Fire safety remediation: RSH reports 1,920 buildings with critical external wall defects

by Breaking NewsBuilding ManagementPassiveSafety

Fire safety remediation survey identifies 1,920 buildings with critical issues

The Regulator of Social Housing has reported that 1,920 buildings in the social housing sector in England have a life-critical fire safety defect linked to their external wall system.

According to the latest quarterly data published on 20 March 2025, 17,299 buildings over 11 metres in height were reported by landlords.

Of these, 11.1% were identified as having a life-critical fire safety (LCFS) defect related to the external wall system.

The data was gathered during the Q3 2024/2025 survey, which ran from 13 December 2024 to 22 January 2025 and covers reporting as of 31 December 2024.

Most remediation expected within five years, though delays remain

73.6% of buildings with LCFS defects are expected to be remediated within five years.

However, the Regulator noted that completion dates for 21.1% of affected buildings extend beyond ten years or remain unclear.

Landlords said that delays were caused by complex legal arrangements, difficulties in sourcing contractors and issues in the supply chain.

Remediation work has begun on 355 buildings, or 18.5% of the total affected.

Monitoring continues across all landlords with relevant buildings

Landlords are required to submit quarterly data to the Regulator and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

They are expected to maintain accurate records and ensure risk mitigation measures are in place while remediation work is ongoing.

Will Perry, Director of Strategy at the Regulator of Social Housing, said: “Tenants’ health and safety is non-negotiable and we have a number of tools at our disposal – including these surveys, as well as proactive inspections and responsive engagement – to make sure landlords are making the necessary progress on fire safety remediation.

“Boards and councillors have a duty to seek assurance that landlords are meeting legal obligations for building safety, and that risks are being well managed and promptly remedied.

“This includes any risks to tenants while work has not been completed.”

Data shows historical and ongoing remediation progress

Since 14 June 2017, a total of 2,545 buildings have been identified with an LCFS external wall defect.

Of these, 625 buildings (24.6%) have already been remediated.

An additional 123 buildings (4.8%) have had works completed and are awaiting a new building works assessment.

A total of 478 buildings (24.9%) are reported to have had remediation works either started or completed.

In the most recent quarter, 29% of landlords (434 in total) reported owning at least one relevant building, with most being large landlords with 1,000 or more units.

Fire safety remediation: RSH reports 1,920 buildings with critical external wall defects: Summary

The Regulator of Social Housing published quarterly fire safety remediation data on 20 March 2025.

It reported that 11.1% of the 17,299 relevant buildings in England’s social housing sector have a life-critical fire safety defect related to external wall systems.

The data, covering Q3 2024/2025, showed that 73.6% of affected buildings are expected to be remediated within five years.

Remediation has started on 355 buildings.

Since June 2017, 2,545 buildings have been identified with external wall defects.

Of these, 625 have been remediated and 123 have completed work awaiting assessment.

406 buildings have a completion date beyond ten years or an unclear timeline.

The report stated that delays stem from legal, contractor and supply chain issues.

434 landlords reported at least one relevant building this quarter, mostly large providers.

The Regulator continues to monitor remediation progress through surveys, inspections and engagement with landlords.

Custom fire safety system implemented in major UK warehouse by Siemens and EDSB

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Large-scale fire system installed at Warrington logistics site

Siemens has reported that a collaborative project with EDSB has led to the installation of a fire detection and air sampling system at a warehouse facility in Warrington, operated by a major UK retailer.

The warehouse spans 81,570 square metres and includes multiple mezzanine levels, offices and storage areas for items such as aerosols and batteries.

The scale and complexity of the site required a multi-technology approach tailored to the building’s layout and environmental conditions.

Over 1,000 devices were installed across the facility.

EDSB’s design team developed a BS:5839 Part 1 system aligned to Category L1/P1 standards.

This included low-level test points, pipe runs of over 200 metres, infrared linear beam detectors and triple infrared flame detectors.

Addressing false alarms and ceiling height detection

A key consideration was preventing false alarms, which could lead to costly four-hour halts in operations.

Siemens and EDSB designed a hybrid fire detection system capable of distinguishing between dust, smoke and exhaust fumes, reducing the risk of unnecessary shutdowns.

High ceilings reaching up to 43 metres presented detection challenges due to stratification.

This was addressed using Siemens’ aspirating smoke detection (ASD) technology.

Pipework and air sampling units were strategically placed at height, with installation beginning once the roof structure was completed.

The system was tested and calibrated following installation to ensure it functioned effectively across the varied conditions within the warehouse.

Project planning integrated with construction schedule

The fire safety installation ran concurrently with the construction of the warehouse.

Siemens and EDSB coordinated with construction managers to align installation with building phases.

Planning meetings were held to evaluate access, space limitations and scheduling.

Geoff Wain, Senior Project Manager at EDSB, said: “This project has been a coordinated effort from the design stage through to installation and commissioning, primarily utilising in-house engineers.

“A dedicated site project engineer handled daily communication with our client to ensure that the phased works were completed on time, delivering the project to the end client.”

Alistair Lyon, Install Leader at EDSB, said: “I believe what we have achieved is something that should be celebrated.

“This has been a long, challenging and complex installation and we have delivered an end product that we can all look back on and say we are proud to have been a part of.”

Centralised system management and integration

The warehouse features a Desigo CC building management head end that integrates fire detection data with HVAC and maintenance systems.

This allows operators to view all building systems through a single interface.

Desigo CC enables the centralised monitoring of fire safety and building operations.

It is connected with the on-site computerised maintenance management system (CMMS), using its open architecture for full integration.

John Fennah from Siemens said: “At Siemens we always strive to work closely with our partners and this application is an excellent example of how such an approach can achieve the best solution.

“By understanding and addressing the specific challenges presented by this warehouse, EDSB were able to match the appropriate technology with the different requirements, arriving at an integrated system which optimises fire safety while effectively managing the HVAC.”

The fire system includes nine networked Siemens fire panels, 34 Siemens aspirator panels and over 30 high-level Siemens beam detectors.

Around 200 interfaces support third-party shutdown controls across the facility.

Custom fire safety system implemented in major UK warehouse by Siemens and EDSB: Summary

Siemens and EDSB have completed a fire detection system installation at a logistics warehouse in Warrington.

The facility covers 81,570 square metres and includes multiple types of storage and work areas.

Over 1,000 detection devices were installed.

EDSB’s system design followed BS:5839 Part 1 and Category L1/P1 standards.

The solution includes infrared beam detectors, aspirating smoke detection and flame detectors.

A hybrid system was implemented to reduce false alarms caused by dust and fumes.

High ceilings were addressed with air sampling systems placed at height.

Installation was coordinated with construction schedules.

Desigo CC was used as the building management system, integrating HVAC, fire safety and maintenance platforms.

Siemens fire panels, beam detectors and aspirator panels were networked throughout the facility.

Around 200 interfaces allow third-party system shutdowns.

The system was tested and calibrated post-installation.

Ci Global launches safety smart sockets to tackle electrical fire risks

by Featured NewsProductsSafety

UK, UAE, and Saudi Arabia approve Ci Global’s safety smart sockets

Ci Global has announced the launch of its first safety smart sockets, Ci One and Ci Max.

These patented devices are designed to detect overheating electrical faults and automatically cut power before a fire can start.

The sockets are fully certified for use in the UK, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, with further approvals expected in other markets.

The development follows concerns over electrical faults being a leading cause of residential and commercial fires worldwide.

Anthony Parfitt, Founder and Chairman of Ci Global, developed the technology following the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017.

Parfitt said: “If this technology had been in place at Grenfell, the fire could have been stopped before it started. No other socket can claim to prevent fires in this way.”

Fire prevention beyond legislative measures

The UK government has introduced new building safety reforms in response to the Grenfell Inquiry.

However, Parfitt argues that these measures focus on accountability rather than prevention.

“The new regulations are an important step forward, but they focus on accountability after the risks have already been built into homes,” said Parfitt.

“True prevention means stopping electrical fires before they start, not just managing their aftermath.”

Ci Global is advocating for changes in fire safety legislation to include preventive measures like smart sockets in all buildings.

Addressing electrical fire risks at the source

Electrical faults remain a persistent fire risk, particularly due to overloaded sockets, faulty chargers, and substandard electrical devices.

These issues can lead to fires while residents are asleep, making early intervention critical.

“To stop electrical fires, we need to prevent them at the source,” said Parfitt.

“The Ci smart safety socket is designed to do just that – stop electrical fires before they can even start.”

The safety smart sockets have built-in thermal monitoring technology, allowing real-time detection of overheating. This system automatically shuts off power to prevent ignition.

Expanding safety features beyond fire prevention

Ci One and Ci Max provide additional safety features beyond fire prevention.

The sockets can detect hazards such as water leaks, mould, gas leaks, and even seismic activity.

The technology also reduces energy consumption by powering down standby devices when not in use.

A proof-of-concept trial was conducted at a seven-story high-rise in London, demonstrating the socket’s capabilities to industry stakeholders, including global property developers and insurance representatives.

Ci Global has committed a portion of future profits to installing smart sockets in UK social housing and is seeking government support for wider adoption.

Ci Global launches safety smart sockets to tackle electrical fire risks: Summary

Ci Global has introduced its first safety smart sockets, Ci One and Ci Max, designed to prevent electrical fires by detecting overheating and cutting power before a fire starts.

The sockets are certified for use in the UK, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, with additional approvals expected.

Founder Anthony Parfitt developed the technology following the Grenfell Tower fire and is advocating for fire prevention measures beyond current legislation.

Ci Global is seeking government support to install smart sockets in social housing.

The sockets also detect additional hazards, including water leaks, gas leaks, and seismic activity.

A London high-rise trial demonstrated their effectiveness, attracting interest from industry professionals.

The company has pledged future profits toward expanding access to the technology.

EU guidance on fire safety for electric vehicles in covered parking areas

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Key recommendations for electric vehicle fire safety

The Sustainable Transport Forum (STF), under the leadership of the European Commission, has published guidance addressing fire safety risks associated with battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and recharging infrastructure in covered parking areas.

The guidance document outlines best practices and recommendations for public authorities and private stakeholders.

It aims to ensure the safe deployment of BEVs by identifying existing and forthcoming legislation, examining fire safety challenges, and providing actionable safety measures.

The recommendations apply to local authorities, parking lot operators, designers, risk assessors, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and property owners involved in installing BEV recharging stations in both new and existing covered parking facilities.

Fire risks associated with electric vehicles and charging infrastructure

The report highlights that BEVs do not inherently pose a greater fire risk than internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs), but fires involving lithium-ion batteries present unique challenges.

The primary risks associated with BEV fires include thermal runaway, jet fires, and vapor cloud explosions.

The guidance document also notes that the condition and reliability of recharging infrastructure can contribute to fire hazards.

Fire safety concerns extend to human safety, firefighter intervention challenges, risks for parking operators and building owners, and potential environmental impacts.

The guidance outlines various strategies to mitigate these risks.

Fire safety measures for covered parking facilities

The guidance presents fire safety measures in five key areas:

  • Prevention: Conducting fire risk assessments for new and existing parking structures.
  • Detection: Installing advanced fire detection systems to quickly identify fires involving BEVs.
  • Evacuation: Designing clear evacuation routes and positioning charging points away from emergency exits.
  • Propagation control: Using fire-resistant systems and compartmentalisation in parking structures to limit fire spread.
  • Firefighting: Ensuring firefighters have access to specialised equipment and training for BEV fire response.

Policy recommendations for public and private stakeholders

The report provides specific recommendations for both public authorities and private entities involved in BEV infrastructure.

For private stakeholders, such as parking operators and OEMs, the guidance recommends adhering to high safety standards when deploying BEV infrastructure, ensuring regular maintenance, and improving fire-resistant materials in parking designs.

For public authorities, it suggests establishing clear fire safety regulations, improving emergency response strategies, and ensuring that firefighters are trained in handling BEV fires.

The guidance aligns with the EU’s broader decarbonisation goals, promoting the safe and widespread adoption of BEVs.

EU guidance on fire safety for electric vehicles in covered parking areas: Summary

The Sustainable Transport Forum has issued a report detailing fire safety measures for BEVs and charging infrastructure in covered parking areas.

The guidance identifies key challenges, including risks associated with lithium-ion battery fires and recharging infrastructure reliability.

The recommendations focus on five main fire safety areas: prevention, detection, evacuation, propagation control, and firefighting.

The guidance is aimed at public authorities, parking operators, OEMs, and property owners, providing best practices for integrating BEVs into urban infrastructure safely.

By implementing these measures, stakeholders can enhance fire safety in covered parking facilities while supporting the EU’s transition to electric mobility.

Billion Watts Technologies enhances fire safety in Taiwan’s 64MW energy storage site

by Featured NewsProjectsSafety

Billion Watts Technologies commissions 64MW energy storage site in Taiwan

Billion Watts Technologies, a subsidiary of Billion Electric, has completed a 64MW/262.43MWh energy storage facility in central Taiwan.

The project, developed with Shinshin Credit Corporation, became operational in March and supports Taiwan Power Company’s E-dReg ancillary services market.

The facility contributes to grid stability by providing energy shifting and frequency regulation.

With a response time of 200 milliseconds, it helps manage fluctuations and ensures efficient power supply during peak demand periods.

Fire protection systems integrated into energy storage infrastructure

Billion Watts Technologies has incorporated fire safety measures into the site’s design to meet regulatory and operational safety standards.

The facility features dedicated firewalls, safety distance planning, and on-site water reserves.

A fire suppression system has been installed to detect and mitigate potential fire risks.

Real-time monitoring and anomaly detection further enhance safety by allowing early intervention.

These measures set new benchmarks for fire protection in Taiwan’s energy storage sector.

Energy storage supports Taiwan’s renewable energy transition

The facility can store enough electricity to power approximately 26,000 households daily.

As Taiwan increases its reliance on renewable energy, large-scale battery storage solutions are needed to manage fluctuations in solar and wind power generation.

According to Taiwan’s Energy Administration, renewables accounted for 11.6% of the country’s electricity supply in 2024.

The International Energy Agency has highlighted battery storage as a critical component for ensuring grid stability during Taiwan’s transition to low-carbon energy.

Billion Watts expands energy storage projects in Japan and Australia

Billion Watts Technologies is expanding its operations to Japan and Australia, aiming to meet growing demand for energy storage solutions.

In Japan, the company plans to develop high-voltage storage stations and deploy 1,000 commercial and industrial storage systems over the next three years.

In Australia, Billion Watts is participating in the National Electricity Market, targeting ten sub-5MW site acquisitions by 2026.

The company is also exploring investments in projects exceeding 50MW to capitalise on price volatility driven by renewable energy adoption.

Billion Watts Technologies enhances fire safety in Taiwan’s 64MW energy storage site: Summary

Billion Watts Technologies has commissioned a 64MW/262.43MWh energy storage facility in Taiwan, designed to improve grid stability and support renewable energy integration.

The project, developed with Shinshin Credit Corporation, officially began operations in March.

The site features advanced fire suppression measures, including firewalls, safety distance planning, dedicated water reserves, and real-time monitoring.

These measures enhance operational safety and set new industry standards for fire protection in energy storage facilities.

The facility provides grid flexibility by storing enough electricity to power approximately 26,000 households daily.

Taiwan’s Energy Administration reports that renewable energy accounted for 11.6% of the country’s electricity supply in 2024, increasing the need for stable storage solutions.

Billion Watts Technologies is also expanding its energy storage projects in Japan and Australia, focusing on high-voltage storage stations and participation in Australia’s National Electricity Market.

Firechief celebrate 25 years of carrying the BSI Kitemark certification

by Featured NewsPeople

Firechief Global, the UK based fire safety brand, has announced that they have reached the milestone of having 25 years of continuous BSI Kitemark certification.

For a quarter of a century, Firechief has carried the BSI Kitemark, a symbol of excellence that assures customers of rigorous independent testing and compliance with the highest industry standards.

The BSI Kitemark is one of the most recognised symbols of quality and safety in the UK and beyond.

Awarded only to products that meet stringent testing requirements, it provides end-users, fire safety professionals and businesses with the confidence that they are using equipment built to perform when it matters most.

Importance of the BSI Kitemark cerification

Reaching 25 years of BSI Kitemark certification is an achievement in the fire safety sector. It represents decades of investment in product innovation, compliance, and customer safety.

It also highlights Firechief’s proactive approach to exceeding regulatory requirements and continuously evolving to meet the demands of modern fire risks.

Managing Director, Firechief Global, Laurie Pollard’s statement

Laurie Pollard, Managing Director at Firechief Global, said of the achievement: “25 years of continuous Kitemark certification is something that cannot be understated in its importance.

“This is tangible proof that, for a quarter of a century, we’ve never given up on our commitment to supplying high-performance, approved fire safety products.”

As Firechief Global celebrates this achievement, the company remains focused on the future. With ongoing investment in research and development, Firechief want to reinstate their commitment to pioneering new fire safety technologies that address emerging risks, including lithium-ion battery fires and eco-friendly suppression solutions.

The BSI Kitemark certification has been carried by Firechief for 25 years: Summary

For a quarter of a century, Firechief has carried the BSI Kitemark, an accreditation awarded only to products that meet stringent testing requirements.

Laurie Pollard, Managing Director at Firechief Global said 25 years of continuous Kitemark certification is something that cannot be understated in its importance.