What is BESS
For many years, electricity supplied to the UK’s national transmission and distribution networks has been generated predominantly by coal, gas, and nuclear power stations. As the UK transitions away from fossil fuels, renewable energy is now playing an increasingly significant role. In the first quarter of 2025, 46% of the UK’s electricity was produced from renewable sources such as solar, hydro and wind power (UK Energy Trends, Jan–Mar 2025, Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ)).
Unlike traditionally fuelled power stations, renewable sources cannot be activated on demand to meet sudden changes in electricity usage. To maintain grid stability and meet fluctuating demand, surplus energy generated during periods of low usage must be stored. Large-scale battery systems provide this capability by capturing energy and releasing it almost instantaneously when required.
Grid‑scale BESS installations are typically 1 megawatt (MW) or larger. They store electricity and discharge it back to the grid when needed, and such installations are growing both within the UK and internationally. National planning policy highlights the importance of renewable and low‑carbon energy infrastructure, and the government has published guidance supporting these developments.
Humberside Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) recognises the increasingly important role of Battery Energy Storage Systems in supporting the UK’s transition to cleaner energy sources.
Planning
Local Authorities are not legally required to consult HFRS as part of the planning process. Therefore, HFRS has no authority to approve or decline planning applications for grid‑scale BESS or solar installations.
In the UK, approval for BESS installations occurs either through the Local Authority planning system or via a Development Consent Order (DCO) submitted to the Planning Inspectorate. Although HFRS is not a statutory consultee under the Town and Country Planning Act (2010), we have requested that Local Authorities engage with us throughout their planning processes, similar to the approach taken for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIP).
HFRS must maintain a neutral, impartial position in all planning‑related matters and does not offer consultancy services to developers. Engagement from HFRS will occur only on request, only after submission, and only when the Local Authority planning department is actively involved. This ensures that any input is provided appropriately and proportionately.
Where engagement takes place, it will focus solely on the interpretation and application of available National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC BESS) guidance. HFRS will not provide technical design advice or comment on specific engineering solutions.
If formally consulted by a Local Authority, HFRS will provide written representation limited to high‑level fire safety principles as outlined in NFCC guidance. Any comments provided do not constitute regulatory approval, technical endorsement, or acceptance of a proposed design.
This approach ensures consistency, proportionality, and clarity across all planning interactions while enabling HFRS to support safe development within the region.
Any questions or queries relating to BESS proposals should be directed to the relevant Local Authority planning department. This ensures that enquiries are formally recorded and that HFRS is consulted through the appropriate channels where required.
Guidance
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) guidance for grid‑scale BESS is informed by academic research, national and international standards, case studies, and industry best practice. It is designed to prioritise public safety and the safety of emergency responders, aiming to reduce risks as far as is reasonably practicable. The guidance specifically addresses open‑air grid‑scale BESS installations of 1MW or greater, using lithium‑ion technology.
Although HFRS is not a statutory consultee in Local Authority planning, NFCC encourages early and ongoing engagement between applicants, Local Authorities and the local Fire and Rescue Service. This principle is also reflected in the This principle is also reflected in the government guidance on planning for renewable and low carbon energy.
Where HFRS is consulted as part of the recognised planning process, we expect submissions to explain how the proposed development meets the requirements of NFCC guidance. A detailed response from the applicant, demonstrating consideration of the document, will support HFRS in reviewing the proposal appropriately.
HFRS expects operators to carry out a robust risk‑management process identifying site‑specific hazards and implementing suitable risk controls. This process should inform the development of a comprehensive Emergency Response Plan.
While each site presents unique risks, HFRS will assess proposals against NFCC guidance. Early engagement allows operators to plan appropriate control measures that reduce risks to people, property, and the environment.
Safety
The UK Government has published health and safety guidance for grid‑scale electrical energy storage systems. This guidance provides operators with a clear understanding of applicable safety standards and industry best practices throughout the entire life cycle of a BESS installation—from construction to decommissioning.
Where permanently occupied buildings are included within a BESS development (such as control rooms), HFRS expects to receive plans and documentation from a Building Control Approver (BCA) following the granting of planning permission.
Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004
During consultation, HFRS requests that developers keep the Service informed throughout the construction, operational, and decommissioning phases of the site. This enables HFRS to gather and maintain accurate risk information in accordance with section 7(2)(d) of the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004.
HFRS will collect and maintain site‑specific operational information, including:
- Emergency contact details
- Access and egress routes
- Location of water supplies and hydrants
- Hazards presented to firefighters and the surrounding area
This information supports emergency response planning and ensures public and firefighter safety.