FLIR thermal imaging demand grows amid global battery storage expansion
Iain Hoey
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Thermal cameras used to mitigate battery energy storage system fire risks
FLIR has reported growing demand for its thermal imaging cameras as global installations of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) increase.
The company cited the rise in thermal risks such as fire and toxic gas release as key reasons for the adoption of fixed thermal cameras in energy infrastructure.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), battery capacity in the United States increased by 89 percent in 2024.
FLIR stated that the risk of thermal runaway – where heat spreads from one battery cell to another – presents a growing hazard for fire and rescue teams, energy operators and local communities.
BESS use increases in line with renewable energy investment
FLIR explained that BESS installations are expanding due to their role in balancing the power grid during periods of inconsistent supply and high demand.
The company cited data from S&P Global showing that nearly 9.2 gigawatts of BESS capacity were installed in the United States by late November 2024.
FLIR said that battery systems also support electric vehicle infrastructure by reducing strain on local grids during high-demand charging events.
The company stated that BESS contributes to grid reliability and reduces fossil fuel reliance by storing renewable electricity for later use.
Safety concerns linked to BESS include fire, gas and infrastructure damage
FLIR reported that fire safety concerns are growing due to the increase in BESS deployments.
The company highlighted data from Rho Motion showing that 10.5 gigawatt hours of new capacity were added to the global energy network in February 2025 alone.
FLIR warned that thermal runaway incidents can lead to toxic gas emissions, equipment damage and large-scale fires if not detected and mitigated early.
The company explained that hydrogen fluoride gas, released in some incidents, can present serious health and environmental risks.
FLIR thermal solutions aim to provide early warning of faults
FLIR stated that fixed thermal imaging systems with integrated analytics are being used to detect abnormal temperature rises before they escalate into fires.
The company said these systems are capable of triggering suppression systems and alarm protocols when temperatures breach preset safety thresholds.
FLIR explained that early detection through thermal monitoring can reduce damage, improve safety and support faster emergency response.
The company provides thermal fire prevention systems for a range of industrial applications, including battery energy storage infrastructure.
FLIR thermal imaging demand grows amid global battery storage expansion: Summary
FLIR has reported increased demand for thermal imaging systems.
The company linked this trend to a global rise in Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) installations.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration recorded an 89 percent increase in national capacity during 2024.
According to S&P Global, 9.2 gigawatts of BESS were installed in the United States by late November 2024.
Rho Motion stated that 10.5 gigawatt hours of new capacity were added globally in February 2025.
FLIR cited thermal runaway as a major fire safety risk linked to battery systems.
The company reported that these incidents can cause fires and release hydrogen fluoride gas.
FLIR said its fixed thermal cameras are used to detect temperature increases before failures occur.
The company stated that these systems can activate alarms and fire suppression systems automatically.
FLIR explained that early detection improves safety and reduces response time.
