EVLO Energy Storage Inc. (EVLO), a wholly owned subsidiary of Hydro-Québec and a leader in fully integrated battery energy storage systems (BESS), has announced a significant milestone in its collaboration with Dominion Energy. Together, the companies are developing an advanced battery energy storage system equipped with enhanced fire and safety features that exceed Dominion’s stringent requirements. The upgraded EVLOFLEX system recently received UL 9540 certification, reflecting EVLO’s dedication to innovation and safety.
UL 9540 certification is a benchmark for BESS safety, reliability, and performance, covering aspects such as design, production, testing, installation, and operation. Achieving this certification involves rigorous UL 9540A testing, conducted by independent North American certification bodies, to ensure compliance with advanced safety protocols. The certification highlights EVLOFLEX’s robust functional safety systems, fire prevention measures, explosion containment, hazard detection capabilities, and resistance to cascading failures.
“We’re proud of our team’s efforts to enhance EVLOFLEX to meet Dominion’s specific safety needs,” said Michel Cousineau, EVLO’s Chief Technology Officer. “Key upgrades, such as the integration of an external fire panel control, streamline regulatory approvals by authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ). These enhancements not only benefit Dominion but also pave the way for future clients seeking advanced certification standards like NFPA 72.”
EVLOFLEX is a utility-grade BESS designed to stabilize grids, manage energy flow, and optimize asset performance while prioritizing fire safety at every level. The system incorporates both active and passive measures to mitigate thermal runaway risks, including innovative designs that surpass NFPA 69 standards for gas evacuation during power outages. Initially certified in March 2024, EVLOFLEX recently achieved recertification following upgrades tailored to Dominion’s requirements.
“Partnering with Dominion Energy underscores our customer-focused approach and dedication to providing safe, high-performance solutions,” said Sonia St-Arnaud, President and CEO of EVLO. “As a subsidiary of Hydro-Québec, North America’s largest renewable energy provider, we are uniquely positioned to support utilities in achieving their goals. The enhanced EVLOFLEX system reflects our commitment to safety, innovation, and the evolving needs of the energy storage industry.”
The enhanced EVLOFLEX BESS will be deployed in three large-scale projects across Virginia, collectively delivering over 300 MWh of storage capacity. These installations align with Dominion’s Grid-Transformation Plan, which aims to modernize infrastructure while maintaining safety and reliability. The projects also support the Virginia Clean Economy Act (VCEA), an ambitious initiative targeting 100% clean energy by 2050.
Commissioning of the Virginia projects is planned for 2025 and 2026. EVLOFLEX’s upgraded safety features will also be available for future clients requiring cutting-edge solutions to meet rigorous safety and performance standards.
