Deutsche Telekom’s large-scale energy storage facility in Münster has been equipped with a comprehensive fire protection system from FOGTEC since it came into operation in 2024. The existing smoke aspiration system has now been expanded to include LiSaPro-Sens. FOGTEC’s highly sensitive battery off-gas detection system enables critical changes within the battery systems to be detected at an early stage.
Early detection as an additional layer of protection
Lithium-ion batteries can release characteristic gases even before visible smoke develops. LiSaPro-Sens is designed to detect these so-called battery off-gases at an early stage and to control room ventilation in a targeted manner. Potentially explosive gases are then vented from the battery room before a critical situation can develop further.
This extension complements the existing smoke aspiration system and creates an additional level of detection within the existing safety concept. The aim is to identify any faults as early as possible and to increase the response time for appropriate technical measures.
Storage technology for a stable energy supply
Telekom’s first large-scale energy storage facility was opened on 24 April 2024 in Münster. It is operated by Power and Air Condition Solution Management GmbH (PASM), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Deutsche Telekom AG.
The two battery storage systems each have a capacity of six megawatt-hours. They absorb surplus energy from wind and solar power plants and feed it back into the electricity grid when required. In this way, they help to balance out grid fluctuations and better integrate renewable energy into the energy supply.
Multi-stage fire protection concept by FOGTEC
On behalf of STRABAG, FOGTEC has been protecting the facility with a high-pressure water mist system since it was commissioned. In addition, a complex control matrix has been implemented, linking various safety functions together. These include the shutdown of the battery storage systems, flue gas venting and active fire suppression.
With the integration of LiSaPro-Sens, this concept was specifically further developed in 2026. The combination of early off-gas detection, smoke aspiration, plant control and high-pressure water mist creates a coordinated system tailored to the specific requirements of stationary battery storage systems.
Experience with critical infrastructure
PASM has been ensuring the availability of infrastructure in the fields of information technology and telecommunications since 2004. The company’s responsibilities include the planning, installation, monitoring and maintenance of technical systems.
The expansion of the system demonstrates how existing fire protection concepts can be adapted to new technical insights and operational requirements. Particularly in the case of battery storage systems, the early detection of potential malfunctions is a key component of a holistic safety concept.
