IEEE 1679 - Battery Design

Recommended Practice for the Characterization and Evaluation of Emerging Energy Storage Technologies in Stationary Applications

IEEE 1679-2020 provides a framework for evaluating the suitability of emerging energy storage technologies — including advanced lead-acid, sodium-beta, flow batteries, and other chemistries not covered by dedicated IEEE standards — for stationary energy storage applications. It defines a consistent set of characterisation tests, performance metrics, life estimation methodologies, and documentation requirements that allow procurement engineers, utilities, and system integrators to compare technologies on a common basis before committing to deployment. The 2020 revision updated the original 2010 edition to reflect advances in testing methodology and to align with the battery management system and communications requirements introduced in other IEEE storage standards. Technology-specific child standards (IEEE 1679.1, 1679.2) build on this recommended practice.

Published by: IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)

Current edition: IEEE 1679-2020

Replaces: IEEE 1679-2010

Scope

IEEE 1679-2020 applies to stationary energy storage systems deployed in utility, commercial, and industrial applications. Key elements include:

Technology characterisation: Standardised performance characterisation tests covering capacity, energy efficiency, round-trip efficiency, self-discharge, and internal impedance
Life estimation: Methodology for calendar and cycle life testing and projection, including accelerated testing protocols
Documentation requirements: Data reporting format for test results to allow objective technology comparison
Safety considerations: Guidance on hazard identification, environmental requirements, and end-of-life management for emerging chemistries
BMS and communications: Updated requirements for battery management system functionality and monitoring in stationary systems

Relationship to other standards

IEEE 1679 is the parent recommended practice; IEEE 1679.1 (lithium-ion) and IEEE 1679.2 (sodium-beta) are technology-specific child standards. IEEE 485 and IEEE 1184 cover valve-regulated lead-acid batteries in stationary applications. For grid interconnection, IEEE 1547 is the interconnection standard. IEC 62932 series covers flow batteries, and IEC 62984 covers high-temperature batteries at the IEC level. IEEE 2030.2.1 provides the guide for design, installation, operation, and maintenance of battery energy storage systems.

Disclaimer: This is not a definitive guide, just an indication and it is important that you always go back to the source for legislation.