The future of energy storage isn’t just about bigger batteries — it’s also about smarter systems.
As renewable power adoption accelerates, battery energy storage system design must evolve to meet growing reliability, efficiency, and safety demands. A well-designed storage system actively senses, adapts, and protects itself, going beyond the simple aggregation of powerful cells.
Advanced sensors are the nervous system of modern battery energy storage systems (BESS). They detect temperature, pressure, and humidity shifts before they escalate into failures. The right sensors ensure seamless, long-lasting energy storage, prevent thermal management events, and optimize performance.
Let’s explore the essential sensors to futureproof your battery energy storage system design.
Why Sensors Matter in Battery Energy Storage System Design
Battery storage systems are complex electrochemical machines, and their performance depends on precise operating conditions. Here’s how sensors contribute to a well-designed BESS:
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Enhanced safety: Detects temperature, pressure, or humidity anomalies to prevent fires or explosions
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Optimized performance: Monitors cell temperature and voltage to maximize efficiency and power output
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Predictive maintenance: Identifies potential failures early, reducing downtime and maintenance costs
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Extended lifespan: Maintains ideal conditions to maximize battery longevity
Smarter Sensing: The Essential Sensors for Your Battery Energy Storage System
A truly optimized battery energy storage system requires a broader network of sensors to ensure peak performance, safety, and longevity.
Advanced sensors guard against system failures, environmental hazards, and efficiency losses, providing everything from temperature and pressure monitoring to humidity control and coolant leak detection. These components don’t just react — they also provide real-time insights that allow for predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and costly repairs.
Let’s explore the critical sensors that elevate BESS performance and fortify your energy storage system against potential risks:
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Thermometrics Coolant Temperature Sensor (CTS series)
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Thermometrics JS8845 Pipe Clip Sensor
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NovaSensor NPI-19 I2C Pressure Sensor
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NovaSensor NPI-19 Medium Pressure Sensor
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Telaire T9602 Humidity Sensor
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Telaire EHRH Humidity Transmitter
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Telaire T9501 Humidity Transmitter
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Coolant Leak Detection Sensor BAF 147
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Combination Pressure & Temperature Sensor
- T3600 Hydrogen Detection Sensor
Thermometrics Coolant Temperature Sensor
The Thermometrics Coolant Temperature Sensor monitors liquid coolant temperature in thermal management systems, preventing overheating and improving efficiency in battery energy storage systems.
Key Features:
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High accuracy: Precise temperature readings for safety and performance.
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Durable design: Handles extreme conditions and vibrations.
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Compact & versatile: Easily integrates into various systems.
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Durable materials: Ensures long-term reliability in industrial use.
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Thermal optimization: Enhances battery performance and longevity.
Thermometrics JS8845 Pipe Clip Surface Temperature Sensor
The Thermometrics JS8845 is a surface-mounted sensor for precise temperature monitoring of fluids or gases in pipes. It enables efficient system temperature regulation.
Key Features:
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Easy installation: Spring-loaded clip for quick attachment to 15–18mm pipes.
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High sensitivity: Accurate temperature readings for reliable data.
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Durable design: IP57-rated for dust and water resistance.
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Wide temperature range: Operates from -40°C to +125°C.
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Compact & versatile: Fits various systems with integrated secure connectors.
NovaSensor NPI-19 I²C Pressure Sensor
The NovaSensor NPI-19 I²C Pressure Sensor is a high-accuracy, digital sensor ideal for monitoring gas or liquid pressure in battery energy storage systems and other industrial applications. It features an I²C interface for seamless integration into automation systems, ensuring system safety and efficiency.
Key Features:
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High precision: Linearity of ±0.25% full-scale output (FSO) and a total error band of ±1% FSO.
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Wide pressure range: From 2.5 psi (17 kPa) to 300 psi (2068 kPa).
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Digital output: 14-bit I²C output for precise data transmission.
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Sturdy construction: Stainless steel diaphragm and body ensure durability and media isolation.
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Versatile applications: Suitable for industrial process control, corrosive fluid and gas measurement, hydraulic systems, and more.
NovaSensor NPI-19 Series Medium Pressure Sensors
The NovaSensor NPI-19 Medium Pressure Sensor is a high-sensitivity sensor for medium-pressure monitoring in battery energy storage systems. Its compact design and compatibility with various pressure ranges make it ideal for complex monitoring systems.
Key Features:
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High reliability: Solid-state design ensures durability.
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Built to last: 316L stainless steel with ISO-certified sensor design.
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Precision: ±0.5% static accuracy and 0.1% typical linearity.
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Temperature compensation: Calibrated from 0 to 70°C.
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High sensitivity: 100 mV full-scale output with 1.0 mA excitation.
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Versatile pressure ranges: Available from 0 to 15 psig (0 to 1 bar) up to 0 to 250 psig (0 to 17 bar), in gauge or absolute configurations.
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Customizable configurations: Multiple standard and custom pressure port options.
Telaire T9602 IP67 Harsh Environment Humidity & Temperature Sensor
The Telaire T9602 is a fully calibrated temperature-compensated sensor that measures humidity and temperature. Encased in a water-resistant, IP67-rated package, it’s built for reliable performance in harsh environmental conditions.
Key Features:
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High accuracy: Measures to ±2% RH and ±0.5°C accuracy.
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Digital output: I²C interface or Pulse Density Modulated (PDM) output, which can be converted to an analog signal.
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Low power consumption: Designed for energy efficiency, making it suitable for battery-powered applications.
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Flexible installation: Available with multiple cable lengths and flexible mounting options.
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Durable construction: Ensures long-lasting performance in harsh environments by protecting sensitive parts.
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Easy integration: Compact size simplifies installation within different systems.
Telaire EHRH Humidity Transmitter
The Telaire EHRH Humidity Transmitter is a high-performance sensor for accurate and reliable humidity monitoring in battery energy storage systems. It provides stable long-term measurements, helping prevent moisture-related damage and ensuring optimal operating conditions. With analog and digital output options, it integrates easily into automation and HVAC systems for efficient climate control.
Key Features:
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High accuracy: ±2% RH within a 30-95% RH range.
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Analog output options: Supports 0-5V, 0-10V, and 4-20mA outputs.
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Selectable outputs: Passive and active temperature output options.
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Rugged design: Waterproof housing for use in challenging environments.
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Also available with temperature output.
Telaire T9501 Humidity & Temperature Transmitter
The Telaire T9501 is a cost-effective transmitter for accurate humidity and temperature measurements across various applications. Its IP67-rated, water-resistant design ensures reliable performance in challenging environments.
Key Features:
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Fully calibrated: Pre-calibrated and temperature-compensated for immediate integration.
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Digital communication: Uses RS485 MODBUS protocol for efficient data transmission.
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High precision: ±2% RH accuracy (20-80% RH) and ±0.5°C temperature accuracy with 14-bit resolution.
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Low power consumption: Designed for energy efficiency, suitable for various applications.
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Heater mode: Includes condensation recovery, enhancing reliability.
Coolant Leak Detection Sensor
The Coolant Leak Detection Sensor detects leaks in liquid-cooled systems. By identifying leaks early, this sensor helps prevent equipment damage, system failures, and costly maintenance. Its highly sensitive detection capabilities make it ideal for industrial applications where reliable thermal management is critical.
Key Features: 
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Resistance specification: 510Ω ±3% for precise detection.
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Wide operating range: Functions from -40°C to 85°C.
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Compact & easy to install: Designed for seamless integration into battery systems.
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RoHS compliant: Meets environmental and safety regulations.
Combination Pressure & Temperature Sensor
The Combination Pressure & Temperature Sensor is a dual-function sensor that monitors pressure and temperature in a single, compact unit. Ideal for battery energy storage systems, this sensor provides real-time data for critical thermal and pressure management.
Key Features:
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High accuracy: Ensures precise readings for stable and efficient system performance.
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Wide temperature range: Operates from -40°C to +160°C.
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Heavy-duty construction: Built to withstand harsh environments, including high-pressure conditions.
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Compact & lightweight: Space-saving design enables easy integration into battery storage systems (up to ~ 100 psi).
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Fast response time: Delivers real-time data for quick adjustments and preventive maintenance.
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Versatile applications: Suitable for thermal management, cooling systems, and industrial battery storage.
Telaire T3600 Series Hydrogen Detection Sensor
The Telaire T3600 Series is a fully calibrated hydrogen detection sensor designed for battery energy storage systems (BESS), particularly where battery-related gas events are a concern. The sensor provides a ratio metric analog output with a detection range of 0 to 16% H₂ gas concentration.
Key Features:
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Rapid, high-sensitivity detection: Quickly identifies potential hydrogen buildup to prevent safety risks.
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Robust performance: Maintains accuracy over a wide temperature range, ensuring reliable monitoring.
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Compact design: Allows straightforward integration into BESS enclosures with minimal space requirements.
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Fully calibrated: Simplifies installation and reduces maintenance, supporting consistent and repeatable results.
Smarter Battery Energy Storage System Design Through Advanced Sensing
A well-optimized battery energy storage system design isn’t just about storing energy — it’s also about ensuring that storage remains safe, efficient, and reliable over time. Sensors that detect off-gassing, temperature, humidity, and pressure collectively create a solid safety net for modern battery storage systems.
Manufacturers can use these sensors to build storage systems that meet today’s energy demands and shape the future of battery energy storage system design.
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