Surveillance Monitoring For BESS Sites

Surveillance Monitoring For BESS Sites 

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) store huge amounts of energy and with it, significant value. Remote surveillance monitoring for BESS sites protects these energy assets against a range of threats.

Surveillance monitoring for BESS sites helps detect threats in real time, reduces theft, prevents downtime, and protects your energy assets 24/7.All in all, for battery storage site operators, remotely monitored surveillance offers a range of significant security and financial benefits.

Intrusions, theft, and safety breaches put your operations, revenue, and infrastructure at risk. Standard CCTV solutions are reactive and often fail to prevent or escalate incidents fast enough. Discover how our BESS CCTV monitoring services help  you detect, deter, and deal with security threats – before they cause damage to your operations.

What are the benefits of surveillance monitoring for battery storage sites?

These sites are often located in remote areas, unstaffed at night, and filled with high-risk assets that attract theft or vandalism.

Live monitoring helps detect intrusions early, trigger fast response, and protect critical infrastructure from loss or disruption.

Now let’s take a closer look at the benefits of video monitoring for UK solar power sites.

·        Reduce theft & intrusion

·        Prevents costly downtime

·        Compliance & asset protection

·        Nighttime security & response

Reduces the risk of theft & intrusion

BESS sites are frequent targets due to their remote locations and the high value of equipment stored on-site. Surveillance monitoring acts as your frontline defence — watching over every corner and acting the moment a threat is detected.

The main benefits here include:

·        24/7 live monitoring from a secure off-site control room

·        Audio warnings that deter intruders before damage is done

·        Rapid escalation to police or on-site responders when necessary

When criminals know they’re being watched… and heard, they’re more likely to retreat.

Prevents costly downtime

Battery storage sites must stay operational. A damaged inverter, cut cable, or stolen component can take an entire system offline, costing thousands in lost energy production.

Live surveillance monitoring helps by:

·        Detecting tampering or movement around critical assets

·        Allowing operators to alert engineers or security teams instantly

·        Reducing the chance of extended downtime or operational failure

Catching threats early means keeping the lights on, literally and financially.

Improves site visibility and compliance

With live operators watching and recording incidents, BESS operators gain far better oversight of their sites.

Surveillance footage is invaluable not just for security but also for operational records and compliance audits.

You’ll benefit from:

·        Time-stamped evidence for insurance or incident reports

·        Improved tracking of personnel and contractor access

·        Footage to support HSE or audit inspections

Good visibility reduces risk and gives you confidence in how your site is managed.

Scales easily across multiple locations

Many BESS operators manage several sites. Surveillance monitoring makes multi-site oversight possible — and practical — without the need for expensive on-site teams.

This allows you to:

·        Protect remote sites from a central monitoring hub

·        Standardise response plans across your portfolio

·        Reduce staff costs and site visits

When you need to watch over multiple assets at once, remote surveillance does the heavy lifting.

Adds protection in low light or harsh weather

Remote locations often come with poor visibility, especially at night or in bad weather. The right surveillance setup keeps your site protected no matter the conditions.

This includes:

·        Thermal imaging cameras that detect movement in total darkness

·        Motion-triggered alerts and visual analytics

·        Reliable performance in rain, fog, or glare

It’s security that doesn’t sleep — or miss a thing.

Factors to consider for BESS site surveillance

When choosing a monitoring system for your battery site:

·        Ensure cameras have thermal or infrared capability

·        Look for providers with experience in energy sector security

·        Confirm secure, GDPR-compliant footage storage

·        Use smart alerts that reduce false positives

·        Regularly test the system and keep escalation protocols updated

Every second counts when you’re protecting high-value infrastructure.

Summary: Protecting power with proactive monitoring

The benefits of surveillance monitoring for BESS sites are clear: less theft, faster response, reduced downtime, and improved control over your assets. With live operators watching round the clock, you’re not just protecting batteries — you’re safeguarding the future of your energy supply.

Need protection for your battery energy storage site?

Talk to our team about remote surveillance solutions that detect threats fast and keep your power flowing.

The risks of theft and vandalism

BESS sites are valuable targets for criminals due to their high-cost components and remote locations. Stolen batteries can lead to financial loss and major operational disruptions. Copper theft from power cables also poses a serious risk to energy stability. Vandalism or sabotage can compromise site safety and cause system failures.

How remote monitoring prevents crime

When a threat is detected, immediate alerts notify security teams and keyholders to ensure rapid action. Live audio deterrents warn intruders before they can cause damage, protecting your assets 24/7.  A well designed system including AI-driven security cameras continuously monitor site perimeters, detecting intruders in real time.

BESS site security specialists

Battery storage site security requires a specialist approach. Working with an expert monitoring provider is crucial with high-value infrastructure to protect. By partnering with Safeguard Monitoring, you’re in safe, experienced, and reliable hands:

·        Industry leaders in BESS security

·        Protecting critical infrastructure 24/7

·        Remote monitoring for isolated locations

·        Preventing battery theft and power cable damage

·        Trusted by energy providers and asset managers

·        Tailored solutions for EPC & O&M companies

If you need to protect your BESS site now, or want advice from an expert remote surveillance provider, speak to a specialist today.

Audio challenge & crime deterrents

Proactive security stops intrusions before they escalate. A well-designed CCTV monitoring system should include:

·        Live audio warnings deter trespassers instantly

·        AI-powered video analytics for accurate detection

·        Visible security cameras deter criminal activity

·        Fast escalation ensures immediate intervention

·        Security lighting disrupts and repels intruders

Strong deterrents reduce risks and keep sites secure 24/7.

Key IEEE Standards and Guidelines for BESS Monitoring

• IEEE Std 2030.2.1-2019: Provides guidelines for the design, operation, and maintenance of BESS, emphasizing safe integration with the electric power system.
• IEEE 1547-2018: Governs the interconnection of distributed resources like BESS to the grid.
• Battery Management System (BMS) Standards: IEEE provides recommendations for stationary storage BMS to ensure cells operate within safe voltage, current, and temperature limits.
• Thermal Monitoring (IEEE 1188): While often focused on VRLA batteries, IEEE 1188 is a benchmark for maintenance, testing, and replacement practices. 

Core Surveillance Components

• Predictive Maintenance Monitoring: Instead of just reacting to failures, surveillance now focuses on monitoring parameters like State of Charge (SoC), State of Health (SoH), and voltage to identify pending faults.
• Thermal and Environmental Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of battery surface temperatures and connection points is critical to prevent thermal runaway.
• IoT and Real-Time Data: Utilizing Internet of Things (IoT) sensors to collect high-resolution data on voltage, current, and temperature, which is essential for AI-based health prediction.
• Infrared Inspection (IR): IR thermography is increasingly used for routine scans of PV-BESS facilities to identify hot spots. 

Advanced Monitoring & Security Trends

• Cybersecurity for BESS: With increased connectivity, monitoring systems must defend against cyberattacks. IEEE research, such as "BESS-Set," provides datasets for developing anomaly detection algorithms to identify cyber-physical attacks.
• AI/ML for State Estimation: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) are being implemented for rapid, accurate SoC/SoH estimation and degradation modeling.
• Digital Twin Technology: Digital twins are used for orchestrating BESS assets, allowing for performance optimization and predictive analytics by mirroring the physical system. 

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in Monitoring

• Voltage Deviations & Frequency Support: Monitoring the BESS's ability to stabilize grid frequency and voltage.
• Safety Thresholds: Real-time monitoring of gas emission and temperature for immediate fire suppression activation.
• Cell Balancing: Tracking the BMS performance in balancing cells to prevent premature capacity degradation. 

IEEE continues to advance these practices to ensure that BESS, a key component of a stable grid, operates reliably and safely. 

FAQs for BESS site surveillance monitoring

What is a BESS site, and why does it need surveillance monitoring?

A BESS site stores electrical energy for future use. These sites often contain lithium-ion batteries, inverters, and cooling systems. Because they are high-value and sometimes located in isolated areas, they are vulnerable to theft and tampering — which is why surveillance monitoring is essential.

How does surveillance monitoring work for remote battery storage sites?

Surveillance monitoring uses sensor-activated cameras that stream live footage to a secure control centre. When motion or unusual activity is detected, trained operators assess the footage in real time, issue warnings, and escalate the response if needed.

Can video monitoring prevent power outages at BESS sites?

Yes. While monitoring doesn’t control the systems directly, it helps operators detect damage or tampering early. This means engineers can be alerted before a fault becomes a full-blown outage — minimising operational impact.

What kind of equipment is used for security camera monitoring?

A typical setup includes thermal imaging or infrared CCTV, motion detectors, alarm integration, and loudspeakers. These are connected to a central platform where footage is viewed and recorded, and alerts are managed by professional security staff.

Is video surveillance camera monitoring expensive for solar energy companies?

Compared to the cost of outages, stolen parts, or hiring physical guards, surveillance monitoring is a cost-effective choice. It also scales easily across multiple sites, providing centralised oversight for a fraction of traditional security spend.

Thermal Imaging Systems in COVID-19

Thermal Imaging Systems in COVID-19

Measuring a person’s temperature can be done in several ways. NCITs may be used to reduce cross-contamination risk and minimize the risk of spreading disease. While typically 98.6°F (37.0°C) is considered a “normal” temperature, some studies have shown that "normal" body temperature can be within a wide range, from 97°F (36.1°C) to 99°F (37.2°C). A core issue is there are no independent tests of thermal camera performance /accuracy and no independent standards to measure against. This has allowed manufacturers to tout products meant for body/fire detection as a fever solution, or falsely claim pinpoint accuracy at long distances. We urge caution against buying low-cost thermal solutions from any manufacturer. 

Thermal imaging systems and non-contact infrared thermometers (NCITs) use different forms of infrared technology to measure temperature.

Thermal Imaging Systems and COVID-19

·        When used correctly, thermal imaging systems generally have been shown to accurately measure someone’s surface skin temperature without being physically close to the person being evaluated. Thermal imaging systems offer certain benefits in that other methods need a closer proximity or contact to measure temperature (for example, non-contact infrared thermometers or oral thermometers).

·        Temperature-based screening, such as thermal imaging, is not effective at determining if someone definitively has COVID-19 because, among other things, a person with COVID-19 may not have a fever. A diagnostic test must be performed to determine if someone has COVID-19.

·        Thermal imaging systems have not been shown to be accurate when used to take the temperature of multiple people at the same time. The accuracy of these systems depends on careful set-up and operation, as well as proper preparation of the person being evaluated.

·        Thermal imaging systems have been used by several countries during epidemics, although information about their effectiveness as part of efforts to reduce the spread of disease has been mixed.

·        The FDA issued the Enforcement Policy for Telethermographic Systems During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Public Health Emergency guidance to help expand the availability of thermal imaging systems and mitigate thermometer shortages during the public health emergency. The guidance sets forth an enforcement policy that is intended to apply to all thermal imaging systems that are intended for medical purposes for the duration of the public health emergency related to COVID-19, and provides recommendations regarding performance and labeling of such systems.

Figure 1 demonstrates the proper thermal imaging setup for processing of individual people in a public area.

Benefits of Thermal Imaging Systems

·        The person who handles the thermal imaging system is not required to be physically close to the person being evaluated. In fact, the person who handles the thermal imaging system could be in a different area or room.

·        The thermal imaging system may measure surface skin temperature faster than the typical forehead or oral (mouth) thermometer that requires a close distance or physical contact with the person being evaluated.

·        Scientific studies show that, when used correctly, thermal imaging systems generally measure surface skin temperature accurately.

Limitations of Thermal Imaging Systems

·        Although these systems may be in use for initial temperature assessment to triage individuals in high throughput areas (for example, airports, businesses and sporting events), the systems have not been shown to be effective when used to take the temperature of multiple people at the same time. They should not be used for "mass fever screening."

·        These systems measure surface skin temperature, which is usually lower than a temperature measured orally. Thermal imaging systems must be adjusted properly to correct for this difference in measurements.

·        These systems work effectively only when all the following are true:

Ø  The systems are used in the right environment or location.

Ø  The systems are set up and operated correctly.

Ø  The person being assessed is prepared according to instructions.

Ø  The person handling the thermal imaging system is properly trained.

Proper Use of Thermal Imaging Systems

The person who handles the system should follow all manufacturer instructions to make sure the system is set up properly and located where it can measure surface skin temperature accurately.

The person who handles the system should be trained to properly prepare both the location where the system will be used, and the person being evaluated, to increase accuracy. For details, see the standards and scientific papers listed under References below.

Preparing the Area where You will Use a Thermal Imaging System

• Room temperature should be 68-76 °F (20-24 °C) and relative humidity 10-50 percent.
• Try to control other items that could impact the temperature measurement:
• Avoid reflective backgrounds (for example, glass, mirrors, metallic surfaces) to minimize reflected infrared radiation.
• Use in a room with no draft (movement of air), out of direct sunlight and away from radiant heat (for example, portable heaters, electrical sources).
• Avoid strong lighting (for example, incandescent, halogen and quartz tungsten halogen light bulbs).

Figure 2 demonstrates the proper thermal imaging room setup.

Preparing the Thermal Imaging System

Ø Some systems require the use of a calibrated blackbody (a tool for checking the calibration of an infrared temperature sensor) during evaluation to make sure measurements are accurate. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to determine if a calibrated blackbody is needed. Some devices do not require one.

Ø  Turn on the entire system 30 minutes before use to warm it up.

Preparing the Person Being Evaluated

The person handling the system should make sure the person being evaluated:

Ø  Does not have any face obstructions before measurement (such as a mask, glasses, hat, headband, or scarf), the person's hair is pulled away from the face, and the person’s face is clean and dry.

Ø  Does not have a higher or lower face temperature from wearing excessive clothing or head covers (for example, headbands, bandanas) or from using facial cleansing products (for example, cosmetic wipes).

Ø  Has waited at least 15 minutes in the measurement room or 30 minutes after exercising, strenuous physical activity, bathing, or using hot or cold compresses on the face.

Figure 3 demonstrates the proper thermal imaging setup for processing of individual people using a calibrated blackbody background.

Using the Thermal Imaging System

·        Measure only one person’s surface skin temperature at a time.

·        Position the person at a fixed distance (follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use) from the thermal imaging system, directly facing the camera.

·        The image area should include the person’s whole face and the calibrated blackbody, if using one.

·        If an increased temperature is seen using the thermal imaging system, you should use a different method to confirm a fever. Public health officials can help you determine if the fever is a sign of infection.

Thermal camera selecting guide

Unlike regular cameras, not many customers are aware of certain key factors that they need to consider when selecting a thermal camera. This is mainly because thermal cameras are still a relatively new concept for many security customers.

1.  Accuracy

In border surveillance, some thermal camera can accurately detect the people or object more than 150 meters away. Thermal imaging cameras are often not just to detect higher or lower temperatures but also the calculate the differences. This means that the readings should be as accurate as possible. Most top-end cameras provide a +/- 2% accuracy. The distance at which the camera can maintain this accuracy is also critical. 

2.  Temperature range

Thermal cameras have a range within which they can detect temperature. You should purchase a camera that would meet your temperature needs. For example, the cameras used at airports now are for human temperature monitoring. Hence their range just needs to include the highest and lowest points that a human body can sustain. However, in the industrial segment, the temperature may be higher. 

3.  Resolution 

Thermal cameras tend to have lower resolution compared to their regular counterparts, and hence this should be an essential consideration before purchase. The size of the area you need to capture and the nature of the target will decide the resolution you need. If you need to capture small objects in detail, high-resolution cameras will be necessary. 

4.  Cybersecurity  

Developments in IP has enabled thermal cameras to connect with other network devices and be part of the IT infrastructure.  You will need to find companies that provide NDAA compliant products. 

Prefer Thermal Camera brand

Avigilon H4 Thermal Elevated Temperature Detection camera is embedded with edge-based analytics to detect faces and notify operators of elevated skin temperature.

3S Vision T9078- Dome Camera, T9079- Dome Camera, T6078- Bullet Camera, T6079- Bullet Camera, T6041- Bullet Camera, T6051- Bullet Camera, T6061- Bullet Camera.

FLIR FLIR Axxx-EST series, T5xx-EST series, Exx-EST series & TG 165(Hand Held type).

AMETEK VIRALERT 3 human body temperature screening system for buildings and facilities

MOBOTIX MOBOTIX TR (Thermal Radiometry) technology makes it possible to measure thermal radiation - even from people.

AXIS Axis Q19, Q29, Q86, Q87 & Modular Camera

Honeywell HRCF-FD384H- Temperature Detecter 7.8mm, HRCF-FD640H - Temperature Detecter 15mm, HRCF-KIT-FD384H - Temperature Detection kit 7.8mm -tripod, HRCF-KIT-FD640H - Temperature Detection kit 15mm – tripod, HRCF-KIT2-FD640H- Temperature Detection kit 15mm - tripod (no laptop), HRCF-KIT2-FD384H- Temperature Detection kit 7.8mm -tripod (no laptop).

Lilin P3T6522E2 & P3T6522E2-F – Dome Camera, 

Questions about Using Thermal Imaging Systems during COVID-19

Q: Are thermal imaging systems effective for screening people for fevers in places like nursing homes, airports, and hospital emergency rooms?

A: When using a thermal imaging system, it is important to assess whether the system will provide the intended results in high throughput areas. We understand that these devices are being used for initial temperature assessment and triage of individuals for elevated temperatures in medical and non-medical environments. They should not be used for measuring temperatures of many people at the same time in crowded areas, in other words “mass fever screening” is not recommended.

Based on where the system will be used, there may be more appropriate methods to initially assess and triage people, especially if there is a risk that infected people would not be identified right away. For example:

• In a nursing home, inaccurate temperature measurement or a missed contagious person without a fever could spread infection among nursing home residents. So, in this case, other assessment options and following infection control practices may be more effective.
• In airports, workplaces, grocery stores, concert venues, or other areas where you are trying to screen large groups of people for mass fever screening, diagnostic testing may be too difficult because of the time and costs needed to screen and get results. These systems will likely miss most individuals with COVID-19 who are contagious. Thermal imaging systems could be considered as one method for initial temperature assessment in these types of settings when used as part of a larger approach to risk management.
• In a hospital emergency room, a thermal imaging system may help to quickly assess temperature and triage patients to determine who needs more evaluation or isolation.

Q: Are thermal imaging systems effective as the sole means of diagnosing COVID-19?

A: No. A fever or higher body temperature is only one possible symptom of a COVID-19 infection. Thermal imaging systems generally detect a high body temperature accurately when used appropriately. They do not detect any other infection symptoms, and many people with COVID-19 can be contagious without a fever. Also, a high body temperature does not necessarily mean a person has a COVID-19 infection.

All fevers measured by thermal imaging systems should be confirmed by another method and followed by more diagnostic evaluations for other symptoms, as appropriate.

Q: How can thermal imaging systems help with the COVID-19 response?

A: To help address urgent public health concerns raised by shortages of temperature measurement products and expand the availability of telethermographic systems used for initial body temperature for triage use during this COVID-19 public health emergency, the FDA is applying regulatory flexibility for certain telethermographic systems as outlined in its enforcement policy.

When a high body temperature is identified by thermal imaging, an additional evaluation should follow (for example, doctor evaluations or interview, laboratory testing and patient observation).

Q: Are thermal imaging systems used for body temperature assessment considered medical devices?

A: As discussed in the enforcement policy, telethermographic systems are devices when they are intended for a medical purpose. To determine if these products are intended for a medical purpose, FDA will consider whether:

1. They are labeled or otherwise intended for use by a health care professional;
2. They are labeled or otherwise for use in a health care facility or environment; and
3. They are labeled for an intended use that meets the definition of a device, for example, body temperature measurement for diagnostic purposes, including in non-medical environments.

Q: How does a thermal imaging system differ from a thermometer?

A: Both thermal imaging systems and non-contact infrared thermometers (NCIT) can measure surface temperatures without contact. An NCIT measures surface temperature in a single location, whereas a thermal imaging system can measure temperature differences across multiple locations, creating a relative temperature map of a region of the body. The enforcement policy in the guidance applies to use of thermal imaging systems to determine initial body temperature measurements.

There is a separate enforcement policy that applies to certain NCITs and other clinical electronic thermometers: Enforcement Policy for Clinical Electronic Thermometers During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Public Health Emergency.

Temperature gun uses not recommendate. 

References

Note, this information is applicable to thermal imaging systems that are intended for a medical purpose. This means that the system is intended for use in the diagnosis of disease or other conditions, or in the cure, mitigation, treatment or prevention of disease and, therefore, meets the definition of “device” set forth in Section 201(h) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

For more information on FDA’s policies for these devices, and recommendations on their design, labeling, and use during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, please review the following:

Enforcement Policy for Telethermographic Systems During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Public Health Emergency: Guidance for Industry and Food and Drug Administration Staff

Additional information on these devices can be found at:

IEC 80601-2-59: Medical electrical equipment - Part 2-59: Particular requirements for basic safety and essential performance of screening thermoghraphs for human febrile temperature screening. 2017, International Electrotechnical Commission & International Organization for Standardization.

ISO/TR 13154: Medical electrical equipment — Deployment, implementation and operational guidelines for identifying febrile humans using a screening thermograph. 2017, International Organization for Standardization.