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Rahul Jalthar published in Batteries

The Ultimate Guide to Energy Storage Battery Certifications

Battery Certifications

IEnergy Storage Battery Certifications :n the high-stakes world of energy storage, batteries are more than just a component — they are the lifeblood of your entire power system. Yet, one of the most dangerous assumptions in the industry is believing that certified cells automatically mean a certified, safe energy storage battery system.

This false sense of security has led to costly project failures, fire incidents, and in some cases, legal nightmares. If you’re investing in energy storage — whether for a home backup, commercial microgrid, or grid-scale ESS — you cannot afford this mistake.

In this power-packed guide, I’ll break down the essential certifications, expose the common myths, and show you why real safety and performance depend on more than just cell test reports.

🔥 Why Certifications Are Your First Line of Defense

Every energy storage battery represents a blend of chemistry, engineering, and risk. Certifications are your shield against catastrophic failure, covering:

  • Fire and explosion prevention.
  • Mechanical resilience and handling.
  • Electrical integrity and system safety.
  • Transportation compliance.
  • Environmental durability under real-world conditions.

A supplier’s promises are meaningless unless backed by recognized third-party certifications. Your investment deserves documented proof, not blind trust.

⚠️ The Costly Myth: “The Cells Are Certified, So the Pack Is Safe”

Here’s the reality: certified cells are only one piece of the safety puzzle.

Once cells are assembled into a battery system — with wiring, connectors, casings, thermal management, and a BMS — new risks emerge:

  • System-level short circuits
  • Thermal runaway propagation
  • BMS calibration errors
  • Inadequate housing protection

Even the most premium cells can become a hazard inside a poorly engineered pack. That’s why system-level certifications are non-negotiable.

🏅 Energy Storage Batteries Certifications

1️⃣ UL 1973 — The Gold Standard for Stationary Energy Storage

UL 1973 is the safety benchmark for batteries used in stationary applications like:

  • Solar energy storage.
  • Microgrids.
  • UPS and backup power.

This certification focuses on the complete battery system — not just the cells — covering electrical, mechanical, and fire safety.

👉 Pro tip: Cell certifications do not substitute for UL 1973. If your pack isn’t UL 1973 tested, you’re flying blind.

2️⃣ UL 9540 & UL 9540A — Fire Safety for Energy Storage Systems

UL 9540 certifies entire energy storage systems, validating safe cooperation between batteries, inverters, and other components.

UL 9540A tests focus on thermal runaway risk and fire propagation — essential for installations near people or critical infrastructure.

👉 Pro tip: Insist on UL 9540A Battery Certifications for projects in buildings or populated areas. Safety isn’t optional.

3️⃣ IEC 62619 Battery Certifications — Industrial Safety Beyond Borders

IEC 62619 Battery Certifications applies globally to industrial lithium batteries and covers the most brutal safety scenarios:

  • Crush resistance.
  • Overcharge behavior.
  • External short circuit tolerance.
  • Forced discharge responses.

This test ensures the pack survives real-world abuse without turning into a ticking time bomb.

4️⃣ UN 38.3 — Battery Certifications for Shipping Safety

UN 38.3 Battery Certifications is your passport for global transport. No battery pack can legally cross borders without it.

Testing simulates:

  • High-altitude air cargo.
  • Thermal extremes.
  • Shock and vibration.
  • Crush and impact scenarios.

👉 Warning: If your supplier can’t produce a valid UN 38.3 report, your shipment is grounded.

5️⃣ CE Marking — EU Market Access Battery Certifications

CE marking confirms compliance with essential European regulations for:

  • Electrical safety.
  • Electromagnetic compatibility.
  • Hazardous substance restrictions.

👉 Pro tip: Always verify the Declaration of Conformity and the certifying lab’s credentials.

6️⃣ ISO 9001 / 14001 / 45001 — Manufacturing Excellence Matters

Even certified designs can fail if the factory lacks discipline. These ISO standards ensure:

  • Quality consistency (ISO 9001).
  • Environmental responsibility (ISO 14001).
  • Workplace safety (ISO 45001).

👉 Pro tip: Factory audits should confirm these certifications are active and enforced.

💡 Battery Certifications ≠ Foolproof Safety

Even with all the paperwork in place, real-world reliability demands more. A system can pass a lab test but fail in the field due to:

  • Production shortcuts.
  • Component substitutions.
  • Assembly errors.
  • Storage and transport damage.

That’s why professional buyers pair certification with:

  • Factory audits.
  • FAT (Factory Acceptance Tests).
  • Third-party inspections.
  • Pre-shipment quality control.

👉 Real Safety = Certified Design + Verified Production Quality.

🚀 Final Thoughts: Buy Smart, Not Blind

In the world of energy storage, what you don’t know can hurt you. Certifications are your baseline protection — but don’t stop there.

When a supplier waves around cell-level reports and skips system-level tests, your project, your reputation, and your finances are all exposed.

Invest in the full picture:

✅ System-level certifications. ✅ Factory audits and quality control. ✅ Documentation verification.

Because safety, reliability, and performance are engineered — not assumed.

🤝 Need Expert Support?

I help global clients navigate the complexities of battery sourcing by:

  • Verifying certifications.
  • Auditing factories.
  • Supervising FAT and QC.
  • Reducing procurement risks.

If your next energy storage project demands flawless safety and compliance — let’s connect.

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Rahul Jalthar published in Technology

Hydrogen Fuel Cells Explained: Clean Energy Solution

Hydrogen fuel cells

In the global race toward carbon neutrality, hydrogen fuel cells (H2 fuel cells) are stepping up as one of the most promising clean energy technologies. Whether you’re in manufacturing, transportation, or renewable energy, understanding H2 fuel cells is essential.

What Are Hydrogen Fuel Cells?

Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. The only by-products? Water and heat.

This makes them a highly efficient and eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuel-based systems.

How Do Hydrogen Fuel Cells Work?

The working principle behind H2 fuel cell is both elegant and powerful:

  1. Hydrogen gas flows into the fuel cell’s anode.
  2. Oxygen is drawn in from the air at the cathode.
  3. The hydrogen molecules split into protons and electrons.
  4. Electrons create electricity as they travel through an external circuit.
  5. Protons combine with oxygen to form water.

The result is clean electricity with zero harmful emissions.

Where Are H2 fuel cells Used?

H2 fuel cells in Transportation

  • Cars: Toyota Mirai, Honda Clarity, and Hyundai NEXO use H2 fuel cells for zero-emission driving.
  • Trucks: Nikola Motors and Hyundai are developing hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks.
  • Buses and Trains: California launched America’s first hydrogen-powered passenger train.

Hydrogen Fuel Cells in Stationary Power

  • Backup power for hospitals and data centers.
  • Power for remote areas with limited grid access.
  • Residential use in Japan and Europe.

H2 fuel cells in Industry

  • Hydrogen-powered forklifts in warehouses.
  • Emerging use in maritime shipping.
  • Integration into combined heat and power (CHP) systems.

Why Hydrogen Fuel Cells Matter for the Future

H2 fuel cells bring clear advantages:

  • Zero emissions.
  • High conversion efficiency.
  • Fast refueling time.
  • Energy security via domestic hydrogen production.

Common Questions About H2 fuel cells

Q: Are hydrogen fuel cells only used in cars?

A: Modern H2 fuel cells systems have strict safety protocols:
✔️ Leak detection
✔️ Pressure-proof storage
✔️ Auto shutoff valves.

A: No! Hydrogen is used in vehicles, factories, homes, and even space technology.

Q: Are H2 fuel cells safe?

Statistically, they meet or exceed safety standards for conventional vehicles.

Q: Will hydrogen fuel cells replace batteries?

A: They serve different roles.

ApplicationFuel CellsBatteries
Long Distance Travel✅ Excellent🚫 Limited
Urban Commute🚫 Not Ideal✅ Excellent
Heavy Load Vehicles✅ Ideal🚫 Less practical

Types of Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Fuel Cell TypeUse CaseOperating Temp
PEMFCTransport, Portable Power60–80°C
SOFCIndustrial, Power Generation500–1,000°C
PAFCDistributed Energy, CHP~200°C
AFCSpace Applications (NASA)~90°C

Hydrogen Production: Grey, Blue, or Green?

TypeSourceCarbon Emissions
GreyFossil fuels (natural gas)High
BlueNatural gas + carbon captureReduced
GreenElectrolysis via renewablesZero

💡 For true climate neutrality, green hydrogen is the goal.

Hydrogen Fuel Cells vs Batteries — Which is Better?

FactorHydrogen Fuel CellsLithium Batteries
EmissionsZero (if green hydrogen)Zero
Refueling Time~5 minutes30 min to several hours
Vehicle RangeUp to 700 kmTypically 300-500 km
Payload EfficiencyHighLower at long distances
InfrastructureGrowingMature in many regions

What’s Holding Hydrogen Fuel Cells Back?

Challenges include:

  • High costs (especially for green hydrogen).
  • Limited fueling infrastructure.
  • Storage and transport limitations.
  • Public awareness and misconceptions.

The Future of H2 fuel cells

Governments and corporations worldwide are investing in hydrogen fuel cells as part of their energy transition strategy.

  • 🌍 National hydrogen strategies (Japan, EU, Korea).
  • 💼 Corporate investments (Toyota, Hyundai, Shell, BP).
  • ⚙️ Material science breakthroughs to reduce costs.

Final Thoughts

Hydrogen fuel cells are not just a trend — they are a critical pillar for future energy systems. As countries work toward carbon-neutral goals, the role of hydrogen will only grow.

If you’re in energy, transport, or manufacturing — now is the perfect time to stay informed and explore opportunities in H2 fuel cells.

✅ Clean. Scalable. Future-Proof.
💡 H2 fuel cells are changing the way the world powers vehicles, factories, and homes.

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Rahul Jalthar published in Business

The Power of Salesmanship in Supplier Selection

salesmanship

Salesmanship: In today’s fast-paced business world, it’s common for companies to receive daily calls, emails, or messages from eager salespeople offering products and services. Their pitch is usually the same: “We’d like to be your supplier,” or “We’d love you to switch from your current supplier and give us a try.” The message sounds promising at first, but often, it ends there. They offer no real insights, no differentiators, and no understanding of your company’s needs.

Instead, they just say, “If you need anything, contact us.” But here’s the critical question: how could you trust a company that doesn’t care enough to research you, your business, or the product needs you might have? How can you be sure that they will deliver on their promises when their own sales team lacks the skills, knowledge, and commitment to make your business a priority?

In this blog post, we will explore why such careless sales tactics not only fail to impress but could also be a huge red flag when it comes to choosing the right supplier.

The Importance of Salesmanship: A Reflection of the Company’s Values

Salespeople are often the first and most direct interaction a potential customer has with a company. They are the face and voice of the business, responsible for creating the first impression. When a salesperson contacts you without a clear understanding of your business needs or fails to showcase what their company can offer differently, it reflects poorly on the company they represent.

Sales are about relationships, not just transactions. A salesperson’s ability to communicate the advantages of their product, how it meets your specific requirements, and why it’s superior to what you’re currently using is critical. A salesperson who doesn’t take the time to learn about your business and craft a tailored message is likely not representing a company that values relationships and customer satisfaction.

If they don’t care about what you need, how can they care about delivering a quality product or service? If their approach to sales is this lackluster, it’s reasonable to question whether they can offer the kind of long-term value you need from a supplier.

The Risk of Inadequate Product Knowledge and Competitor Analysis

A successful salesperson doesn’t just push a product—they demonstrate why it is the right solution for your business. This means they need to know their product inside and out, understand how it compares to the competition, and be prepared to explain the benefits clearly.

When a salesperson simply offers their products without any information about why they’re better than your current suppliers, you’re left to wonder: Is this company even prepared to meet your specific needs? Have they done any market research to understand how their products stack up against your current suppliers?

Any business owner or procurement manager knows that making an informed decision requires comparing options. A salesperson who doesn’t offer any comparative data or a detailed analysis of their product’s advantages over your current supplier’s offerings might be hiding a lack of product innovation, poor quality, or insufficient customer service. Worse, if they can’t provide these details, it’s a clear sign that they haven’t done their homework—or worse, they might not even have a clear understanding of their own offerings.

A Lack of Customization Is a Major Red Flag

A key aspect of a strong sales pitch is personalization. Salespeople who care about your business will take the time to understand your specific pain points, requirements, and goals. They will customize their pitch to show how their product or service will help you achieve your objectives.

If a salesperson simply reaches out and says, “If you need anything, contact us,” with no indication of how their products can help your business, it’s a clear sign that they’re either too lazy or unqualified to tailor their offerings to your unique needs. In today’s competitive business landscape, this lack of effort is unacceptable. Your business deserves a supplier who takes the time to understand your challenges and offers you solutions designed to address them directly.

Furthermore, when a company fails to personalize its approach, it suggests they are not committed to long-term partnerships. Business relationships require a deep understanding of each other’s operations and goals. If a salesperson doesn’t show that they’re invested in your success, it’s unlikely that the company they represent will be either.

The Importance of Relationship Building and Trust

Building trust is the foundation of any business relationship. The process of switching suppliers or choosing a new one is often complex and risky. It requires confidence in the products, services, and customer support that the supplier can offer. Trust doesn’t come from generic, impersonal sales pitches; it comes from ongoing, thoughtful engagement and a genuine interest in your company’s success.

If a salesperson contacts you with nothing but a vague “contact us if needed,” they’re failing to build that trust. They’re not providing you with any reason to believe that their company can be a reliable, long-term partner. In essence, they’re not selling the company—they’re just pushing a product.

A supplier who cares about building a lasting relationship will offer a detailed understanding of your business needs and a comprehensive plan on how they can meet them. This could include tailored pricing options, customized delivery schedules, or providing after-sales support. A real salesperson doesn’t just say, “Contact us if you need us.” They say, “Here’s how we can make your life easier by addressing these specific pain points you’re facing.”

The Role of the Salesperson in Creating the Company Image

Salespeople don’t just sell products; they sell the image and values of the company they represent. If a salesperson doesn’t exhibit professionalism, skill, and expertise, how can you expect the company they represent to perform any better?

Companies that care about their customers will ensure that their sales team is highly trained, knowledgeable, and equipped to handle complex queries. A company that doesn’t invest in its salespeople’s abilities is likely to have a subpar product or service as well. This is a clear indication that they don’t prioritize quality or customer satisfaction.

When you work with a supplier, you’re essentially outsourcing a part of your business to them. The salesperson who contacts you today is the face of that company tomorrow. A company that doesn’t care about improving the skills and knowledge of its sales team is not a company you want to entrust with your business needs.

Why You Should Demand More from Your Suppliers

At the end of the day, when choosing a supplier, you’re looking for someone who will understand your needs, offer the best possible solutions, and work with you as a strategic partner. If a company can’t even get the basics of sales right—like conducting research on your business, comparing products to competitors, or demonstrating the value of their products—how can they possibly be expected to meet your other requirements?

A supplier should be someone who is proactive, someone who is eager to improve your business, not just someone who throws a product at you and waits for you to reach out. As a business owner or procurement manager, you deserve suppliers who understand your pain points and proactively offer solutions that will drive your business forward.

Conclusion: Don’t Settle for Mediocre Salesmanship

Choosing a supplier is a big decision, and you can’t afford to take it lightly. If a salesperson doesn’t take the time to understand your business, compare their products with your current suppliers, or demonstrate how their offerings can benefit you, it’s a clear indication of a company that doesn’t care enough about its customers.

You deserve better than a generic sales pitch. You deserve a supplier who will invest the time to understand your needs and offer solutions that genuinely add value. So, next time a salesperson contacts you with a bland “contact us if needed,” take a moment to consider: If they can’t even put in the effort to convince you of their value, why should you put in the effort to work with them?

The right supplier will show you why they are the best choice for your business. Don’t settle for less. Your business deserves nothing less than a committed, knowledgeable, and professional partner.

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