Enclosure required for Powerwall in MA

[solarAddict]

Hi,

Mi installer informed me (informally though) that we might need to build an fire proof enclosure around PWs as a new requirement in MA for 2020. Anyone have any info on this? One PW would be OK without the fire box, but 2+ installation would need it.

Honestly I'm confused - for me the chance of overheating and all consequences is much higher for device installed in enclosure vs in open space...



Thanks

 

[glide]

That sounds ridiculous but it’s Massachusetts so I believe it.

 

[Vines]

Likely until the Powerwall passes UL9540a fire testing we will continue to see these requirements pop up.

I wouldn't be surprised if this is a similar issue to the Santa Clara County Fire department issue. Basically, here they want to enforce the 2019 CFC 1206 (2018 ICC) if the storage quantity is over 20kWh.

In actuality, the intention is that 1206.2.1 section is intended that permits are required for battery installations above a certain size. Those battery installations requirements are per CRC R327 or CFC 1206 according to the occupancy category.

 

[solarAddict]

So far I was told two past installations went 50/50. One town required the enclosure and one didn't.

 

[Zinc_Saucier]

So far I was told two past installations went 50/50. One town required the enclosure and one didn't.

As someone in MA who’s got PWs on order for a 2020 install, can you share the towns and which one did/didn’t?

 

[solarAddict]

As someone in MA who’s got PWs on order for a 2020 install, can you share the towns and which one did/didn’t?

Honestly, I just don't remember. I have an electrician visit scheduled for next week for equipment layout planning, so I will ask and update this.

 

[Zinc_Saucier]

Honestly, I just don't remember. I have an electrician visit scheduled for next week for equipment layout planning, so I will ask and update this.

Thanks, I’m going to reach out to my installer (non-Tesla) to see what they are hearing.

 

[adspguy]

Not required for my install in Bedford MA. Pictures of my install at Eversource approval for solar?

 

[solarAddict]

Update:

We had no problem with 2 PWs installed in service room, basement level, stone walls.