Fike partners with Heriot-Watt University on energy storage safety curriculum

As Dubai’s largest international university, Heriot-Watt University has established a Solar Innovation Lab, which is powered by a combination of rooftop solar panels and a battery energy storage system (BESS). Zafar Siddiqui, MEIA Technology & Solutions Consultant at Fike, recently met with university leaders to make Heriot-Watt University’s BESS the first system in the Middle East and North Africa to be protected by Fike Blue^TM.

Fike Blue is the first third-party tested and patented solution proven to suppress thermal runaway cascading. As a very high boiling point liquid, Fike Blue is directly injected into the battery module and manages the thermal event by absorbing heat until it is complete.

The installation of Fike Blue on site has provided Heriot-Watt with a unique educational opportunity to be the first university in the region to showcase protected BESS and EV charging stations and educate students on industry best practice in managing these potential risks. The facility will also support UG and PG level students studying Energy Engineering and Renewable Energy.

In addition, in the autumn term of 2024, Heriot-Watt University will announce a special offer for PhD and Masters students who will be able to take part in tests, write a test report and prepare a paper on the control of thermal runaway, which will be published in a future journal.

“Engineering students at Heriot-Watt University will soon have the opportunity to delve into a unique field that is not offered anywhere else,” Siddiqui said.

“We are excited to introduce a curriculum that focuses on thermal escape in BESS and includes groundbreaking Fike Blue technology to reduce fire hazards. This initiative underscores our commitment to showcasing cutting-edge technologies while providing hands-on experience essential for students working in renewable energy and integrated systems.

“It prepares them to face modern challenges and become future industry leaders.”