SMA Energy System Has Been Recognized with UL 9540 Safety Certification

We’re excited to announce that TÜV Rheinland has certified the SMA Energy System to UL Standard 9450:2016 for the USA and Canada.

TÜV Rheinland is an independent, accredited global safety inspection organization that acts as an unbiased third-party for product testing. With the UL 9540 system-level certification, the SMA Sunny Boy Storage inverter has been certified in conjunction with lithium-ion batteries from global manufacturing leaders BYD and LG Chem.

Since its emergence in 2016, the much-coveted UL 9540 certification has only been achieved by a small group of energy storage system manufacturers. This prestigious certification is particularly important as it assures the highest level of safety for an energy storage system, which is typically comprises multiple components including the inverter, battery management system and the batteries themselves.

While the SMA Sunny Boy Storage inverter and the lithium-ion batteries have already achieved independent product safety certifications such as UL 1741 and UL 1973, this system-level certification is the first instance of these components being evaluated for operation as a combined unit according to a national safety standard. It’s also the first time in history that any product from either BYD or the LG Chem has ever been certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to UL Standard 9540.

What does this mean for SMA’s customers?

It means they now have the highest level of assurance and confidence when buying the system. The requirement for the rigorous evaluation is becoming increasingly necessary for receiving incentives for the installation of battery energy storage systems, such as under the California Energy Commission (CEC) Senate Bill 1 (SB1) Guidelines. The UL 9540 certification requirement is also becoming more commonly referenced in regional building construction codes such as the California Fire Code and is a considered a best equipment installation practice by local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) such as building inspectors and fire marshals.

Even where not yet formally required, the safety certification benefits consumers, utilities, building owners, firefighters and the general public. In many circumstances, it also benefits customers and installers by expediting system permitting and approval.

The additional accolade showcases not only the SMA commitment to safety but also the versatility the company offers to clients through multiple battery options. SMA’s holistic approach of achieving certification of the Sunny Boy Storage inverter in conjunction with the BYD B-Box and LG Chem RESU lithium-ion batteries also honors the true intention of the UL 9540 Standard.

The result of SMA’s rigorous certification efforts? Complete peace of mind for our customers.

For more information on this certification click here.