Emergency Response for Tesla Powerwall

Study Notes

Initial Response: Thermal runaway often indicated by smoke; immediate attention required.
Emergency Steps:
- Notify main electrical power source location to incoming units.
- Use Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Shut down the Powerwall unit safely.
- Evacuate the area.
- Contact Tesla for professional assistance.
Fire Extinguishment:
- Use wide fog water spray to cool casing and prevent fire spread.
- Once extinguished, check temperature with Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC); if elevated, continue cooling for 15 minutes.
- Stability confirmed if no temperature rise for 45 minutes.

Shutting down does not electrically de-energize the battery.
Avoid opening the unit if smoke or fire is present.
Stay away from water during flooding situations.
Switches and Breakers Shutdown:
- For solar systems, shut down AC inverter and use emergency stop (Estop).
- Shut down each unit via the switch located on the side (1/3 from the top).
- De-energize AC breakers to units.
- If unsafe to shut down breakers, remove the low voltage clip at the meter or cut the cable for safety.

Single cell thermal runaway is isolated and does not affect other cells; usually triggered by external events.
Directing water at the thermal runaway cell only prolongs the process.
Suppression methods like water can lead to electrolysis, increasing flammable gas risk.

Emergency Protocol:
- Initiate shutdown immediately.
- Evacuate the area quickly.
- Contact Tesla; do not approach or touch the unit.
- Megapack systems are equipped with roof vents for smoke and flames.

Protect surrounding structures and exposures from heat.
Cool adjacent battery systems to prevent additional incidents.
Full PPE is mandatory due to extremely toxic gases emitted from battery fires.
Battery fires may burn for extended periods (up to 24 hours); allow complete consumption before approaching.
Monitor temperature with TIC after fire and smoke have ceased.