NABCEP ESIP study plan

Calculate daily and peak energy requirements from a load profile and size usable BESS capacity after applying depth-of-discharge and round-trip efficiency derates

Distinguish power (kW) sizing from energy (kWh) sizing and identify which loads drive each in a given scenario

Map the major BESS subsystems (cells, modules, racks, BMS, PCS/inverter, transformer, HVAC, fire suppression, controls) and state the function of each

Identify the primary NEC and code articles governing ESS siting, sizing, and labeling and note which edition applies in your jurisdiction

Compare lithium-ion chemistries (LFP vs NMC) on thermal stability, cycle life, energy density, and typical application fit

Evaluate siting constraints including clearance to walls, egress paths, flood zones, temperature exposure, and ventilation requirements

Size conductor, overcurrent protection, and disconnect ratings for a DC-to-AC BESS interconnection

Explain how inverter clipping, AC coupling vs DC coupling, and backfeed rules affect design decisions

Sequence a BESS installation from site prep and anchoring through rack placement, DC cabling, AC interconnection, and controls wiring

Apply torque specifications and manufacturer sequence requirements for DC busbar and terminal connections

Identify PPE, arc-flash boundaries, and lockout/tagout steps required before energizing any circuit

Specify handling and lifting requirements for battery modules including weight limits and two-person or mechanical lift rules

Write the pre-commissioning inspection list covering grounding, clearances, labeling, ventilation, and fire detection

Verify polarity, insulation resistance, and continuity checks before first energization

Perform and document BMS cell voltage and temperature baseline readings at the module and rack level

Explain the purpose of a functional performance test and how to record pass/fail criteria against the design intent

Execute a controlled energization and verify inverter/PCS startup, grid synchronization, and communication to the monitoring platform

Test protective functions including over/under voltage, over/under frequency, and anti-islanding response and record trip settings

Validate SOC calibration, charge/discharge setpoints, and demand-response or peak-shaving control logic

Compile an as-built and O&M handoff package including schematics, setpoint records, and warranty documents

Build a preventive maintenance schedule keyed to manufacturer intervals for thermal management, filters, torque checks, and firmware updates

Interpret BMS and inverter alarms and classify them by severity and required response time

Diagnose common capacity-fade and imbalance causes using trend data and cell-level voltage spread

Plan a safe response to a thermal event including isolation, ventilation, and fire service coordination

Analyze a year of performance data to compute round-trip efficiency, availability, and capacity retention against warranty thresholds

Identify when measured degradation triggers a warranty claim and assemble the supporting evidence

Produce a corrective action for a recurring fault using root-cause analysis rather than part replacement alone

Re-check design assumptions against as-operated data and flag sizing or thermal gaps

Complete timed practice sets across all four domains and score each domain separately to find weak areas

Review missed items by tracing the underlying code article, calculation, or procedure rather than memorizing the answer

Rehearse explaining a full BESS lifecycle from design through O&M in a concise walkthrough

Confirm exam-day logistics including allowed references, calculator policy, and appointment scheduling