The terms battery container and battery storage are often used interchangeably, but do they really mean the same thing? Or is there technically and practically a difference between these two forms of energy storage? The short answer: yes, there is a difference, although it does not lie in the exterior of the container, but in the context in which the terms are used.

In this blog, we will guide you through the nuances between the two terms, how they are applied in practice, and when to use which term. We will look at the difference in terminology, usage situations, and technical specifications, so you know which storage solution best suits your energy project.

Terminology: battery container vs battery storage

Although colloquially 'battery' and 'accumulator' are often used interchangeably, there is a small but relevant difference in terminology. A battery is essentially a one-time energy storage device, while an accumulator is rechargeable. However, in technical and commercial communication, 'battery storage' usually refers to systems with rechargeable batteries—such as lithium-ion—and 'battery container' is used as a synonym, especially in sectors like construction or mobility.

In a professional context, battery containers are often used for temporary applications, such as festivals or construction sites, while 'battery storage' is mostly used in energy storage projects at (semi-)permanent locations such as industrial areas or solar parks.

An important practical difference:

• Battery container → more mobile, temporary use, application-focused

• Battery storage → permanently set up, long-term use, infrastructure-focused

Both are essentially containers with modular battery cells, but are positioned slightly differently.

Usage situations per container type

The choice between a battery container or battery storage is often related to the usage situation. A company looking to smooth out peak consumption will often opt for fixed battery storage that is permanently connected to the grid infrastructure.

For temporary power supply—consider an off-grid construction site, event, or mobile charging square—a battery container is the more obvious choice. These containers are often delivered with plug-and-play connections, integrated inverters, and are easy to move.

Applications for a battery container:

• Temporary power supply at festivals

• Backup power during grid maintenance

• Mobile charging plazas for electric vehicles

• Temporary energy storage during work

In these types of situations, it's convenient that the battery container is quickly deployable, scalable, and movable without the need for extensive infrastructure.

Technical differences between the two systems

While the basic components are often the same—think lithium-ion batteries, BMS (Battery Management System), cooling technology, and fire protection—there are still some technical nuances that distinguish the two types of containers.

Battery containers are:

• Often smaller in size (10ft instead of 20ft or 40ft)

• Equipped with integrated wheels or lifting points for quick transport

• Standard equipped with fast charging connections or mobile generator input

• Designed for short cycles (frequent charge/discharge within a short period)

Battery storages, on the other hand, are:

• Optimized for long-term use and cyclical loads

• Equipped with advanced software and integrations with EMS systems

• Often part of larger energy storage networks or smart grids

This makes the choice for a battery container mainly practical, while the battery storage is generally planned more technically within the broader energy demand.

Which container to choose when?

The choice depends entirely on your goal. Do you need temporary power, want to switch quickly, and is mobility important? Then a battery container is the logical option.

Do you want to buffer energy long-term, connect renewable generation or avoid network reinforcement? Then a battery storage is more suitable. You can make the decision based on:

• Duration of use (temporary vs long-term)

• Location (movable vs permanently set up)

• Connection options (stand-alone vs connected to the grid or solar panels)

• Capacity (smaller battery blocks vs megawatt storage)

For some clients, even a hybrid solution is interesting: a fixed battery storage for the premises and a mobile battery container as a flexible extension or emergency buffer provision.

Why the difference is important in communication and permits

Although the technology is largely similar, it often matters in communication, subsidy applications or permit procedures how you name the system.

For a battery container, different (less strict) requirements often apply in areas of fire safety, placement or grid connection than for large-scale battery storage. Think of temporary exemptions for events or categorization within the PGS 37 guideline for energy storage.

Wrongly naming a system in your application or documentation can lead to unnecessary regulations or delays. Therefore, it's important to keep the difference clear—not only in your quotation, but also in your communication with suppliers, grid operators, and permit issuers.

Frequently asked questions about the difference between battery containers and battery storage

Are battery containers and battery storage technically the same?
Mostly yes, but the application, scale, and positioning differ.

Why is the term battery container used more often in construction?
Because it involves mobile, temporary storage that must be quickly deployable.

Do you need a permit for a battery container?
It depends on location, duration, and capacity. In many cases, a temporary notification suffices.

Can you connect a battery container to solar panels?
Yes, just like a battery storage, provided the system has the right inverters and EMS.

What is the difference in fire safety requirements?
Battery storage often falls under stricter requirements due to their capacity and fixed setup.

Are both systems suitable for EV charging plazas?
Yes. Battery containers are mainly used for mobile charging plazas, battery storage for fixed charging infrastructure.