A stationary battery can be operated in two basic modes: 1) standby (or float) and 2) cycling. Many standards developed for standby stationary applications do not apply to cycling stationary applications, and vice versa. The purpose of this guide is to differentiate between these two applications and increase awareness of why and how their different operation and maintenance practices should be managed. The guide is primarily informational and is not intended to provide specific recommendations for battery management in cycling applications.

This guide provides information on the differences between stationary standby and stationary cycling applications and appropriate battery management strategies in cycling operations. While the primary emphasis is on lead-acid batteries, information is also provided on alternative and emerging storage technologies. The management of battery systems in stationary standby service is covered in other IEEE documents and is beyond the scope of this guide.

This guide is meant to provide assistance to users of stationary battery systems in determining appropriate battery management strategies that may be applied by addressing the primary similarities and differences in battery design and operation for standby versus cycling applications.