Solar emerges as growing source of home fires
SA’s solar boom brings new fire risks, as ageing batteries, inverters and electrical connections become potential failure points.
Solar power installations are now responsible for a quarter of all structural fires attended by Fire Force in South Africa, according to recent data. This is due to the rapid expansion of residential solar systems, with the number of homes with solar systems increasing by 86% over three years, according to Statistics South Africa’s 2025 General Household Survey.
Key risks identified include ageing or faulty batteries, inverter faults, deteriorating wiring and electrical connections, and poor installation. Fire Ops SA and Discovery Insure advise homeowners to treat solar systems like other electrical infrastructure, requiring ongoing maintenance and inspections. Fires can originate from various components, including batteries, inverters, wiring, and installation practices.
Lithium-ion batteries pose a particular risk, as they can enter a thermal runaway state, leading to intense fires. Fire Force responds to around four solar-related fires per week in Johannesburg, amounting to 200 to 210 fires annually. A demonstration showed how quickly thermal runaway can escalate a lithium-ion battery fire. Specialists stress the importance of early detection and professional help, as the first 15 to 20 minutes are critical in preventing fire spread.
Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial, as even a Certificate of Compliance at installation does not negate the need for ongoing care.
Written by urgent.news from ITWeb's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
