With the surge in demand for alternative energy solutions, lithium batteries have become a common fixture in homes and businesses across South Africa. However, with this increased usage comes the potential risk of lithium battery fires.
Since June last year, only four reported incidents have resulted in damages exceeding R45 million, according to a newsletter from CIA Building Insurance. This raises a critical question: what causes these fires, and how can they be prevented?
One of the primary causes of lithium battery fires is incorrect installation.
As the demand for alternative energy systems booms, it’s crucial to ensure that your system is designed and installed by a qualified electrician and engineering team who adheres to all applicable legislation and manufacturer guidelines.
Over the past year, AWPower has been requested to audit and fix many systems installed by inexperienced installers that operate without staff members being suitably qualified and certified. Below are some key points to consider:
- To ensure safety and compliance, it is vital that lithium battery systems are installed and tested by suitably trained and certified persons. The installation must adhere to all relevant legislation as well as manufacturer guidelines. Proper installation not only ensures the system operates efficiently but also significantly reduces the risk of fire. For example, one common mistake is insufficient spacing between the inverter and battery. Such errors can lead to overheating and, eventually, fires.
- Another example is incorrectly sized wires, with no or inadequate fusing or circuit-breakers, that overheat and melt. Lose or improper electrical connections are also a large contributor to electrical fires.
- A valid electrical Certificate of Compliance (CoC) and a test report for the system must be issued and available for inspection. This ensures that the installation meets all safety standards and regulations.
Another significant risk factor is thermal runaway, a chain reaction within a battery that causes a rapid increase in temperature and pressure. Several factors can trigger thermal runaway:
- Internal Short Circuits: Physical damage or manufacturing defects can cause internal short circuits.
- Overcharging and Over-Discharging: Exceeding the recommended charging or discharging rates can lead to dangerous conditions.
- External Heat Sources: Batteries exposed to high ambient temperatures or placed near heat-generating devices are at risk.
- Age and Wear and Tear: Over time, batteries naturally degrade, which can increase the risk of failure.
It is important to note that nearly all lithium batteries used in solar PV applications in South Africa are Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries. This type of lithium-ion battery is one of the most stable lithium batteries and it is highly unlikely (not impossible) that they will experience thermal runaway. One can argue that an installation using old lead-acid batteries is more dangerous than an installation with LiFePO4 batteries.
Here’s what you can do:
Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to identify and mitigate potential risks. Here are some best practices to follow:
- Schedule regular checks with your solar partner to ensure all components are functioning correctly and safely, further to ensure that no connections come loose over time.
- Do not store combustible materials within two meters of any inverter or battery.
- If you are a landlord, ensure your tenants are aware of the dangers and requirements related to these systems. Failure to do so may result in insurance claims being repudiated.
At AWPower, your safety is our top priority, and we are committed to providing you with the highest quality energy solutions and the information you need to use them safely.
For more information on AWPower Solar PV System Audits and Maintenance & Support Agreements that will ensure regular inspection and preventative maintenance, please get in touch!