Are batteries a fire hazard?

To minimise the risk of batteries becoming a fire hazard, a new British Standard covering fire safety for home battery storage installations came into force on 31 March 2024. The standard is – PAS 63100:2024: Electrical installations. Protection against fire of battery energy storage systems (BESS) for use in dwellings.

Are battery energy storage systems fire safe?

Protection against fire of battery energy storage systems (BESS) for use in dwellings. As an installer, we take fire safety of our client’s installations very seriously. We would always recommend locating storage batteries outside the home and away from rooms used for living.

How to minimise fire risk from solar PV systems?

The solar industry welcomes clarity on how to minimise fire risk from solar PV systems, which in absolute terms is extremely low. “The core way to mitigate any risk is to ensure the highest possible quality in the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of solar systems.

Can solar batteries reduce fire risk?

As it currently stands, there are no legally binding regulations or standards that dictate the placement of solar batteries. But following the recommendations of PAS 63100 can help to reduce fire risk in dwellings.

Are photovoltaic power systems linked to fire?

Bookmark not defined. Over the past few years, there have been a number of media reports linking photovoltaic power systems (PV) with fire. With the prevalence of PV systems now in the UK, an increase in incident reports is to be expected.

Where to install solar batteries to reduce fire risk?

One of PAS 63100's main focus areas is its discussion of where to install solar batteries to reduce fire risk in dwellings. Paragraph 6.5.1 states that storage batteries should be installed outdoors, where practicable.