Fires at homes linked to solar generation increase
Fire response services company Fire Ops SA reports a sharp increase in structural fires linked to solar-powered installations, with one-quarter of all structural fires it responds to linked to batteries, inverters and equipment tied to solar systems, says Fire Ops SA CEO and Deputy Fire Chief De Wet Engelbrecht.
According to Statistics South Africa’s 2025 General Household Survey, around 675 000 homes have solar systems, which is an 86% increase in three years.
Fires can start in different parts of a solar system, including owing to ageing or faulty batteries, inverter faults, loose or deteriorating wiring and electrical connections and poor installation, says Engelbrecht.
Additionally, lithium-ion battery fires require specific protocols for extinguishing, he notes.
“Lithium-ion battery fires behave differently from conventional household fires. Thermal runaway can cause intense heat, toxic gases and the potential for fire to reignite even after it appears to have been contained.
“Homeowners should not attempt to manage a lithium-ion battery fire themselves. These fires require specialist knowledge and equipment. The priority should be getting to safety and getting professional help as quickly as possible,” Engelbrecht says.