Yes, modern solar batteries are safe when installed correctly and compliant with Australian standards. However, we frequently hear of concerns involving solar battery fire risk.
With rising summer power demand and energy security concerns, more homeowners are researching backup systems. If you’re interested in energy security but wondering about solar battery safety, we’ve got the information you need.
In this guide, we’ll cover battery chemistry, the biggest solar battery fire risk myths, and solar battery safety tips.
Why Battery Safety Matters More This Summer
With higher temperatures, more frequent power outages, and increased grid strain, summer brings a heightened fire risk.
As battery adoption grows across Australia, many homeowners wonder, “Are solar batteries safe?”.
Solar battery fire risk is an understandable concern, especially with the heightened seasonal fire risk.
Fortunately, modern solar battery technology is built for Australian conditions and meets strict national standards.
Understanding Modern Solar Battery Technology
From Lead-Acid to Lithium-Ion — What’s Changed
Solar battery technology has been advancing rapidly, with a strong focus on safety and efficiency.
While lithium-ion solar batteries are still considered safe, lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO₄) technology boasts an even higher safety profile. Lithium-iron phosphate solar batteries are considered the safest lithium variant for home systems.
Advantages of LiFePO4 batteries include:
- Cobalt-free
- Incombustible
- Integrated BMS (battery management system)
- Stable chemistry
- Improved thermal and structural stability
- Built-in temperature control and overheating prevention
- Built-in circuit isolation
- Reduced risk of catching fire
Learn more about solar battery technology here: Solar Battery Power Guide.
Internal Safety Features in Quality Batteries
As part of advancing technology, modern solar batteries are manufactured with built-in safety features.
High-quality solar batteries are designed with numerous internal safety features, including:
- Thermal management and over-charge protection.
- Smart monitoring and shut-off functions.
- Safe enclosure design and weatherproof casings.
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Solar Battery Fire Risk Myths vs Facts
Myth – “Solar Batteries Often Catch Fire”
One of the biggest solar battery fire risk myths is that solar batteries catch fire all the time. Part of this may be due to the rise in lithium-ion battery fires in Australia. In 2025, lithium-ion battery fires were almost double compared to 2020 (Source: ABC News).
However, these fires were a result of common household items such as power banks, laptops, and power tools. These lithium-ion battery fires are linked to thermal runaway, an issue with overheating.
Solar battery fire risk factors include:
- Using cheap imported solar batteries
- Unlicensed installers or DIY installs
- Ignoring standards
- Poor ventilation around the solar battery
- Objects, debris, or clutter piled up around the solar battery
- Damaged or pierced solar batteries
- Flammable materials stacked near a solar battery
.
Fact – Certified Systems Are Designed to Prevent Overheating
With Australia’s strict solar battery safety standards and continually improving technology, the solar battery fire risk is low.
Modern solar batteries feature technology to prevent thermal runaway, making solar battery fire incidents rare. Over 200,000 solar batteries are used across Australia with minimal safety issues. When a fire occurs, it is usually due to improper installation, not product failure.
Using certified brands and accredited installers is a proven way to reduce solar battery fire risk. Modern solar batteries feature integrated technology, including fail-safe shutdowns and temperature sensors to ensure the highest level of safety.
Meeting Australian Standards (AS/NZS 5139:2019)
What This Standard Covers
AS/NZS 5139 compliance is a crucial aspect of solar battery safety. Meeting AS/NZS compliance requires strict safety electrical requirements, including:
- Appropriate installation location
- Proper ventilation
- Professional wiring
- Separation from habitable areas
How to Check if Your System Meets the Standard
For enhanced solar battery safety, ensure your battery storage meets all standards and regulations.
To verify your solar battery storage system meets Australian standards, we recommend:
- Asking your installer for AS/NZS 5139 compliance documentation.
- Looking for Clean Energy Council (CEC) accreditation.
- Verifying correct placement and avoiding habitable areas (e.g. not installing batteries inside bedrooms or living areas).
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Safe Installation and Maintenance Checklist
Best Practices for a Safe Solar Battery Setup
- Always use a CEC-accredited installer with experience in battery systems. Check accreditation status here: Check Installer Accreditation Status – Solar Accreditation Australia
- Confirm AS/NZS 5139:2019 compliance to ensure appropriate placement, safe wire, and proper ventilation
- Avoid DIY installation or uncertified solar battery products
- Install in a well-ventilated, non-habitable area (not inside bedrooms or living spaces).
- Protect the system from direct sunlight and weather exposure.
- Do not store flammable items near solar batteries, and keep the battery free of dust and cobwebs.
- Use monitoring apps for alerts on battery performance or temperature.
- Schedule annual professional safety inspections to check connections, ventilation, and firmware updates.
Quick Homeowner Checklist
Here’s a quick solar battery safety checklist for homeowners:
- CEC-Accredited installer confirmed
- AS/NZS 5139 compliance certificate obtained.
- Safe location chosen (garage/external wall, non-habitable areas).
- System warranty registered.
- App monitoring activated.
- Annual inspection booked.
Battery Warranties and Quality Assurance
Quality solar batteries will include a strong warranty that covers safety, performance, and cycle life.
Top brands stand behind long-term safety and often include impressive 10+ year warranties and performance guarantees. We recommend looking for a company that offers after-sales support and system monitoring.
Choosing a Reliable, Safe Battery System
A crucial part of solar battery safety is choosing a reliable battery system from a reputable brand.
Look for brands with a strong reputation, safety certifications, installer experience, and local support.
As part of our dedication to safety, Aus Energy Solar only partners with certified manufacturers.
To further enhance solar battery safety, consider combining it with the most efficient setup. The right solar battery size ensures stable performance and safety.
Learn more about how to size a solar battery for your setup in our guide here: What Size Solar Battery Do I Need?
Or, use our online solar battery calculator here: Perth Solar Batteries and Storage Solutions – Aus Energy Solar.
Safe, Smart, and Ready for Summer
Advancing technology and strict safety standards have made solar batteries safer than ever. Modern lithium-ion batteries are highly regulated and safe when installed by qualified professionals.
Solar battery storage offers peace of mind, reliable backup, lower bills, and compliance with Australian safety standards.
Now is an ideal time to act before peak summer heat and grid demand hit. Secure your energy independence now by getting a quote for a solar system tailored to your energy needs and property.
Talk to our team about a safe, compliant solar battery system for your home and join over 550 happy customers we’ve already helped.
