Study confirms that domestic batteries for solar panels are safe

The installation of home batteries for solar panel systems is growing rapidly, driven by the demand for more sustainable energy solutions. But many consumers still wonder: is it safe to have batteries in their home?

In February we published a report about a residential explosion allegedly caused by a battery system that stored energy from solar panels.

A new study conducted in Germany brings good news: the risk of fire in household batteries is extremely low — comparable to that of common household appliances such as tumble dryers.

The analysis, carried out by researchers at the Technical University of Munich, concluded that the chance of a fire in a residential battery is 50 times lower than a fire in a regular house. When compared to gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles, the risk is 18 times lower.

According to the study, the annual probability of a fire in a household battery is just 0.005%. In contrast, the chance of a fire in a clothes dryer is around 0.0037%.

The investigation used tools such as Talkwalker and YouScan to gather information from public sources, such as fire department reports and local news. Due to the lack of centralized official data in Germany, each case was carefully checked to ensure its authenticity.

Although the number of incidents is extremely low — six cases in 2022 and 32 in 2023 — experts warn that the consequences of a battery fire can be more severe than those of traditional household appliances.

Markus Huber, professor at the Technical University of Munich, explains:

“Batteries store electrical energy which, if they fail, can trigger high-temperature fires and the release of dangerous gases.”

This phenomenon, known as thermal runaway , requires special care when installing and maintaining storage systems.

The Directorate-General for Energy and Geology (DGEG) in Portugal reinforces the importance of following all technical standards when installing solar batteries, in order to guarantee total safety for users ( source ).

The study indicated that most fires in domestic batteries were recorded in Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia — areas with a high concentration of installed solar photovoltaic systems.

By the end of 2023, Germany had around 820,000 residential storage systems, a figure that reflects the growing investment in renewable energy , as also highlighted by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) .

For those who are thinking of installing solar batteries at home, safety starts with choosing the equipment and installers. Choosing certified batteries, ensuring that the installation is carried out by qualified professionals and carrying out regular maintenance are essential practices.

Furthermore, it is recommended to install the systems in well-ventilated locations, away from sources of excessive heat, and to always follow the manufacturer's specific instructions.

Taking these measures helps maintain the benefits of renewable energy while minimizing any associated risks.