The Headlines Are Real — But So Are the Solutions
Battery fires do make headlines. But most incidents are caused by poor installation, non-compliant hardware, or corner-cutting — not from quality batteries installed by licensed professionals.
On the Sunshine Coast, where solar is booming, battery safety is a growing concern. If you’re considering adding a home battery, here’s what you need to know about staying safe, compliant, and protected.
What Causes Solar Battery Fires?
Not all batteries are created equal — and not all are installed to the same standard. Fires or malfunctions are almost always traced to one of the following:
1. Poor Quality or Uncertified Products
Cheap, untested batteries (often imported without full certification) can pose serious safety risks — especially under Australian heat conditions.
2. Incorrect Installation or Wiring
DIY installs or unlicensed operators can bypass essential safety measures like isolators, fusing, or correct placement, creating a fire risk over time.
3. Lack of Ventilation or Fire Barriers
Batteries generate heat and must be installed in compliant locations with fireproof backings or spacing in accordance with AS/NZS 5139 — the Australian Standard for battery installations.
What Are the Solar Battery Safety Queensland Rules?
The market is regulated so let’s look at those important rules.
Key Regulations to Know
Queensland (and all of Australia) follows AS/NZS 5139 — a national safety standard that outlines how and where batteries can be installed.
Here’s a breakdown in plain English:
| Rule or Regulation | What It Means for You |
| AS/NZS 5139 | Sets national fire safety standards for lithium battery systems |
| Installation Zones | Batteries can’t be installed in habitable rooms or near exit paths |
| Required Clearances | Batteries must be spaced away from flammable surfaces or materials |
| Fire Barriers | Many batteries must be installed on non-combustible backboards or walls |
| Licensing Requirements | Only CEC-accredited and QBCC-licensed installers can legally install |
New Updates in 2025
The 2025 regulatory updates in QLD are pushing for:
- Better protection for attached garages and carports
- Stricter fireproof mounting surfaces
- Monitoring requirements for large battery systems
What SWIFT Solar and Electrical Does Differently
Not all installers are created equal. At SWIFT, we go beyond minimum compliance:
Fireproof Mounting Surfaces
To reduce risk, we install all battery systems on fire-rated cement sheet backings… even when not strictly required.
Compliance with AS/NZS 5139
Every battery we install meets or exceeds the Australian Standard for lithium-ion battery safety.
Pre-Install Site Assessments
We physically assess your home or business before quoting. We want to identify the safest possible install location from the start.
Only Certified Products
We only install trusted battery brands (like Tesla, Alpha ESS, Sungrow, and Sigenergy) with full Australian certification and support.
What’s Inside a Safe Battery System?
Here’s what makes a battery system truly “safe” by today’s standards:
| Component | Why It Matters |
| Certified Lithium Cells | Lower risk of thermal runaway and fire |
| Proper Ventilation | Prevents overheating |
| Isolators & Circuit Protection | Helps shut the system down safely in case of fault |
| Non-Combustible Backing Board | Reduces risk of wall fire spread |
| Monitoring & Alerts | Lets you see performance and catch problems early |
How to Know If Your Battery Setup Is Safe
Use this checklist to assess your current or future battery installation:
- Installed by a CEC-accredited solar installer
- Mounted on a fire-rated surface (not gyprock or timber)
- Not located inside living spaces or exits
- System has a visible isolator switch and correct fusing
- Battery brand is approved for use in Australia
- Monitoring app or system alerts in place
- You were provided with a compliance certificate after install
If you’re not sure, just call us, and book a safety check with SWIFT.
Real Talk: Most Battery Fires Are Avoidable
The solar industry is getting more regulated (and that’s a good thing). The truth is, when installed by professionals who follow the rules, battery systems are incredibly safe, and far less likely to fail than many household appliances.
Don’t let sensational headlines scare you away from energy independence.
Still Worried? Let’s Talk Battery Safety
At SWIFT Solar and Electrical, we’re Sunshine Coast locals who take your safety seriously. Whether you’re installing your first battery, or upgrading to a Powerwall or Sigenergy system, we’ll make sure it’s done right.
📞 Call us on 0402 251 734 or book your inspection online.
We’ll assess your setup, check for compliance, and give you peace of mind… no pressure, no upsells.
