RWTH: Home Battery Fire Risk Clocks in at Almost Zero Probability

According to a study conducted by RWTH Aachen University, the risk of a fire outbreak in battery storage systems used at home, also known as home-batteries, is incredibly low. The University affirmed this finding after an in-depth analysis conducted at the request of the Energy Storage Association known as BVES. As per an announcement by BVES, the study conducted by RWTH Aachen demonstrates that battery storage systems, tested and certified in accordance with existing norms and standards, could be branded as safe.

The recorded probability of a battery storage system triggering a fire clocks in at almost zero – comparable to, if not less than, the potential risk from other home electrical appliances like tumble dryers. Specifically, the fire risk of battery storage systems in 2023 stood at a mere 0.0049%. This equates to a rate that is 50 times lower than the general fire risk in residential buildings. However, the findings for 2023 are based solely on internet research, as no other data was available to the researchers during their investigation.

"These findings are critical for fostering consumer trust in these important technologies," states Mark Junker, head of the study at the Institute for Power Electronics and Electrical Drives (ISEA) at RWTH Aachen. Lead author Florian Hölting, also from the ISEA, adds, "Our research demonstrates that battery storage is a safe technology that does not measurably increase the general risk of fire in homes."

However, there have been instances of home battery fires within the current year that have indeed sparked concern.

The significance of the study is emphasized by Urban Windelen, Managing Director of the Federal Association of Energy Storage Systems (BVES),: "This study makes a significant contribution to the objective discussion about the safety of home energy storage. We are delighted to be able to share these findings, which are so important for the industry and, ultimately, for the energy transition."

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