Online Reporter
Lubelihle Moyo
LITHIUM batteries meant to power homes are now turning them into fireballs. A wave of house fires caused by poorly installed solar systems is spreading across Bulawayo, leaving destruction, trauma, and even death in its wake.
So far this year, 10 homes have gone up in flames, and one person has died. Add that to 32 properties torched last year, and the total stands at a shocking 42 lithium-related house fires, according to Bulawayo Fire Brigade Chief Fire Officer Mhlangano Moyo.
The latest blaze struck Cowdray Park on Monday, 4 August, terrifying residents when a house burst into flames in broad daylight.
“The fire concentrated in one bedroom where items like the bed, wardrobe and suitcases were destroyed,” said Moyo. “The cause was an overheated solar system. A gel battery exploded due to poor workmanship and the use of exposed wiring.”
According to the family, no one was home when the fire started. “We were at school and only found out when neighbours called us. By the time we arrived, the fire brigade and neighbours were trying to put out the flames,” said one of the occupants.
Just a few months earlier, on 24 May, a maid in Pumula had to be rushed to hospital after lithium batteries exploded in her room, engulfing it in flames.
In the same month, disaster struck in Burnside, where a house belonging to Mr George, a Greek investor, was reduced to rubble when solar lithium batteries exploded. The damage was estimated at US$350,000.
“These fires are avoidable,” warned Moyo. “Most of them are caused by poor installation, substandard materials, and overcharging the batteries. People are using solar installers who cut corners and risk lives.”
He urged residents to buy lithium batteries only from reputable manufacturers, ensure proper installation with certified electricians, install safety alarms, and avoid overcharging by regularly checking the battery health.
What’s supposed to bring power is instead bringing destruction.
derick.khumalo