Tens of thousands of lithum-ion batteries used in domestic solar systems in Geelong and around the country have been recalled, amid fears they could overheat and potentially set fire to homes.
The batteries, which were manufactured by LG and fitted to multiple solar battery brands, have already been linked to nine incidents, including one in which a house was completely destroyed.
Lithium-ion battery fires are notoriously difficult to extinguish. They can also spontaneously re-ignite even after they appear to have been put out.
The recalled batteries were installed in more than 18 brands including Eguana, LG, Opal, Redback, Red Earth, SolaX and VARTA.
They are also contained in a number of unbranded systems.
The recall was initially announced in early October but the Australian Competition and Concumer Commission (ACCC) said about 6,000 remain in service.
The ACCC urged solar owners to check the batteries in their systems, regardless of brand, to see whether they contain affected batteries.
“Check your system and turn off your battery straight away if it has been recalled,” said a commission spokesperson.
LG has offered to replace affected batteries free of charge or provide a full refund. It will also provide compensation for higher energy costs.
