Authorities Warn of Rising Fire Threats as ‘Clean Energy’ Devices Continue to Ignite
MEDELLÍN, Colombia — Colombia is on high alert following a recent lithium-ion battery explosion that has reignited global concerns over the safety of these widely used power storage devices. The incident, which left significant property damage and panic among residents, underscores what experts are calling an “uncontrolled fire crisis” linked to faulty and poorly regulated lithium-ion inverter batteries.
Authorities confirmed that the blast originated from a home energy storage system that used lithium-ion cells, the same technology found in electric vehicles, power banks, and solar backup batteries. The battery pack reportedly overheated before bursting into flames, releasing toxic smoke throughout the building and prompting emergency crews to evacuate the area.
“We are seeing more of these fires every year,” said a spokesperson from the National Association for Fire Protection (ANRACI). “Lithium batteries are being used everywhere, in homes, businesses, and public spaces, but the public is not being told how dangerous they really are.”
According to ANRACI, more than 15,000 lithium battery-related fires have been reported worldwide in the past few years, a number that continues to rise as demand for energy storage grows. Colombia, like many developing nations, is rapidly adopting lithium battery technology to support its renewable energy goals. However, experts warn that safety regulations have not kept pace with the rapid adoption.
“The problem is global,” said energy analyst Diego Restrepo. “From California to Seoul, these batteries are exploding, and now we’re seeing the same pattern in Latin America. It’s not isolated, it’s systemic.”
When lithium-ion batteries overheat, they can undergo a process known as thermal runaway, in which internal temperatures rise uncontrollably. This leads to explosions, intense flames, and the release of toxic gases such as hydrogen fluoride. Once ignited, these fires are almost impossible to extinguish with water or standard fire equipment.
Promoted as a cornerstone of the clean energy revolution, lithium-ion batteries are now being revealed as one of its most volatile components. Their widespread use in inverter systems, solar storage, and electric mobility means millions of homes and facilities across the world could be at risk.
“Consumers believe they are investing in sustainable technology,” Restrepo added, “but they’re unknowingly installing fire hazards in their homes. The marketing hides the danger.”
The Colombian explosion comes ahead of the National Fire Safety Debate scheduled to take place in Medellín, where fire experts, policymakers, and energy regulators will address the growing number of battery-related fires across the country.
Fire safety authorities are urging the Colombian government to establish strict national standards for the importation, installation, and disposal of lithium-ion batteries. Many of the devices currently in use are imported from unregulated manufacturers and lack proper quality certification.
ANRACI has also called for public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the potential risks, including how to store and monitor inverter systems safely.
“People must understand that these are not ordinary batteries,” the spokesperson said. “One faulty cell can trigger a disaster.”
A Warning Ignored
Colombia’s recent lithium battery blast is just the latest in a series of global warnings. What was once hailed as the future of sustainable energy is now proving to be a volatile and underregulated threat.
Until governments enforce stronger safety standards and manufacturers prioritise reliability over profit, lithium-ion batteries will continue to turn ‘green energy’ into a ticking time bomb.
Read the Latest Battery News Shaping the Global Power Market
