September 2024
Reading Time: 3 Minutes
Electric vehicle fires continue to hit the news, with an electric scooter sparking a fire causing 200 residents to be evacuated in an Auckland apartment block. Meanwhile, the demand for EV charging facilities in bodies corporate is increasing. So, are charging stations safe and how can we mitigate the risks?
The source of the fires is faulty lithium-ion batteries. While in general the batteries are considered safe, a small percentage of defective batteries have overheated, caught fire, and in some cases, exploded.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s national fire risk advisor Pete Gallagher says lithium-ion batteries provide a large amount of power in a very small package.
Gallagher warns: "they do come with some risks so it’s important to take care when using them."
When batteries are not used in the right way it can increase the risk of fire: “Batteries not designed for a specific use can be dangerous. Like any product, these batteries can fail. They can overheat, catch fire, or explode." Gallagher also notes it is important people charge lithium-ion batteries with the charger they are designed for.
If you detect any unusual smells, changes in colour, excessive heat, alterations in shape, swelling, leaking, or strange noises, you should stop using the battery immediately.
Bodies corporate should evaluate whether their building’s electrical capacity can support EV charging stations, determine the best locations for these stations, and set guidelines for their use. Well-maintained charging stations are preferable to residents charging vehicles in their own homes.
Adequate fire protection should be ensured, including access to hydrants, hose reels, and extinguishers, with stations positioned away from flammable liquids. Working smoke detectors are also essential.
Read more: EV Charging Risks for Landlords and Bodies Corporate
As electric vehicles become more popular, the need for EV charging facilities in bodies corporate is increasing. But is it a good idea to install EV charging stations on common property?
Committees should consider demand, installation costs, infrastructure, charging locations, charging costs, engaging an energy assessor, future proofing, and safety considerations before pursuing installation.
Read more: Should Bodies Corporate Install EV Charging Facilities?
Crockers will work with any of our bodies corporate that are interested in researching more about EV options. We appreciate that there is an increasing audience for EV chargers and want to ensure that our clients have all the information at hand to make an educated decision. However, a body corporate must consider all aspects relating to insurance, regulations, infrastructure, and capacity before leaping into any installations or contracts.
Call 0800 CROCKERS or Call 0800 2762 5377
