Items commonly linked to lithium-ion battery fires in the UK have been identified in a new analysis of insurer QBE’s European operations.
Based on Freedom of Information responses from 42 of the UK’s 49 fire services, the data shows a sharp increase in incidents involving lithium-ion batteries from 2022, with fire crews now attending around 4.8 fires per day in 2025, an increase of 147% from 2022.
The conclusions are as follows Fire safety and UK Building Regulations Continue to adapt to the increased use of electrical systems in homes, particularly around charging infrastructure and energy use.
We reveal the items most associated with lithium-ion battery fires so you can be aware of their potential dangers.
E-bikes are often associated with events
E-bikes are one of the most commonly reported items linked to lithium-ion battery fires, accounting for nearly 520 incidents in 2025 alone – three times the number reported in 2022.
QBE’s analysis suggests that many of these incidents occur during charging or when the battery pack has been damaged or tampered with.
Fire services have also previously noted that converted or poorly fitted e-bikes appear more often in incident reports than certified models.
EV chargers and electric vehicles
Electric vehicles and home charging systems are also increasingly appearing in fire service data.
QBE reports a 133% increase in EV-related fire incidents between 2022 and 2025, with rapid growth in electric vehicle ownership across the UK.
EV-related incidents have increased New UK electrical standards Introduces more stringent installation requirements, including dedicated circuits for home charge points and improved electrical protection.
Phones, laptops and everyday rechargeable devices
A wide range of everyday household electronics also regularly feature in fire service reports, including mobile phones, laptops, power tools and portable chargers.
QBE’s analysis suggests that these small devices are often involved during charging or when batteries are damaged, overused or left connected for extended periods.
Their widespread use means that multiple devices are charging at the same time in households, increasing exposure to risk.
Things that help prevent lithium-ion battery fires
Makoto Nobu
Small battery safe bag
High-capacity fireproof storage bag designed for safe charging, transport and storage of lithium batteries, provides strong heat and explosion resistance for added home safety.
FLASHLD
Large fireproof bag
Durable fire-resistant storage box for lithium batteries and valuables, combining waterproof protection with reinforced security design for charging and transport security.
temfile
Heavy duty battery bag
A compact fireproof pouch designed to reduce risk during lithium battery charging and storage, helps contain heat and protect surrounding surfaces in the event of a failure.
Solar PV Systems and Battery Storage
Solar PV The systems also appear in fire service data, although at a much lower frequency than other household items linked to lithium-ion battery fires. An analysis cited by QBE shows that solar-related fires will increase from 107 incidents in 2022 to 171 in 2024.
Along with solar panels, home battery storage systems (Solar batteries and other domestic energy storage units) are increasingly relevant as more households install renewable energy systems.
This is different from the units Solar panels Used to store electricity itself and for later use, usually in a garage, utility room or loft space. While the number of incidents remains relatively low, they are becoming a growing category in fire service reports as home energy systems become more common.
Most incidents in this area are not associated with solar panels, but with electrical components such as inverters, wiring or installation problems.
The analysis highlights a clear pattern in UK fire service data, with lithium-ion battery fires typically linked to a small group of modern household items – notably e-bikes, EV systems, everyday electronics and solar installations.
As these technologies become more pervasive in homes, they are appearing more frequently in fire incident reports, reflecting the growing role of rechargeable and electrified systems in everyday domestic life.
Adrian Simmonds, Risk Manager for QBE European Operations, said: “Awareness of safe charging, storage and disposal is essential to protect people and property.”
