At Sona Solar Zimbabwe, our mission is to empower homes and businesses with safe, reliable, and sustainable energy.
As leading solar systems installers in Zimbabwe, we are deeply concerned by the recent and alarming rise in house fires linked to improperly installed solar systems, particularly those involving faulty or substandard lithium batteries. Recent reports from authorities, especially in Bulawayo, highlight a devastating trend where the intended solution for power outages has tragically become a deadly hazard.
The safety and longevity of your solar investment—and more importantly, the safety of your family—hinge on two critical factors: the quality of your components and the expertise of your installers. As your trusted partner in energy, we believe it is our responsibility to raise awareness and provide clear guidance on how to avoid these preventable tragedies.
The safety and longevity of your solar investment—and more importantly, the safety of your family—hinge on two critical factors: the quality of your components and the expertise of your installers. As your trusted partner in energy, we believe it is our responsibility to raise awareness and provide clear guidance on how to avoid these preventable tragedies.
The Alarming Statistics: A National Wake-Up Call
The statistics emerging from Bulawayo are a stark and sobering warning. The city's Fire Brigade has reported 42 residential fires linked to lithium batteries since last year, with 10 incidents in 2025 alone, including one tragic fatality. These are not isolated incidents; they are a clear pattern of failure that needs to be addressed.Incidents like the recent fire in Cowdray Park on August 4, which completely destroyed a bedroom, and the Pumula incident in May where a domestic worker suffered severe burns, are heartbreaking. The loss of a $350,000 property in Burnside to a lithium battery fire underscores the immense financial and personal devastation these fires can cause.
At Sona Solar Zimbabwe, we are not just selling solar products; we are delivering energy security and peace of mind. We urge all Zimbabweans to prioritize safety above all else. Do not let a shortcut on installation costs lead to a lifetime of regret.
Why Do Solar Systems Catch Fire? The Dangers of Cutting Corners
According to fire officials, these incidents are not "accidents" in the true sense of the word; they are the predictable results of dangerous shortcuts. The primary causes identified are:- Unqualified Installers: Individuals without the proper electrical knowledge and certification are installing complex power systems. They often use substandard materials, like incorrect wiring, and fail to implement essential safety protocols.
- Overcharging and Lack of Monitoring: Improperly configured systems without correct monitoring can lead to batteries being overcharged, causing them to overheat and ignite. This is a common issue with cheap, uncertified battery units that lack robust safety mechanisms.
- Substandard or Faulty Batteries: The market is unfortunately flooded with low-quality lithium batteries that do not have the necessary built-in safety features, such as a reliable Battery Management System (BMS), to protect against overcharging, deep discharge, and short circuits.
The Sona Solar Zimbabwe Commitment to Safety and Quality
These tragedies are completely preventable. At Sona Solar Zimbabwe, our entire "Fix & Supply" model is built on a foundation of safety and quality to eliminate these risks for our clients.- We Only Use Certified Products: We source our lithium batteries and inverters exclusively from reputable, certified manufacturers like Must, SVolt, EVolt, and Dyness. These products come with advanced, built-in BMS protection and are backed by strong warranties.
- Installation by Certified Professionals: Our installation teams are comprised of qualified electrical wiremen and Master electricians. We strictly adhere to SANS 10142 and all national electrical safety standards. This is not just a promise; it is a requirement for every installation we undertake.
- Issuance of a Certificate of Compliance (COC): Upon completion of every installation, we issue a valid Certificate of Compliance (COC). This document is your legal guarantee that your system has been installed safely and correctly, and it is essential for validating your insurance and product warranties.
- Comprehensive Protection Kits: Every system we install includes a full protection kit with the correct DC/AC breakers, surge protectors, and fuses to safeguard your home and your investment against electrical faults.
Protecting Your Home: Critical Safety Measures You Must Take
Chief Fire Officer Mhlangano Moyo's advice to residents aligns perfectly with our professional standards. We urge every Zimbabwean considering a solar investment to follow these critical safety measures:- Only purchase batteries and inverters from certified, reputable suppliers and manufacturers. Ask for proof of certification and warranty.
- ALWAYS hire licensed and qualified electricians for all solar installations. Ask to see their credentials.
- Insist on a system that includes proper battery monitoring and safety mechanisms.
- Request a valid Certificate of Compliance (COC) upon completion of the installation.
- Never overcharge your batteries. A professionally installed system with a quality hybrid inverter will manage this automatically.
Your Safety is Non-Negotiable: Why Professional Installation is Essential to Prevent Deadly House Fires
As solar power adoption grows across Zimbabwe, it is crucial that safety standards keep pace. An improperly installed solar system is not a solution; it is a liability. As Chief Moyo emphasized, "Investing in proper installation today can save your family’s life tomorrow."
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The Critical Danger of Faulty Lithium Batteries and Uncertified Installations |
Ready to invest in a safe, reliable, and professionally installed solar power system?
Contact Sona Solar Zimbabwe today. Our expert team is ready to design and install a solution that meets the highest safety standards, protecting your home and family.

Sona Solar Zimbabwe
Sona Solar Zimbabwe
7 Frank Johnson Avenue,
Avenues, Eastlea
Harare, Zimbabwe.
Call Us Today:
Solar Sales:
+263 78 293 3586
Solar Sales:
+263 78 922 2847
Operations:
+263 78 864 2437
Sona Landline:
+263 24 2797750
Email:
sonasolarzw@gmail.com
Website:
www.sonasolar.co.zw

Borehole Experts Zimbabwe
Borehole Experts Zimbabwe
7 Frank Johnson Avenue,
Avenues, Eastlea
Harare, Zimbabwe.
Call Us Today:
Borehole Sales:
+263 77 389 8979
Borehole Sales:
+263 71 500 3777
Borehole Operations:
+263 71 918 7878
Borehole Landline:
+263 24 2797750
Email:
boreholeexpertszw@gmail.com
Website:
www.boreholeexperts.co.zw