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UK safety regulator warns home batteries present a risk of fire as replacement programme launches

From the Newshound archive · first published 29 September 2026.

Defective cells in certain Powerwall 2 units can crack their casing, trigger an internal short circuit and cause thermal runaway, the UK safety regulator has warned.
Defective cells in certain Powerwall 2 units can crack their casing, trigger an internal short circuit and cause thermal runaway, the UK safety regulator has warned.

The UK's Office for Product Safety and Standards has issued a fire risk warning over Tesla's Powerwall 2 home battery system, after certain units were found to contain defective cells capable of overheating and catching fire. Cells supplied by a third-party manufacturer may have excessive lithium plating, which can crack the cell casing, trigger an internal short circuit and cause thermal runaway. Tesla has already remotely discharged most affected units and is replacing them free of charge.

The fault breaches the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016, meaning the product does not legally meet UK safety standards.

Owners should keep their system connected to the internet and consult the Tesla app to find out whether their unit is among those affected.

Customers whose original installer is unavailable are advised to contact Tesla's support team directly to arrange a free replacement.

MoreThe IndependentWarning issued over Tesla battery system ‘fire risk’ – is yours affected?GB NewsTesla issues safety warning amid fears battery system 'presents a risk of fire'The MirrorTesla issues urgent safety warning over battery system which has 'risk of fire'The Irish TimesSafety warning issued over Tesla battery system ‘which presents a risk of fire’ - The Irish Times
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