The Australian consumer watchdog, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), has issued a warning regarding 5,000 LG batteries in homes across the country. The batteries have been found to be potentially flawed, posing a risk of overheating and fire.
Earlier, the ACCC had advised consumers to check and switch off their solar-energy storage systems if they were using LG batteries that were subject to voluntary recalls. The watchdog now proposes a formal recall notice and urges consumers to have these batteries replaced immediately for safety reasons.
In Australia, thirteen incidents of property damage have been reported, including the complete destruction of a house in Victoria state, all linked to these faulty LG batteries.
ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that the proposed recall notice is a crucial step towards a compulsory recall. Lowe also suggested that the ACCC and LG Energy Solution, the supplier of batteries used in the affected energy storage systems, should hold a follow-up conference to address the issue.
Responding to the situation, LG Energy Solution expressed its commitment to working closely with the ACCC through a dedicated conference in the next stage of the recall process. The South Korean company stated that it is determined to engage sincerely with the ACCC and provide a comprehensive explanation.
According to the ACCC, LG and SolaX, another brand affected by the recalls, have been assisting customers by offering battery replacements, refunds, or software updates free of charge under the current voluntary recalls.
It is crucial for affected consumers to take this safety issue seriously and replace their LG batteries promptly. The ACCC is actively working with LG Energy Solution to ensure the process moves forward effectively and efficiently.