Yemenis are increasingly resorting to dangerous energy alternatives as petrol prices soar, with incidents of battery explosions and vehicle fires reported. On July 12, 2026, in Taiz, an explosion linked to a lithium battery in a solar power system severely injured residents, underscoring the risks associated with these energy sources.
Rising Risks of Battery Explosions
In Taiz, where the public electricity grid is virtually non-existent, residents are forced to choose between costly generators and solar energy systems. Dr. Mohammed Saeed, head of the emergency department at Al-Thawra Hospital, noted that the burns unit treated 2,729 cases in the first half of 2026, with 13 fatalities attributed to battery explosions.
“We don’t know the exact technical reasons behind these solar energy fires,” Dr. Saeed stated, highlighting the frequency of such incidents in the region. The reliance on lithium batteries, coupled with improper installation practices, has led to increased risks of fires.
Cost-Saving Measures Lead to Dangerous Modifications
As petrol prices reach 1,500 Yemeni Riyals (approximately $0.95) per liter, many drivers, including bus operators, have modified their vehicles to run on cooking gas, which costs only 500 Riyals ($0.30) per liter. Ammar Saleh, a 40-year-old victim of a cooking gas fire, explained how the modifications, while financially beneficial, have turned their vehicles into potential hazards.
- Petrol price: 1,500 Yemeni Riyals ($0.95) per liter
- Cooking gas price: 500 Yemeni Riyals ($0.30) per liter
- Burn cases at Al-Thawra Hospital: 2,729 in six months
- Fatalities from battery explosions: 13
Saleh’s brother, Mohammed, shared that the risks were underestimated, stating, “I didn’t think it was that dangerous; I feel it is more a matter of fate and destiny.” The fire engulfed Saleh's vehicle when a lighter was ignited during refueling.
Authorities Struggle with Safety Regulations
In response to the surge in vehicle fires, Yemeni authorities have initiated public workshops to educate residents on the dangers of unregulated conversions. Malik Al-Sabri, manager of planning and information for Taiz police, reported that battery-related incidents constitute 30-40% of all fires in the governorate.
Despite these efforts, an underground market persists, with unauthorized mechanics modifying vehicles without adherence to safety standards. Al-Sabri emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations, stating, “Due to the spike in vehicular fires, the Civil Defence division of the Taiz police has banned unauthorized conversions.”
Electrical engineer Dawood Abdullah pointed out that while solar energy is a viable alternative, improper installations lead to significant hazards. He emphasized the importance of professional installation, as many families attempt to set up solar systems without expert help, leading to dangerous mistakes.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Al Jazeera. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
