Are Bollards Required for Solar Battery & EV Chargers in Australia?

In the era of renewable energy and electric vehicles, the infrastructure around batteries and charging stations is just as important as the equipment itself. Whether you’re installing a residential battery bank

 or a commercial EV charger, one often overlooked element is physical protection. That’s where a dedicated protection bollard comes into play.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about bollards for solar batteries and EV chargers, including compliance, safety, and practical tips for residential and commercial installations, and how the right bollard can protect your investment.

Why Physical Protection Matters

Solar batteries and EV chargers are high-value equipment often installed in areas where vehicles move regularly, such as garages, driveways, and commercial car parks. Even minor impacts can result in:

• • Damage to expensive equipment
  • Electrical hazards or system failure
  • Lithium-ion battery fire risk
  • Insurance or liability complications

Physical barriers like bollards act as the first line of defense, preventing vehicles from accidentally hitting your battery or charger. One ideal solution is the 76mm Surface Mount Bollard, designed specifically to safeguard EV chargers and solar batteries.

Australian Standards and Compliance Requirements

The key standard for solar battery installations in Australia is AS/NZS 5139: Battery Energy Storage System Installation requirements. While this standard does not explicitly require bollards, it does require protection from mechanical damage, which can include:

• • Fixed or moveable barriers such as bollards
  • Adequate spacing from vehicle traffic
  • Loading zones or delivery areas: trucks and service vehicles pose a risk
  • Extra protection in high-risk areas like driveways, carparks, and shared spaces

Where Bollards Are Most Needed

Some locations carry a higher risk of vehicle impacts, making protective bollards especially important:

• • Residential driveways or garages: particularly multi-car households
  • Strata or apartment complexes: shared parking increases the chance of accidental contact
  • Commercial or public EV charging stations: higher traffic volume and liability

Even in low traffic areas, installing a bollard early can prevent expensive damage and demonstrate proactive safety planning.

FAQs: Common Questions About EV Charger & Solar Battery Protection

Do I legally need a bollard for my solar battery or EV charger?

Not always, but you must protect equipment from mechanical damage. Bollards are the simplest way to comply with safety standards.

How far should a bollard be placed from my equipment?

Typically 500mm – 800mm, depending on vehicle size and location.

Can wheel stops also be used for protection?

Bollards should be the first measure for protecting solar batteries and EV chargers because they provide strong, reliable impact resistance against vehicles. Wheel stops can be used as a complementary measure to add an extra layer of safety. They help guide vehicles and prevent minor collisions, but they cannot replace bollards when it comes to preventing significant impacts. Using both together offers the best protection for residential and commercial installations.

What types of bollards are best for residential installations?

For residential settings, the best choice is a surface‑mounted bollard that provides reliable impact protection without the complexity of in‑ground installation. The Safety Xpress Solar Battery / EV Charger Protection Bollard - Surface Mount 76mm is ideal for this purpose. It’s designed for both residential and light commercial use, offering a durable steel construction that helps prevent accidental vehicle contact with your solar battery or EV charger.

How can I buy a Solar Battery / EV Charger Protection Bollard?

You can purchase a Solar Battery / EV Charger Protection Bollard directly through our website, or contact our team on 1300 049 246 or sales@safetyxpress.com.au for quotes and expert advice. 

Protecting solar batteries and EV chargers from vehicle impact is essential. Installing physical protection early helps prevent damage, improve safety, and support compliance with Australian standards.

The Safety Xpress Solar Battery / EV Charger Protection Bollard is a practical solution for residential and light commercial installations. It offers reliable impact protection, easy installation, and is available in yellow, white, or timber look finishes.