Do photovoltaic panels need maintenance or fire protection

How to minimise fire risk from solar PV systems?

The solar industry welcomes clarity on how to minimise fire risk from solar PV systems, which in absolute terms is extremely low. “The core way to mitigate any risk is to ensure the highest possible quality in the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of solar systems.

What is a solar PV system maintenance guide?

Below are a few key points to consider. What is it? Essentially, it’s a guide that references how all solar PV systems should be designed, installed, commissioned, maintained and de-commissioned to ensure that the correct processes are followed so that your solar PV system safely and efficiently generates electricity.

Are photovoltaic power systems causing fires?

Over the past few years, there have been a number of media reports linking photovoltaic power systems (PV) with fire. With the prevalence of PV systems now in the UK, an increase in incident reports is to be expected.

Can a PV system cause a fire?

In the UK the incidence of fires involving PV systems is very low. However, the addition of a PV system to a building, which is not correctly designed, installed, or maintained could, like any electrical service, add to the overall risk of fire.

Can a solar panel fire damage a building?

Planning and design issues can also add to the risk of solar panel fires, causing damage to not just the PV installation, but the building on which they are mounted. An example of this would be a PV system being installed on a combustible/partially combustible roof, with no fire-resistant covering.

What happens if a solar PV system is damaged by a fire?

Providing your original installer complied with the correct quality standards and are still trading you shouldn’t be affected. If they or you are however not complying with the correct design, installation and maintenance guidelines, insurance cover may be void in the event of a claim on fire damage caused by your solar PV system.