While solar panels are generally safe and reliable, the electrical systems that support them can pose major fire risks if not properly designed, installed, or maintained. The majority of solar panel-related fires are linked to faults in electrical connections, damaged wiring, or malfunctioning components such as inverters and DC isolators. These faults can lead to overheating, arcing, and ultimately ignition. The risk increases when systems are installed by unqualified personnel or when regular inspections are neglected.
FirePro UK are authorised partners to supply linear heat detection cable which will rapidly detect and pinpoint early warning of temperature changes, excess heat for solar panel arrays. FirePro fire suppression delivers rapid fire suppression when control equipment malfunction occurs. Our FirePro case study clearly evidences how in cabinet linear heat detection and FirePro fire suppression avoided estimated £250,000 of potential losses click here.
Insurance providers and regulators are increasingly emphasising the importance of documentation and certification for solar installations by suitably competent persons. The BRE offer a competency scheme for condensed aerosol fire suppression systems, which istermed LPS1204 3.2. This scheme is recognised by insurers for which further guidance issued by The Fire Protection Association can be found here.
For the latest generalguidance on the use of solar panels, issued by CFPA Europe - click here