Accident when installing photovoltaic bracket on roof

Can a roof-mounted photovoltaic system cause a fire?

Fires on roof-mounted photovoltaic (PV) systems are rare. When they do happen, however, a combination of electrical hazards, combustible components and limited access can result in significant losses. As the technology becomes more common, this paper discusses how building owners and occupiers should approach and minimise the risks of PV systems.

Can a PV system be installed on a combustible roof?

Example: The installation of a PV system on a combustible roof can create a 'combustible void’'between the system and the roof, increasing the risk of fire spread as well as shielding the roof from fire water (if applied). The risk of both ignition and fire spread is increased.

Are rooftop PV installations a fire hazard?

Dutch research institute TNO has released a series of guidelines to reduce fire hazards in rooftop PV installations. The study follows a series of fire accidents that occurred between 2018 and 2020 in the Netherlands, for which the main causes were identified. Connectors and junction boxes were pointed out as a frequent source of fire accidents.

Can a solar installation cause roof damage?

If you hear of roof damage occurring because of a solar installation, it's likely because the roof was initially in poor condition. The first step is to ensure you're working with a reputable installation company. You can connect with high-quality solar installers by registering your property on the EnergySage Solar Marketplace.

Are rooftop solar panels a fire risk?

Although fires from rooftop PV systems are incredibly rare, some building owners may have concerns, especially after hearing about a high-profile case in 2018 when seven of Walmart’s rooftop solar systems caught fire. Because solar panels have live wires, there is always going to be some level of fire risk — just like with any electrical device.

Are roof-mounted PV systems a fire risk control system?

Roof mounted PV systems frequently remain outside the scope of traditional risk control systems such as building sprinklers and fire detection. There is little comparable data on fire and roof-mounted PV systems. The US National Fire Data Center does not track PV-fires, filing them under 'other' causes.