Even though fires involving solar PV systems are marginal, as with any other electrical equipment, it is possible for rooftop PV equipment to catch fire. It is also crucial to note that rooftop PV systems can alter the fire dynamics of buildings.
The latest statistics about fires involving PV systems in Europe date back to 2018. Significantly more data is therefore needed to better understand the correlation between fires and rooftop solar. This essential data should be compiled by firefighters and insurance companies.
According to current research, the causes that lie behind fires related to PV systems vary and are linked to the quality of the installation service or faulty equipment. In the rare instances where the PV system caused a fire, it was due to a DC arc fault or localised overheating.
As part of SolarPower Europe Buildings and Prosumers workstream's contribution to reducing risks from a fire on buildings with solar, this factsheet provides an overview of the main causes that lie behind fires of solar PV systems, the existing measures to ensure safe PV installations and the applicable standards at the EU level.
SolarPower Europe Rooftop PV Fire Safety Factsheet
Read SolarPower Europe factsheet providing an overview on rooftop PV fire safety, existing safety measures and applicable standards
Read the paper
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