Why are solar panel fires on the rise in the UK and why do you need to opt for an AC (alternating current) system or a DC (direct current) system? Here we explain.
Data from the MCS reveals that among over 1.5 million solar panel installations in the UK, only a fraction are involved in fires each year.
This indicates that fires related to solar panels are relatively rare. Notably, older installations, particularly those from the era of the UK Government's Feed-in Tariff scheme introduced in 2010, are more frequently associated with these incidents.
Thanks to relatively affordable and stable energy prices the solar market has been dormant for almost 7 years. However, since the cost of household energy has almost doubled, consumer demand for solar is up almost 800%.
The question arises: why are these older systems more prone to fires and does the recent market boom spell danger for consumers? Especially given that almost 90% of the systems on sale today are high-voltage DC.
What steps can you take to minimise risks, especially if you're considering new solar panel installations?
Understanding the underlying causes and implementing safety measures can significantly mitigate potential hazards.
PS We offer MCS-certified solar panel installation nationwide. Simply answer these questions, get your fixed price and arrange your free design.
Solar Panel Fires Key Points:
Solar panel fires appear to be more common in older DC solar panel installations.
Almost 90% of the products on sale in the UK today are still high-voltage DC systems.
Almost all of the DC fires can be traced to failed or poorly installed components.
DC fires start as a result of arcing across the positive and negative power lines.
To reduce risk insurance company Zurich advises opting for an MCS accredited Solar Panel Installer (like ourselves).
Systems installed by non-accredited installers that use DC systems may be at heightened risk of fires.
AC-optimised solar panel arrays are also safer since each panel is earthed and can be protected by an RCD board (fuse box) - our systems are designed with this in mind.
To reduce risk, it's important to have your system routinely maintained.
MCS are reviewing the current installation practices and procedures to minimise fire risks for domestic installations.
How Many Solar Panel Fires Occur in the UK?
Data acquired by the Independent via the Freedom of Information Act showed that in 2019, 63 fires were associated with solar panels and 66 up until July this year.
These figures indicate a six-times increase compared to a decade ago, sparking concerns over DC solar system safety, particularly in those installed more than a decade ago.
However, it's important to note that it seems the majority of these fires arise in older-generation solar panel installations that were installed when the government incentivised installation with the now defunct Feed In Tariff.
What was the Feed-in Tariff?
The "Feed-in Tariff" (FiT) was a UK government scheme designed to encourage the adoption of renewable and low-carbon electricity generation technologies, including domestic solar panels.
Introduced in April 2010, it offered financial incentives to households, businesses, and organizations to generate their electricity using technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, and hydroelectric systems.
Under the FiT, participants were paid for the electricity they generated and used, as well as for any surplus electricity they exported back to the grid.
The scheme was aimed at boosting green energy production, reducing carbon emissions, and helping the UK meet its climate change targets. However, the FiT scheme closed to new applicants on March 31, 2019.
During this period, many industry commentators have speculated that there was a rush and huge demand for solar installs and many of these may not have been re-tested since.
Related solar guides:
Why Are Solar Panel Fires On The Rise?
There is a suspicion that many older solar installs could have been potentially installed incorrectly by unaccredited installers, and many may not have been tested since.
Of course, this is largely speculative, yet the fact that there is still no legal requirement to use an MCS-accredited installer means that many installs could have been installed to a poor standard and by inexperienced individuals.
Additionally, compared to other countries like the USA, high voltage DC systems were commonplace, which seems to correlate with a higher risk of fires.
The high voltage nature of DC systems means that if a fault occurs, the risk of fire is increased.
This is in contrast to micro-inverter (AC)-optimised designs that make the solar system safer - each panel is earthed and can be protected by an RCD board (fuse box), so it is much safer than traditional DC systems.
Today more people and companies are aware of the risks of DC systems, including ourselves, hence why we only offer a solar system with an AC design.
What Can You Do To Reduce Fire Risk?
If you already have a solar panel array installed and it's been on your roof for many years, then it is always advised to have it safety tested by a qualified electrician.
MCS recommends that standard DC solar systems be inspected annually to check the integrity of the installation. The cost of this maintenance is largely ignored by solar sales agents or unwitting consumers.
The electrician will be able to check for any faults that are present and replace any circuits, switches or other components they deem to be unsafe.
If you don't believe your system was installed by an MCS-accredited installer and suspect it may be a DC-based system, then it is even more important to get it checked and tested more regularly.
What if you are considering installing solar panels?
Most solar panel fires are linked to older, high-voltage DC systems. While such incidents are less common with newer systems, they're not impossible.
To minimise risks when installing solar panels, consider the following precautions:
Choose a Qualified Installer: Ensure installation by an MCS-accredited professional.
Select Low-Voltage Systems: Consider a low-voltage AC system, similar to those offered by Heatable.
Regular Maintenance Checks: Have your system periodically inspected and tested by a certified electrician. This will need to be done annually for DC systems and every 10 years for AC systems.
Avoid DIY: Steer clear of unaccredited, do-it-yourself installations.
Promptly Address Faults: If you notice any issues like loose wires or sparks, cease using the system and seek professional help immediately.
Explore a Solar Case Study: Check out an insightful Q&A session featured in one of our detailed case studies on domestic solar panels. Hear directly from a Heatable customer in the UK and gain valuable perspectives on their experience here.
The image above shows a 23-panel solar installation, carried out by the MCS-certified solar team at Heatable, featuring the REA Fusion2 solar panels.
Next Steps For Your Solar Journey:
When planning to install solar panels for your home, there are several important factors to consider. Make sure to refer to the following guides to help you make informed decisions:
To dive deeper into these topics, head over to our advice section, check out our YouTube channel for informative videos, or read a customer case study to see how others have benefited from their solar installation.
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