In the last week respective dangerous fires related to photovoltaic installations occurred in Poland. Among the most dangerous incidents can be mentioned fires in towns specified as Sumówko (Kujawsko-pomorskie province), Radoszowy (Silesian province) and the Biała settlement in Rzeszów. Although fortunately there have been no casualties, the media is reporting an expanding number of specified events, causing concern among PV strategy owners. Do we truly have anything to fear? The State Fire Department (PSP) and experts supply explanations.
Photovoltaic fires – why these threats?
The popularity of renewable energy sources, including photovoltaics, is increasing in Poland. Unfortunately, the number of installations besides increases the number of incidents. In the very first half of September there were respective dangerous fires, the most widely described being those in Sumówek and Radoszów. Despite the deficiency of casualties, the sight of burning buildings with solar panels creates anxiety.
The origin of most fires are installation errors and low quality components. As PSP explains, short circuit assemblies in panels can be caused by mediocre wires, mediocre quality plugs, and deficiency of adequate safety features specified as fuses or switches. Experts stress that correctly installed photovoltaics are not a real threat.
Photovoltaic and fire department data
According to PSP data, about 150 1000 fires happen in Poland all year, of which 20% concerns single-family homes. In the case of these fires, up to 18% is caused by faulty electrical installations. Although there is no precise data on the percent of fires caused by photovoltaics, it is estimated that these are only isolated cases. As the territory fire department in Oława says, this is not a mass phenomenon, and the problem frequently lies in the incorrect installation.
Photovoltaic is not a bomb, but...
Photovoltaics are not in themselves a threat, but the decision to install them should not be taken at cost. As experts note, saving on components and selecting low quality installation companies is the biggest threat. Obsolete installations, inadequate materials and deficiency of regular inspections are the main reasons for fires.
Long-term durability of panels and safety
The investigation conducted by Piotr Olczak from the Institute of Management of Mineral Resources and Energy of the Polish Academy of Sciences shows that the durability of photovoltaic panels is greater than previously assumed. Installations were tested in Germany, where photovoltaics have been operating for more than 15 years, with a drop in power ranging from 0.12% to 0.2% per year. This proves that well designed and maintained PV systems can be safe and efficient for many years.
How to guarantee the safety of photovoltaic installations?
It is crucial that the PV installation is entrusted to experienced companies that usage advanced quality components and comply with method standards. It is besides worth to review the installation position regularly and make certain that all the safety features are in place and work properly. In this way, you can minimize the hazard of fire and enjoy a safe and ecological origin of energy.
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Mass fires of photovoltaic panels
