Can a PV system cause a fire?

The fire service can be subject to electric shock when fighting a fire due to the presence of high voltage and current. During the course of fire on a building with a PV system, DC cable insulation can melt and cause a DC arc flash. The same may occur if a PV system is disconnected incorrectly.

Are photovoltaic systems a fire hazard?

Adding photovoltaic systems to roofs (or walls) is a relatively new approach and some of these systems have been involved in fires. The extensive media coverage of these fires has increased the awareness and the industry is actively working on solutions to prevent and mitigate fire hazards.

Are PV modules fire rated?

However, PV modules are components of PV systems and, although PV modules can receive a fire rating in accordance with UL 1703, there is presently no American National Standards Institute (ANSI) classification test or fire rating for a PV system.

How to minimise fire risk from solar PV systems?

The solar industry welcomes clarity on how to minimise fire risk from solar PV systems, which in absolute terms is extremely low. “The core way to mitigate any risk is to ensure the highest possible quality in the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of solar systems.

What if a PV system is not arc resistant?

5.5.15 Additional fire protection measures will be needed if the roofing material is not PV arc resistant. 5.5.16 Rodents, squirrels, and nesting birds (and, for ground mount systems, farm and wild animals) can all cause harm and alter the fire safety properties of a PV system.

Should a PV system have a fire rating?

In the absence of a fire rating for PV systems, it may seem appropriate to use the fire rating of the PV modules in order to ensure the desired result of retaining the roof assembly’s original fire classification. This is what some Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) have done.