Rise in Fires For Solar Industry

A recent report from a fire suppression technology provider signals a clear warning: the solar industry is experiencing a rise in fires, and action is urgently needed. Entitled “Hidden Danger – Why Solar Farm Fire Risk Could Be Greater Than You Think,” the report brings attention to how the sector may be underestimating the threat of fire and the rapid-fire growth of incidents even as installations surge. This blog explores the key findings, the root causes, and practical steps that owners, operators, and safety professionals can take to reduce risk and protect assets.

The context: rising fires amid growing installations

The solar industry has seen impressive growth in cumulative installed PV capacity, with 2021 marking a significant year of expansion—yet the number of fires rose even more quickly than installation figures. This disconnect between widespread deployment and safety outcomes suggests that simply building more capacity is not enough; robust fire safety culture and preventive measures must accompany growth.

The report underscores a crucial message: rising fires for solar industry are not just a byproduct of scale, but an indicator that risk management needs to evolve. As projects become larger and more complex—ranging from rooftop arrays to expansive solar farms—the potential consequences of a fire increase, underscoring the need for disciplined safety practices, better data collection, and proactive mitigation.

The role of data and transparency

A related analysis from the UK’s National Solar Centre, titled “Fire and Solar PV Systems – Investigations and Evidence,” investigates 80 potential PV-related fire incidents. The researchers strongly suspected underreporting, particularly from solar farms and incidents tied to commercial thermal events. This lack of transparency can hinder continuous improvement, because incomplete data makes it harder to identify systemic issues, measure the effectiveness of interventions, and share lessons across the industry.

The report’s emphasis on collecting and analyzing research and data is about turning raw incidents into actionable insights. When owners and operators have access to reliable data about fire causes, frequency, and outcomes, they can target the most impactful risk factors and track progress over time. Transparency also builds trust with insurers, regulators, and local communities, reinforcing a proactive safety posture rather than reactive crisis management.

Root causes: where fires originate

The report identifies three root causes for PV fires:

• Poor installation practice
• Faulty product
• Error in the design system

Each category points to different preventive levers:

• Poor installation practice highlights the need for trained technicians, standardized procedures, and quality control during site work.
• Faulty product signals the importance of supplier qualification, component testing, and robust quality assurance across the supply chain.
• Error in the design system suggests that electrical design reviews, compliance with standards, and proper system engineering are essential to reduce risk.

Among components, DC isolators present the greatest fire risk, accounting for around one in three solar fire incidents. However, inverters and DC connectors also pose substantial risks. This distribution of risk informs where safety investments and monitoring should be concentrated.

Practical steps to minimise risk

While eradicating fires entirely is a tall order, the report outlines a suite of steps that can meaningfully reduce risk:

• Regular testing by fire safety professionals: Routine audits, thermal imaging surveys, and system tests help identify early signs of overheating, loose connections, or failing components before they lead to a fire.
• Adding additional safety components: Fire suppression technology, early warning systems, and robust disconnect strategies can limit fire spread and enable rapid response.
• Quick replacement of defective parts: A strong procurement and maintenance regime ensures defective components are removed promptly, reducing the window of vulnerability.
• Enhanced installation practices: Emphasizing training, commissioning checks, and adherence to best-practice installation standards reduces the incidence of installation-related faults.
• Design-for-safety reviews: Incorporating safety reviews in the project lifecycle—from design to commissioning—helps catch potential design flaws before operations begin.
• Transparent incident reporting: Establishing clear reporting channels and data-sharing practices among operators, manufacturers, and safety bodies supports industry-wide learning.

These measures are not only about compliance; they are about building a culture of proactive risk management. When a solar farm operator prioritizes fire safety as a core operational requirement, the likelihood of severe incidents can be reduced, and recovery times can be shortened if incidents do occur.

The role of fire suppression technology and professional guidance

Fire suppression systems and expert guidance play a pivotal role in mitigating risk. As the report suggests, technology that detects and suppresses fires quickly can prevent small incidents from becoming catastrophic. It is also important to engage professionally certified fire alarm specialists and accredited firms for guidance on compliance and best practices. For example, customers seeking credible guidance and support can connect with:

• Fire alarm specialists who understand the nuanced risk profile of solar installations
• Providers offering fire suppression integration tailored to PV systems
• Local and national safety standards bodies to ensure alignment with regulatory requirements

Engaging qualified professionals can help ensure that the most effective suppression strategies are in place and that response protocols are well rehearsed.

The rising fires for solar industry incidents, as highlighted by the “Hidden Danger” report, serve as a wake-up call for the sector. While solar energy remains a critical component of a sustainable energy future, its safety profile must evolve in step with deployment. By improving data collection and transparency, addressing root causes through better installation practices and robust design, and investing in fire suppression technology and professional guidance, the industry can reduce risk while continuing to expand. The collaboration among operators, manufacturers, inspectors, and safety experts will be essential for building a safer, more resilient solar infrastructure.

If you operate a solar farm, rooftop installation, or commercial PV system, consider initiating a comprehensive safety audit, updating maintenance routines, and exploring advanced suppression options. The objective is clear: shift from a reactive posture to a proactive, data-driven approach that protects people, property, and bottom lines while keeping pace with the growing demand for clean energy. In the end, reducing the rise in fires for solar industry incidents is a shared responsibility and a measurable path toward safer, more reliable solar power.

Clitheroe Smoke Detectors Specialist:- 01200 439333

Manchester Smoke Detectors Specialist:- 0161 8260480

Preston Smoke Detectors Specialist:- 01772 970411

Blackpool Smoke Detectors Specialist:- 01253 804199

Blackburn Smoke Detectors Specialist:- 01254 367611