For a number of years now, solar power systems (a/k/a/ photo-voltaic - PV - systems – solar hot water, concentrated solar power, etc.) have grown in popularity and continue to become increasingly accepted energy sources for residential and commercial properties. They operate simplistically and can pose great environmental benefits.
Today, we see new solar innovations all the time. Solar panels have expanded to include solar shingles, sun lights and more. These items all absorb solar energy from the sun, and then convert it into electrical power for use on consumer properties or other locations. The energy is clean and cheap; but it comes with important safety considerations and fire protection concerns.
Industry best practices for installation, operation, maintenance, and repair are improving. Also, the technology changes over the last seven years and the fact that older systems may present more distinct challenges than new systems suggests that these solar energy systems can still create challenges for emergency responders in a variety of ways.
It is a good idea to start preparing by having a local or regional installer of solar systems address your organization on proper installation and operational practices. The installer will be familiar with what has been installed and is being installed across your community and is therefore able to discuss important details of the system types and their specific safety considerations.
It is typically easy to identify a property with a solar electric system as the solar panel arrays are usually visible on the building itself or in an open area. Figure 1 (below) shows a dwelling with a solar panel array installed on the roof of the dwelling. However, you may also find these systems on commercial buildings (Figure 2) where they are more hidden from view. In addition, solar energy systems can include industrial properties and even be in open fields (Figure 3). Individual equipment devices requiring power are also becoming popular at construction sites and on limited access highways (Figures 4, 5, and 6). It’s a good idea to ask an installer about the precautions noted in this article and their applicability to the systems you will encounter in your area.
One of the keys to solar panel safety is to assure that PV sites are identified and evaluated to the extent that disconnect locations are known, roof access is defined, related hazards are identified and contacts for solar energy related emergency personnel have been established. Information on solar panels within your community should be documented and maintained as frequently as possible via mobile data terminals, CAD printouts, electronical dispatch providers, etc. when dispatched.
It is further recommended that you have contact information for installers readily available in a database, emergency management resource directory, etc., so that you are able to contact these individuals in the event of a solar panel incident. The installer name and contact info for each system should be documented and accessible when needed.
Solar panel systems create a clean, eco-friendly and cheaper source of electricity than traditional electrical generating stations. Despite these benefits, it’s important to remember that they pose unique hazards to your emergency response activities. Being aware of these hazards in advance will help you to more safely and effectively handle them, keeping your crew, your volunteers and those you are responding to more secure.