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As of the end of May 2024, there are approximately 1,580,113 solar panel (PV) systems in the UK.1
With the growing popularity of solar panels, our sister-company RiskSTOP highlights why we need to assess the property (and liability) exposures presented by roof mounted photovoltaic (PV) systems.
The article aims to explain how roof mounted PV systems influence the fire dynamics of a roof, what hazards they present, how best to control them and additionally provide information that is helpful in assisting the underwriting process.
Currently there is no UK legislation on the UK solar industry. As it is unregulated, there is no UK legislation associated with the fire risks or the potential for loss of life and material assets. Therefore, there is no control over the competency of designers and installers, nor the quality of components. The onus is on the insurance industry to address and best control the risks presented by PV systems.
In 2021, a large solar-powered warehouse in the Netherlands fell victim to a major fire. The fire took hold of the entire roof and produced thick black smoke indicating there was combustible plastic materials involved.2
Unfortunately, sharp PV module fragments were found for several kilometres around the building and needed specialist contractors to come in to remove them.
Additionally, this location was an agricultural area with livestock and the particles released by the blaze posed a particular threat to the animals themselves.
This highlights both the property and liability exposures that solar panels present.
Firstly, we need to assess the roof construction and access where the PV system will be placed. Some questions to consider include:
Photovoltaic mounting systems are used to attach the PV system to the roof itself. It can also be called solar module racking. Please note, it is essential that the mounting system is regularly checked to make sure it hasn’t moved.
There is a myth that all PV systems are virtually maintenance free, however nothing could be further from the truth. It is important to remember that these systems are electrical installations and for PV installations atop all bar single residential dwellings, there are regulations that must be followed, specifically BS 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations (aka The IET Wiring Regulations).
Solar Energy UK has provided a best practice guidance document which clearly states that the capacity of the system will clearly determine the frequency of maintenance checks. The maximum frequency is 12 months however this can be as frequent as quarterly if you have a system with a significant capacity.
This is why it is important to understand that roof mounted solar panel systems are not maintenance free, and owners of the buildings have a responsibility to protect anyone from any danger (including risk of injury, death, damage to property or assets etc).
Ensure that you receive an O&M manual from your installer. Without one it is very difficult to:
Which are all key elements of minimising the potential of a significant loss related to the PV system.
The roof mounted PV installation may become damaged from weather related conditions such as heat, hail, lightning, snow and wind. Inspection of the roof and installation should be undertaken immediately following such events to identify and assess any damage and required rectification work.
Examples could include:
An insurer might want a broker or the client to provide information on the following to advise what the additional exposures are.
If you have had roof mounted solar panels installed on your commercial property, make sure you inform your insurer or broker to ensure your insurance is up to date. For more information on the risks associated with roof mounted solar panels and best practice, please reach out to your usual Ethos Broking adviser.