Are solar installations potential fire hazards?
As a privately owned fire brigade, Fire Ops SA reportedly handles two to four incidents daily, with every sixth fire being attributed to solar panels.
Fire / Pexels: Rostislav Uzunov 5109305
John Perlman interviews Wynand Engelbrecht, Fire Chief at Fire Ops SA.
Listen below.
In 2023, South Africa imported solar panels worth R17.5 billion, largely influenced by extensive loadshedding.
While these panels have served as crucial resources for households and businesses, reports suggest that the Gauteng central area alone witnessed approximately 11 to 12 fires daily over the past year.
As a private provider, they reportedly handle two to four incidents daily, with every sixth fire being attributed to solar panels.
The fires commonly originate from faulty connections in controls, panels, and batteries, resulting in overheating, sparks, and subsequent fires.
Although it's premature to identify specific trends causing these fires, Engelbrecht notes an increase in inexperienced and unqualified solar PV service providers.
"There are no standards, there are no regulations because we're in such a rush of innovation that it's moving far too fast for regulations to follow."
-Wynand Engelbrecht, Fire Chief – Fire Ops SA
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