Can Solar Panels Catch Fire? What Businesses and Property Owners Should Know
Solar panels are a safe and sustainable way to power homes and businesses – but, like any electrical system, faults or poor installation can sometimes create risks if left unchecked.
While solar panel fires are rare, recent UK incidents show why regular maintenance and certified installation are essential for keeping your property, staff, and investment safe.
Where Risks Really Come From
In most cases, fires don’t start in the panels themselves.
They’re caused by loose wiring, damaged connectors, or degraded components that can overheat or arc.
Even when a system is switched off, sunlight hitting the PV panels will still generate DC current – meaning any fault can continue to pose a risk.
💡 Modern systems with optimisers, which convert DC to AC at the panel, significantly reduce these risks.
The Role of Standards and Certification
Safety starts with quality installation and maintenance.
That means using certified products, MCS-approved installers, follow RC62 fire safety guidelines.
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), advises:
“Only invest in certified systems made of certified products, installed by a certified contractor.”
Learning from Real UK Incidents
A few high-profile cases serve as a reminder of why safety matters:
While these are isolated, they highlight the importance of preventative maintenance and verified installation.
Protecting Your System and Your Business
Whether you manage a commercial site, public building, or housing portfolio, simple proactive steps go a long way:
Stay Safe. Stay Compliant. Stay Efficient.
Regular servicing not only ensures system safety – it also reduces downtime, improves output, and supports insurance and regulatory compliance.
Protect your investment and keep your energy systems performing at their best with expert maintenance from JSS.
📧 Email: support.jss@jigsawbusinessgroup.com
📞 Tel: +44 (0) 191 228 6596
