Solar Panel Hazard Classification

Is solar a fire hazard?

Globally, photovoltaic (PV) solar is one of the fastest growing, most reliable, and most adaptable forms of electricity generating technology available. In the UK the incidence of fires involving PV systems is very low.

What is a Class A solar panel?

Class A is the creme de la creme of PV solar protection and fire resistance ratings. These modules have passed the most stringent fire tests, including the ASTM E84 and UL 790 tests, and are the least likely to ignite or spread flames.

Are solar PV systems a fire risk hazard?

These findings suggest that there is a need for supplementing nationally accepted guidance and additional training for FRS crew to be able to properly assess the risks that a solar PV system may introduce (whether as a cause to the fire, or being present at a fire incident site) and how to reduce the risks safely, quickly and effectively.

What are PV solar protection rating grades?

PV solar protection rating grades, also known as fire rating grades, indicate the level of fire resistance for a PV system. Standards such as UL 1703 and IEC 61730 determine these grades by assessing flammability, ignition resistance, and flame spread on PV modules. PV systems typically have three fire rating grades: Class A, Class B, and Class C.

Are solar panels a fire risk?

Similarly, product defects make up a significant portion of solar-related fires, in which poor quality or incompatible components add to the risk of fire. Planning and design issues can also add to the risk of solar panel fires, causing damage to not just the PV installation, but the building on which they are mounted.

Are class C solar panels fire resistant?

When it comes to PV solar protection, modules rated Class C offers the least level of fire resistance, making them the most prone to ignite or spread flames. Overall, Class C modules undergo less rigorous fire tests than Class A and B modules.