While this technology introduces new and different hazards for fire fighters, they are able to handle it with proper training and understanding. The risk of a roof or home catching fire because of a solar photovoltaic power installation is very unlikely. Having said that the proliferation of solar panels as a renewable energy tool is gaining significant momentum and market penetration. Firefighters must understand the particular hazards they face when fighting a fire in a PV-equipped structure, which are primarily from tripping on conduits and electrical shocks, as even with very little exposure to light PV modules are still electrified and this includes bright moonlight or street lighting. From a fire service and rescue perspective, as with any structural fire attack, it’s best for the fire fighters to be aware that a solar power system exists on the building.

There won’t be many readers of REI that haven’t cast their eyes over the recent Which? report which highlighted certain aspects of the way solar PV is sold. But how did the industry view the magazine’s findings? By Lu Rahman