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Rising Concerns Over Solar Panel Fires
A series of fires involving solar panel rooftops has sparked renewed debate over the safety of renewable energy systems in the UK. The incidents have raised questions about the effectiveness of current safety measures and the rapid expansion of solar energy projects.
According to data collected by insurance company QBE, the number of solar panel-related fires has increased significantly. In 2024 alone, there were 171 fires involving the equipment, up from 107 two years prior. This surge has occurred even as the number of panels on UK rooftops rose from 1.3 million to 1.7 million during the same period. Fire services in the UK responded to a solar panel fire once every two days, highlighting the growing frequency of such incidents.
The Expansion of Solar Energy
Energy and Net Zero Secretary Mr Miliband has set ambitious goals for the UK’s solar capacity, aiming to expand it to as much as 85 gigawatts by 2035. This would represent a near fivefold increase from the current 18 gigawatts. The plan involves both ground-mounted solar farms in rural areas like Devon, Cornwall, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk, as well as rooftop installations.
Currently, there are around 1.5 million solar panels already installed on rooftops across the country. However, with the push for more installations, concerns about safety have intensified.
Common Causes of Solar Panel Fires
Adrian Simmonds, a senior risk manager at QBE, emphasized that while solar energy is crucial for the UK’s clean energy transition, the rapid pace of deployment has introduced new risks. “Our analysis shows fires involving solar panels have risen at twice the rate of new installations over the past two years,” he said. “Safe installation and maintenance are essential to reducing these risks.”
Faults in inverters, which convert direct current from the panels into alternating current used by the grid, are a common cause of fires. These devices require proper ventilation and must be placed away from obstructions due to the heat they generate. If installed incorrectly—such as in a loft or cupboard—they can overheat and lead to fires.
Modern solar systems often include lithium-ion batteries, another potential fire hazard. A recent blaze in Wickford, Essex, was linked to such a battery. Fires can become particularly dangerous when they spread from the roof into the home, especially if panels are installed close to or above windows or skylights.
Mitigating the Risks
To address these concerns, Mr Simmonds suggested implementing tighter regulations, better training for installers, and contracts that require regular checks of the systems. These steps could help reduce the likelihood of fires and ensure the safe operation of solar panels.
There have been several high-profile incidents in the past year, including a fire at a £1.5m mansion in Ferndown, Dorset. Firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze, but not before it caused extensive damage to the property.
Industry Response
Solar Energy UK, the industry trade body, stated that the risk of fire is exceptionally low when panels are properly installed and maintained. They also highlighted that rooftop solar is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy bills.
A spokesperson for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero noted that the risk of fire from solar panels is very low. They advised that panels should always be fitted by certified installers and can save families around £500 a year on energy costs.
The National Fire Chiefs Council has not yet provided a comment on the issue.
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