Solar panels
Installation of solar panels on the roofs of homes and businesses is becoming more commonplace in Kent and Medway. There is a wide range of technology options to choose from, and a number of companies offering sale, installation and maintenance of such devices.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) is working with The Microgeneration Certification Scheme trade body, among other accreditation organisations, to make sure there is adequate guidance and advice available for anyone considering purchasing solar panels.
Fires in properties with solar panels
The number of incidents involving solar panels as a direct cause remains very low, but residents can be reassured that KFRS will always attend a house fire at a property with solar panels. This comes after concerns raised from people receiving sales calls encouraging them to replace their existing solar panels and indicating that fire crews would not attend a fire involving older solar panel installations due to the higher levels of DC electric voltage produced.
KFRS Station Manager Phil Bailey said: “Our crews will always turn out to a fire and we have procedures in place to deal with every type of incident including fires involving solar panels. No one should feel pressurised into replacing their system unnecessarily.
“If they are concerned they can contact the solar panel trade body The Microgeneration Certification Scheme on 020 7090 1082, email mcshelpdesk@gemserv.com or get in touch with Kent Trading Standards (through Citizens Advice) on 03454 04 05 06.”