As the UK accelerates its shift to greener energy, solar panels and battery storage systems are becoming increasingly common, not just in large-scale solar farms, but also on homes, offices, warehouses, and commercial buildings.
While these systems are generally safe when properly installed and maintained, they do introduce new fire risks that property owners, facilities managers, and developers must consider.
In this post, we explore the potential fire hazards associated with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and battery energy storage systems (BESS), and how to integrate them into your fire safety strategy.
Why Fire Safety for Solar and Battery Systems Matters
Solar PV systems and battery storage are electrical systems—often high voltage—and like any electrical installation, they can present a risk of fire when damaged, poorly maintained, or incorrectly installed.
Fires involving solar panels or battery storage are still relatively rare in the UK, but when they occur, they can be difficult to extinguish and may escalate rapidly due to the presence of stored energy, combustible materials, and high voltages.
As installations become more widespread in homes, schools, warehouses, and even housing associations, fire safety planning needs to keep pace with this growing technology.
What Are the Fire Risks?
1. Electrical Faults in PV Panels
Loose connections, damaged wiring, or faults in inverters (which convert DC to AC power) can cause overheating, arcing, or electrical fires.
PV systems are typically mounted on roofs, meaning a fire may spread undetected until it’s already taken hold.
2. Lithium-Ion Battery Storage
Home and commercial battery systems—used to store excess solar power—often rely on lithium-ion technology. These batteries are energy dense and can enter thermal runaway if damaged or overcharged, leading to intense fires or even explosions.
3. Limited Shutdown Options
Even when mains power is turned off, PV systems may continue to generate electricity as long as the sun is shining, posing a danger to first responders or maintenance teams.
4. Inadequate Fire Separation
Improperly installed or retrofitted systems may not be sufficiently separated from other building components, increasing the risk of fire spreading to roof voids, plant rooms, or occupied spaces.
What the Guidance Says
In the UK, fire safety for solar and battery systems is governed by a combination of:
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The Building Regulations (Approved Document B)
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The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
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BS 7671: IET Wiring Regulations (18th Edition)
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IEC 62485 and BS EN 62933 (for battery safety)
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Manufacturer installation guidance and certification schemes
While there’s currently no single fire code specifically for PV and battery systems, the emphasis is on risk assessment, proper design, professional installation, and ongoing maintenance.
How to Include Solar and Battery Systems in Fire Safety Planning
1. Ensure Proper Installation by Certified Professionals
Always use MCS-certified installers for solar and battery systems. Ensure all components are compliant with UK safety standards and that electrical work adheres to BS 7671.
Avoid DIY installations, especially for batteries, as poor workmanship significantly increases fire risk.
2. Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment
If you manage a commercial site, HMO, or residential block, your fire risk assessment should include:
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The location of solar panels, inverters, and batteries
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The potential ignition sources and flammable materials nearby
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Access for fire and rescue services
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Any measures needed to isolate power safely
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The presence of signage and emergency instructions
Your risk assessor should be familiar with renewable energy systems and how they interact with the rest of your fire protection measures.
3. Install Appropriate Fire Detection
Early detection is vital, especially if panels or batteries are installed in lofts, garages, plant rooms, or enclosed spaces.
Consider installing:
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Heat detectors or smoke detection systems in areas where batteries are stored
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Fire alarm zoning that clearly identifies where an alarm is triggered
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Remote monitoring systems for large-scale setups
4. Use Fire-Rated Enclosures and Separation
For commercial or larger residential applications, battery systems should be installed in fire-rated enclosures with adequate ventilation and separation from other services or occupied spaces.
For high-capacity BESS installations, you may need dedicated fire suppression systems, such as gas extinguishing or water mist.
5. Label Systems Clearly for First Responders
Install signage that identifies:
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The presence of solar PV or battery systems
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The shut-off location for isolating DC and AC systems
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Potential electrical hazards even when mains is disconnected
This information is critical for firefighters who need to assess the risk quickly and safely.
6. Maintain Systems Regularly
Schedule regular inspections for:
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Cable integrity and connections
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Signs of corrosion, overheating, or insulation damage
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Inverter function and battery status
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Firmware updates or manufacturer safety recalls
Keeping a detailed maintenance log is essential for both compliance and insurance.
Final Thoughts
Solar panels and battery storage systems are a big step forward in making buildings more energy efficient, but they also introduce new considerations for fire protection and risk management.
Whether you manage a school, warehouse, office block, or private home, it’s vital to include renewable energy systems in your fire risk assessments and ensure your detection, signage, and maintenance procedures are up to date.
From passive protection and alarms to risk assessments and compliance advice, Martyn Young Fireproofing Consultancy offers expert advice on fire protection and prevention measures. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help protect your building.