Solar Panel Fires Surge Amidst Heatwaves, Experts Warn of Installation Faults

The number of house fires attributed to solar panels has risen by 60% in the past two years, with experts attributing the increase to faulty installations and issues with connected battery storage systems, particularly during periods of extreme heat. Fire brigades are now responding to solar panel blazes on average once every two days, contributing to over 170 such incidents annually.

While high temperatures alone are not the sole cause, they can exacerbate existing problems, such as overheating faulty wiring or issues with solar batteries. This is a growing concern as more households install solar panels, existing systems age, and record-breaking temperatures become more frequent.

According to data obtained by QBE Insurance through a Freedom of Information request, fires involving solar panels reached 171 in 2024, up from 128 in 2023 and 107 in 2022. This represents a 60% increase over two years, outpacing the 31% rise in the estimated number of solar panels in Britain, which stood at 1.7 million in 2024.

Forensic investigators point to several common causes for these fires. Lee Masson, a forensic investigator for Halliwell Forensics, noted problems with mismatched connectors from different manufacturers, which can overheat. He also highlighted how weather or birds can dislodge connections, leading to wire degradation. Overheating inverters or isolation switches due to loose wiring or substandard products have also been identified as fire sources.

A recent incident involved a new-build home where solar panels exploded, igniting a blaze on the roof. The footage captured the roof bursting into flames.

Adrian Simmonds of QBE Insurance stated that while solar technology is crucial for the clean energy transition, the rapid deployment pace is concerning. He emphasized that safe installation and regular maintenance are essential, urging owners to use certified installers and ensure regular inspections.

Concerns also extend to lithium-ion batteries used in solar installations for energy storage. Damage to these batteries can lead to overheating and chemical reactions, potentially releasing flammable gases that can trigger fires, especially when units are installed in less accessible areas like lofts.

Jon Stretton, technical director of OffGrid Pro, has encountered numerous fires caused by poor connections, sub-standard parts, and inadequate installations. He described a case where a cheap connector on a farm's solar panel system caught fire, narrowly avoiding a larger blaze that could have endangered livestock. Stretton stated that the risk can be mitigated with simple solutions like protective enclosures for connection points, costing as little as £12.

Experts are urging homeowners to have their solar panel installations checked urgently. The difficulty in extinguishing solar panel fires, which can continue generating electricity even when the mains are off, poses additional challenges for emergency services. A professional solar panel check can cost approximately £200, while regular maintenance is recommended to significantly reduce fire risks.