20 Jan Ensuring solar system safety

Solar panels have become standard features on residential, commercial and industrial buildings across the world. However, the rapid expansion of the global solar market, along with an increase of component suppliers and installers, has heightened the risk of potentially unsafe solar systems.

During 2025, local industry reports, firefighters and insurer feedback indicate that property damage claims related to solar systems in SA increased, and were frequently linked to fire-related incidents. This is primarily due to faulty wiring, substandard components, and lithium-ion battery fires, which can escalate rapidly and are difficult to contain. While exact national statistics are not yet available, the trend indicates an emerging risk as rooftop solar adoption grows.

Bennie Boshoff, General Manager: Insurance at Safire, says, “Reduction in the cost of solar systems has made it an economically viable, eco-friendly and reliable alternative to fossil fuels, especially in a sunny climate like ours. We urge our clients to be compliant with all relevant regulatory (SANS) and insurance requirements in terms of their solar systems. To this end, and to ensure cover in terms of your policy of insurance, it is critically important to only use a recommended and qualified contractor. Choosing the cheapest is not always the best option! Failing to comply with set requirements could impact the validity of an insurance claim following a loss.”

Some of the main problems experienced include:

Solar panel fires

While solar panel fires remain uncommon relative to the number of systems installed, recent global data shows a rise in incidents linked to poor installation or faulty components.

These fires can cause significant damage – both to the solar system and the roof or structure where they are situated. Electrical faults continue to be the leading cause of these fires, with faulty wiring, loose connections, inferior components, arcing (a spark caused by a current jump), short circuits, and ageing cables all contributing to overheating and fire hazards. Professional installation, maintenance, and regular inspections are critical for limiting these risks.

Data indicates many fire origins are in the inverter or associated DC cabling – parts that generate significant heat and are prone to faults if installed or maintained poorly.

A gap between the roof and the panels of between 6 cm to 11 cm is ideal to help reduce any heat building up and to lengthen the potential lifespan of the panels. Experts warn that the smaller the gap between the roof and the panels, the greater the risk of fires breaking out and larger, more destructive fires occurring.

Environmental factors

Because solar panels are usually installed in exposed positions, they are particularly vulnerable to lightning strikes, especially if systems are not correctly grounded. The installation of surge protection devices significantly reduces this risk.

Hail is another serious threat. Severe hailstorms can crack or weaken panels, shortening their lifespan, reducing energy output and increasing electrical resistance. Homeowners in hail-prone areas should therefore ensure their installer supplies robust, hail-tested panels – typically from reputable Tier 1 manufacturers – and should ask for recognised impact and environmental certification ratings that confirm the panels’ ability to withstand hailstone strikes.

Lack of maintenance

Like anything exposed to the sun and weather, solar panels are subject to degradation, and problems such as micro-cracking can occur in the silicon over time. The panels should be checked regularly, and cleaned of dirt, leaves, and similar debris to keep them working at their best. Should debris partially cover a panel, the affected cells may act as resistors rather than conductors, causing localised overheating, which could eventually cause a fire.

Theft

Solar panels and cables offer an easy target for criminals as the panels are not only valued for their ability to generate electricity but also for the materials they are made of. Property owners should protect their solar installations from theft by:

• Installing surveillance cameras, alarm systems and motion-sensor lighting close by;
• Using tamper-proof mountings for the solar panels, making it more difficult for thieves to remove them;
• Placing inverters and batteries inside locked enclosures.

In closing, to protect your home and investment, and to reduce the risk of fire, follow these safety tips tailored for South African solar system owners:

1.  Choose certified installers and components

• Only work with SANS-certified installers and suppliers.
• A Certificate of Compliance (CoC) is required for all electrical work.
• Ensure all inverters, wiring, and battery units meet local safety and quality standards.

2.  Prioritise battery safety

• Lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries pose the highest fire risk if installed or managed incorrectly.
• Install batteries in ventilated, fire-resistant enclosures away from living areas.
• Use battery management systems (BMS) to monitor charge/discharge cycles and prevent overheating.
• Do not place batteries directly on combustible surfaces.

3.  Maintain regular inspections and cleaning

• Conduct annual electrical inspections by a qualified professional.
• Check for loose connections, damaged cables, or signs of overheating.
• Clean panels regularly of dust, leaves, and debris, especially in areas prone to bushfires or heavy wind.
• Ensure a safe panel-to-roof gap is maintained (6-11 cm) to allow heat dissipation.

4.  Install fire detection and prevention measures

• Consider arc-fault detection devices in your solar system to automatically shut down faulty circuits.
• Install smoke detectors near inverters and battery storage areas.
• Ensure that your insurance policy covers solar installation risks, including battery and panel fires.

5.  Protect against environmental hazards

• Use lightning protection and surge devices to prevent damage from storms.
• In high bushfire-risk areas, clear vegetation and maintain a firebreak around the solar system installation.

6.  Stay informed about local risks

• Monitor industry updates and insurer guidance on solar fire incidents in South Africa.
• Take note of information about solar fire prevention and safe installation practices.

By taking these steps, property owners can minimise the risk of fire, theft, and damage, ensuring their solar systems remain a safe, sustainable, and reliable energy solution. Regular maintenance, professional installation, and adherence to safety guidelines are essential – not just for personal safety, but also to maintain insurance coverage in the event of a claim.

Please note: The information contained in this article is not offered as ‘advice’ in terms of the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act 2002 as amended, and policyholders should consult with their intermediaries and the policy wording so as to ensure a full and complete understanding of the cover offered to them in terms of the Safire policy of insurance.