Solar Farms - Top Tips

Solar Farms Fire Safety & Risk Management - Top Tips
Introduction
Solar farms are essential for harnessing renewable energy from sunlight to generate electricity. With the increasing adoption of solar power to de-carbonise the energy sector, the scale and number of solar farms are growing. While solar farms are generally considered low-risk for fire, there are still several hazards that must be managed to prevent fires, ensure safe operations, and minimise environmental impacts.
Also refer to our top tips for Battery Energy Storage Systems here.
Key Issues There are several hazards that should be considered. Common issues may include:
Electrical Faults: Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are composed of numerous electrical components that can malfunction, leading to overheating, arcing, or short circuits.
Flammable Materials: Vegetation, dry grass, or combustible materials near solar panels can catch fire, particularly during hot and dry seasons. Fires will be fuelled by the panels themselves which can contain significant amounts of combustible materials, including plastics.
DC Arcing: Solar panels operate on direct current (DC), which increases the risk of electrical arcs, especially if connections are faulty or panels are damaged.
Lightning Strikes: Solar farms, often located in open spaces, may be more vulnerable to lightning strikes that can damage electrical components and cause fires. Consider suitable surge protection.
Weather: Solar farms are susceptible to additional risks from weather, such as hail or storms. Additionally, if installed in high-risk flood locations there is the risk of water damage, potentially resulting in fire. Flood waters may hinder access during emergencies.
Overheating Components: Inverters, transformers, and electrical switchgear can overheat, especially under high loads, leading to potential fire hazards.
Remote Locations: Like BESS sites, solar farms are often located in remote areas, which can hinder access for emergency responders. Fire Hydrants may not be present nearby.
Theft/vandalism: Due to their often remote locations, solar farms can be susceptible to theft and vandalism, particularly targeting electrical cables and inverters, which are attractive to thieves. As a result, robust security measures are essential.
Risk Management Good Practice
To mitigate risks at solar farms, the following measures should be considered as part of your Fire Risk Assessment (FRA):
Fire Risk Assessment (FRA): Conduct a comprehensive FRA to address specific solar farm risks, including electrical faults, vegetation control. Consider the availability of fire-fighting water, and access for fire services.
Fire mitigation: consider creating fire breaks between banks of solar panels and between the panels and any BESS.
Electrical System Maintenance: Ensure regular inspection and maintenance of electrical components, including solar panels, inverters, and switchgear, to identify and address potential faults before they lead to fire. Remote monitoring of these systems can give early warning.
Vegetation Management: Keep vegetation, grass, and other flammable materials cleared away from solar panels and electrical components. Regularly mow and create/maintain firebreaks around the site.
DC Arc Fault Protection: Install arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) to detect and mitigate potential DC arcing hazards within solar PV systems.
Lightning Protection: Install lightning rods and surge protection devices to safeguard against electrical damage caused by lightning strikes.
Thermal Monitoring: Utilise thermal imaging technology to monitor inverters, transformers, and switchgear for signs of overheating. Early detection can prevent fires caused by component failure.
Emergency Access: Ensure that access routes for emergency services are maintained, especially in remote areas. Create a clear plan for fire service access in the event of an emergency.
Emergency Response Plan: Develop an emergency response plan tailored to the solar farm’s layout, including shutdown procedures and contact details for site personnel and local emergency services.
Security Measures: Install security systems such as fencing, CCTV, and alarms to prevent unauthorized access, vandalism, or theft, which could result in electrical damage or fire.
Emergency Plans/Premises Information Boxes (sometimes known as ‘Gerda Boxes’ and PIBs)
Emergency plans boxes ensure that first responders have quick access to vital information at solar farms. The following documents should be included to enhance safety:
1. Emergency Response Plan - Steps for emergency shutdown of solar systems - Contact details for key personnel - Procedures for notifying local authorities
2. Site Layout and Installation Drawings - Site layout with equipment locations, including inverters and transformers - Location of emergency exits, fire protection systems, and access points 3. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) - Chemical composition and potential hazards of components such as coolants or lubricants 4. Fire Safety and Suppression System Documentation - Description and locations of fire detection, fire hydrants and suppression systems on-site 5. Security and Access Control Protocols - Access control policies, fencing, and camera locations 6. Maintenance and Inspection Records - Records of regular inspections and repairs of solar PV components and electrical systems 7. Adverse weather & Flood Risk Assessment and Mitigation Plan - Analysis of the site’s vulnerability to weather/flooding and preventive measures 8. Training and Certification Records - Documentation of training for site personnel and emergency responders By implementing these fire safety and risk management strategies, solar farm operators can significantly reduce the likelihood of fires and ensure the safety and efficiency of their renewable energy operations. The safety guidelines suggested above offer general good practice intended to enhance workplace safety. However, it is essential to recognise that every workplace has unique conditions and risks. It is your responsibility to thoroughly assess your specific circumstances, identify potential hazards, implement appropriate measures tailored to your environment and ensure you comply with relevant legislation. This guidance should not replace a comprehensive safety evaluation or professional consultation. By reading this document you must assume full responsibility for ensuring that all safety protocols and risk assessments meet the specific needs and regulatory requirements.