First Responders and Solar PV Systems

Have you noticed more solar panels going up around your neighborhood? As electrical infrastructure continues to evolve, fire and emergency services face new operational challenges when responding to incidents involving photovoltaic (PV) solar arrays and battery energy storage systems (BESS). These technologies are becoming more common in residential, commercial, and utility scale settings, increasing the likelihood that firefighters will encounter them during emergency operations. The expanding presence of these systems introduces unfamiliar hazards that require updated awareness, training, and response considerations.  

One primary concern with solar panels and their corresponding equipment, also called photovoltaic or PV systems, is the inability to fully deenergize components during daylight hours. Even when utility power is disconnected, PV panels can continue producing electricity, increasing the risk of electrical shock to responders. Rooftop arrays can also limit access for ventilation and create additional fall hazards, complicating traditional fireground tactics.  

Battery energy storage systems present a different but equally serious set of concerns. These systems may experience thermal runaway, producing intense heat, toxic gases, and the potential for reignition long after initial suppression. Firefighters must account for prolonged incidents, defensive strategies, and the need for extensive scene monitoring. The unfamiliar behavior of these systems during failure events can challenge standard suppression and overhaul practices.  

Overall, firefighter safety depends on recognizing these emerging hazards, adapting response strategies, and maintaining situational awareness.  Join us Wednesday, March 18^th at 7:00 (eastern standard time) for a webinar, where we’ll discuss these systems, their challenges and try to also dispel some of the myths associated with these systems. To register for this webinar and see a list of upcoming webinars visit: www.ESIP.com/webinars