Can solar panels catch on fire? The real risks explained

Solar panels gleaming on rooftops have become a common sight across America, but a nagging question persists in many homeowners' minds: can these electrical systems actually catch fire? The short answer is yes – but before you panic, the reality is far more reassuring than the fear.

How often do solar panels actually catch fire?

Let's cut through the fear and look at hard numbers. The U.S. Department of Energy admits there's "no clear data on the number of fires caused by rooftop PV systems in the U.S." – which tells us something important right there. If solar fires were common, we'd definitely be tracking them.

International data paints a clearer picture of just how rare these incidents really are:

These statistics reveal something remarkable: you're more likely to be struck by lightning (odds: 1 in 15,300 in your lifetime) than to experience a solar panel fire on your property.

One study published in the Journal of Building Engineering calculated an expected rate of 0.0289 fires per megawatt of solar capacity. To put that in perspective, a typical residential system is 6-10 kilowatts, meaning your personal fire risk is incredibly small.

Meanwhile, FEMA data shows that residential fires in the U.S. actually decreased by 5% from 2012-2021, even as solar installations exploded during the same period. This suggests that solar systems aren't contributing to any meaningful increase in house fires.

What causes solar panel fires?

Understanding the causes helps separate legitimate concerns from unfounded fears. Solar panel fires don't happen because photovoltaic technology is inherently dangerous – they occur when something goes wrong during installation or over time.

Installation-related issues

Poor workmanship remains the leading culprit behind solar fires. When installers rush jobs or cut corners, dangerous situations develop. The UK experienced this firsthand when government subsidies created an installation boom that overwhelmed quality control systems.

Common installation problems include:

The National Electrical Code exists specifically to prevent these issues, but only qualified installers who follow these standards can ensure your safety.

Component failures and aging

Like any electrical system, solar panels and their components can fail over time. Germany discovered that 15% of their entire solar capacity could face back sheet failures – the protective layer that shields internal components from weather.

Back sheets are like the weatherproof jacket of a solar panel. When they fail, moisture and debris can cause internal short circuits.

Inverters, which convert DC power from panels to AC power for your home, also represent potential failure points. These electronic components typically last 10-15 years compared to 25+ years for panels themselves.

Age-related degradation creates vulnerabilities:

External factors

Environmental conditions can contribute to fire risk, particularly with ground-mounted systems. Dry vegetation growing too close to panels creates fuel for fires that might start from electrical faults.

Extreme weather poses additional challenges. Hail damage can crack panels, creating entry points for moisture. High winds can loosen connections or cause physical damage that leads to electrical problems.

Physical damage from falling branches, maintenance accidents, or even wildlife can compromise system integrity. I've seen cases where squirrels chewed through wiring, creating dangerous conditions.

How to prevent solar panel fires

Prevention beats firefighting every time. The good news is that proper installation and maintenance make solar fires extremely unlikely.

Choosing qualified installers

Your installer choice matters more than any other factor. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) provides voluntary certification that demonstrates technical competence. While not required everywhere, NABCEP certification indicates serious professional commitment.

Red flags to avoid:

Always verify that your installer carries proper licensing for electrical work in your state. The National Solar Licensing Database provides state-specific requirements.

Proper system design and components

Modern solar systems include multiple safety features that weren't standard in earlier installations:

Quality components cost more upfront but provide decades of safe operation. Cheap panels and inverters from unknown manufacturers often lack proper safety certifications and may use substandard materials.

Regular maintenance keeps systems operating safely. Annual inspections can identify loose connections, damaged wiring, or component degradation before they become dangerous.

Solar fire safety vs. other electrical systems

Context matters when evaluating risk. How do solar panels compare to other electrical systems in your home?

Your electrical panel, space heaters, and even your toaster pose statistically higher fire risks than properly installed solar panels.

Most homeowner insurance policies automatically cover solar installations since they're considered part of your property. Some insurers even offer discounts for solar installations, recognizing their positive impact on property values and environmental responsibility.

What to do if you're concerned about fire risk

Concerns about solar fire safety are understandable, especially given the electrical nature of these systems. Here's how to address them practically:

The reality is that solar panels represent one of the safest electrical systems you can install on your property. With proper installation by qualified professionals and basic maintenance, fire risk becomes virtually negligible.

Your solar system is far more likely to save you money on electricity bills and increase your property value than to cause any safety problems. The millions of solar installations operating safely across the country prove that this technology has matured into a reliable, safe way to generate clean electricity for decades to come.

Sergey Fedorov

Co-founder & CTO

Sergey has been running A1 SolarStore since 2017 with the main idea in mind – making going solar easier for everyone. Based on a thorough market research and his personal experience, he shares his ideas on both solar industry and management related topics

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