Can firefighters work near energized PV systems?

As PV deployments have become commonplace around the world, codes and standards bodies have worked with the fire services and the PV industry to develop guidelines to address the potential hazards to firefighters working near energized PV systems.

Which companies aggregate home battery aggregation projects in Japan?

Home battery aggregation projects from Tokyo Electric Power Co, and Tokyo Gas, two major utility companies in the Japanese capital.

How can a PV system improve firefighters' safety?

As main activities to improve firefighters’ safety, the German guidelines explain the importance of recognizing PV systems, installation methods of DC wires to lower electric shock risks for firefighters, and a specific firefighting operation flow for fires involving PV systems.

Is a PV system dangerous to a firefighter?

The relative simplicity of PV systems makes hazards easier to predict and avoid. New technologies need to be demonstrated to be effective under the conditions in which the PV system is improperly installed or damaged. The damage that makes a PV array potentially hazardous to a firefighter might also render any new technologies inoperative.

When did fire safety standards for PV systems come into force?

The Tokyo Fire Department released “Directive standards for fire safety measurement regarding PV systems” to ensure the safety of firefighters in July 201424. The scope includes buildings requiring fire prevention such as commercial buildings and public buildings in Tokyo. It went into force on October 1, 2014.

Can a PV system cause a fire?

Although rare, there have been fire incidents involving PV systems in countries such as the United States, Germany, and Japan. In cases where a PV system was not the source of the fire, the PV system may still have had an impact by limiting firefighter access in operations.