PV Cable Hazards Raise Concerns as Experts Call for Enhanced Safety Inspections
Recent incidents of photovoltaic (PV) fires have once again highlighted the safety hazards associated with PV cables, prompting experts to call for enhanced inspection and maintenance of these systems to prevent similar accidents. PV cables are a crucial component of solar energy systems, and their failure has been identified as a significant factor in fire incidents.
PV cables play an essential role in solar energy systems by transmitting the direct current (DC) generated by solar panels to inverters, which then convert the power to alternating current (AC) for the grid or storage. The quality, installation, and maintenance of these cables are vital for the system’s stable operation. However, defects in PV cables and inadequate maintenance can lead to electrical faults, which may result in fires. Issues such as aging insulation, poor connections, or physical damage to the cables can become serious fire hazards.
In a recent PV fire incident, the Suncycle factory in Germany experienced a significant fire involving its PV system, resulting in approximately €30,000 in property damage. Preliminary investigations suggest that the primary cause of the fire was a fault in the PV cables. Although the fire was quickly extinguished, the event has once again raised widespread concern about the safety of PV cables.
Expert Opinions:
KUKA CABLE, a PV cable supplier, stated: “In the installation of PV power plants, the cost of PV cables is only about 2%, yet they play a crucial role in ensuring safety. As market competition intensifies, phenomena such as short cables, fewer cores, and the use of substandard materials are becoming more common. Ordinary customers often lack the means to properly inspect and differentiate the quality of these components, which introduces safety risks. We hope that every participant in the industry remains vigilant and committed to safety.”
Technical expert Markus Schmidt said: “The quality and installation standards of PV cables are directly related to the safety of the system. We recommend that all PV system operators regularly inspect the condition of their cables and use high-quality cables that meet international standards.”
Fire department spokesperson Maria Braun noted: “We have handled numerous PV system fire cases and found that most fires are caused by cable faults. Timely maintenance and inspections can significantly reduce these risks.”
Industry Trends:
To address the safety risks associated with PV cables, several companies and organizations have begun taking proactive measures. For instance, PV system manufacturers and installation companies are updating technical standards and enhancing inspection and maintenance requirements for PV cables. Additionally, national and regional building codes are gradually being revised to ensure the safety of PV systems.
Key players in the PV industry have started to advocate for new safety standards, emphasizing the need to follow strict cable maintenance procedures during the installation and operation of PV systems. This includes regular inspections of cable insulation, testing cable connections, and adhering to best practices during installation. Moreover, new technologies, such as intelligent cable monitoring systems, are being introduced to provide real-time monitoring of cable conditions.
Public Reminder:
Experts advise that PV system owners and operators should regularly hire professionals to inspect their PV cables to ensure they are in good working condition. Choosing high-quality, certified PV cables and ensuring proper installation are also crucial measures for fire prevention. Regular maintenance and inspections not only enhance system safety but also extend the lifespan of the equipment.
As the use of solar energy continues to grow, the focus on its safety becomes increasingly important. Through the combined efforts of industry and stakeholders, it is possible to effectively reduce fire incidents caused by PV cable issues, ensuring the safety of equipment and personnel, and promoting the healthy development of the PV industry.
