Generating power with solar panels is not only very sustainable and therefore good for the environment, but also cost effective.... but have you ever thought about the fire risk of a solar panel installation in the agricultural sector? This requires a specific approach!
On average, about thirty to forty barn fires occur each year, sixteen of which have animal casualties. The number of animals killed varies from year to year, but averages 143,000 per year. This is evident from the Stable Fire Risk Monitor published by the Dutch Association of Insurers. LTO Netherlands is committed together with POV, the Animal Protection, the Insurers Association, the Fire Brigade Netherlands, and the government to increase fire safety so that fewer animals die from barn fires. (Source: LTO Netherlands)
Following the publication of the Dutch Safety Board’s study on tackling stable fires, the Ministry of Agriculture has set the goal of reducing the number of fatal stable fires by 50% (compared to 2020) by 2026. The approach focuses, among other things, on minimizing the risk of fire caused by electricity, which is a major cause of fire according to the Dutch Association of Insurers’ Stable Fire Risk Monitor.
It is often difficult to determine how a barn fire started. Short circuits and other problems with electrics seem to be the main cause. Equipment and poorly constructed PV installations are often considered here. From the union of insurers, the prevention brochure Solar Panels has been developed in which points of attention around building regulations, the building and the construction of PV installations are defined. Also safe extinguishing, insurance, delivery and Scope 12 are described. Within this document all kinds of relevant technical aspects are explained including the importance of fire compartmentation, the correct method of roof penetration, lightning protection, earthing, overvoltage protection and cable management.
To improve fire safety in stables, Conduct Technical Solutions has developed the Solar Safe Agri (SSA) concept. SSA recommends the use of lightning protection (including overvoltage protection) in combination with high-quality grounding and potential equalization. Conduct also offers the FireSwitch, which allows the entire DC installation to be switched off remotely in the event of a fire. It is important to keep the (extra) AC low-voltage distributor and inverter outside the stables and at a sufficient distance from them.
FireSwitch based on BRESS cabinet
Solar Safe Agri includes as a complete system:
Do you want more information or have questions about fire safety for a solar panel installation to be designed? Please contact us, we are happy to help you!