Are rooftop solar panels (fire) safe?
The demand for sustainable solutions is increasing and more and more companies are opting for solar panels on their roofs. However, safety is an important aspect here, which is why the Scope 12 inspection scheme was recently introduced. This certification scheme assesses the technical quality and safety of solar installations by certified companies. This article explains why this scheme is so important and what exactly is tested during the inspection. It also explains who is allowed to conduct these inspections and what this means for companies looking to install solar panels on their roofs.
Are rooftop solar panels (fire) safe?
Would you like to make your business premises more sustainable with solar panels on your roof? Definitely do it! Besides the fact that solar panels are of course sustainable, they provide you with a nice financial benefit. But of course this is only possible if everything is done safely and you don't have to worry about the progress of your business process. This is why the Scope 12 inspection regulation was recently implemented. In this article we explain to you what exactly Scope 12 is and why this regulation is so important.
What is Scope 12?
Scope 12 is a certification scheme for solar systems. The new standard was developed on the initiative of the Association of Insurers, the industry association Holland Solar and various inspection companies. Indeed, from these initiators there is a need for an assessment of the technical quality and safety of solar installations by certified companies. This means that PV installations have to start complying with strict rules.
Why is Scope 12 inspection important?
Unsafe and improperly installed solar systems can cause fires. Looking back over the past few years, the percentage of solar systems caught on fire is very low. The number of incidents on an annual basis is less than 1%. Still, it is very important to further reduce the risk of starting a fire. A safe solar system is the most important thing for you and for us. You shouldn't imagine that everything you have worked on goes up in flames. In addition to fire, there are other risks associated with poorly installed solar systems. For example, electrostatics or leaks can occur, reducing revenues. As the market strives for the safest possible installations and the fewest possible incidents, concerned organizations joined forces to create Scope 12.
What will the Scope 12 inspection test for?
The promoters have developed a document (Technical Document 18), which contains the specifications that will be checked. Including:
- Checking drawings and documents;
- Verifying that electrical equipment is in compliance with installation requirements;
- Checking the optimal position and inclination angle of the PV panels;
- Visually checking the installation against the drawings and documents
- Current voltage measurements;
- Thermographic studies (drone inspections and data analysis).
An initial inspection takes place after delivery of the solar system. Thereafter, a re-inspection takes place at least every 5 years.
Who may conduct the inspection?
Independent inspection companies with a valid SCIOS certificate issued by one of the accredited Certification Bodies (CI) may perform this inspection. In addition, inspection companies that have a certification agreement with CI may also perform an inspection. Novar only cooperates with parties that have received this certificate.
What does this mean for our rooftop solar systems?
By having our solar system on your roof Scope 12 certified, we can be sure that it meets the highest quality standards! In this way, you can have a worry-free roof and we are guaranteed an optimally functioning system. This assurance is not only in our mutual interest, but is also a hard requirement from insurers and financiers.