Danger! The Risks of Substandard Solar PV Installations

Danger! The Risks of Substandard Solar PV Installations

Today, Solar PPM would like to provide essential information regarding the hazards of substandard solar PV installations. Drawing from our on-site experiences—where we have inspected systems installed by other contractors—as well as international case studies, we aim to highlight these risks. This guide will help you monitor your contractors to ensure a correct and complete installation, providing peace of mind and long-term safety.

1. Absence of Safety Systems, such as Rapid Shutdown

A Rapid Shutdown system is a critical safety measure designed to prevent electric shocks or short circuits during emergencies. Without this system, electrical current continues to flow through various components of the solar array even when the main breaker is off. In the event of an accident or maintenance requirement, this residual voltage poses a severe risk of fire and electrocution to both owners and first responders.

2. Substandard Installation Leading to Short Circuits and Fire

Installing a solar system without adhering to engineering standards or using improper wiring techniques can lead to electrical short circuits. Poor connections or the use of non-durable materials often result in thermal buildup (excessive heat). Over time, this heat accumulation can lead to system failure, equipment damage, and ultimately, catastrophic fires.

3. Use of Non-Certified Equipment and Poor Quality Cables

Utilizing non-standard equipment—such as cables lacking TIS (Thai Industrial Standards Institute) certification or low-quality materials—is highly dangerous. Inferior cables may have inconsistent copper quality, which compromises electrical conductivity. This leads to unstable current flow, overheating, and inefficiency. Using low-grade materials significantly increases the risk of short circuits and shortens the overall lifespan of the system.

Summary How to Prevent Installation Hazards

To ensure maximum safety and performance, the design and installation of a solar PV system must prioritize the following

• Adherence to Professional Standards Ensure the installation follows rigorous engineering codes.
• High-Quality Equipment Select only certified and high-performance components (e.g., TIS-certified cables).
• Essential Protection Systems Mandatory installation of safety mechanisms, such as Rapid Shutdown, to mitigate risks in emergency situations.