Fire protection system for PV systems

We have installed a system for early fire detection in photovoltaic systems on the roof of the Swiss Securitas Group in Zollikofen. It detects fires at the incipient stage, thus effectively protecting people, the solar equipment and the building envelope. 

Compared to conventional electrical installations, photovoltaic systems do not pose an increased risk of fire. However, the increasing prevalence of such systems increases the probability of incidents. Potential triggers include electrical malfunctions or substandard components. With our system for early fire detection, we want to take targeted countermeasures.

The central element is the SecuriHeat d-LIST linear heat detector, which is used in combination with our tried-and-tested SecuriFire Expert fire detection system. The technology enables seamless temperature monitoring with an accuracy of up to one metre. The heat detector is mounted directly under the PV modules on the existing substructure. This means that heat build-up can be detected immediately – even before a fire breaks out.

Another advantage of the system is that it determines the efficiency of the solar panels: if the temperature rises above a certain level, performance decreases noticeably. The collected data therefore not only provides safety-relevant information, but also information about the energy efficiency of the system.

The temperature data is transmitted in real time to our fire alarm control panel and visualised there. An interactive map can be used to quickly determine the exact position of a potential danger. This significantly increases the reaction speed and thus the safety of the entire system.

The installation was concluded within a week. The collected data is being evaluated on an ongoing basis.