Solar PV installations on homes nationwide continue to burgeon in the face of ever higher energy costs, environmental concerns and regulations such as the Future Homes Standard.
According to recent government figures, more than 170,000 solar panel installations took place to the end of July 2026, taking the total number of installations above two million.
However, alongside that has gone an increase in solar panel fires. One recent report states their rate is growing at more than twice the rate of installations, with fires rising by 133% between 2022 and 2025.
A key cause of solar fires is DC connections. Incorrect connection or cross-mating of connectors can create electrical arcs, potentially resulting in fire spread behind panels and into the roof space.
It goes without saying that every product used on a building must keep occupants safe.
For solar PV systems, unless exemptions exist with individual energy providers, that means specifying products accredited by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). Most reputable UK installers are generally MCS accredited, so they will only use approved systems.
However, it’s worth remembering that independent certification of individual components doesn’t necessarily mean they are certified when used in combination. Using a system which has been tested and certified in unison is always the best option.
One system of this kind is the Marley SolarTile® roof-integrated solar system, which has attained the highest classification for resistance to the spread of flame and fire penetration in European fire safety tests (BRoof T1, T2, T3 and T4). This is supported by independently verified BBA Solar System certification covering the solar panels, solar flashings and their combined system.
The system also includes ArcBox, a ‘2-click’ solution enclosing a DC connector. If an electrical arc occurs, ArcBox helps prevent its spread to combustible materials around the installation.
The message for specifiers is clear: solar safety should begin at the outset of specification, using compatible, tested and certified systems to protect people, buildings and property.
For more information, visit Marley’s website.
