In recent years, many solar panels have been installed in the Netherlands. This is great for durability, but it also has its drawbacks. One of these disadvantages is an increase in fires in buildings with solar panels. In addition to damage to the building, the environment can also be at risk.
The Netherlands is one of the leaders in Europe when it comes to solar energy. Both individuals and companies have purchased solar panels en masse. It is important that the installation of these solar panels is done safely. Unfortunately, this does not always happen, which increases the number of fires caused by solar panels. According to the Netherlands Institute of Public Safety (NIPV), there were 30 fires in buildings involving solar panels in 2021. In the first half of 2023, there were even 73.
Particle distribution is dangerous
In the event of a fire caused by solar panels, both the panels and the building are damaged. Although this damage is usually covered by good building insurance, the environment can also be at risk. The heat can cause the panels to splash apart, carrying particles away by the wind and ending up in the environment along with soot particles. This is called deposition. In the case of house fires, this is usually limited to the immediate vicinity of the fire. But in large fires with a lot of heat, burnt and unburned remains of the solar panels can become widely spread.
On the ground or in the ground
Burning solar panels can release tiny fragments of solar cells, glass, metals, plastics, and organic materials that end up in the environment. This is a risk for children playing and grazing animals. If the fire is caused by solar panels on your roof, you can be held liable for environmental damage. If the waste is on the ground, it can be cleaned up by hand. But if the particles end up in the soil or water, the remediation costs can be high.
How do you insure yourself?
As the owner of solar panels, you can get a substantial claim for environmental damage and be obliged by the government to clean up the pollution. The question is whether you can rely on your business liability insurance for these costs.
Ask us if environmental damage insurance is a good solution for your company. This insurance can also pay out if solar panel particles end up on your site due to a fire in the neighborhood. We also advise you on other insurances that are important when purchasing solar panels and the conditions that insurers set for installation and inspections.