As the demand for renewable energy accelerates, solar installations are now common across homes, commercial buildings and large industrial sites. With this widespread adoption comes an increased responsibility to ensure these systems are safe, especially during emergencies.
Craig & Derricott’s Photovoltaic Firefighter Safety Switch (PVFS) provides an automatic and reliable way to isolate solar panel strings when critical events occur, such as fires or grid failures. The range now includes 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12-string versions, offering scalable protection for installations of all sizes.
Why PVFS technology is becoming increasingly important
The need for solar safety technology is growing quickly because the solar industry itself is expanding at a record pace. Several factors are driving this rise:
– Environmental priorities
Growing concern around climate change and the need to reduce reliance on fossil fuels is encouraging more people and businesses to turn to renewable energy. Solar power continues to play a major role in this shift.
– Rising energy costs
With ongoing fluctuations in electricity prices, many homeowners and organisations are looking for ways to reduce long-term energy expenditure. Solar power offers a practical, cost-effective solution, supported by steadily decreasing panel prices.
– Advances in technology
Solar panels have become more efficient and durable than ever. Innovations such as improved tracking mechanisms and advanced materials are increasing output and making solar an appealing investment.
– Government support
Policies, incentives and strategic investment in renewable energy infrastructure have helped accelerate solar adoption. Grants, tax benefits and plans to modernise the grid continue to support widespread solar growth across the UK and beyond.
Significant growth in installations
Both national and global data show a dramatic rise in solar installations. As more systems are deployed, ensuring they incorporate appropriate safety measures becomes a fundamental part of responsible design.
With solar power systems operating in increasing numbers across the country, the need for reliable safety measures such as PVFS units is stronger than ever. These devices play a key role in protecting buildings, emergency personnel and maintenance teams.
The safety challenge with solar systems
A key risk with solar installations is that they continue to generate DC electricity as long as there is daylight, even when the mains supply has been switched off. This means cables connected to the panels may remain live during a fire or power outage, creating serious hazards for emergency responders.
A PVFS unit solves this issue by rapidly and automatically isolating the DC strings, ensuring a safer environment in critical situations.
How Craig & Derricott’s PVFS works
The PVFS responds automatically to specific triggers, providing protection without requiring manual intervention.
– Manual shutdown of mains power
If the AC supply is switched off during an emergency, the PVFS detects the loss of mains input and immediately isolates the DC voltage produced by the solar panels.
– Loss of AC supply
In the event of a grid outage, the unit isolates the PV strings to protect anyone entering the building or working on the system.
– Over-temperature protection
If the surrounding temperature reaches 70°C, the PVFS automatically isolates the solar arrays to prevent further risk.
Conclusion
Solar energy is playing an increasingly important role in the transition to cleaner, more sustainable power. As installations continue to rise across the UK and worldwide, ensuring these systems operate safely is essential.
Craig & Derricott’s PVFS firefighter safety switch provides a reliable, automatic method of isolating solar panel strings during emergencies. By protecting emergency responders, engineers and property, it has become a vital component in modern solar system design.
Get in touch today to secure your PVFS unit.
