New rules for photovoltaics: Fire safety measures will be mandatory

Poland is set to implement new regulations for photovoltaic installations, with a strong emphasis on enhancing fire safety. The Ministry of Development has decided to formalize rules for PV systems as part of broader technical requirements for buildings, aiming to standardize practices and mitigate risks associated with the rapidly growing sector.

Currently, it is difficult to determine the exact number of fires caused by photovoltaic systems, as fire department statistics only record incidents where the PV installation itself was burning, not necessarily its cause. The ministry believes this regulatory gap has led to inconsistent design and execution practices, potentially compromising the safety of building occupants and emergency services.

The new regulations, which have been sent to the legal commission and are unlikely to undergo further substantive changes, are scheduled to take effect on September 20. They will cover not only rooftop installations on houses and gardens but also smaller systems on balconies in apartment buildings. This marks a significant shift from previous, less regulated practices.

Key provisions include prohibiting the installation of PV system wiring within active chimney flues (for smoke, exhaust, or ventilation). The regulations also specify the placement of inverters and mandate the installation of a PV emergency switch. This switch will allow for the disconnection of voltage in the event of a fire, aiding firefighters and improving their safety, as applying water to live electrical equipment poses a significant risk.

Currently, only installations exceeding 6.5 kW require consultation with a fire safety expert and notification to the State Fire Service. Smaller, more common installations have not been subject to such controls, but this will change. The new rules aim to ensure that all PV systems are installed safely, regardless of size, addressing concerns about potential fire hazards and improving overall safety standards for users and rescue personnel.

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The regulatory regulations (…) are intended to fill this regulatory gap by defining the minimum technical requirements for location, installation, ventilation, fire safety measures, and the integration of energy storage and photovoltaic installations with buildings. Particular emphasis has been placed on fire safety issues, which are becoming crucial in the context of the growing number of installations of this type.