Can a fire department lock out a photovoltaic system?

The fire department must work with the facility personnel or residents to turn off and disconnect any equipment from its energy source before working around it. Here are the lock-out steps for a structure with a photovoltaic system and what to watch for.

What is the purpose of a ground-mounted PV system?

A ground-mounted PV system's purpose is to reduce shock hazards for firefighters. Ground-mounted PV systems and circuits from those systems that enter a building are not required to comply with section 690.12 if the sole purpose of that building is to contain PV equipment.

What is a PV hazard control system?

According to the Code and a UL standard, a PV hazard control system is a listed PV system that can be made essentially hazard-free to fire service personnel when placed into a hazard-free state by a PV rapid shutdown system initiator.

Where should a PV rapid shutdown initiator be located?

Although not currently required by the 2020 NEC, the author strongly feels that if a separate switch is required as the PV rapid shutdown initiator, it should be located adjacent to the required external emergency service disconnect (or whatever name that external service disconnect has in the 2023 NEC ). See 230.85.

What are the NEC requirements for ground fault protection for photovoltaic systems?

There are specific NEC requirements for ground fault protection for photovoltaic systems and components. There should be visible labels that warn if a ground fault is indicated as the normally ground conductors may be energized and ungrounded.

Are photovoltaic panels a fire hazard?

Consider the weight of the photovoltaic array on an already weakening roof structure. Because of that additional weight, firefighters may not be able to address the fire from the roof. Also, roof vents, solar thermal panels, and photovoltaic arrays pose a trip hazard for firefighters conducting roof operations.