Half of all solar panels may be incorrectly installed, but situation is improving, say Finnish experts
Last week, it was reported that up to half of all solar panels could be incorrectly installed, according to an estimate from Finnish insurance company Lähitapiola. However, Antti Kosonen, a professor in renewable electricity production at LUT University, and Sakari Hatakka, a senior inspector at Tukes (the Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency), believe the situation has improved in the past couple of years.
Lähitapiola’s development manager, Teppo Raininko, argued that the high demand for solar panels has led to the recruitment of installers from outside the profession. This claim is based on the company’s experiences and damage statistics, which in turn are derived from damage reports received from fire investigators or observed firsthand. However, the cause of the damage is not always reported or verifiable, and similar incidents may not always be filed under the same keyword.
Most common errors in solar panel installation are related to panel attachments, connections and DC switches, according to Kosonen. A 2022 study by Tukes found common errors in poorly installed solar panel wiring and fire safety issues, such as inverter installation on a flammable base. The study also revealed a significant number of missing or inadequate installation documents.
Despite these issues, Hatakka believes the situation is improving and research is ongoing. For example, Samk, Sataedu, Tamk and Tredu are jointly conducting a risk mapping study of solar power system installations.
Hatakka emphasised the importance of documents like the commissioning inspection report, which is an official document under the Electrical Safety Act. This document assures the client that the installation meets safety requirements.
Consumer interest in safety has increased with the introduction of new technologies, and this has led to a reduction in the number of reports made to Tukes and an apparent improvement in the knowledge level of installers. Most of the contacts to Tukes come from consumers interested in ensuring the safety of their installations.
Both Kosonen and Hatakka emphasise that, when correctly installed, solar power systems do not increase the fire risk any more than other electrical equipment and are a safe and effective way to produce clean, green energy.