{ "records": [ { "reference": "EIR-0001", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0001/", "title": "Lithium-ion BESS thermal event with flare-ups over several days", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In May 2024 a utility-scale battery energy storage facility in North America experienced a thermal event. The installation used nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) lithium-ion cells. After the initial event, intermittent flare-ups continued for approximately seven days before the site was declared secure. The response involved coordination between site operators, local fire services and environmental authorities, and air quality monitoring was carried out throughout the response period. Public reporting records that the site had experienced an earlier thermal event before this one. The account here is drawn from a publicly issued environmental agency case study on battery energy storage incident response.", "contributing_factors": "No root cause findings were available at the time of writing and none are reproduced here. Industry literature, rather than any finding specific to this site, notes that NMC lithium-ion chemistry has a higher thermal runaway propensity than lithium iron phosphate, and that high cell density in utility-scale installations can allow a thermal event to propagate from cell to cell if it is not contained.", "lessons_learned": "(1) NMC lithium-ion cells in a utility-scale BESS can produce flare-ups for days, so operators must plan for prolonged monitoring and exclusion zones after the first signs of thermal runaway. (2) A prior thermal event at the same BESS site raises the chance of repeat failure, so response plans must record and brief staff on that history. (3) NMC cells and high cell density increase propagation risk, so operators should verify that enclosure spacing and containment match the chosen chemistry in the safety case.", "source_url": null, "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-04-17T07:48:20.45865+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0002", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0002/", "title": "Fire in a battery container at a grid-connected storage site, UK", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In September 2020 a grid-connected battery energy storage site in the UK experienced a fire that originated in one of the battery containers. Local fire and rescue services attended. The occurrence is referred to in publicly available UK government research material on battery storage health and safety. The extent of damage, the duration of the response and any injuries are not set out in the public sources reviewed, and no public investigation report has been identified.", "contributing_factors": "Public sources state only that the installation dated from an early generation of UK grid-scale battery storage, predating the more developed guidance framework that followed. Detailed cause analysis is understood to sit in investigation material that has not been publicly released. No contributing factor is asserted here beyond what the public record states.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Early generation battery storage sites must be reviewed against later guidance, as gaps in design or procedures may remain. (2) Emergency plans for battery sites must cover isolation and separation of one container, as a fire can start in a single unit.", "source_url": null, "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-04-18T07:48:20.45865+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0003", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0003/", "title": "Fire at a battery storage project during the construction phase, UK", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "commissioning", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In February 2025 a fire occurred at a battery energy storage project under construction in the UK. The event is referenced in UK parliamentary library research material on battery storage safety. The available material records only that a fire took place during the construction phase. The emergency response, the extent of damage and the cause are not described in the source, and no findings from any formal investigation are reflected here.", "contributing_factors": "No contributing factors have been published for this incident. The cited material identifies it only as a construction phase event. The following are general considerations for the construction and commissioning phases rather than findings about this site: safety and protection systems may be only partially commissioned; fire detection and suppression may not be at full operational state; several contractor parties may be on site with overlapping scopes; and duties under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations apply but can be less familiar in practice on newer asset types.", "lessons_learned": "(1) At a battery storage site under construction, confirm in writing which fire detection and suppression systems are live before any energisation. (2) During battery storage construction, prepare an emergency response plan that covers partial energisation and multiple contractors on site.", "source_url": null, "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-04-19T07:48:20.45865+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0005", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0005/", "title": "Offshore wind turbine blade failure during commissioning", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In July 2024, a turbine blade at an offshore wind project in North America failed during the commissioning phase. A section of the blade detached and debris was distributed across a wide marine and coastal area. The turbine was undergoing testing at the time of the failure. The offshore regulator imposed operational restrictions on the project pending investigation, and debris recovery from beaches continued for several weeks. In public statements the turbine supplier said that a manufacturing defect, described as an issue with internal bonding, had been identified as relevant to the failure. A regulatory investigation was still open at the time the sources underlying this entry were published, so this entry reflects only publicly confirmed information and not any final investigation conclusions.", "contributing_factors": "Sources state that public statements by the turbine supplier pointed to an internal bonding issue arising at manufacture as relevant to the failure mode. Wider industry literature, cited here as background rather than as a finding on this incident, notes that delamination associated with insufficient adhesive bonding is a recognised blade failure mode, and that early operating hours are a period in which latent manufacturing defects commonly become apparent, particularly on larger blade designs where handling, transport and early operation introduce significant stress concentrations.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A blade failure in commissioning can spread debris over a wide marine area, so plans must cover extended sea and beach recovery with pre-agreed contractors. (2) An internal bonding defect at manufacture can cause blade failure during early testing, so operators should add vibration and visual checks beyond factory tests. (3) A single blade failure can trigger project-wide restrictions, so teams need ready documentation and spares to support quick regulatory review.", "source_url": null, "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-04-21T07:48:20.45865+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0006", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0006/", "title": "Co-located solar and battery storage site fire requiring multi-day response", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2024, a fire at a co-located solar and battery energy storage site in North America required an emergency response lasting several days. Public records indicate that several hundred nearby businesses and a number of schools were evacuated as a precaution, and that the fire service sustained a large water deployment across the response period. The incident is documented in public municipal and fire service records. The co-located nature of the site, with solar generation alongside substantial battery storage, created compound response challenges for emergency services. Public records available to this register do not establish the final outcome beyond the conclusion of the multi-day response.", "contributing_factors": "Sources do not currently establish a single confirmed root cause, and this entry is therefore confined to the response and impact rather than the cause. As general context, co-located generation and storage sites combine the failure modes of more than one asset class: electrical fault risk on the solar side, thermal event risk on the battery side, and the interactions between them, including direct current bus interconnection, shared inverter infrastructure and shared site emergency systems.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Co-located solar and battery sites need isolation plans that cover both electrical faults and thermal events together. (2) Evacuation plans for sites near schools and businesses must account for toxic smoke from lithium-ion events. (3) Water supply planning for co-located sites must cover sustained high volumes over multiple days.", "source_url": null, "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-04-22T07:48:20.45865+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0007", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0007/", "title": "Vestas onshore wind turbine blade failures across US sites 2024", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During 2024, publicly available industry reporting described three separate incidents at onshore wind sites in the United States (multiple sites) involving Vestas turbines of the same type, the most recent in November 2024. In each case a blade shattered or detached, and in some cases there was also significant damage to the nacelle. No injuries or fatalities were reported in the public accounts. The sites were reported to have taken the affected turbines out of service. The grouping of three similar failures within a single calendar year across one Vestas turbine fleet attracted industry and media attention. This entry records only the publicly observable pattern. Formal root cause findings for the individual incidents were not in the public domain at the time of writing.", "contributing_factors": "No published investigation findings were available for any of the three incidents, so no contributing factor can be attributed from public information. For background only, general industry literature on blade and structural failures identifies recurring categories including latent manufacturing defects, loading beyond the design envelope during extreme weather, lightning strike damage that propagates during subsequent operation, tower or foundation defects, and control system anomalies permitting overspeed. None of these has been linked to the incidents described here.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Three similar blade failures in one Vestas fleet in a year require fleet wide engineering review and inspection without waiting for separate reports. (2) Record blade serial numbers and repair history per turbine so common factors can be found quickly after repeated events. (3) Set exclusion zones and access controls where blade detachment is possible and confirm throw distance assumptions.", "source_url": "https://www.werover.com/post/a-consecutive-vestas-turbine-accident-in-the-us-safety-and-monitoring-in-the-spotlight", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T08:13:00.882886+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0009", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0009/", "title": "Megapack fire at PG&E Elkhorn Battery, Moss Landing, California", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In September 2022, a fire occurred in a single Tesla Megapack battery enclosure at the Elkhorn Battery Energy Storage System in Moss Landing, California, United States, owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E). The site held 256 Megapack units. The fire started in the early hours of the morning. Safety controls automatically disconnected the facility from the grid, as designed. Shelter in place advice was issued to nearby residents while the local fire service attended. The fire was brought under control later the same day and remained confined to the single enclosure, without spreading to neighbouring units. No injuries were reported and there was no interruption to electricity supply to customers. The Elkhorn facility is separate from Vistra Energy's neighbouring Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility.", "contributing_factors": "According to the findings published by PG&E, water entered the affected Megapack because its deflagration vent shield panels had been installed improperly, and that water intrusion led to the thermal event. The investigation found that 88 Megapacks on the site had experienced water intrusion from improperly installed vent shields. All 88 were inspected, damaged parts were replaced and the units were re-tested. PG&E and Tesla reported corrective actions covering the installation of the equipment, monitoring processes and additional automated features.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check all vent shield panels on Megapack units after installation, because improper fit allowed water to enter and cause a thermal event. (2) Test that automatic grid disconnection works on safety trips for BESS sites, as it operated here and limited the outcome. (3) Inspect all identical units when water intrusion is found in one Megapack, since 88 units on site had the same defect.", "source_url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moss_Landing_Power_Plant", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T08:13:00.882886+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0010", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0010/", "title": "Major fire at Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility, California, multi-day incident", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In January 2025, a fire broke out during the afternoon in one building of the Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility (Phase 1, MOSS300) in Moss Landing, Monterey County, California, United States, a large grid-scale lithium-ion battery energy storage facility operated and owned by Vistra Energy. The affected phase was housed in a large repurposed building with battery racks arranged throughout a single enclosed space, rather than in the modular containerised units more common at installations of this size. Local authorities activated their emergency operations centre at a high level of response, and in the order of one to two thousand residents were evacuated. A nearby major highway was closed for approximately 12 hours. The fire diminished the following evening and evacuated residents were permitted to return. A reignition occurred several weeks later and was brought back under control within about 24 hours. At the time of the underlying public reporting, roughly two thirds of the battery units on site, manufactured by LG Energy Solution, had been de-energised and removed for off-site recycling. The site used NMC lithium-ion chemistry. Three earlier thermal events had been reported at the site and at a neighbouring facility in 2021 and 2022, all described as more limited overheating incidents that did not result in fires of this scale. The cause of the January 2025 fire was undetermined at the time of the underlying public reporting, with a formal investigation in progress. This entry reflects only the publicly confirmed facts of the incident and the response, and a follow-up entry is warranted once investigation conclusions are published.", "contributing_factors": "Causation for the January 2025 event at the Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility remained under investigation at the time of reporting, so the following are factors noted in public reporting rather than findings. Sources described the affected phase as using a repurposed building enclosure with batteries in close proximity throughout, in contrast to the modular containerised approach used at most other installations of comparable size. Commentators quoted in public reporting observed that the scale of the loss appeared related to the fire load available within a single enclosed space and the limited physical barriers to propagation. Public reporting on the site's earlier thermal incidents in 2021 and 2022 associated them with sprinkler and cooling system issues that released water onto battery racks made with LG Energy Solution cells. Those earlier events did not result in fires of this scale, but were reported as indicating more than one failure mode at the site.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grid-scale storage in a single large building rather than separate containers requires review of total fire load and internal barriers to limit propagation between racks. (2) A pattern of repeated minor thermal events at a site should trigger a documented root cause review before adding further capacity. (3) Plan in advance for reignition during the days and weeks after the initial event, including continued monitoring and safe removal of damaged units.", "source_url": "https://www.energy-storage.news/fire-at-moss-landing-energy-storage-facility-what-we-know-so-far/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T08:13:00.882886+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0011", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0011/", "title": "Thermal runaway and explosion at McMicken battery storage site, Surprise, Arizona", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In April 2019 the McMicken Battery Energy Storage System, a small battery energy storage system of approximately 2 MW and 2 MWh installed at a distribution substation near the APS McMicken substation in Surprise, Arizona, and in service since 2017, suffered a thermal runaway event followed by an explosion. The system was owned and operated by Arizona Public Service (APS) and provided grid services and supported the integration of distributed solar generation. In the late afternoon a report of smoke and odour at the site was received and fire crews arrived within about ten minutes. The response was elevated to a hazardous materials incident once responders identified an energised lithium ion battery installation. After approximately two hours of discussion between fire personnel and utility representatives, responders approached the container door. Shortly after the door was opened an explosion occurred, ejecting the side and rear doors of the container together with other debris. Eight firefighters and one police officer were taken to hospital, and four of the firefighters were seriously injured. The battery system was destroyed. The installation used nickel manganese cobalt lithium ion cells supplied by LG Chem, with the system supplied by Fluence. A technical investigation lasting around fifteen months followed.", "contributing_factors": "According to the independent technical analysis report commissioned by Arizona Public Service, the most likely root cause was an internal failure in a single cell, attributed to abnormal lithium metal deposits creating an internal short circuit. That cell failure initiated thermal runaway which cascaded through neighbouring cells, modules and racks. The report identified several factors that allowed the initial failure to escalate. First, there were no effective thermal barriers between cells, modules and racks, and the aluminium separators that were fitted sagged and permitted propagation. Second, the installed gaseous clean agent fire suppression system was not capable of arresting cascading thermal runaway once it had begun. Third, off gases released during the runaway accumulated to form a flammable atmosphere inside the sealed container. Fourth, the absence of pre incident emergency response planning and coordination meant that first responders had limited information available when deciding to open the container door. The cell supplier subsequently disputed the internal cell failure finding and put forward an alternative external arcing mechanism. That difference of view was recorded in regulatory filings, and the original technical report remains the primary public reference. The off gas and flammable atmosphere mechanism was not disputed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Thermal barriers between cells, modules and racks must stop propagation, as aluminium separators sagged and allowed the fire to spread. (2) Gaseous clean agent suppression cannot stop cascading thermal runaway in lithium ion systems, so add ventilation and cooling. (3) Entry into a sealed container after thermal runaway must be treated as high hazard until ventilated and gas levels checked.", "source_url": "https://www.aps.com/en/About/Our-Company/Newsroom/Articles/Equipment-failure-at-McMicken-Battery-Facility", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T08:13:00.882886+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0012", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0012/", "title": "Fire in battery unit during commissioning at Victorian Big Battery, Moorabool", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-07", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In July 2021, during initial testing and commissioning of the Victorian Big Battery, a large grid-scale lithium-ion battery energy storage facility at Moorabool, near Geelong, Victoria, Australia, operated and owned by Neoen with battery units manufactured and integrated by Tesla, a fire began within one containerised battery unit. Smoke was first observed mid-morning. The fire spread to one adjacent unit before further propagation was halted. The affected units were allowed to burn out, consistent with manufacturer emergency response guidance, while surrounding equipment was protected, and the site was not declared under control until 2 August 2021, three days after the fire began. No injuries were reported. State fire services attended in strength, with reports of more than 30 appliances and around 150 firefighters on scene. A 25 metre perimeter was established and hose lines were used for exposure protection of adjacent battery units and transformers. Two of the site's 212 Megapack units were destroyed. An independent technical investigation was commissioned and its findings were published.", "contributing_factors": "According to the published independent technical findings, the most likely root cause was a leak within the liquid cooling system of the first unit, which led to arcing in the power electronics associated with the battery modules and then to thermal runaway and fire. The report identified two significant contributory factors. First, the SCADA system required around 24 hours to establish full telemetry mapping for newly installed units, and the affected unit had been in service for only about 13 hours before being switched off at its keylock switch on the morning of the fire, so real-time monitoring data was not available to remote operators. Second, the keylock service-mode setting had disabled certain monitoring and protection functions that could otherwise have detected the fault. The report indicated that, absent these factors, the initial cooling system fault may have been detected and interrupted before it escalated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Liquid cooling system leaks in Megapack units can cause arcing in power electronics, so pressure test and inspect every circuit after installation before energisation. (2) SCADA mapping latency of around 24 hours during commissioning leaves new units unmonitored, so do not energise until full telemetry and alarms are verified active. (3) Keylock service mode can disable essential protection functions, so review arrangements to keep alarms active and avoid unmonitored periods.", "source_url": "https://victorianbigbattery.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/VBB-Fire-Independent-Report-of-Technical-Findings.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T08:13:00.882886+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0013", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0013/", "title": "Regulatory settlement sets cleanup duties after Gateway Energy Storage fire in San Diego", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In May 2024 a thermal event occurred at the Gateway Energy Storage Camino facility, a grid scale lithium ion battery storage site in San Diego, California, United States, involving nearly 15,000 nickel manganese cobalt lithium ion batteries housed in a single building. The fire started in mid May and periodic flare ups continued for around two weeks. No injuries were reported. This entry complements an earlier case study on the same event and covers the regulatory aftermath rather than the technical cause. The US Environmental Protection Agency subsequently entered into a settlement agreement with LS Power, the owner of Gateway Energy Storage, requiring the cleanup of the site to be carried out and paid for. Under the agreement the operator is to conduct environmental monitoring during all battery handling operations, remove, package and dispose of the affected battery packs, submit detailed work plans to the regulator, and provide regular progress reports. As reported, the settlement does not impose monetary penalties but establishes binding cleanup obligations. The regulator continued to oversee the cleanup in coordination with local fire authorities and county government, and officials publicly noted broader concerns about grid scale battery fires and their effect on first responders.", "contributing_factors": "Public reporting indicates that the cause of the original fire remained under investigation at the time the settlement was announced. Sources noted that the extended period of flare ups is consistent with the recognised difficulty of fully suppressing thermal runaway in dense lithium ion installations.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grid scale lithium ion battery fires can produce weeks of flare ups, so operators must plan for extended site security and monitoring after the initial event. (2) Cleanup of fire damaged lithium ion cells requires environmental monitoring and specialist disposal, so contracts and protocols should be ready before any incident. (3) Regulatory settlements after battery fires can impose months of reporting duties without fines, so emergency plans must allocate staff for ongoing compliance.", "source_url": "https://response.epa.gov/site/site_profile.aspx?site_id=16485", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T08:24:24.076591+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0014", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0014/", "title": "Container fire at SDG&E Escondido battery storage yard, California", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In September 2024, a fire was reported shortly after midday at the utility-scale battery energy storage facility at the Escondido Northeast Operations Yard, an Escondido substation-connected BESS in Escondido, California, operated and owned by San Diego Gas and Electric, using battery equipment supplied by AES. The facility comprised 24 battery containers and the fire remained contained to a single container. The local authority issued evacuation orders for an area of roughly 400 by 600 metres around the site, with shelter in place instructions for a slightly wider area. The local fire service attended together with county hazardous materials teams, whose attendance is required under local protocol for lithium-ion battery fires. Crews applied water to the surrounding, non-burning containers for exposure protection and allowed the affected container to burn out. The fire was declared out and cold about 13 hours after the initial report, and evacuation orders were lifted around midday the following day. No injuries were reported. Air quality was monitored by several agencies throughout the response and was reported as remaining within safe limits.", "contributing_factors": "Public reporting at the time stated that the cause was to be established through a review by San Diego Gas and Electric. No root cause had been publicly confirmed at the point of the source reporting. This entry is therefore limited to the publicly confirmed facts of the event and the emergency response.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Containerised BESS layout must keep thermal events within one unit, with separation distances verified against enclosure design. (2) Fire service response plan should record the tactic of controlled burn out with exposure protection for adjacent units. (3) Lithium-ion battery fire calls should trigger automatic dispatch of hazardous materials teams under local protocol.", "source_url": "https://www.energy-storage.news/fire-at-battery-storage-facility-in-california-triggers-evacuation-order/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T08:24:24.076591+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0015", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0015/", "title": "Beijing rooftop battery storage explosion during firefighting, two firefighter fatalities", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-04", "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In April 2021 a fire was reported at approximately 12:17 local time in a 25 MWh lithium iron phosphate battery energy storage system installed on the rooftop of a commercial premises in Beijing, China. The system formed part of an integrated solar, storage and charging facility comprising rooftop solar PV of approximately 1.4 MW, the battery system and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, commissioned in 2019. The response was substantial, with reports of 235 firefighters from 15 fire stations attending with 47 appliances. While responders were addressing the fire in the southern section of the battery system, an explosion occurred at approximately 14:15 in the northern section. Two firefighters were killed and one was injured. A member of staff of the system operator was also reported missing. The fire was declared extinguished at approximately 23:40 the same day, with cooling operations continuing afterwards. It remains one of the most serious publicly documented battery storage incidents in terms of human consequence. The investigation report produced by the local fire authority was subsequently translated into English and published by an international fire service body.", "contributing_factors": "The fire authority investigation report stated that the precise initiating cause could not be definitively determined from the available information. The report identified several potential contributing factors warranting investigation: (1) battery cell quality, noting that the relationship between cell quality and the initiating event could not be conclusively established; (2) limitations of the battery management system relative to actual operating conditions; (3) the electrical topology of the system; (4) the performance of early warning, monitoring and firefighting systems; (5) external environmental factors, including the effect of dust storms on outdoor equipment; (6) wiring arrangement within the system. The report concluded that the explosion mechanism was thermal failure of batteries under extreme conditions involving combined internal and external influences, but that the available evidence did not allow a determination of whether the initiating event was cell quality, operation beyond cell limits, or another factor.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage sites require exclusion zones around all sections, not only the visibly affected area, because an explosion can occur in an adjacent section during response. (2) Fixed detection and ventilation must be designed for thermal runaway in lithium iron phosphate systems, as portable equipment proved insufficient.", "source_url": "https://ctif.org/news/accident-analysis-beijing-lithium-battery-explosion-which-killed-two-firefighters", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T08:24:24.076591+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0016", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0016/", "title": "Recurrent inverter failures at Kopli Solar Power Plant, Estonia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Estonia", "country_code": "ee", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A peer-reviewed engineering investigation published in 2024 documents recurrent destructive inverter failures at Kopli Solar Power Plant, a utility-scale solar plant in Kopli, Estonia. Multiple inverter failure events were captured through field monitoring and waveform analysis. The investigators then carried out controlled laboratory experiments to reproduce the fault scenarios identified in the field, and combined both lines of evidence to identify the failure mechanism. The case is documented with explicit fault signatures, telemetry and reproducible laboratory validation, which is uncommon for solar inverter failures.", "contributing_factors": "According to the published investigation, the failures originated on the DC side of the inverters, specifically negative DC input terminal short-circuit conditions. The investigation identified three contributing factors that allowed the initial faults to escalate to destruction of the units: (1) insufficient isolation relay responsiveness, in that the protective relays did not trip quickly enough to interrupt the fault current before damage propagated; (2) inadequate semiconductor transient ratings, in that the IGBT components within the inverters were not rated for the transient conditions developed during the fault; (3) ineffective internal insulation, which allowed sustained ground-fault arcing once the fault had initiated. Field waveforms were reported to match laboratory-induced fault signatures. The cascade described was a DC-side short circuit, escalating to a multi-phase short circuit, then a sustained ground-fault arc, then semiconductor breakdown and destruction of the inverter.", "lessons_learned": "(1) DC-side protection in utility-scale solar inverters must be treated as an explicit design requirement. (2) Isolation relay response times should be specified and tested against realistic fault scenarios. (3) Semiconductor transient ratings must cover DC-side fault transients that can exceed AC-side severity. (4) Internal insulation must be designed and assessed for sustained arc conditions.", "source_url": "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12197166/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T09:11:23.188436+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0017", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0017/", "title": "Rooftop solar fire investigation, DC arc fault originating at a module junction box", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A peer reviewed engineering investigation, reported in 2024, examined a fire at a rooftop photovoltaic installation in southern China. The investigators combined on site inspection of the fire scene, electroluminescence (EL) imaging of recovered modules and laboratory replication of suspected failure modes. They identified the ignition source as a single module junction box and attributed the fault mechanism to a DC arc at an internal contact within that box. No information on the extent of damage or the emergency response is recorded in the material reviewed. The case is included here because the mechanisms described, junction box contact degradation, mechanical stress introduced during installation and DC arc escalation, are also relevant to ground mount and utility scale systems using similar module construction.", "contributing_factors": "As stated by the investigators: DC arc ignition originated from stress induced poor contact within a module junction box. EL testing of recovered modules across the site indicated a very high defect rate, with approximately 99% of inspected modules showing defects, mainly cell cracks. Inherent thermal failure modes, bypass diode heating and reverse current overload, were excluded as causes because laboratory replication of these mechanisms did not reproduce the observed ignition behaviour. Correlation analysis across the field tested modules associated the ignition with installation quality factors, specifically the gap between modules, cable tension and crimping quality. The investigators considered that mechanical tension arising from the installation method caused minute loosening of metallic contacts within the junction box, which then sustained a DC arc until ignition.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Module junction boxes on rooftop solar can sustain DC arcs after mechanical stress loosens internal contacts, so operators should measure cable tension and crimp quality at installation rather than rely on visual checks. (2) High rates of cell cracks across a site can accompany junction box faults, so use EL imaging at commissioning to find defects that visual inspection misses.", "source_url": "https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0038092X26001088", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T09:11:23.188436+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0018", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0018/", "title": "Transformer fire at North Hyde Substation disrupts West London and Heathrow Airport", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 20 March 2025, an explosion and fire occurred at North Hyde Substation, a 275 kV transmission substation in North Hyde, near Heathrow Airport, West London, United Kingdom, at approximately 20:20 local time. The substation formed part of the country's original supergrid, commissioned in the 1950s and 1960s, with some plant several decades old. Supply was interrupted to approximately 67,000 households and businesses at peak. Heathrow Airport, supplied from the substation, lost power to two terminals, which were closed, and more than 1,000 flights were cancelled, disrupting several hundred thousand passenger journeys. Police declared a major incident and the fire service deployed more than 70 personnel. The national energy department commissioned the independent system operator to investigate under energy legislation, in coordination with the energy regulator, and the fire service led the fire investigation under fire safety regulations. Police stated that the fire was not being treated as suspicious. National Grid Electricity Transmission operates the substation, which is owned by National Grid.", "contributing_factors": "Public reporting on the independent investigation described a combination of equipment, maintenance and organisational factors. Equipment: the failed transformer was reported to have been installed in 1968, making it around 57 years old at the time of failure, against an asset life expectation of 60 to 65 years in National Grid Electricity Transmission's own framework, with moisture ingress in a phase bushing reported as the technical initiator. Maintenance: the most recent basic maintenance was reported to have taken place in 2018, which placed the unit outside the intervals set out in National Grid Electricity Transmission's policy, following a 2023 revision that extended basic maintenance intervals from four to five years and major maintenance from 11 to 15 years. Planned maintenance was reported to have been deferred on several occasions, including a move from 2024 to 2025 to preserve system security while work proceeded at a neighbouring substation. Fire protection: substation fire suppression equipment at North Hyde Substation was reported as non-functional at inspections in 2022 and 2024 and had not been repaired at the time of the fire, although the fire service view reported publicly was that suppression performance would not have materially changed the outcome.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A 275 kV transformer installed in 1968 failed after moisture ingress in a phase bushing, so operators should check bushing condition on units near 60 years old. (2) Basic maintenance on the unit last took place in 2018, outside policy intervals, so operators should avoid repeated deferral of invasive maintenance on critical ageing assets. (3) Substation fire suppression was non-functional at 2022 and 2024 inspections, so operators should repair known defects on suppression systems to a fixed timescale.", "source_url": "https://www.powermag.com/heathrow-airport-transformer-fire-prompts-urgent-inquiry-exposes-cracks-in-grid-resilience/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T09:11:23.188436+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0019", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0019/", "title": "Switchgear failure at a Rhode Island distribution substation after feeder fault", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In August 2022 a major equipment failure occurred at a distribution substation in Rhode Island, United States. The substation, commissioned in the early 1980s, had a single 115 kV to 13.8 kV load tap changing transformer supplying four 13.8 kV distribution feeders serving several communities and a neighbouring utility. The failure took all four distribution feeders offline and interrupted supply to approximately 9,300 customers, including a hospital and a mental health facility. The operator mobilised more than 50 personnel for restoration, deployed contracted emergency generation, replaced the failed switchgear and progressively restored customers. The state regulator carried out a formal investigation and published its findings.", "contributing_factors": "According to the published investigation, the initiating event was a phase to phase fault on one distribution feeder caused by a fallen tree. The recloser on that feeder cleared the fault, but the fault persisted for longer than a bolted, low impedance fault would have done, because tree contact produces a higher impedance fault with lower fault current, for which protective relays are set to allow a longer clearing time. The investigation reported that the combination of fault duration and fault location placed significant stress on the upstream substation switchgear. Engineering guidance in use at the time recommended that bolted faults at the end of the protected zone be cleared in under one second, while explicitly allowing longer clearing times for higher impedance faults. The post incident analysis considered whether protection coordination at substations of this design vintage could be adjusted to reduce the stress imposed during such fault clearing events.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Review protection coordination at older substations, since a higher impedance tree fault allowed longer clearing time than a bolted fault and stressed the switchgear. (2) Include high impedance fault scenarios in protection studies at vintage substations, as tree contact produces lower fault current and extends clearing time. (3) Plan restoration with contracted generation and customer switching when a single transformer substation loses all feeders.", "source_url": "https://web.archive.org/web/20250702190859/https://ripuc.ri.gov/sites/g/files/xkgbur841/files/2024-01/Nasonville%20Full.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T09:11:23.188436+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0020", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0020/", "title": "Coordinated ranged attack on Metcalf transmission substation near San Jose", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2013, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In April 2013, the Metcalf transmission substation near San Jose, California, operated by Pacific Gas and Electric, was attacked by one or more people firing rifles at the site from outside the perimeter fence. Public reporting stated that around 17 transformers were struck, causing oil leaks and overheating, and that the damaged units were taken out of service. Grid operators rerouted supply and no injuries or widespread customer outage were reported. The incident was investigated by federal law enforcement and was followed by federal regulatory action requiring a mandatory physical security standard for critical bulk electric system facilities. It is widely cited as a case study of deliberate physical attack risk to transmission assets.", "contributing_factors": "Public reporting and the subsequent regulatory record indicate that the substation equipment behaved as designed once damaged, with leaking transformers taken offline, and that the significance of the event lay in the security assumptions it exposed. Factors reported were: (1) the perimeter was designed principally against trespass and theft rather than sustained attack from outside the fence line; (2) the site was reachable from public roads and had nearby natural cover; (3) detection systems were not intended to identify or locate an attack originating outside the perimeter; (4) communications cables in the vicinity were reported to have been cut shortly before the attack on the transformers, suggesting prior planning; (5) reported response times indicated that intervention during an attack of this duration would have been unlikely even with faster detection.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Review sightlines and natural cover around critical substations, since attack from outside the fence line must be considered in threat assessments. (2) Protect and duplicate site communications routes, so loss of cables does not disable detection and response. (3) Test detection systems against scenarios that begin outside the perimeter, and agree realistic response times with emergency services.", "source_url": "https://www.powermag.com/transformer-safety-fire-barriers-as-essential-protection-for-electrical-infrastructure/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T09:11:23.188436+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0021", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0021/", "title": "Hand crush injury on a wind turbine service lift, landing gate guarding and external control positioning", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In May 2024 the UK health and safety regulator issued an industry safety bulletin (reference ED01-2024) following an incident in which a wind turbine service technician suffered serious hand injuries during maintenance work. Service lifts inside turbine towers are used routinely to move personnel and equipment between the tower base and the nacelle. According to the bulletin, the technician was able to place a hand into an aperture in the lift structure while sending the lift down using external controls of a one touch to operate type. The controls were positioned on moving parts of the lift, and the design of the landing gates and associated guarding did not prevent access to the moving lift car. The lift car crushed the hand against the gate. The regulator responded by issuing a bulletin to duty holders across the wind sector, onshore and offshore, directing them to check the design of gates, guarding and external control positions on service lifts in use.", "contributing_factors": "The safety bulletin identified the underlying issue as an absence of defined industry standards for the safe design of service lifts within wind turbines, which had resulted in discrepancies in the application of safeguards by designers and manufacturers. The bulletin stated that: (1) the design of base and upper level landing gates and associated guarding did not prevent access to the moving lift car; (2) the positioning of one touch to operate external controls on moving parts of the lift created a foreseeable situation in which a person could reach into a hazardous area while operating the lift; (3) there was no interlock or other safeguard preventing contact between the moving structure and the operator at that position. The bulletin noted that a standard for lifting appliances in wind turbines, BS EN 81-44, was in preparation at the time and was intended to set the benchmark for the safe design of such lifts.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check landing gate guarding and external control positions on all service lifts to prevent reach into moving parts. (2) Reposition one-touch external controls away from moving lift parts or add interlocks. (3) Assess each service lift individually where no dedicated design standard applies.", "source_url": "https://www.hse.gov.uk/safetybulletins/service-lifts-in-offshore-onshore-turbines.htm", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T09:28:52.344082+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0022", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0022/", "title": "Technician detached from ladder fall arrest rail inside offshore wind turbine, no injury", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "near_miss", "severity": "near_miss", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During 2023 a technician became detached from the fall arrest rail while descending a fixed vertical ladder inside the tower of an offshore wind turbine in Europe. The technician regained balance, stopped the descent, secured themselves in a stable position and then investigated what had happened. There were no injuries. The event was published as an anonymised near miss case study by an offshore wind industry incident sharing scheme, which collects high potential events so that operators can learn from them.", "contributing_factors": "The published case study states that the technician became detached from the safety rail during the descent. It does not give a specific cause for this event. As general context, industry material on climbing inside turbine towers describes several recognised detachment mechanisms: incompatibility between a fall arrest device and the rail where equipment from different manufacturers is combined without verified compatibility, errors in clipping or unclipping, equipment wear or damage, and the device leaving the rail at landing platform transitions. None of these has been attributed to this event by the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fall arrest device on a vertical ladder rail can detach during descent. Operators should verify device and rail compatibility at procurement and after any change of equipment type. (2) After detachment from a fall arrest rail the technician stopped the descent and secured position before continuing. Operators should train staff to follow this sequence on every climb. (3) High potential near misses with no injury still need full investigation. Operators should submit and review anonymised cases so teams learn detachment modes seen elsewhere.", "source_url": "https://www.gplusoffshorewind.com/work-programme/workstreams/learning-from-incidents", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T09:28:52.344082+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0023", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0023/", "title": "Battery storage site commissioned without on site fire water provision, concern raised before any incident", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "commissioning", "severity": "near_miss", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2018 a grid connected battery energy storage site in the UK was built and commissioned to operating status. An engineering practitioner later raised a formal concern through a UK collaborative safety reporting scheme, stating that there was no fire hydrant within 90 metres of the site, the nearest being about 1.7 kilometres away, and that no emergency water supply had been provided on site. The reporter stated that the absence of accessible firefighting water had not been identified during consultation with the local fire and rescue service, nor at the design and approval stages. The scheme's expert panel reviewed the concern and published it with commentary in 2023. No fire occurred at the site, and the matter was recorded as a fire response vulnerability identified before any incident.", "contributing_factors": "As stated by the reporter and the reviewing expert panel: (1) the general building fire safety guidance applied, Approved Document B, was considered not always sufficient for battery specific fire hazards, and the reporter's view was that such sites fall outside the common building situations the guidance addresses; (2) the fire and rescue service consultation carried out for the project did not identify the water supply gap, although consultation was the intended route for fire response considerations to be raised; (3) the reporter considered that suggestions to treat attenuation ponds as an emergency water supply were not an adequate substitute for dedicated fire water provision; (4) the reporter also noted that site safety signage was inadequate, with 'Danger of Death' signage not displayed on the required yellow background, which the reporter regarded as a separate departure from the Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations 2002.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage sites need dedicated fire water within 90 metres. Operators must confirm hydrant access in writing before commissioning. (2) General building fire guidance may not cover battery thermal runaway. Check and add site specific water supply where it falls short.", "source_url": "https://www.cross-safety.org/uk/safety-information/cross-safety-report/battery-energy-storage-system-concerns-1166", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T09:28:52.344082+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0025", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0025/", "title": "Battery storage fire at Dorman facility in Chandler, Arizona, managed with robotic entry", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In April 2022, a fire was reported in the morning at the Dorman battery storage facility, a stand-alone, grid-connected lithium-ion battery energy storage facility of a few tens of MWh in Chandler, Arizona, United States, operated by AES. The internal sprinkler system activated automatically and continued to apply water for several days to hold battery temperatures down. Drawing on the response to a 2019 explosion at another battery storage site in the same region, in which firefighters were injured, the responding fire service adopted a defensive strategy and did not attempt direct manual entry. Three days into the incident, crews used a robot to make the first entry and assess hazardous gas conditions inside the building. Ten days after the fire started, voluntary evacuations of nearby businesses were put in place while the building was ventilated. On the eleventh day, after a period with no further smoke detected, crews shut off the sprinklers, opened the doors and used forced air to dry the building. The fire was declared out about two weeks after it began, and site management was handed back to AES on the same day. There were no injuries.", "contributing_factors": "Public statements from AES at the time described the event as thermal runaway, while noting that the precise origin of the fault, whether it began within the battery system or came from an external source, would be established through a formal investigation. Public reporting at the time indicated that the investigation was expected to continue for some months. Reporting also indicated that the sprinkler system kept the event contained but did not extinguish the underlying thermal activity. No confirmed root cause is reflected in the sources used for this entry.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lithium-ion BESS fire may require robotic entry to assess gases before any person goes inside, so operators should arrange remote entry tools with the fire service in advance. (2) Sprinkler systems in battery storage buildings are designed for containment over many days, so plans must cover prolonged water supply, drainage and run-off control. (3) A prior explosion at a nearby battery site led to a defensive response here, so local fire services should embed earlier incident findings in pre-plans for similar facilities.", "source_url": "https://www.energy-storage.news/aes-investigating-cause-of-thermal-runaway-at-arizona-site/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T11:51:44.857461+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0026", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0026/", "title": "Early utility scale battery storage container destroyed by fire following cell over-discharge", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2012, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In November 2012, a fire destroyed an early-generation lithium-ion battery energy storage system at a substation in North America. The system was owned and operated by an investor-owned utility. It was housed in a single container and consisted of 16 cabinets, each containing 24 lithium-ion cells. The complete system was lost. No injuries were reported. The event is one of the earliest documented utility scale lithium-ion battery storage fires in the region, and its investigation findings were later referred to in regulatory commentary following a further battery storage incident in the same jurisdiction several years afterwards.", "contributing_factors": "According to the investigation findings as described in later public commentary, a single battery cell experienced severe over-discharge. The degraded cell affected a neighbouring cell, initiating thermal propagation that spread through the cabinets and resulted in loss of the system. Reporting indicates that the underlying cause of the initial over-discharge, for example a battery management system fault, a control system fault or another mechanism, was examined in the formal investigation, the findings of which were made available internally and to the relevant regulator rather than published in full.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Over-discharge of one lithium-ion cell can trigger thermal propagation to neighbouring cells, so operators should verify low-voltage protection limits at commissioning and after any change. (2) Absence of thermal barriers between cells and cabinets allows one fault to destroy the whole enclosure, so check cell-to-cell and module-to-module separation on older systems. (3) Investigation findings on early systems may be needed years later by regulators, so retain full records and design basis documents for the asset life.", "source_url": "https://spectrum.ieee.org/dispute-erupts-over-what-sparked-an-explosive-liion-energy-storage-accident", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T11:51:44.857461+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0027", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0027/", "title": "Blade failure at Vineyard Wind 1 offshore wind project, Massachusetts", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In July 2024, a recently installed turbine at the Vineyard Wind 1 offshore wind project, located south of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, Massachusetts, United States, suffered a blade failure during early testing. The turbine had been running for about six hours when a high vibration alarm on one blade triggered an automatic shutdown. Around an hour later an aerial inspection found that one of the blades, roughly 107 metres long, had broken about 20 metres from the root, with the remainder of the blade hanging from the hub. Fibreglass and foam fragments were dispersed into the sea and washed onto nearby beaches over the following days, attracting substantial media coverage. The offshore regulator required the ten turbines then operating at the project, operated and owned by Vineyard Wind, to be taken offline, halting generation, and construction work was also stopped. The machine was of a 13 MW class design manufactured by GE Vernova, among the largest then in commercial offshore service. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "As stated by GE Vernova, the turbine manufacturer, in a public investor call eleven days after the event, preliminary investigation identified a manufacturing deviation at one of its blade factories, described as insufficient bonding that the company's quality assurance process had not detected before the blade left the plant. The manufacturer said it would re-inspect all 150 blades produced at that plant, including blades already installed at offshore projects, using non-destructive methods including radiographic inspection. Public reporting stated that this fault was characterised as distinct from a separate blade incident at another offshore project earlier in 2024, which had been attributed to an installation error. The regulator's investigation was continuing at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A 107 metre blade with a manufacturing bond defect can shed large fragments into the sea, so operators must plan for marine and shoreline debris recovery. (2) Radiographic inspection of all blades from one factory is needed when a production deviation is found, to catch defects missed by earlier quality checks. (3) A blade fault traced to one factory requires clear traceability records so the affected population can be identified quickly.", "source_url": "https://www.nenc.news/2024-07-24/company-that-made-failed-vineyard-wind-blade-promises-thorough-investigation", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T11:51:44.857461+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0028", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0028/", "title": "Blade damage during construction at Dogger Bank A offshore wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In May 2024, a blade on an installed turbine at Dogger Bank A, an offshore wind farm under construction in the North Sea off the coast of England, United Kingdom, sustained damage. The Dogger Bank Wind Farm consortium, the project's owner and operator, disclosed the damage about a week after it occurred, stating that the damage was limited to a single blade on an installed turbine, that the surrounding marine area was restricted as a precaution, and that no one was injured or in the vicinity at the time. Construction work, including further turbine installation, resumed roughly a week after the event once initial findings indicated that the issue was confined to the affected blade.", "contributing_factors": "According to public statements made by GE Vernova, the turbine manufacturer, in July 2024 and reported in the trade press, the damage was assessed as resulting from an installation error offshore during the construction campaign, rather than from a design or manufacturing issue. GE Vernova drew a distinction between this event and a separate blade failure on a similar turbine type at another project, which it attributed to a manufacturing deviation. The detailed findings and any resulting changes to installation procedures were not published. The Dogger Bank Wind Farm consortium stated publicly that the issue was isolated to the single affected blade.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An offshore installation error can damage a blade on an installed turbine, so operators should apply the same quality controls and hold points to marine lifts as to factory work. (2) Early findings that limit the issue to one blade still require checks on other units installed in the same campaign or by the same crew. (3) A marine area restriction after blade damage allows safe resumption only once findings confirm the cause is confined to the affected unit.", "source_url": "https://www.offshorewind.biz/2024/07/25/ge-vernova-manufacturing-deviation-led-to-vineyard-wind-1-blade-failure-earlier-incident-at-dogger-bank-a-caused-by-installation-error/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T11:51:44.857461+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0029", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0029/", "title": "Second blade failure of 2024 at Dogger Bank A offshore wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "commissioning", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 22 August 2024 a blade failure occurred on a large multi-megawatt turbine at Dogger Bank A, an offshore wind farm under construction in the North Sea, United Kingdom. It was the second blade failure at the same project in 2024, following an earlier event in May of that year. The Dogger Bank Wind Farm consortium disclosed the incident publicly the same evening, stating that no one was injured or in the vicinity when the damage was sustained and that the surrounding marine area had been restricted in line with safety procedures. The failure occurred during the commissioning process being carried out by GE Vernova, the turbine manufacturer. Construction operations across the wind farm continued. The cluster of blade events on the same turbine design during 2024, including a further event at a separate offshore project outside the UK, attracted wide industry attention and raised questions about blade design reliability and manufacturing and installation quality controls. No fatalities or injuries were reported in connection with any of the 2024 events on that design.", "contributing_factors": "Reported from a preliminary investigation by GE Vernova, the turbine manufacturer, disclosed publicly around eleven days after the event. The turbine had been left in a fixed and static position during commissioning, with the rotor locked and the yaw system, which orients the rotor to the wind, disabled. It was then exposed to high winds during a subsequent storm. A statement issued by the Dogger Bank Wind Farm consortium reported GE Vernova's analysis as finding that the event was not caused by an installation or manufacturing issue but occurred during the commissioning process. GE Vernova described this event as distinct from the earlier 2024 event at Dogger Bank A, reported as attributed to installation, and from a 2024 event at a separate offshore project, reported as attributed to a manufacturing deviation. All three were characterised by the manufacturer as having separate root causes.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A blade on a turbine left with rotor locked and yaw disabled can fail in high winds, so operators should check weather exposure limits before locking during commissioning. (2) Separate root causes for similar blade failures on one design require operators to review each incident on its own merits rather than assume a single fix.", "source_url": "https://www.offshorewind.biz/2024/09/02/blade-failure-at-dogger-bank-a-tied-to-commissioning-process-ge-vernova-says/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T11:51:44.857461+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0030", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0030/", "title": "Cascading blackout across Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Croatia after vegetation contact", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In June 2024, shortly after midday, a disturbance on the Continental European interconnected transmission system caused a cascading blackout affecting Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Croatia. Immediately before the event the affected area was importing in the order of 2,000 MW from neighbouring systems and exporting in the order of 400 MW over a sub-sea high voltage direct current link. An overhead line tripped on a short circuit about fifteen minutes before the collapse, and a second 400 kV cross-border overhead line tripped about two minutes before it. Together these produced an N-2 condition with violations of line loading and voltage limits, after which voltage in the south-eastern part of the synchronous area began to fall rapidly. Multiple lines then disconnected in sequence on undervoltage and overcurrent protection, the system separated, and voltage collapse led to loss of supply across Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Croatia. The transmission system operators in these countries restored supply with assistance from neighbouring operators. The regional coordination body for European transmission system operators convened an expert panel, joined by the European regulatory agency and the relevant national regulatory authorities, which published an interim factual report in November 2024 and a final report in February 2025.", "contributing_factors": "As stated in the expert panel's final report of February 2025: (1) the two initial short circuits were attributed to vegetation that had grown too close to the conductors at specific corridor sections; (2) the resulting outages affected several transmission system operators, including those in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Croatia, at the same time without the operators concerned having an overall view of the state of the regional grid, which the report identified as a gap in cross-border real time situational awareness; (3) the subsequent cascade reflected the reduced margin of the system under N-2 conditions together with limited local voltage support in the affected region. The report set out recommendations covering cross-border coordination, regional situational awareness tools and vegetation management practices.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Vegetation contact on 400 kV overhead lines can start an N-2 condition, so operators must survey and clear growth on high voltage corridors on a risk-based cycle. (2) A disturbance that spans several control areas needs a shared real-time view, because operators lacked an overall picture of the regional grid state. (3) N-1 and N-2 checks must reflect actual import flows, since a heavily importing area lost voltage support after the line trips.", "source_url": "https://www.entsoe.eu/news/2025/02/25/entso-e-publishes-the-final-report-on-the-grid-incident-in-south-east-europe/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T11:51:44.857461+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0031", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0031/", "title": "Continental Spain and Portugal transmission collapse from voltage control gaps", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In April 2025, shortly after midday local time, the transmission system of Continental Spain and Portugal suffered a complete blackout. The collapse propagated across Spain and Portugal in about 30 seconds and briefly affected a small area of neighbouring Southwest France through interconnection. Tens of millions of consumers lost supply, and in some areas restoration took most of the remainder of the day. The cascade developed far faster than in earlier European blackouts. Early oscillations were followed by a rapid voltage rise in the south of the peninsula. Protection on numerous solar photovoltaic plants tripped on overvoltage, reducing generation and pushing voltages higher in a reinforcing loop. Within about twenty seconds of the initial rise the overvoltage had become extreme, and the interconnectors to the neighbouring systems to the north and to the south tripped on protection settings. System defence plans activated but did not prevent the collapse. Voltage collapsed and frequency fell, resulting in a total blackout of the Continental Spain and Portugal system. It was the most severe European blackout in more than two decades. A regional expert panel drawn from transmission system operators, regional coordination centres and European and national regulatory bodies, chaired from two systems not affected by the event, published a factual report in October 2025 and a final report in March 2026.", "contributing_factors": "According to the expert panel's final report, published in March 2026, the blackout resulted from a combination of around fifteen interacting factors. The principal ones reported were: (1) oscillations that were not adequately damped, with a low-damped inter-area mode in the wider synchronous area not effectively mitigated; (2) gaps in voltage and reactive power control, with substantial reactive capacity from shunt reactors available but not activated during the voltage rise preceding the event; (3) differences in voltage regulation practice between operators in the affected area; (4) rapid output reductions and generator disconnections, where protection at collector substations produced cascading disconnection under sustained overvoltage conditions that were not observable to the transmission operators; and (5) uneven stabilisation capability across the system. The panel stated that a high share of renewable generation was not the root cause, and that the central issue was voltage control regardless of the type of generation. It reported that renewable plants were operating in a fixed power control mode and that distributed rooftop solar experienced voltage-related disconnection through inverter protection. The panel also reported that some generator protection settings, for example overvoltage thresholds measured away from the point of connection, or instantaneous trips without time delay, could disconnect generation unnecessarily during voltage oscillations. The event was described as the first documented case in that synchronous area in which cascading generation disconnection under sustained overvoltage led to a system-wide blackout.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Confirm that reactive reserves listed as available will respond automatically to a rising voltage, and design and test that automatic activation rather than relying on manual action. (2) Review generator protection settings so that overvoltage thresholds are referenced to the point of connection and instantaneous trips without time delay are avoided. (3) Close the visibility gap between distribution-connected collector substations and transmission control rooms.", "source_url": "https://www.entsoe.eu/publications/blackout/28-april-2025-iberian-blackout/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T11:51:44.857461+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0032", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0032/", "title": "Fatal fall during onshore wind turbine construction, inquiry findings on rescue arrangements and equipment", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In March 2017 a worker died following a fall during the construction phase of an onshore wind farm in Scotland. A Fatal Accident Inquiry was held under the Inquiries into Fatal Accidents and Sudden Deaths etc (Scotland) Act 2016 and the Sheriff's determination was issued in December 2024. The inquiry examined the circumstances of the death, the rescue response and the equipment available on site. The determination made recommendations directed at the principal contractor, the construction subcontractor and the turbine manufacturer, covering three areas: (1) joint health and safety drills involving all contractors and subcontractors, focused on rescue from height; (2) availability of basket stretchers or spinal boards capable of keeping a casualty horizontal during a rescue from height; and (3) consideration of technology to identify when a person has disconnected from a fall arrest system and to provide an audible or visual warning to colleagues. The national health and safety regulator subsequently issued public commentary encouraging industry-wide consideration of the recommendations.", "contributing_factors": "As stated in the determination, which is intended to identify lessons rather than apportion fault, the inquiry identified gaps in the rescue arrangements and equipment available at the time: (a) joint rescue drills involving all contractors operating on the site were not standard practice; (b) the stretcher equipment readily available may not have been suited to keeping a casualty horizontal during a rescue from height, noting that a vertical orientation during such a rescue can increase chest pressure with adverse physiological effects; and (c) technology capable of giving early warning of disconnection from a fall arrest system was not in use at the site at the time.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Joint rescue drills must involve every contractor and subcontractor on site rather than separate drills by each firm. (2) Rescue stretchers must keep a casualty horizontal during descent from height to avoid increased chest pressure. (3) Fall arrest disconnection detection with immediate audible or visual warning should be assessed for use on site.", "source_url": "https://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/fatal-accident-inquiries/fatal-accident-inquiries-and-determinations/fai-antonio-joao-da-silva-linares-responses/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T11:51:44.857461+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0033", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0033/", "title": "Battery fire at Valley Center Energy Storage System, California", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In September 2023, a fire occurred in the late afternoon at the Valley Center Energy Storage System in Valley Center, San Diego County, California, operated by Terra-Gen. Fire and sheriff's departments were dispatched, roads in the area were closed, an evacuation order was issued for an area within about a quarter of a mile of the site, and shelter in place advice was given for an area of about half a mile. Reporting indicated that the fire involved approximately 100 lithium-ion battery packs which, according to later statements from Terra-Gen, had been decommissioned, palletised and were awaiting collection for recycling. Those packs had been taken out of service after a sensor system fault activated the water based protection system. Public safety measures were lifted about four hours after the fire was reported, and Terra-Gen stated that the incident was concluded by the following morning. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Sources reported that the cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of publication. Statements from Terra-Gen described an earlier sensor system fault that activated the water based protection system, after which the affected battery packs were decommissioned, palletised and stored on site pending removal for recycling. Terra-Gen also stated that the decommissioned units were segregated from operating equipment and that the site containment arrangements limited the extent of the fire. No mechanism linking the earlier fault or water exposure to the fire had been publicly confirmed at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Decommissioned lithium-ion packs can still catch fire, so operators must keep them under the same monitoring and containment rules as live units. (2) Water from a protection system may damage packs and raise later fire risk, so specialist advice is needed before storage or transport. (3) Segregation of decommissioned packs limited fire spread, so operators should confirm separation distances in site records and emergency plans.", "source_url": "https://www.energy-storage.news/terra-gen-to-investigate-cause-of-valley-center-battery-storage-fire-with-incident-over/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T11:51:44.857461+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0035", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0035/", "title": "Battery unit fire during commissioning at Bouldercombe Battery Project, Rockhampton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In September 2023, during the final stages of commissioning at the Bouldercombe Battery Project near Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia, operated by Genex Power, one of 40 containerised battery units caught fire in the early evening, near the end of a discharge cycle. Site personnel disconnected the facility from the grid. The fire was contained to the single affected unit and did not spread to others, although the immediately adjacent unit was reported to have suffered minor thermal damage to electrical insulation. Local fire and emergency services attended and, consistent with the guidance for this unit type, no water was applied directly to the burning cells. Nearby residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed during the response. There were no injuries. The damaged unit was later transported to a testing facility for detailed physical inspection. The commissioning programme was delayed by approximately six weeks while two replacement units were sourced and installed.", "contributing_factors": "As publicly disclosed by Genex Power around six weeks after the event, a preliminary root cause analysis by Tesla, the battery manufacturer, working with Genex Power and other stakeholders, found that the fault began on the AC side of the affected unit, at the power electronics interface with the AC bus bar inside that unit, and then propagated to the battery modules, leading to the fire. Genex Power stated that the failure was isolated to the power electronics interface in the individual unit and was not considered characteristic of the wider installation. Stated mitigation actions were: replacement of two identified power electronics units, physical inspection of the power electronics in the remaining units at the site, replacement of the two damaged battery units, and an upgrade by Genex Power of breaker control setting response times.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat AC side power electronics, including inverter and bus bar connections, as a primary ignition source in battery unit safety cases. (2) Confirm that local fire services will apply the agreed suppression approach for the unit type before energisation. (3) Inspect power electronics in all units on site when a unit level fault is found, even if characterised as isolated.", "source_url": "https://www.energy-storage.news/tesla-megapack-on-fire-in-minor-incident-at-battery-storage-site-in-australia/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T11:51:44.857461+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0036", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0036/", "title": "Onshore wind turbine tower collapse during high winds shortly after installation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In August 2024 an onshore wind turbine in the central United States collapsed during a period of high winds. The turbine had recently been installed and had not entered long-term operational service. No fatalities were reported. Preliminary public reporting suggested that loading during the weather event exceeded design margins, but no confirmed causation analysis was available in public sources at the time of reporting. Public reporting in the same period noted several other structural failures at onshore wind sites in the same country during 2024, which drew wider industry attention to structural reliability. This entry is limited to the publicly observable information about the tower collapse and does not address the separate blade failure events recorded elsewhere in the same period.", "contributing_factors": "No investigation findings for this event were publicly available at the time of the source reporting, so no factor can be attributed to this incident. Public industry literature on onshore tower collapses identifies recurring categories that may be relevant in general terms: tower or foundation design or installation defects; extreme weather loading beyond the design envelope; yaw or control system anomalies allowing operation outside the intended envelope; and incomplete verification of foundation curing or bolt torque values during commissioning. These are background categories drawn from published literature rather than findings about this event.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine that has not entered long-term service can collapse in high winds, so operators should apply enhanced monitoring in the period between installation and handover. (2) Loading during a weather event exceeded design margins on a new turbine, so insurers should check that site-specific extreme wind studies inform selection rather than follow it.", "source_url": "https://thumbwind.com/2024/12/31/2024-wind-turbine-accidents/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T11:51:44.857461+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0050", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0050/", "title": "Inverter fire during commissioning at Mannum Solar Farm Stage 2, South Australia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In January 2024, a fire occurred at Mannum Solar Farm Stage 2, near Mannum, South Australia, operated by Epic Energy, while the project was undergoing commissioning following completion of construction. An inverter housed within a shipping container ignited. A contractor on site sustained burn injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment. The local fire service attended with around ten firefighters and kept the fire contained to the affected container, preventing spread to the adjacent solar panel arrays. Damage was reported at approximately A$250,000. The state work safety regulator and police attended the site for a workplace safety investigation. Repair work and the broader commissioning programme continued. The facility was not yet exporting power to the grid at the time of the incident.", "contributing_factors": "Public reporting and statements attributed to Epic Energy and the fire service described the immediate event as an inverter ignition within a shipping container. Causation analysis was reported as being carried out by the principal contractor in coordination with the state work safety regulator. No cause had been published in the sources reviewed, and no conclusion should be drawn here about the technical origin of the ignition or about the activities being undertaken at the time.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An inverter in a shipping container can ignite and cause burns to nearby workers. Operators should review live working procedures and personal protective equipment before commissioning energised power electronics. (2) Fire in an inverter container can be contained by local firefighters if spread to arrays is prevented. Operators should maintain physical separation distances set at the design stage. (3) Commissioning can resume after a fire once repairs are done. Asset owners should confirm sight of the commissioning plan and hazard assessments in advance.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine.com/2024/01/15/worker-injured-in-fire-at-south-australian-solar-farm/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:02:39.687823+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0051", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0051/", "title": "Fire at Sungrow-owned Raywood solar farm in Victoria spreads into vegetation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-02", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 20 February 2025, a fire broke out in the late afternoon at the Raywood solar farm near Bendigo, Victoria, Australia, approximately 155 km northwest of Melbourne, owned by a subsidiary of Sungrow Power Australia Pty Ltd. Energy Safe Victoria said the fire originated in electrical equipment, and it spread into long grass beneath the panel arrays. Reporting differed on the item: pv magazine Australia described a transformer, and later reporting described a Sungrow inverter. Country Fire Authority and Fire Rescue Victoria units from several surrounding stations attended, with Victoria Police, and the distribution network operator Powercor attended the scene. Smoke drifted towards Bendigo and residents were warned through emergency notification systems. The fire was brought under control in about three hours. Energy Safe Victoria opened a formal investigation and, as an interim measure, directed that the site remain disconnected from the grid until vegetation beneath the panels had been cut back below 100 mm in height. No injuries were reported. Two days later, at midday on 22 February 2025, Energy Safe Victoria directed five solar farms owned by subsidiaries of Sungrow Power Australia Pty Ltd, at Raywood, Goornong, Ledcourt, Stawell and Moolort, to stop generating electricity. The directions followed an inspection of 18 solar farms across Shepparton, Bendigo, Kerang and Mildura over two weeks in February, in which the regulator found inadequate vegetation management, insufficient fire breaks and vegetation that had grown too high.", "contributing_factors": "As reported by the attending fire services and in the public statements of Energy Safe Victoria: (1) the fire originated in electrical equipment, in the words of the regulator, with the item itself and the initiating fault the subject of its investigation and not established at the time of reporting, the cited report describing a transformer and later reporting a Sungrow inverter; (2) the fire spread from that equipment into uncut grass beneath the panels, giving a propagation path from a localised electrical fire into the surrounding ground cover; (3) the regulator made return to operation conditional on cutting vegetation beneath the panels below 100 mm, indicating that vegetation height at the site was treated as a live operational fire risk rather than only a factor in the incident itself.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire that starts in a solar inverter or transformer can spread rapidly through uncut grass beneath the arrays, so operators must keep vegetation height below 100 mm as a standing control. (2) After an electrical fire at a Sungrow site, the regulator required disconnection until vegetation was cut back, so owners should plan for possible multi-week outages and revenue loss. (3) Smoke from a solar farm fire drifted towards Bendigo, prompting public warnings, so site plans must include community notification arrangements and liaison with local fire services.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine-australia.com/2025/02/21/transformer-fire-at-victorian-solar-farm-under-investigation/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:02:39.687823+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0052", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0052/", "title": "Heatwave grass fire at Wellington North Solar Farm cuts output 10 percent", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-12", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In December 2025, a grass fire broke out shortly after midday at Wellington North Solar Farm, a utility scale solar PV facility of several hundred megawatts near Wellington, close to Dubbo, New South Wales, Australia, operated and owned by Lightsource bp. The state rural fire service responded during a regional heatwave in which multiple bushfires were burning concurrently. Around 90 hectares within the site boundary burned and the fire was reported under control within about 90 minutes. The facility was disconnected from the grid during the response. Emergency services left the site the following day and the operator returned the plant to service later that afternoon at reduced capacity. By the next day the site was reported to be operating at approximately 90 percent of capacity, the shortfall attributed in reporting to damage to modules and associated infrastructure within the burned area. The site uses sheep grazing for vegetation management and no animal injuries were reported. The cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Public reporting stated that the fire occurred during a state wide heatwave with multiple concurrent bushfires, and that Lightsource bp and the fire service were investigating the cause. No ignition source was established in reporting. Reporting also noted the presence of grass fuel within the site despite grazing being used for vegetation management. No information was published on fire detection or suppression arrangements at the site.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grass fuel at a solar farm can support rapid fire spread during a heatwave, so operators should supplement grazing with slashing and fuel load inspections before hot periods. (2) A solar farm fire requires grid disconnection and phased return to service, so operators should design electrical zoning to allow undamaged sections to restart while repairs continue. (3) Concurrent bushfires during a regional heatwave stretch rural fire service resources, so operators should agree access points, isolation plans and site familiarisation with responders in advance.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine.com/2025/12/08/fire-forces-400-mw-solar-farm-offline-in-australia/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:02:39.687823+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0053", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0053/", "title": "Multiple onshore wind turbine collapses during Iowa tornado outbreak", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In May 2024 a tornado outbreak across the central United States, including Iowa, produced a tornado rated EF4 that caused fatalities, dozens of injuries and the destruction of a large number of homes in a nearby community. The same outbreak brought down several utility scale onshore wind turbines at wind farms in the surrounding rural area of Iowa. Reports stated that no site personnel or members of the public were injured by the turbine collapses themselves. The operator stated publicly that the event had an unusually large impact on its wind fleet and that it had recorded only one previous turbine collapse, also caused by a tornado. Photographs and video of the collapsed turbines were widely circulated in news media. Publicly available reporting did not include the results of a detailed structural investigation of the failures.", "contributing_factors": "As reported in the source: (1) the tornado was rated EF4 by the national weather service, corresponding to wind speeds in the region of 166 to 200 mph; (2) utility scale wind turbines are designed against standards for extreme sustained wind loading and are not designed to survive a direct tornado strike, the tornado wind field differing from the design wind regime in peak velocity, gust profile and rotational loading; (3) the operator's statement that only one comparable collapse had occurred previously indicates that direct tornado strikes on turbines are rare even in tornado prone regions. No detailed failure analysis of foundations, tower sections or connections was reported publicly.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Utility scale onshore wind turbines are not designed to survive direct EF4 tornado strikes, so operators in prone regions should record tornado exposure in site selection and risk assessments. (2) A single tornado can collapse several turbines at once, so portfolio risk assessments should test correlated multi site loss from clustered wind farms. (3) Direct tornado strikes on turbines are rare, so operators should still plan for the event based on the single prior collapse recorded by the same operator.", "source_url": "https://www.thewellnews.com/in-the-news/tornado-outbreak-takes-down-massive-wind-turbines-in-iowa/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:02:39.687823+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0054", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0054/", "title": "Onshore wind turbine gearbox failure, published sun shaft fracture analysis", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A peer reviewed engineering paper published in January 2025 set out a failure analysis of the gearbox of an onshore wind turbine rated at about 1.6 MW. This entry is drawn from that published analysis rather than from an operator report, and the date and location of the failure itself are not stated here. The paper examined the sun shaft of the planetary stage, a component that carries high stress concentrations, and combined finite element stress analysis under operational loading, fracture mechanics assessment of the observed crack initiation and propagation, review of the lubrication system and its part in wear progression, and consideration of contributory factors across the wider gearbox. The paper sits within a body of published work that identifies gearbox failure as one of the highest consequence reliability issues in onshore wind. Separate published fleet studies, not the paper cited here, report high speed shaft bearing failures as a leading share of gearbox subcomponent failures.", "contributing_factors": "The cited paper and the wider published literature discuss the following mechanisms as typically present in gearbox failures of this kind. They are reported here as mechanisms described in the sources, not as confirmed causes for this unit. (1) High speed shaft bearing wear associated with white etching cracks, a degradation mechanism reported in modern gearbox bearings, particularly under variable loading. (2) Lubrication system performance, including oil contamination from water or particulate ingress and oil temperature management. (3) Dynamic loading from wind turbulence, grid events and control system anomalies beyond static design load assumptions. (4) Manufacturing tolerances and assembly quality, with small variations propagating over many thousands of operating hours. (5) Limitations of condition monitoring, where vibration analysis, oil debris monitoring and acoustic emission may not detect early stage progressive damage. The literature describes gearbox condition monitoring as an area of active research rather than a settled capability.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High stress concentrations in the sun shaft of the planetary stage require fracture mechanics assessment of recovered parts. (2) Lubrication system performance must be reviewed as part of gearbox failure analysis to check for wear progression. (3) Condition monitoring limits mean early stage gearbox damage may go undetected under variable loading.", "source_url": "https://www.mdpi.com/2411-9660/9/1/4", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:02:39.687823+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0055", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0055/", "title": "IFA2 interconnector between Sellindge and France down over two months", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-11", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In November 2023, National Grid issued a market transparency notification of an unplanned outage on the IFA2 (Interconnexion France Angleterre 2) high voltage direct current submarine interconnector, a link of around 1 GW between Sellindge, Kent, United Kingdom and Les Mandarins, France. The link was reported as unavailable until at least the start of February 2024 following a suspected cable fault, an expected outage of roughly two and a half months. The link is one of several interconnectors across the English Channel crossing, and its unavailability over the winter heating demand period represented a meaningful reduction in cross border transfer capability between the two countries. Flows at the time were reported as predominantly imports on the interconnectors serving that region, so alternative transfer capacity was limited. No safety incident was reported in connection with the fault. The consequences reported were operational and commercial.", "contributing_factors": "The market notification characterised the immediate cause as a suspected cable fault. No further detail of the fault mechanism, such as insulation breakdown, mechanical damage from anchor or trawl interaction, or a manufacturing defect, was given in the public notification. The following is general industry context rather than reported detail: repair of a submarine HVDC cable normally requires fault location by electrical diagnostic methods over the full cable length, mobilisation of a specialist cable repair vessel equipped for the cable type and water depth, weather dependent lift, jointing and re-laying operations, and post repair commissioning testing. Fault location and vessel mobilisation each commonly take several weeks, which is broadly consistent with the outage duration indicated in the notification.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A submarine HVDC interconnector outage from a cable fault removes the full transfer rating for the repair period, so contingency plans must treat loss of the entire 1 GW block as credible. (2) Repair of a submarine cable fault requires weeks for location and vessel mobilisation, so operators should plan on two to three months from detection to return to service. (3) Winter import reliance means capacity assessments must include loss of one or more interconnectors for a full peak period.", "source_url": "https://www.newpower.info/2023/11/cable-fault-takes-ifa2-interconnector-out-of-action-until-february/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:02:39.687823+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0056", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0056/", "title": "Fire at an HVDC converter station leads to site evacuation and loss of interconnector capacity", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In September 2021, a fire broke out at a high voltage direct current converter station in the United Kingdom serving a subsea interconnector to continental Europe. The site was evacuated and emergency services attended. The link is arranged as two poles of equal rating, and one pole was already out of service on a planned maintenance outage before the fire, so available capacity had already been reduced by half. Following the fire, the status of the affected pole was changed on a European transparency platform from a planned outage to an unplanned outage, and reported flows on the link fell to zero. The event coincided with tight system conditions, and day ahead prices for the immediate evening peak period rose to over 2,500 pounds per MWh. The national system operator stated that sufficient operating margin was forecast for that evening's peak demand period. No injuries to personnel were reported and the site evacuation was completed without incident.", "contributing_factors": "Public statements at the time emphasised the safety of staff, emergency responders and local residents as the priority. The cause was the subject of a formal investigation and was not disclosed in the public reporting available at the time of writing, so no causal factors are recorded here. Reporting noted only that one pole of the link was already out of service for planned maintenance when the fire occurred.", "lessons_learned": "(1) One pole of a bipole HVDC link already on planned outage means any fire on the remaining pole removes all capacity, so operators must plan operational response for that state. (2) HVDC converter station evacuation must include a defined high voltage de-energisation and earthing sequence shared with emergency services in advance. (3) Any change in interconnector availability appears quickly on public platforms, so operators must prepare holding statements and notification routes.", "source_url": "https://www.spglobal.com/energy/en/news-research/latest-news/electric-power/091521-sellindge-evacuated-after-fire-at-uk-france-ifa-interconnector-site", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:02:39.687823+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0058", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0058/", "title": "Fire in two battery containers at Cirencester Hybrid Solar Farm, Gloucestershire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In March 2025, in the mid afternoon, a fire was reported at the Cirencester Hybrid Solar Farm, a hybrid site on Witpit Lane, Preston, near Cirencester, Gloucestershire, United Kingdom, operated by Gridserve, combining ground mounted solar generation with a co-located lithium-ion battery energy storage system. Fire and rescue crews attended with appliances from local stations, supported by further appliances from neighbouring services, with more than 40 firefighters in attendance in total, using high volume pumps and specialist equipment. The fire was described as an electrical installation fire involving two shipping container sized battery enclosures. Crews prevented the fire from spreading to a third container. Thick black smoke was visible from surrounding areas and residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed because of smoke from burning battery materials and plastic casings. Nearby roads were closed during the response. A stop message was recorded at about 22:00 local time. A reporter visiting the following day observed that the solar arrays appeared unaffected. The cause was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Public statements attributed to Gridserve, the site operator, and the fire service at the time characterised the incident as an electrical installation fire affecting battery storage containers, with the investigation ongoing. No cause had been confirmed in the material reviewed. The following are general risk categories recognised in industry commentary for co-located solar and storage sites, not findings about this site: (1) thermal runaway in lithium-ion cells, where a single overheated cell can initiate a propagating event; (2) degraded or underperforming thermal management; (3) electrical faults, arc flash and short circuit risk at converter and AC interface equipment, which is concentrated where solar and storage conversion plant share a site; (4) the extent of separation and compartmentalisation between battery enclosures; (5) detection and suppression response at unmanned rural sites with extended emergency service travel times.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion battery container fires can spread between enclosures, so operators should verify separation distances and compartment barriers during design reviews. (2) Smoke from burning battery materials requires advance shelter advice for nearby residents at rural sites. (3) Unmanned hybrid sites need remote monitoring that identifies involved enclosures before crews arrive.", "source_url": "https://www.cotswoldjournal.co.uk/news/25057370.latest-fire-cirencester-hybrid-solar-farm/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:02:39.687823+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0059", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0059/", "title": "Wind turbine tower collapse and generator fire in Western Nebraska, cause under investigation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In January 2024, during the morning, a turbine at an onshore wind site in Western Nebraska, United States, failed structurally. Local fire services were called after the failure was reported. Responders found the tower twisted and folded over, with the generator burning on the ground and producing black smoke. Local emergency management reported that no injuries occurred. The cause was not determined at the time of reporting and an investigation was under way. Public reporting also noted that details of an earlier tower failure elsewhere in the same region had taken several months to become publicly available.", "contributing_factors": "No cause was publicly stated during the immediate response phase. Public reporting recorded only that the tower had folded over, that the generator was alight on the ground, and that an investigation had been opened. No source information is available on tower connection condition, foundation condition, control system behaviour or wind conditions at the time of failure, and no inference on these points should be drawn from the available reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A structural tower collapse that leaves the generator burning on the ground requires emergency plans to treat ground level fires as a credible scenario, not only nacelle fires at height. (2) Operators should agree exclusion distances, access routes and foam or water supply with local fire services for a downed turbine before any event. (3) Where a prior tower failure occurred in the same region, operators should record whether a fleet review took place so any repeat can be assessed against earlier findings.", "source_url": "https://ruralradio.com/krvn/news/wind-turbine-destroyed-in-western-nebraska/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:02:39.687823+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0060", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0060/", "title": "Blade detaches from turbine at Future Generation Wind, Plymouth, Massachusetts", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In November 2025, in the early afternoon, a blade detached from a turbine at Future Generation Wind, a small onshore wind farm in the Buzzards Bay area of Plymouth, Massachusetts, United States, operated by RWE. Reports described the turbine as around 90 metres to blade tip and the detached section as roughly 23 to 30 metres long. The blade came to rest several hundred feet from the tower base on low-lying agricultural land. A member of the public first reported the event after noticing that one of the three blades was missing. The local fire service attended and found no hazards in the immediate aftermath. There were no injuries and no occupied buildings were struck. The site comprises four turbines of about 2 MW each, commissioned in 2016, with maintenance carried out by the turbine manufacturer under contract. Following the event RWE shut down all four turbines at the site as a precaution and began a root cause analysis with the manufacturer. The state environmental regulator and the local building inspector were notified and carried out their own reviews. The local authority stated publicly that oversight of turbine safety rests with the permit holder and property owner rather than with the town. The fallen blade was visible from a nearby highway and the event attracted considerable local attention.", "contributing_factors": "No cause had been published at the time of reporting. RWE and the turbine manufacturer stated that a root cause analysis had been started and that the investigation would be conducted jointly. A neighbour was reported in the media as having heard a squealing noise from the turbine in the period before the failure, which had reportedly stopped shortly beforehand. This is an unverified public observation and had not been linked to the failure by any published investigation. Regulators and the local inspector were notified but no findings were in the public domain.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Shut down sister turbines of the same type and service history at a site after an unexplained blade failure until the root cause is understood. (2) Treat blade release as a credible event when assessing land use around each turbine and record throw distance assumptions. (3) Log and investigate third party noise reports as potential condition data for changes in noise or vibration.", "source_url": "https://www.nbcboston.com/news/local/mass-wind-turbine-blade-damage/3841685/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0061", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0061/", "title": "Onshore wind blade detachment in Denmark, reported 25-metre fragment travelling over 100 metres", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Denmark", "country_code": "dk", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In April 2024, a blade fragment reported as around 25 metres in length detached from an onshore wind turbine in Denmark and came to rest more than 100 metres from the turbine base, close to a roadway. No injuries were reported. The event was recorded in a third party compilation of wind turbine accidents for 2024 and was one of a number of blade detachment events tracked across several jurisdictions that year. The publicly available reporting does not identify the turbine model, its age or the operator, and does not describe the response, the subsequent inspection of the wider fleet or any regulatory follow up.", "contributing_factors": "No root cause was stated in the available public reporting, and the source consulted is a consolidated accident compilation rather than an investigation report. It is not known from the source whether the rotor was turning at the time of the failure, nor what the prevailing weather conditions were. Mechanisms commonly cited in the wider literature on blade structural failures, none of which is established for this event, include leading edge erosion, lightning damage to internal structural elements, blade root bolt fatigue, degradation of blade shell bond lines, icing induced load imbalance and wind loading beyond the design class. These should be read as general categories for operators to consider in their own risk assessments, not as findings about this incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Assess credible blade fragment throw distance for turbines near roads, paths or buildings. (2) Reconcile setback distances after repowering or fitting longer blades. (3) Report blade failures to industry collation schemes to inform fleet inspection planning.", "source_url": "https://thumbwind.com/2024/12/31/2024-wind-turbine-accidents/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0062", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0062/", "title": "Fatality during routine maintenance at an onshore wind turbine, Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In September 2024 a maintenance worker was killed at an onshore wind turbine in Germany after being struck by a falling blade during routine maintenance work. The publicly available information comes from a consolidated industry compilation of wind sector incidents for 2024, which does not identify the operator, the turbine supplier or the turbine model, and does not describe the sequence of events in detail. The same compilation notes a separate fatality reported elsewhere in Europe during onshore turbine assembly in the same year. Investigation of workplace fatalities in Germany falls to the relevant statutory accident insurance body and state occupational safety authorities; no findings were available in public reporting at the time of writing.", "contributing_factors": "No contributing factors have been established in the public reporting available, and no cause should be inferred from this entry. The source records only that the fatality occurred during routine maintenance and involved a falling blade. For context, investigations into blade fall events during maintenance commonly examine blade locking and pitch position, rotor lock and stored energy isolation, the adequacy of documented procedures for the task, exclusion zone control beneath the rotor, communication between nacelle and ground crews, the condition of blade root bolts and pitch bearing hardware, pre-task inspection findings, and training and authorisation for the specific activity. These are general lines of enquiry, not findings in this case.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Routine maintenance at an onshore wind turbine can involve a falling blade, so operators should confirm rotor lock and blade pitch before any work below the rotor. (2) A separate fatality during onshore turbine assembly shows repeat events across sites, so insurers should check whether prior incidents at similar assets prompted procedure updates.", "source_url": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260615111700/https://thumbwind.com/2024/12/31/2024-wind-turbine-accidents/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0063", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0063/", "title": "Fatal fall from turbine nacelle during onshore wind maintenance, UK", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In July 2024, a wind turbine technician died after falling from the nacelle of a turbine at an onshore wind site in Scotland, UK, during maintenance work. Public reporting available at the time recorded the fatality and stated that the national workplace safety regulator had been notified and that a formal investigation had been opened. The detailed circumstances of the fall, including the work being carried out and the fall protection arrangements in place, were not established in the public record at the time of writing. The source for this entry is a secondary summary of wind sector incidents, so the account should be treated as indicative rather than confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "No contributing factors have been published for this incident. Sources stated only that a fall from the nacelle occurred during maintenance and that a regulatory investigation was under way. Nothing in the available reporting identifies whether fall protection equipment was in use, its condition, or the sequence of events. Any assessment of cause should await the investigation findings.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Nacelle roof work during maintenance requires verified anchor points rated for external loads. Check rating and condition before each use. (2) Fall protection equipment condition and use must be confirmed for every task. Audit specification, condition and correct application together. (3) A regulatory investigation follows every fatal fall from height. Record and review all prior height safety checks at the site.", "source_url": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260615111700/https://thumbwind.com/2024/12/31/2024-wind-turbine-accidents/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0064", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0064/", "title": "Nacelle fire at onshore wind site ignites rangeland wildfire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In July 2019, a fire in the nacelle of a turbine at an onshore wind site in an arid rangeland area of the United States produced burning debris that fell to ground level and ignited a wildfire. Reporting cited by the source states the wildfire burned in excess of 250 acres of rangeland and threatened a number of structures before being contained by a large multi-agency firefighting response drawing on mutual aid. Ground-based crews had no realistic means of reaching the burning nacelle at height, so suppression effort was directed at containing the wildfire perimeter rather than the source, which was allowed to burn out. The operator shut down more than thirty surrounding turbines as a precaution and to allow fire crews safe access. The source cites the event as one of several comparable cases in which a turbine fire in dry terrain propagated to surrounding land, and refers to published analysis suggesting that fires make up a significant minority of reported wind turbine incidents worldwide and that reporting of such fires is incomplete.", "contributing_factors": "The specific root cause of the nacelle fire was not disclosed in the cited public source, which attributed the event in general terms to mechanisms typical of turbine nacelle fires. As general background, the source describes the nacelle as concentrating combustible material (composite housing and blade material, lubricating and hydraulic oils, generator insulation and control cabinet wiring), an abundant air supply driven by the wind, and common ignition sources including electrical faults in transformer or switchgear equipment, overheating of gearbox or generator bearings, and lightning. The propagation pathway described is burning material falling or being blown from height into cured grass and brush at ground level. The eventual extent of the wildfire was reported to have been governed by wind conditions, fuel load and the time taken for fire services to assemble across several agencies.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire on an onshore turbine in dry terrain can drop burning debris that starts a wildfire, so operators should map wind directions and fuel loads around each turbine with local fire services. (2) Ground crews cannot reach a nacelle fire at height, so emergency plans must direct effort to the wildfire perimeter while the nacelle burns out. (3) Turbine fires in arid areas can spread to hundreds of acres, so operators should pre-agree shutdown protocols for neighbouring turbines to give fire crews safe access.", "source_url": "https://themorganlegalgroup.com/2025/12/16/wind-turbine-incident-lessons-from-fatal-fires-and-blade-failures/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0065", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0065/", "title": "Two fatalities in an onshore turbine nacelle fire during maintenance", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2013, "incident_month": null, "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In October 2013 a fire broke out in the nacelle of an onshore wind turbine in the Netherlands while a maintenance team was working inside it. Two maintenance workers died. The event is described in academic and legal commentary as the first recorded fatal wind turbine fire. Reporting states that the investigation attributed the fire to an electrical failure inside the nacelle, although the specific component involved was not made public. The workers were at height in a confined space and the fire developed rapidly, and rescue was not possible. The case has since been cited widely in reviews of wind turbine fire risk assessment and fire protection. Sector attention on nacelle fire detection, suppression and emergency egress increased after the event, although provisions across the operating fleet remain varied.", "contributing_factors": "Sources state that the fire was caused by an electrical failure inside the nacelle. Wider fire risk literature cited alongside the case notes that electrical faults are the most common ignition source in wind turbines, arising from failures in control systems, wiring, transformers or switchgear that produce arcing or overheating, and that flammable lubricants and insulation materials are present throughout the nacelle. Commentary on the case also identifies the presence of personnel in the nacelle at the moment of ignition, and the limited fire detection, fire suppression and emergency egress provisions typical of turbines of that generation. The register has not been able to confirm from primary sources what detection, suppression, egress equipment or emergency training were in place at this turbine.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Nacelle fires at height in confined spaces develop rapidly, so operators must plan maintenance with early detection and viable egress routes. (2) Limited detection, suppression and egress provisions on older turbines increase fatality risk during nacelle work. (3) Electrical faults in control systems, wiring or switchgear ignite fires where flammable materials are present.", "source_url": "https://themorganlegalgroup.com/2025/12/16/wind-turbine-incident-lessons-from-fatal-fires-and-blade-failures/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0066", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0066/", "title": "View Fire turbine blaze spreads to rangeland near Whitewater, California", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2012, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In June 2012, an onshore wind turbine in the San Gorgonio Pass wind resource area, near Whitewater, east of Cabazon in Riverside County, California, United States, caught fire in what became known as the View Fire. Burning material from the elevated turbine reached the surrounding vegetation and started a wildfire, which spread across rangeland before being contained by fire services drawing on resources from more than one agency. Reported burned area was in the order of a few hundred acres. Brush and debris had previously been cleared around the turbine bases as a vegetation management measure, and the clearance did not prevent ignition of vegetation beyond the cleared area. The event is cited in later commentary on wind turbine fires as an example of ignition spreading from an elevated turbine fire to surrounding land.", "contributing_factors": "Reported by the source, and with the caveat that no formal investigation findings were available in the material reviewed: the root cause of the turbine fire itself was not disclosed; burning material from the elevated part of the turbine is understood to have fallen or been carried by wind beyond the cleared area at the tower base; the surrounding arid rangeland near Whitewater carried cured fuel; local wind conditions in the San Gorgonio Pass area supported spread; and the source of the fire was at height, beyond the reach of ground based suppression, so containment depended on perimeter control of the wildfire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Burning material from a nacelle fire at height can travel beyond ground clearance zones, so operators should set radii using site wind conditions. (2) An elevated turbine fire cannot be reached from the ground, so site plans must cover perimeter control of any resulting wildfire. (3) Cured fuel in arid rangeland supports rapid spread, so operators should review seasonal fuel state around turbines at peak fire risk.", "source_url": "https://www.firetrace.com/fire-protection-blog/wind-turbine-death", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0068", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0068/", "title": "Three workers killed after nacelle fire on Sinovel turbine, northern China", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2011, "incident_month": null, "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2011, three workers died following an incident in the nacelle of a Sinovel turbine at an onshore wind farm in northern China. Sector trade press reporting indicated that the sequence began when one worker suffered an electric shock in the nacelle. Two further workers sustained severe burns in the fire that followed and later died in hospital. Sinovel stated at the time that it was investigating the cause. No detailed findings on causation were published in the sources reviewed. The incident occurred during a period of rapid growth in the national wind fleet, during which the national energy regulator had asked the national wind industry association to carry out a wide ranging review of turbine quality.", "contributing_factors": "Causation for this incident was not disclosed in the sources reviewed. Reporting established only that an electric shock in the nacelle was followed by a fire, and that two workers died of burn injuries after being taken to hospital. The wider context reported at the time was a national review of turbine quality during a period of rapid fleet growth, which was not linked by the sources to this specific event. The severity of the burn injuries and the elevated, confined nature of the nacelle work location are consistent with the recognised difficulty of escape and rescue from a nacelle during a fire, but no source confirmed the escape or rescue arrangements in place.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Electric shock in a nacelle led to fire, so operators must confirm and record isolation and lock out before work on energised nacelle equipment. (2) Severe burns in a confined nacelle caused two deaths, so plans must cover rapid descent, first aid and handover for multiple casualties at height.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1048294/three-wind-turbine-workers-killed-sinovel-incident", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0070", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0070/", "title": "Transformer fire at Blount Street substation causes Madison, Wisconsin outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In July 2019, a transformer at American Transmission's Blount Street substation on East Main Street in downtown Madison, Wisconsin, failed, resulting in an explosion and fire. Insulating fluid burned in the fire, producing a thick smoke column visible over a wide area. Shortly after the fire began, the local distribution utility de-energised the substation to allow firefighters access, which interrupted supply to downtown Madison customers. Distribution crews worked through the day and all affected customers were reported reconnected by early evening. Transmission equipment at the connected East Campus substation was also damaged, although the distribution utility's equipment at that site was reported undamaged. The Wisconsin state environmental regulator supervised cleanup of the Blount Street site. Some insulating fluid burned in the fire, the remainder was pumped from the transformer over the following weekend, and an environmental contractor used a skimming method to separate dielectric fluid from firewater that had flowed from the substation. American Transmission stated publicly that the fluid was a dielectric fluid commonly used for insulating electrical equipment, and the environmental regulator confirmed that it did not contain PCBs.", "contributing_factors": "Publicly reported information was limited. American Transmission stated that a transformer failure had occurred and that it was examining the transformer components to identify the root cause. No root cause was published at the time of reporting. The reported burning and release of dielectric fluid is consistent with loss of containment from the transformer, although the failure mechanism was not published.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a substation releases burning dielectric fluid that requires environmental cleanup, so retain a contractor and maintain contact routes with the regulator. (2) De-energisation of a substation to allow firefighter access interrupts supply, so agree switching sequences with the distribution operator in advance. (3) Damage can occur at an electrically connected substation, so include propagation to adjacent assets in fire risk assessments.", "source_url": "https://www.wkow.com/news/new-transformer-failed-before-explosion-and-fire-at-madison-electric-substation/article_df95aee7-2dee-5a2a-8762-f26e18b4a917.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0071", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0071/", "title": "Arc flash at Astoria transmission substation in Queens disrupts supply and airport", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the night of 27 December 2018, an electrical fault occurred on 138,000 volt equipment at the Astoria transmission substation in Astoria, Queens, New York City, operated and owned by Consolidated Edison. The fault developed into a sustained arc flash, accompanied by a brief electrical fire involving transformers and a transmission dip across the surrounding area. Smoke was seen coming from transformer equipment and an intense blue light from the arc was visible across a wide area of the metropolitan region, with many members of the public photographing and filming it. Supply to a nearby major airport was affected; power was largely restored by about 23:00 the same evening and the airport resumed normal operations, with travellers advised to confirm flight information with their carriers. Consolidated Edison reported that the affected equipment was confined to a single section within the substation and that all major transmission lines associated with the event had been restored. An investigation into the failure was opened.", "contributing_factors": "Consolidated Edison stated publicly that an electrical fault on the 138 kV equipment at the Astoria substation caused a sustained arc flash, and that the affected equipment was isolated to a single section within the substation. Specific causation was the subject of a formal investigation and no root cause had been published at the time of the source report. No further contributing factors were stated by the sources.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check segregation between substation sections so a fault on one 138 kV bay does not produce a sustained arc flash across multiple items. (2) Agree contingency plans with airports and other critical users of urban substations before a transmission dip occurs. (3) Prepare for rapid public attention after an arc flash at a city substation because the blue light is visible over long distances.", "source_url": "https://www.ien.com/operations/news/21038948/transformer-explosion-at-electrical-plant-lights-up-the-sky", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0072", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0072/", "title": "Transformer explosion and fire at Duke Energy substation in Maineville, Ohio", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In July 2024, an explosion and fire occurred at a Duke Energy transformer substation on the 8600 block of Butterworth Road in Maineville, Warren County, Ohio, United States. Multiple fire crews attended. The responding fire service reported that the substation stood several hundred feet from the nearest houses, that a piece of equipment had exploded, that the fire was still burning on arrival and that equipment within the site remained energised. Duke Energy publicly attributed the fire to an equipment failure and stated that no customers lost supply. No injuries were reported. The consequences were limited to loss of the affected asset and the fire service response.", "contributing_factors": "Duke Energy publicly attributed the event to equipment failure. No further cause was published in the source at the time of reporting, and no investigation findings were available. The source also noted, through the fire service, that the separation between the substation and the nearest housing limited the exposure of third parties, and that supply was maintained to customers, which is consistent with protection operating to isolate the affected plant. Nothing further about the failure mechanism can be stated from the available reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation separation from housing limited third party exposure, so operators should record and maintain buffer distances in fire safety cases. (2) Equipment remained energised on fire service arrival, so pre-agreed isolation points and standoff distances must be shared with responders. (3) Protection isolated the fault and supply continued, so operators should log such events to guide redundancy investment.", "source_url": "https://www.fox19.com/2024/07/05/explosion-fire-duke-energy-substation/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0073", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0073/", "title": "Substation explosion and fire near Seventeen Lakes Boulevard, Fort Worth prompts evacuation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In January 2025, at about 19:15 local time, an explosion occurred at a substation off Seventeen Lakes Boulevard and Henrietta Creek Road in north Fort Worth, Texas, causing a large fire close to a residential area. Emergency services attended and approached around 20 nearby homes, offering voluntary evacuation. No mandatory evacuation was issued. About three hours after the initial report, the attending fire service stated publicly that crews were holding position while deciding whether to allow the fire to burn out or to attempt active suppression. Crews worked with the network operator to isolate and disconnect equipment so that suppression could begin once it was safe to do so. The fire service described the scene as very active with multiple first responders and asked the public to avoid the area. An investigation into the cause was launched, and the fire service reported no immediate evidence of foul play. Trade press reporting placed the event alongside a number of other substation transformer explosion and fire events reported in the United States during 2024 and 2025.", "contributing_factors": "The cited source does not state a cause. An investigation was reported as under way at the time of publication, and the fire service was reported as finding no immediate evidence of foul play, which is not the same as a positive root cause finding. The source records that crews held position rather than attempting immediate suppression, and that equipment isolation was required before suppression could begin. No further contributing factors were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires require equipment isolation before crews can suppress them safely, so operators must agree and rehearse the isolation sequence with the fire service in advance. (2) Substation fires near homes may prompt voluntary evacuation, so operators should agree criteria for voluntary and mandatory zones with emergency services beforehand.", "source_url": "https://transformers-magazine.com/tm-news/explosion-at-fort-worth-substation-causes-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0074", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0074/", "title": "Damage to Balticconnector pipeline and Baltic Sea subsea cables, 2023-2024", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-12", "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During 2023 and 2024 a series of damage incidents affected submarine cables and a subsea gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Finland, in the waters of Finland, Estonia, Sweden, Lithuania, Latvia, Germany and Denmark, drawing sustained attention from energy security authorities. In October 2023 the Balticconnector gas pipeline and two telecommunications cables were damaged. The investigation reported that a container vessel had dragged its anchor across the seabed, and the vessel's operator acknowledged the damage and described it as accidental. In November 2024 two submarine data cables linking countries on opposite sides of the sea, including the Finland to Germany C-Lion1 cable, were damaged, and a bulk carrier was identified as a vessel of interest. The vessel was within an exclusive economic zone rather than territorial waters, which complicated boarding by national authorities. In December 2024 a submarine high voltage direct current power interconnector in the Gulf of Finland and several telecommunications cables, including a Sweden to Lithuania cable and a Sweden to Latvia cable, were damaged. A tanker was detained by the authorities of one coastal state, and investigators reported that ship records indicated anchor equipment failure consistent with anchor dragging over roughly 100 km of seabed. Public reporting states that eleven submarine cables were damaged in the region over about fifteen months. In response, coastal states and an international security alliance increased naval patrols and surveillance in the area from early 2025. Later reporting noted an emerging view among some western intelligence services that several of the incidents were likely maritime accidents involving poorly maintained vessels rather than coordinated sabotage, although attribution remains contested in the policy and academic literature.", "contributing_factors": "Drawn from published policy and academic analysis of the pattern rather than from any single investigation: (1) high shipping density in narrow waterways crossing multiple subsea cable corridors, so exposure to anchor strikes is a function of traffic volume and routing; (2) anchor equipment failure on poorly maintained vessels, where windlass or brake failures can cause an unintended anchor drop and dragging can continue for a substantial distance before the crew detects it; (3) legal ambiguity over the authority of coastal states to board vessels suspected of causing cable damage while those vessels are in exclusive economic zones rather than territorial waters, together with differing adoption of the relevant international conventions between flag states; (4) variation in burial depth and route protection between cable assets, with older assets generally reported to have less protection than more recent installations; (5) growth in the density of subsea assets, so that shipping patterns which previously produced rare damage events now produce them more frequently; (6) attribution between deliberate interference and accidental damage remains contested, with public evidence cited in support of both interpretations at different times.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Anchor equipment failure on a tanker allowed dragging over roughly 100 km of seabed, so operators of subsea pipelines and cables must verify that burial depth and route protection can withstand prolonged anchor strikes. (2) A bulk carrier suspected of cable damage was in an exclusive economic zone rather than territorial waters, so operators should plan for delayed authority response and boardings in such zones. (3) Eleven submarine cables were damaged in the region over about fifteen months, so operators must treat anchor strikes from shipping as a recurring risk in route and spares planning.", "source_url": "https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/in-depth-research-reports/issue-brief/how-the-baltic-sea-nations-have-tackled-suspicious-cable-cuts/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:16:57.018838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0075", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0075/", "title": "Fire at Mission Street substation causes multi-day outage in San Francisco", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In December 2025, around the middle of the day, a fire broke out at the Mission Street substation, an urban distribution and transmission substation in San Francisco, California, following the failure of a piece of equipment. Approximately 130,000 customers lost supply, reported as roughly one third of the city's electricity customers. Pacific Gas and Electric, the operator, de-energised the affected plant so that the fire service could work safely, the grid was reported stable about three and a half hours after the fire started, and the fire was brought under control by the early evening. Most customers were restored within hours, but two residential districts were without supply for up to three days. The event fell on a Saturday in the run-up to Christmas, one of the busiest retail days of the year. Traffic signals lost supply at busy intersections and businesses closed early. Pacific Gas and Electric described the damage to the substation as significant and extensive, and stated that a piece of equipment had failed, resulting in a fire. Preventive maintenance at the substation had been completed in October 2025 and an inspection had been carried out on 5 December 2025. An independent engineering consultancy was retained to establish the cause. No injuries to utility workers or members of the public were reported. Local elected representatives called for a formal hearing into the outage and renewed calls for the city to take utility assets into public ownership. As of public reporting in early 2026, the root cause investigation remained ongoing.", "contributing_factors": "As stated publicly by Pacific Gas and Electric, a piece of equipment at the Mission Street substation failed and this resulted in a fire, with a circuit breaker among the plant involved. Pacific Gas and Electric stated that the root cause investigation was ongoing as of late December 2025 and that an independent engineering consultancy had been retained to carry it out. Reporting also noted that preventive maintenance had been completed in October 2025 and that an inspection had taken place on 5 December 2025. No confirmed failure mechanism had been published at the time of review, and no further causal factors should be inferred from the available sources. Restoration timing was reported to depend in part on the sequence of de-energisation agreed with the fire service before crews could begin work. An independent investigation by the engineering firm Exponent, commissioned by Pacific Gas and Electric and reported in May 2026, found the fire was started by high humidity and condensation building up inside the switchgear room. The report found that staff had found a damaged insulating board with burned spots and warping the previous November and logged it as a water issue rather than replacing it or inspecting it fully. The substation, built in the 1940s, had no interior drainage system, and ventilation fans in its basement had been broken for years.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire requires prior agreement with the fire service on de-energisation sequence, since that step sits on the critical path to restoration. (2) Routine inspections must detect actual failure modes such as water damage in switchgear rooms, rather than logging faults without full investigation. (3) Urban substations built without interior drainage or with long-term broken ventilation need checks for condensation risks that can start fires.", "source_url": "https://www.ktvu.com/news/massive-san-francisco-power-outage-mission-substation", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:26:46.537467+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0076", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0076/", "title": "Explosion at ageing Brooklyn substation strands New York City Subway riders", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In December 2024, during the evening peak, an explosion occurred at an electrical substation of approximately 90 years of age in Brooklyn, New York City, supplying traction and auxiliary power to the New York City Subway. The force of the explosion blew a door off its hinges in the electrical room. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority attributed the resulting loss of power on one subway line to the substation failure, and the disruption also affected other lines. Around 3,500 passengers were reported stranded in tunnels for several hours, and passengers were evacuated on foot from two trains that were between stations when the traction supply was lost. No injuries were reported in the sources reviewed. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority's investigation was ongoing at the time of public reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Sources reported that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's investigation focused on the age of the substation infrastructure, said to be around 90 years old, as a likely contributing factor. Sources also reported that the explosion was forceful enough to displace an electrical room door, indicating a substantial internal fault, although no fault mechanism had been confirmed publicly. No formal findings on cause had been published at the time of reporting. Wider factors commonly discussed for legacy transit power assets, such as cumulative ageing of insulation systems, obsolescence of replacement parts and the suitability of maintenance regimes for equipment beyond design life, were not confirmed as causes in this case.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation of around 90 years can suffer an explosive internal fault, so operators should rank assets beyond design life for renewal or enhanced monitoring. (2) An internal fault can blow a door off its hinges in an electrical room, so arc flash containment and blast venting must be assessed. (3) Loss of traction supply can strand trains in tunnels for hours, so evacuation procedures should be exercised with emergency services.", "source_url": "https://brooklyneagle.com/291185/mta-explosion-in-old-electrical-substation-caused-subway-failure/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:26:46.537467+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0077", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0077/", "title": "Hurricane causes grid damage across Florida, Georgia, Carolinas, Tennessee, Virginia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In late September 2024 a Category 4 hurricane made landfall on the northern Gulf coast of Florida and tracked several hundred miles inland through Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia, including areas of the southern Appalachian mountains. At peak the storm caused approximately 4.7 million customer outages across these states. Reported transmission damage in one affected state exceeded 370 high voltage structures and line sections across three transmission owners. Reported distribution and substation damage included submerged substations, thousands of poles down and fallen transmission towers in mountainous terrain. One large utility reported damage to more than 8,000 poles, more than 21,000 spans of conductor (about 1,000 miles of line), more than 1,500 transformers and thousands of trees on lines. Mobile substations were trucked in to give temporary supply to communities while damaged fixed equipment was repaired or replaced, and some local networks required complete rebuild rather than repair. Customer hours lost across the affected states made 2024 the worst year for outage hours in the United States in the previous decade, and one affected state averaged nearly 53 hours of interruption per customer during 2024, mainly attributed to this storm. Restoration involved more than 50,000 utility workers from 41 states and Canada. By mid October approximately 99.4% of customers had been restored, although isolated mountain communities remained without supply more than two weeks after landfall, and distribution restoration in the worst affected areas continued for several weeks longer.", "contributing_factors": "Reported by the source and subsequent public analysis: (1) the storm reached several hundred miles inland while retaining high wind speeds, and the affected mountain areas of Tennessee, North Carolina and Virginia had not generally been treated as hurricane exposed in utility planning frameworks; (2) severe flooding accompanied the wind damage, with substations submerged and access routes destroyed by floodwater and mudslides; (3) the affected networks in these states included long, dispersed distribution circuits through forested and mountainous terrain, which increased exposure to tree fall and made repair access difficult; (4) vegetation damage was reported to be widespread across whole circuits rather than the scattered tree falls assumed in local planning baselines; (5) flooded substations required extensive de-watering, drying and inspection before equipment could be re-energised, a slower process than wind damage repair; (6) reconnection in flooded areas required electrical inspection of each affected building before re-energisation, which added restoration time independent of network repair; (7) commentary in the source placed the severity of inland damage within a broader pattern of weather extremes exceeding historical planning baselines rather than treating it as a single event anomaly.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Inland mountain areas treated as low hurricane risk suffered severe wind and flood damage, so operators should update planning baselines for current weather extremes. (2) Submerged substations needed de-watering, drying and inspection before re-energisation, so operators should install elevated equipment and improved drainage in flood zones. (3) Dispersed distribution circuits through forested mountainous terrain caused widespread tree damage and slow access, so operators should review options such as undergrounding or microgrids.", "source_url": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260827212505/https://www.utilitydive.com/news/2m-customers-still-without-power-after-helene/728383/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:26:46.537467+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0078", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0078/", "title": "Grid collapse across Spain and Portugal on the Iberian Peninsula", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "Spain", "country_code": "es", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In April 2025 a system collapse affected the Iberian Peninsula, a synchronously connected region in south-west Europe covering Spain and Portugal. Public reporting stated that around 60 percent of national demand in Spain, the larger of the two countries, was lost within about five seconds, leading to a full system collapse, with Portugal affected at the same time. National authorities described the event as exceptional. Restoration began the same day and continued overnight, with reporting indicating that around 92 percent of supply had been returned to customers by early the following morning. Millions of households and businesses were affected, along with transport, health and government services in both countries. Recovery activity, including power quality stabilisation, restoration of communications and staged industrial restarts, continued for several days. The sequence that produced the collapse became the subject of a formal multi-country investigation coordinated by the European association of transmission system operators. The event is among the largest synchronous grid disturbances in Europe in the past decade and prompted renewed attention to voltage control margin, defence plans and restoration capability.", "contributing_factors": "Drawn from public reporting and investigation material available at the time of writing, and to be read as provisional until the final investigation report is confirmed: (1) voltage instability across the Iberian Peninsula, the synchronously connected region covering Spain and Portugal, was reported as central to the collapse mechanism, propagating rapidly across the network; (2) the reported speed of the cascade, around 60 percent of national demand within about five seconds, was described as exceptional; (3) the operating regime at the time was reported to include a high proportion of inverter based generation relative to synchronous machines providing voltage support; (4) reactive power management and voltage control arrangements at transmission, distribution and generator level were reported as areas under formal examination; (5) protection system behaviour during the rapid cascade was also reported as an area under examination. No final attribution of cause should be inferred from this entry.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Voltage instability can propagate across a synchronous area in seconds when inverter based generation forms a high share of the operating regime, so operators should review reactive power margins and grid forming capability in those conditions. (2) Defence plans must act within the timescale of a fast voltage cascade rather than legacy response times, so test load shedding and islanding schemes against five second demand loss events. (3) Protection settings require review for fast voltage excursions to avoid premature tripping or delayed clearance during rapid cascades.", "source_url": "https://uk.news.yahoo.com/anatomy-blackout-findings-spain-portugal-224833816.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:26:46.537467+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0079", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0079/", "title": "Puerto Rico transmission system failure leaves over a million without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "Puerto Rico", "country_code": "pr", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In April 2025, at around midday local time, a transmission system failure on the Puerto Rico transmission system, operated by LUMA Energy and owned by the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, led to a loss of supply affecting more than 1.4 million people across Puerto Rico. More than 400,000 people also lost water service, as water pumping and treatment depended on grid supply. Major generating plant shut down and traffic signals, public transport and businesses were disrupted. Hospitals and the main airport operated on standby generators while restoration work proceeded. Public reporting indicated that supply had been restored to about 90 per cent of customers by the following day, and that external assistance was offered. The failure occurred during a period of severe geomagnetic activity, rated at the second highest level on the standard five step scale. Available reporting did not establish whether the geomagnetic conditions contributed to the transmission failure. The Puerto Rico transmission system had been rebuilt in stages over several years following major hurricane damage in 2017 and further severe weather since.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transmission failure was not established in the available reporting. Reported context included: (1) cumulative damage and staged reconstruction of the transmission system after major hurricane damage in 2017 and later storms, leaving a mix of repaired and replaced components; (2) an island transmission network with limited redundancy and no interconnection to a larger system, so restoration depended on internal black start and re synchronisation resources; (3) severe geomagnetic activity at the time of the failure. As general engineering background rather than a finding for this event, geomagnetically induced currents can saturate transformer cores, raise reactive power demand and prompt protection operations that may extend a local disturbance. No source reviewed confirmed that this mechanism applied here.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An island grid with limited redundancy means loss of one transmission element can cause wide outages, so operators should test plans for black start and resynchronisation. (2) Staged rebuild after successive storms leaves mixed vintage assets, so operators should assess ageing and mixed components as a distinct risk. (3) Severe geomagnetic activity coincided with the failure, so operators in exposed regions should review monitoring and mitigation measures for such events.", "source_url": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260115030114/https://www.eaton.com/us/en-us/products/backup-power-ups-surge-it-power-distribution/backup-power-ups/blackout-and-power-outage-tracker.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:26:46.537467+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0080", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0080/", "title": "Wildfire de-energisation and fire damage hit Southern California Edison network in Palisades and Eaton fires", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In January 2025, widespread power outages affected more than four million customers of Southern California Edison across Los Angeles, Ventura, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside and San Diego counties in California, as the Palisades and Eaton fires and high winds swept the region. Public reporting described two distinct types of outage: those caused by direct fire damage to grid infrastructure, including substations, transmission lines and distribution circuits; and precautionary de-energisation of high fire risk circuits during extreme wind conditions, a practice commonly known as a public safety power shutoff. At the point of reporting, around 178,000 customers were under shutoff orders, with a further 420,000 under consideration. Restoration proceeded in stages, with more than 700,000 customers reconnected within about a day, critical facilities among them. The ignition sources of the Palisades and Eaton fires remained under formal investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Public reporting on the event described the following conditions rather than confirmed findings: (1) extreme weather, with high winds, low humidity and dry vegetation creating conditions in which any ignition source could produce a fast spreading fire; (2) a fire season extending outside the months historically regarded as the peak risk period; (3) heavy accumulated fuel loads in the affected landscapes; (4) extensive housing development in the wildland urban interface, placing property and people close to fire prone terrain; (5) precautionary de-energisation reduces the chance of network related ignition but imposes hardship on customers, and activation criteria for Southern California Edison were reported as subject to ongoing regulatory review; (6) network hardening measures such as covered conductors, undergrounding and additional sensing and inspection were reported as in progress but not complete across all high risk areas. The specific ignition sources of the Palisades and Eaton fires were under investigation and are not attributed here.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Direct fire damage to substations, transmission lines and distribution circuits causes outages, so operators should complete network hardening such as covered conductors before high risk periods. (2) Precautionary de-energisation of high fire risk circuits during extreme wind conditions reduces ignition chance but leaves customers without supply, so operators should agree activation criteria with regulators in advance.", "source_url": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260115030114/https://www.eaton.com/us/en-us/products/backup-power-ups-surge-it-power-distribution/backup-power-ups/blackout-and-power-outage-tracker.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:26:46.537467+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0082", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0082/", "title": "Recurrent inverter failures at a utility-scale solar plant, published forensic analysis", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A peer-reviewed engineering paper published in June 2025 documented a forensic investigation into repeated catastrophic inverter failures at a utility-scale solar plant in northern Europe. The study combined controlled laboratory reproduction of DC-side short circuit scenarios, with particular attention to faults at the negative DC input terminal, with waveform analysis of failure events recorded at the site. In the laboratory work the initiating faults escalated into multi-phase short circuits and sustained ground fault arcs. Field waveforms from several separate inverter failures at the site showed comparable signatures, which the authors treated as field validation of the laboratory results. The paper is an open access engineering analysis of utility-scale PV inverter failure modes, and its findings bear on inverter design, protection coordination and operator inspection programmes at sites using inverters of similar protection architecture.", "contributing_factors": "As stated in the published analysis, the failure sequence ran as follows: a DC-side fault initiated, typically at a negative DC input terminal, with insulation degradation, moisture ingress or mechanical damage identified as possible initiators; internal inverter protection did not interrupt the fault before semiconductor damage occurred; power electronics components then failed under fault currents above their interruption capability; protection relay operating time allowed a ground fault arc to be sustained at high energy during the delay window; and the fault propagated into a multi-phase short circuit within the inverter. The authors note that the laboratory reproduction of the field signatures supports their proposed mechanism and mitigations. Site climate and system configuration form part of the specific context, but the authors describe the underlying failure mechanism as generic to inverters of similar architecture.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check inverter internal protection and plant relays for DC-side short circuit interruption before semiconductor damage occurs. (2) Inspect negative DC input terminals for insulation degradation, moisture ingress and mechanical damage at sites with similar inverters. (3) Review protection relay operating times against DC fault dynamics to limit sustained ground fault arc energy.", "source_url": "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12197166/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-05-01T12:26:46.537467+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0086", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0086/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at High Prairie Renewable Energy Center in Missouri", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at the High Prairie Renewable Energy Center in Schuyler County, Missouri, collapsed on a Wednesday afternoon in a field along Schuyler County Route D, about four miles southeast of Lancaster. The incident occurred shortly after 1:30 p.m. local time. Ameren Missouri, which is associated with the facility, said crews responded and secured the surrounding area. No injuries were reported. The company said it was conducting an assessment to determine the cause and that the facility may be periodically taken offline while the investigation continues. This is reported to be the fourth turbine collapse in Schuyler County, following three similar incidents in 2024, though it is not yet confirmed whether the events are linked.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The company stated a cause assessment was ongoing at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind turbine collapse at hub height leaves debris over a wide area, so operators must set exclusion zones and rely on remote isolation rather than ground crews. (2) Four turbine collapses in one county point to possible shared design or site factors, so owners should audit all turbines of the same type.", "source_url": "https://www.nemonews.net/2026/09/05/wind-turbine-collapses-in-schuyler-county/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-06T19:18:34.021136+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0090", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0090/", "title": "Tracker motor fault exposed solar modules during hailstorm in Fort Bend County, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During a severe hail event in Fort Bend County, Texas, a county with several large utility-scale solar arrays in the southern United States, three neighbouring sites are reported to have executed a pre-storm hail stow protocol, rotating single-axis trackers to a steep angle to reduce direct impact on module glass. Two of the sites reportedly experienced no hail damage. At the third, a section of trackers is reported to have failed to reach full stow angle because a motor did not respond to the command. Hailstones exceeding four inches in diameter are reported to have struck this area directly, breaking glass on several dozen modules. Rows where stow reportedly completed normally, at this and the neighbouring sites, are said to have sustained no direct hail damage. A review is reported to have traced the damaged section to the location of the motor fault, though this review has not been independently sighted.", "contributing_factors": "A tracker motor or gearbox is reported to have failed to move in response to the hail stow command, leaving a section of the array at an angle that allowed direct hail impact rather than a glancing strike. Tracker motor maintenance is reported to have been prioritised based on generation yield loss rather than storm-readiness risk.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Tracker motor or gearbox that fails to respond to a hail stow command leaves modules exposed to direct hail impact. (2) Maintenance of stow-critical actuators should be based on storm readiness risk, not only generation yield loss.", "source_url": "https://www.ecoportal.net/uk/texas-solar-farm-hail-stow-protocol/2205/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T05:13:10.171171+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0091", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0091/", "title": "Fire at Hermes Road substation in Saltford, Bath causes mass outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at Hermes Road substation, an electricity substation in a residential area of Saltford, Bath, during the morning. Emergency services attended and used high pressure hose reels and covering jets to extinguish the blaze. Nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution and asked to keep windows and doors closed while crews worked. Up to 700 properties lost power as a result of the incident. Firefighters remained on site after the fire was extinguished to cool equipment and check for hotspots. National Grid, which operates and owns the substation, attended to take over management of the site and begin restoring electricity supplies. No injuries were reported and surrounding properties were checked with no damage found. The cause of the fire was believed to be accidental, though this had not been formally confirmed at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported beyond an initial assessment that the fire was accidental in nature.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in a residential substation can cut supply to hundreds of properties, so operators should map load paths and install fast acting isolation switches. (2) Smoke from electrical fires spreads to nearby homes, so pre planned evacuation zones and advice on closing windows reduce exposure. (3) After an electrical fire, cooling and hotspot checks must finish before handover, so fire crews and network staff need joint procedures.", "source_url": "https://www.bathecho.co.uk/news/community/fire-substation-power-outage-hundreds-homes-119712/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T05:14:00.769192+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0092", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0092/", "title": "Substation Incident in Germany Disconnects Five RWE Lignite Power Units", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A substation incident in Germany led to five lignite-fired power generating units operated by RWE being disconnected from the electricity grid. The report, carried by a financial news wire, did not specify the exact location of the substation within Germany, the cause of the fault, or whether any equipment was damaged. No details were given on injuries, fire response, or the duration of the outage. The article was largely paywalled, limiting the information available on the sequence of events and root cause.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fault can disconnect multiple lignite units at once, so operators should map all shared grid connections and add backup feeds. (2) Paywalled reports limit learning, so operators and insurers should require full public disclosure of substation faults.", "source_url": "https://www.marketscreener.com/news/five-rwe-lignite-power-units-taken-off-grid-after-substation-incident-ce7858d2de8ff323", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T05:16:02.198769+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0093", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0093/", "title": "Electrical room fire disrupts power supply in Singapore's Chinatown", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "Singapore", "country_code": "sg", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 1 September (date as reported, year not fully confirmed due to a discrepancy in source dating), the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) was alerted at about 12.20pm to a fire at 43 Bukit Pasoh Road, the address of the Ee Hoe Hean Club in Chinatown. The blaze involved electrical equipment in an electrical room on the ground floor and was extinguished using a dry powder fire extinguisher. No injuries were reported. National grid operator SP Group said it was alerted to an electricity supply disruption to premises in the area at 12.26pm and deployed officers immediately. Power was progressively restored from 1.15pm and fully restored by 5.25pm. The disruption affected the club and some nearby businesses. Both SCDF and SP Group said the cause of the fire remained under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; the cause of the electrical equipment fire was still under investigation at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Dry powder extinguishers can stop small electrical fires in ground floor rooms before they spread, so operators must keep the right type ready and train staff to use them at once. (2) Grid operators that send teams within minutes of a fault alert can limit outage length, so they should keep rapid response crews on standby for urban substations. (3) Public updates on restoration times reduce business losses even when the cause is unknown, so operators should issue them as soon as power returns.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-sg/news/other/electricity-supply-temporarily-disrupted-in-area-within-chinatown-after-fire-in-substation/ar-AA2bpsXC", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T09:03:48.266207+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0094", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0094/", "title": "Substation explosion and fire forces evacuation of GP Surgery in Liverpool", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical substation in the car park of Rock Court Surgery, a GP practice and walk-in centre on St Oswalds Street in Old Swan, Liverpool, exploded and caught fire on a Wednesday morning. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service crews arrived within nine minutes of being alerted to find the substation well alight following an explosion, with the fire having spread to a nearby campervan, which was badly scorched. Firefighters used breathing apparatus and two hose reel jets to fight the blaze, and a 30 metre cordon was set up around the site. The road was closed between Edge Lane and Prescot Road. The GP surgery and walk-in centre lost power and were evacuated. A representative from SP Energy Networks (Scottish Power) attended to assess damage and restore power. The fire was reported extinguished within around 20 minutes of ignition.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations next to medical centres need clear evacuation plans for sudden power loss. (2) Early isolation by the network operator limits fire spread from a substation to nearby vehicles. (3) A 30 metre cordon and road closure around an exploded substation protects the public during firefighting.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/other/fireball-substation-explosion-as-gp-practice-evacuated-and-camper-goes-up-in-flames/ar-AA2bpQVX", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T09:04:29.879219+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0095", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0095/", "title": "Overnight fire at Stâlpu battery storage site prompts multi-agency response", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "Romania", "country_code": "ro", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a battery energy storage facility in Stâlpu, Buzau County, Romania, late in the evening, prompting an overnight response by fire and rescue crews from three separate regional brigades. Specialist firefighting resources were deployed, including powder and nitrogen suppression equipment and a robotic transport vehicle to allow safe approach to the burning units. Crews worked through the night to contain the blaze and to prevent it spreading to two nearby oil filled transformers located on site. The fire was brought under control and extinguished the following morning. No injuries or fatalities were reported among personnel or members of the public. At the time of reporting, no cause for the fire had been established or publicly stated.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage fires may need mutual aid from several fire brigades, so operators should agree response plans with all nearby services in advance. (2) Oil filled transformers near battery units add fire spread risk, so site layout must include adequate separation and suppression. (3) Powder, nitrogen and robotic vehicles aid safe approach at battery fires, so operators should provide these tools to local responders.", "source_url": "https://www.hazardexonthenet.net/article/223824/Romania-battery-storage-fire-prompts-overnight-emergency-response.aspx", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T09:05:41.328994+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0096", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0096/", "title": "Transformer fire causes power outage in Ernster, Luxembourg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Luxembourg", "country_code": "lu", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer on Rue Principale in Ernster, part of the commune of Niederanven, caught fire, causing a widespread power outage in the area (the source gives conflicting days for the fire, either Monday or Tuesday afternoon). Creos, the national electricity grid operator, disconnected the transformer from the network for safety reasons. Firefighters brought the fire quickly under control. By that evening, Creos confirmed that power supply had been restored and the underlying issue resolved, though crews remained on site to ensure supply security and carry out remaining work. The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the transformer fire was described by the operator as yet to be determined.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire on the distribution network requires quick disconnection to limit spread and protect grid stability. (2) Fire crews can control a transformer fire rapidly when access is straightforward and fuel load is limited.", "source_url": "https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/transformer-fire-causes-major-power-outage-in-ernster-1466673701", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T09:06:29.678935+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0097", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0097/", "title": "Battery storage fire in Bautzen, Germany prompts local evacuations", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a lithium-ion battery energy storage system housed in four shipping containers in Bautzen, Germany, in July 2026. The site had a stated capacity of 1.5 MW. Firefighters could not directly extinguish the fire due to the characteristics of battery fires and limited operational experience with such incidents, so crews instead continuously cooled the containers with large volumes of water to reduce the risk of thermal escalation or explosion. Authorities evacuated around 42 residents from the immediate area in two phases and advised others nearby to keep windows closed and switch off air conditioning due to smoke odour. A nearby school was closed as a precaution. Air quality monitoring did not detect hazardous substances. Drones were used to monitor the containers. After roughly 36 hours of cooling, one container was opened and water applied internally to fully extinguish the fire. No injuries were reported. The cause had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; the cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting, and the fire service noted limited operational experience with battery fires complicated their response.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion BESS fires in containers cannot be extinguished directly, so sites need design features that allow prolonged external water cooling and drainage. (2) Limited experience with BESS incidents means local fire services need pre-planned response strategies from site operators. (3) Evacuations and air quality checks around BESS sites can protect residents even when no hazardous substances are later found.", "source_url": "https://www.ess-news.com/2026/07/22/fire-breaks-out-at-1-5-mw-battery-storage-system-in-germany/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T09:57:54.568193+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0099", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0099/", "title": "Battery storage fire at Creekside Marketplace EV charging station in San Marcos", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported in the early hours at an outdoor lithium-ion battery energy storage unit operated by Tesla that supplies power to a bank of around 20 electric vehicle chargers in the car park of Creekside Marketplace, a shopping centre in San Marcos, California. Emergency services attended after a passerby reported flames near the charging station. Fire crews used water to cool the unit and brought the fire under control within about an hour. A hazardous materials team also responded as a standard precaution for battery-related incidents. Approximately half of the car park and several nearby businesses were closed as a precaution while the incident was managed, though this was not described as a formal evacuation. There were no injuries, and no damage beyond the battery unit and its enclosure; the EV chargers themselves were undamaged. Fire crews remained on site afterwards to monitor for possible re-ignition until the unit could be safely decommissioned. The cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; the cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion battery fires need hazmat teams and water cooling, so operators must plan for specialist support at all public EV sites. (2) Lithium-ion units can reignite, so crews must stay on site after the fire is out until the unit is decommissioned. (3) Battery units should sit apart from EV chargers so a single failure does not affect the chargers.", "source_url": "https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2026/01/21/fire-damages-battery-storage-system-that-powers-tesla-chargers-in-san-marcos/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T09:59:17.661783+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0100", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0100/", "title": "Battery fire at Bolster Substation in Peoria, Arizona contained by controlled burn", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the evening at the Bolster Substation Battery, a battery storage facility located at a Salt River Project substation in Peoria, Arizona. Flames were visible coming from one of several battery storage containers. Multiple fire departments responded and worked to contain the blaze. Crews used water to cool adjacent battery units while allowing the fire in the affected unit to burn out under controlled conditions, a standard approach for lithium ion battery fires where direct extinguishment is difficult. The battery system, supplied by Tesla, was taken offline, though no customers lost power as a result of the incident. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting. The system had been in service for approximately four years at the time of the incident.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported at the time of publication; cause of the fire was undetermined.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Multiple fire departments must coordinate at battery sites because several agencies responded to contain the blaze. (2) Lithium ion battery fires need perimeter cooling and controlled burn out as direct extinguishment is difficult. (3) Segment battery storage so one unit can be isolated without customer outages.", "source_url": "https://www.azfamily.com/2025/10/02/multiple-agencies-fighting-fire-battery-storage-facility-glendale/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T10:00:45.266914+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0101", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0101/", "title": "Battery units ignite at Townsite Solar and Storage in Boulder City, Nevada", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in a battery storage unit at the Townsite Solar and Storage facility in Boulder City, Nevada, operated and owned by Arevon Energy, with battery systems supplied by Tesla and the plant built by EPC contractor Rosendin. Fire crews arrived within minutes and confirmed one battery unit was fully involved in flames. During the response a second, adjacent battery unit also ignited. Both units continued to burn and smoulder for approximately six hours. A multi-agency response was mounted, including local and neighbouring fire departments and the regional transportation authority, which closed a nearby stretch of highway as a precaution. No injuries were reported and officials stated there was no threat to the public. Fire crews eventually handed the site back to site personnel to continue monitoring the smouldering units. The battery system was reported to be roughly 3.8 years old at the time of the incident.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in available sources; root cause had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Fire can spread to an adjacent battery unit even when spacing and containment are present, so operators should verify thermal detection covers neighbouring enclosures. (2) Battery fires can burn and smoulder for six hours, so response plans must set clear handover criteria to site personnel. (3) Battery storage sites need pre-agreed multi-agency plans that include road closures, so insurers should check transport authority coordination.", "source_url": "https://www.ktnv.com/news/fire-breaks-out-at-townsite-solar-in-boulder-city", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T10:01:45.367032+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0102", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0102/", "title": "Battery storage fire prompts evacuation order at California Flats site in Monterey County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A thermal incident occurred at the California Flats Energy Storage Project, a battery energy storage system co-located with a large solar plant near Parkfield in Monterey County, California, operated and owned by Arevon Energy, with the battery system supplied and integrated by Tesla. The site's thermal detection system triggered and automatically alerted emergency services. Four of 84 battery units at the facility were affected; the remainder of the system was unaffected. Local fire authorities attended but were not required to take suppression action, and the fire was allowed to burn out under controlled monitoring. As a precaution, an evacuation order was issued for a small number of nearby residences within a two-mile radius, which was lifted after approximately three hours once responders confirmed there was no ongoing threat to the public. No injuries or fatalities were reported, and no private property was damaged.", "contributing_factors": "The specific technical root cause of the thermal event has not been publicly disclosed. Automatic thermal detection enabled rapid notification of emergency services.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Automated thermal detection at a battery storage site can alert emergency services before visible fire signs appear, allowing early site isolation. (2) A contained battery fire at a hybrid solar site can be left to burn out under monitoring when suppression risks outweigh benefits and spread is limited.", "source_url": "https://mcso.countyofmonterey.gov/press-releases/press-release-evacuation-order-lifted-for-area-southeast-of-parkfield-california", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T10:02:39.181046+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0103", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0103/", "title": "Battery storage container fire in Almelo prompts large fire brigade response", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in a battery storage container located near a residential facility in Almelo, Netherlands. The fire developed into a large blaze with significant smoke production, prompting the fire service to scale up its response due to the possible presence of hazardous substances in the smoke. Multiple water tankers and foam-capable fire vehicles were deployed, and a command unit was later brought in to coordinate the response. Air monitoring by the reconnaissance unit and fire advisory team found only minimal concentrations of hazardous substances in the smoke, which was further diluted by the water used for firefighting. Water supply logistics proved challenging, requiring vehicles to shuttle to refill tanks. No injuries were reported. The fire took several hours to bring under control, and the site was used as a coordination point for responding crews.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage container fires can produce large volumes of smoke, so operators must plan for immediate air quality monitoring near residential areas. (2) Water supply logistics for battery fires can limit response at sites without hydrants, requiring pre-planned tanker shuttling.", "source_url": "https://112nieuws.net/2025/08/04/uitslaande-brand-in-accupakket-meerdere-brandweerwagens-ter-plaatse/?feed_id=28524&_unique_id=6890f306a9e62", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T10:03:34.877275+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0104", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0104/", "title": "Ageing battery storage fire destroys building at Angang-eup solar site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-12", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a battery energy storage system co-located with a solar power facility in Angang-eup, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea, destroying eight cabinet-type lithium-ion battery units, manufactured by LG Energy Solution, and the lightweight steel-framed building housing them. The system had been in operation for approximately eight years. Before visible smoke was reported, the system automatically sent an abnormality alert to the remote device manager's mobile phone; by the time the manager reached the site, smoke was already visible. Fire crews took around three and a half hours to extinguish the blaze. No injuries were reported. Investigators stated the fire spread from inside the battery enclosure outward, ruling out an external ignition source. The precise technical cause remains under investigation, though experts commenting on the case suggested age-related battery degradation as a possible contributing factor rather than an original manufacturing defect, since fires linked to cell manufacturing faults typically occur soon after commissioning rather than after years of operation.", "contributing_factors": "The system had operated for approximately eight years since installation, and experts suggested age-related battery degradation as a possible factor, though this was not officially confirmed at the time of reporting. An automated fault-alert system notified a remote manager but did not appear to trigger any local suppression or emergency shutdown before the fire had already progressed to visible smoke.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Remote alerts alone may allow fire to progress; pair them with automatic isolation or suppression triggers on battery systems. (2) Ageing lithium-ion units need closer degradation checks, as normal end-of-life should not produce fire. (3) Lightweight steel buildings can be lost entirely once a battery fire starts, so use fire-rated enclosures.", "source_url": "https://47.newstomato.com/ReadNews.aspx?no=1285705", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T10:04:41.263318+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0105", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0105/", "title": "Fire destroys battery storage building at solar site in Daesan-eup, Seosan-si", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In June 2025, a fire broke out during the afternoon in the battery energy storage room of a solar photovoltaic generation site at Gi-eun-ri, Daesan-eup, Seosan-si, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea. The single storey storage building, constructed with sandwich panel walls and a panel roof, was destroyed, and part of the adjacent solar array was also burned. The fire service attended with tens of personnel and multiple pump, command and chemical response vehicles, and the fire was reported as fully extinguished after roughly ten and a half hours, continuing through the night. No injuries were reported and the fire did not spread to nearby homes. The ignition point and cause remained under investigation by the fire authorities at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The reporting outlet noted that lithium-ion chemistry can contribute to high temperature and arc related escalation, but no specific cause had been confirmed at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Sandwich panel walls and roof in a battery storage building burn readily, so operators should use non-combustible or fire-rated systems instead. (2) Battery storage next to a solar array can spread fire into generation assets, so operators should set and check separation distances. (3) A battery storage fire can last many hours, so operators should pre-plan with the fire service for sustained access, water and media.", "source_url": "https://v.daum.net/v/20250602133001336", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T10:05:17.724287+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0106", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0106/", "title": "Battery room fire at Digital Realty data centre in Hillsboro, Oregon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "In May 2025 a fire broke out in a battery room at the Digital Realty data centre in Hillsboro, Oregon, United States, prompting a significant response from the local fire service. Crews arriving on scene found batteries alight, with the fire contained to a single room, though thick smoke spread through the wider building. All occupants were evacuated safely and no injuries were reported. Given the difficulty of extinguishing lithium-ion battery fires, the fire service adopted a defensive strategy, containing the fire and allowing the batteries to burn out rather than attempting direct suppression. The fire burned for approximately five hours before being declared over. The cause remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion battery fires in data centre battery rooms can last several hours, so operators should agree defensive containment tactics with the fire service in advance. (2) Smoke from a battery room fire can spread through the wider building, so smoke migration paths must be assessed in the fire strategy. (3) Evacuation plans for battery fires should account for smoke spread across the building rather than the fire location alone.", "source_url": "https://www.kptv.com/2025/05/23/fire-hillsboro-data-center-burns-5-hours/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:20:59.954262+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0107", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0107/", "title": "Indoor battery storage system fails in Gangjin County, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In March 2025, an indoor lithium-ion battery energy storage system located in Doam-myeon, Gangjin County, Jeollanam-do, South Korea, experienced a failure incident. The site had a total energy capacity of approximately 35 megawatt-hours. According to an industry database that tracks global battery storage failures, the event resulted in damage to about one percent of the installed capacity, indicating a contained and relatively minor failure rather than a total loss event. Public reporting on the specific technical cause, whether emergency services attended the site, and whether any injuries occurred has not been identified. The incident was recorded because it met the threshold used by safety researchers for tracking failures with potential wider public health and safety implications at stationary battery storage installations connected to the grid or used in commercial and industrial applications.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Indoor BESS failures can stay contained when damage is limited to one percent, so operators should verify that enclosure designs limit spread in similar events. (2) Minor indoor battery events still meet thresholds for tracking, so maintain records of all grid-connected failures to support root cause analysis.", "source_url": "https://www.newsis.com/view/NISX20250310_0003092866%20%20%20%20https:/news.kbs.co.kr/news/pc/view/view.do?ncd=8195526", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:21:24.409967+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0108", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0108/", "title": "Battery storage fire at Dongkuk Steel Pohang ESS centre burns over a day", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In June 2025 a fire of undetermined origin broke out in the electrical room of an energy storage system at the Dongkuk Steel Pohang ESS centre in Nam-gu, Daesong-myeon, Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. The building was a two storey steel framed structure housing thousands of battery modules. Fire services declared a Level 1 response and deployed around 30 vehicles and 62 personnel. No flames or smoke were seen escaping the building and no injuries were reported. Because firefighters found it difficult to enter the enclosed battery room safely, water was applied through windows and other openings using connected hose systems rather than by direct entry. Fire officials initially expected full extinguishment could take from one day up to several days given the characteristics of battery fires. A supplementary incident database record indicates the fire was extinguished after around 29 hours. The cause had not been confirmed at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported at the time of the source article. The cause was stated to be under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery fires in enclosed rooms can last many hours, so response plans must allow for multi-day incidents with external water supply. (2) Direct entry to battery rooms may not be safe, so design must include external hose points and openings for water application. (3) No visible external smoke or flame does not mean the fire is out, so exclusion zones must cover a prolonged incident.", "source_url": "https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20250616062651053?site=mapping_related", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:21:32.816373+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0109", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0109/", "title": "Fire in single battery unit at Thurrock BESS under construction", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2025 a fire broke out in a single containerised battery unit at Thurrock BESS, a large battery energy storage project in East Tilbury, Essex, England, being developed by Statera Energy, that was still under construction and not yet operational. The fire was reported in the late afternoon and the site was evacuated as a precaution. Fire crews attended within around ten minutes and used a water curtain to limit spread to neighbouring units. The fire was reported as fully extinguished by the following afternoon, after which the fire service scaled back its response and handed the site back to site management. No injuries were reported and responders stated there was no risk to the wider public. Construction activities resumed within a few days while an investigation into the root cause was carried out.", "contributing_factors": "According to the fire service, a fault within one or more battery cells inside a single containerised unit led to ignition. Factors cited as helping to contain the incident were the spacing between battery units and the availability of firefighting water supplies on or near the site. No further findings had been published at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Containerised battery units must keep designed spacing during construction, as separation limited spread after a cell fault led to ignition. (2) Fire response plans and contacts must be agreed with local crews from the start of construction, as the site was evacuated and handed back after the fire. (3) Unenergised battery units remain a fire risk in the construction phase, so risk assessments must cover evacuation triggers and site handover.", "source_url": "https://www.energy-storage.news/fire-at-statera-bess-project-in-england-brought-under-control-handed-back-to-site-management/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:21:48.695855+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0110", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0110/", "title": "Battery explosion at Port of Gandia Solar-Storage Site injures firefighter", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-01", "country": "Spain", "country_code": "es", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion and fire occurred in a containerised lithium-ion battery energy storage system colocated with a solar photovoltaic installation at the Port of Gandia solar and storage installation in Port of Gandia, Valencia, Spain, an installation integrated by Electromur. An explosion was heard in the early evening, prompting nearby residents to alert emergency services. Around twenty firefighters from several stations, along with police and health services, responded to the scene. Toxic smoke from the burning battery container was visible for a considerable distance. Firefighters worked through the night to protect an adjacent warehouse storing combustible material and to bring the fire under control, which was achieved by the following morning. During firefighting operations, one firefighter sustained a slight arm injury and was treated and discharged at the scene. The battery system had been in operation for approximately two years at the time of the incident.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not specify a technical root cause for the explosion or fire in the battery container.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Toxic smoke from a lithium-ion battery fire can travel far, so operators must plan to alert residents and coordinate with multiple emergency units early. (2) Battery fires next to combustible warehouses require clear protection protocols for adjacent assets during response. (3) Explosion risk remains after ignition, so responders need standoff distances and protective equipment near battery containers.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine.com/2025/01/10/firefighter-injured-in-solar-plus-storage-explosion-and-fire-in-spain/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:22:14.360986+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0111", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0111/", "title": "Battery fire at solar-plus-storage site in Hongnong-eup, Yeonggwang-gun destroys modules", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-11", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In November 2024 a fire broke out in the afternoon at a battery energy storage system installed at a 1.6 MW solar power facility in Hongnong-eup, Dandeok-ri, Yeonggwang-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea. Around fifteen fire engines and dozens of firefighters attended, and the blaze was brought under control after approximately five hours. One battery storage building of about 42 square metres and roughly 560 battery modules were destroyed. No injuries were reported. The facility sits within about 200 metres of residential housing and a community centre for elderly residents, and the proximity of the installation to inhabited areas was raised locally following the fire.", "contributing_factors": "The source reported that the fire was suspected to have originated from overheating of a large-format lithium iron phosphate battery. The exact ignition mechanism was not confirmed in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Large-format lithium iron phosphate batteries can overheat and cause fires that last several hours. Operators should install early detection and allow for extended cooling with many appliances. (2) A battery storage building of 42 square metres can be fully destroyed. Operators should design separation to stop fire spread to nearby modules or inverters. (3) Sites within 200 metres of housing need clear public risk plans. Operators should review smoke and gas dispersion with local authorities.", "source_url": "https://www.ygnews.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=313534#event-2024-11-12", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:22:24.52011+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0112", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0112/", "title": "Battery fire at Table Mountain Aerial Cableway halts cable car service in Cape Town", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2024, a fire broke out in the Lower Station parking garage of the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway in Cape Town, South Africa, in a lithium-ion battery bank used as backup power for the cableway. The fire started in the early afternoon and was reported as contained within about four hours. It damaged the parking garage and an adjacent administration building but did not reach the machinery driving the cableway. Passengers who were at the upper terminal at the time were brought down safely. Retail and catering services at the lower terminal continued to operate, while cableway operations were suspended pending a structural engineering assessment of the affected buildings. The cause was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. Sources stated that the cause of the fire was under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lithium-ion battery fire in a parking garage can spread to adjacent buildings, so operators should check separation distances and fire rated compartmentation around backup battery banks. (2) Passengers at an upper terminal depend on the cableway for return, so emergency plans must include tested backup or manual means to bring them down safely. (3) Even when critical machinery is undamaged, a structural engineering assessment is needed before resuming operations after a fire.", "source_url": "https://www.greenbuildingafrica.co.za/table-mountain-cableway-operations-halted-by-lithium-battery-bank-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:22:40.683814+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0113", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0113/", "title": "Battery storage container fire at commercial site in Brantford, Ontario", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-09", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A single 40 foot lithium-ion battery energy storage container, roughly three years old and used for peak shaving, caught fire at a commercial site in Brantford, Ontario, Canada. The fire department attended and the cause remained under investigation at the time of reporting. The container was located on the property of a food production business, and the fire did not disrupt that business's operations. Firewater runoff from firefighting efforts reached an on-site retention pond and a nearby creek. Environmental regulators reported that a gate at the pond outfall was closed quickly, containing most of the firewater, and that impacts to the creek were assessed as minimal with no adverse effects expected. Cleanup of the pond and disposal of contaminated firewater was to be carried out under environmental protection regulations.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of the available reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lithium-ion battery container fire can produce firewater runoff that reaches a creek, so operators should fit shut-off gates at pond outfalls. (2) A battery fire on a food production site need not halt operations if runoff is contained, so clear protocols should be in place. (3) A three-year-old lithium-ion battery container fire requires prompt regulator contact to limit ecological harm, so sites should plan for this.", "source_url": "https://www.ctvnews.ca/kitchener/article/brantford-fire-still-investigating-storage-unit-battery-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:23:03.798708+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0114", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0114/", "title": "Battery storage fire in electrical room at SeAH Besteel Gunsan Plant, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out around midday in the electrical room of the SeAH Besteel Gunsan Plant, a steel manufacturing plant located in Sorong-dong, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do (North Jeolla Province), South Korea, where a peak-shaving battery energy storage system was installed. Fire crews took approximately two hours to bring the blaze under control. Workers at the site evacuated as a precaution and no injuries were reported. The plant's electrical room, including equipment housed there, was damaged or destroyed by the fire. Authorities stated that the fire was believed to have originated in the battery storage system, though the precise technical cause had not been confirmed at the time of reporting. Police and fire investigators were examining the site to determine the exact origin and extent of the damage. No chemical leak or wider environmental impact was reported in connection with the incident.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported beyond the fire being linked to the battery energy storage system installed in the plant's electrical room.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A battery fire in an electrical room can destroy adjacent plant equipment, so operators should verify fire separation and detection for behind-the-meter BESS. (2) BESS fires in occupied rooms can take two hours to control, so plans must rely on early detection and remote isolation rather than manual intervention.", "source_url": "https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20241010117300055", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:23:12.173975+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0115", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0115/", "title": "Battery storage fire triggers evacuation near Santa Ana industrial site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the evening at an outdoor battery energy storage facility located in an industrial area of Santa Ana, California. Emergency responders arrived to find at least one battery unit ablaze, though it was unclear at the time whether the fire had spread to other units. Due to the presence of smoke and uncertainty about the facility's contents, authorities evacuated a several block radius of the surrounding industrial area as a precaution. Firefighters made progress containing the fire and the evacuation order was lifted around an hour after it began, once smoke had dissipated. No injuries were reported among the public or responders. The site had been operating for a little over two years at the time of the incident.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in available sources.", "lessons_learned": "(1) BESS fires require precautionary evacuation of nearby areas until smoke clears and unit involvement is confirmed. (2) Rapid smoke dissipation at outdoor BESS sites can allow quick lifting of evacuation orders once the fire is contained.", "source_url": "https://www.ocregister.com/2024/07/17/fire-at-energy-storage-facility-prompts-evacuations-in-industrial-area-of-santa-ana/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:23:21.120902+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0116", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0116/", "title": "Explosion and multi-day fire at SIN11 Digital Loyang 1 data centre, Singapore", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-09", "country": "Singapore", "country_code": "sg", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "A fire alarm was triggered at SIN11 Digital Loyang 1, a multi-storey data centre at 3 Loyang Way, Loyang, Singapore, operated by Digital Realty, after an explosion occurred in a lithium-ion battery energy storage system used for uninterruptible power supply, located in battery rooms on the third floor. Approximately 20 occupants evacuated before fire crews arrived, and all site workers were evacuated shortly after the alarm. Fire services deployed four water jets, activated the building sprinkler system, and used an unmanned firefighting robot to cool the batteries. The fire, which affected two battery rooms, two power supply rooms and an equipment storage area, took more than two days to be declared under control. A preliminary structural assessment found minor damage, including plaster delamination, paint peeling and soot, but no loss of overall structural integrity. Building authorities issued closure and dangerous building orders for affected areas as a precaution. Cloud service disruptions were reported by tenant organisations. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Early investigation by the fire authority indicated the fire was likely caused by an electrical issue in one of the battery rooms; this finding was described as provisional.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion BESS in data centre battery rooms can sustain thermal runaway for days, so operators must plan for extended remote cooling with robots rather than direct entry. (2) Unmanned firefighting robots allow safe cooling of battery fires without exposing crews to ongoing thermal runaway.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/fire-at-digital-realtys-singapore-data-center-under-control/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:23:25.448738+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0117", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0117/", "title": "Safety incident at Kearny South Energy Storage Facility in Kearny Mesa", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A safety incident occurred at the Kearny South Energy Storage Facility, a 20 MW / 80 MWh lithium iron phosphate battery energy storage facility located at a substation site in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, California, USA, roughly two years after the system entered commercial operation. The facility, one of two co-located storage systems at the same substation, is operated by San Diego Gas and Electric and was identified by a state utility regulator as having experienced a reportable safety event. Publicly available records confirm that an incident took place on the stated date and that it was subsequently listed among a series of energy storage safety incidents that prompted regulatory review of maintenance, operation and emergency reporting standards for battery storage systems. The available sources do not describe the specific nature of the event, such as whether it involved fire, thermal runaway, electrical fault or another failure mode, nor do they report on injuries, evacuation, fire service response or downtime.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in available sources.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Incidents at lithium iron phosphate battery sites two years after start up can trigger regulatory review of maintenance and emergency reporting standards. (2) Public records for battery storage safety events often omit the event type, so operators should plan for detailed internal logs to support later review.", "source_url": "https://docs.cpuc.ca.gov/PublishedDocs/Published/G000/M555/K812/555812634.pdf", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:23:47.789774+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0118", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0118/", "title": "Battery storage fire and explosion injures four firefighters at Japanese solar site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-03", "country": "Japan", "country_code": "jp", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a lithium-ion battery energy storage system co-located with the Takayanagi Solar Power Plant, Unit 6, operated by Hayashi Energy System in Isa City, Kagoshima, Japan. Neighbours reported white smoke coming from the site. Firefighters could not use water on the fire because of the risk of short circuit and electric shock from the battery equipment. After checking the temperature of the building, firefighters opened the door and found it filled with smoke. When they attempted to operate the building's smoke exhaust system, an explosion occurred, injuring four firefighters, one of whom sustained severe burns to the face and hands. The fire did not spread to the solar panels but the storage building was scorched and deformed. The fire was confirmed extinguished more than 20 hours after ignition, around 14:30 the following day.", "contributing_factors": "Water could not be used to fight the fire due to the risk of short circuit and electric shock from the lithium-ion battery equipment, prolonging the incident. An explosion occurred when firefighters attempted to activate the building's smoke exhaust system after opening the door, suggesting a build-up of flammable or explosive gases inside the enclosed structure prior to ventilation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion BESS fires cannot be fought with water because of short-circuit and shock risks, so operators must supply alternative suppression plans to local fire services. (2) Opening a BESS enclosure or activating its smoke exhaust after gas build-up can cause an explosion, so responders must follow BESS-specific entry rules.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/xj4wegae6xpnoc3xm3lpsyxoxllh8q5v.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:24:02.363012+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0119", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0119/", "title": "Battery cabinet fire during grid connection test at Lanyu Power Plant", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-12", "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A battery cabinet installed outside the Lanyu Power Plant on Lanyu (Orchid Island), Taitung County, Taiwan, operated by Taipower, caught fire during testing of a newly added energy storage system. The fire is suspected to have been caused by a short circuit that occurred while the system was undergoing a grid connection test. Plant staff and testers acted quickly to contain the blaze, and the local fire brigade was called to monitor the area to prevent the fire spreading to nearby facilities. Because the battery chemistry involved is not suitable for direct water suppression, firefighters used metal fire extinguishers and cooling measures instead of hoses, and kept watch on the site for around one day until the situation was fully controlled. The plant's normal operations were not affected by the incident, and no injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "A suspected short circuit occurring during commissioning or grid connection testing of the newly installed battery storage system. The lithium ion battery chemistry involved is incompatible with direct water-based firefighting, requiring alternative suppression methods.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery cabinets in new storage systems can short circuit during grid connection tests, so operators must add close supervision and monitoring throughout commissioning. (2) Lithium ion battery fires cannot use water hoses, so response plans must specify metal extinguishers and controlled cooling from the outset. (3) Island sites need pre-agreed local response plans with battery operators because logistics slow external help.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/57ner8t8d0ibjz0lfyqywjk3x09ze2qp.pdf", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:24:04.695627+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0120", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0120/", "title": "Battery storage fire at Automotive Campus, Helmond reignites days later", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-12", "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Christmas Day 2023, a fire was reported in a mobile battery energy storage container, manufactured by Dens, at the Automotive Campus in Helmond, Netherlands. On arrival, fire crews found flames and flaring from lithium-ion battery cells consistent with thermal runaway. Three other battery containers stood nearby, close enough that fire spread was possible. Crews initially worked defensively, using water to shield the adjacent units, then disconnected them from the grid and relocated them, one manually and two using a heavy-lift vehicle brought in by the equipment owner. After considering several stabilisation options, responders chose continuous cooling of the burning unit. The fire was brought to a stable state and handed back to the company on 30 December. However, in the early hours of that night, the fire reignited after the container had appeared extinguished, triggering a further emergency response to control it again.", "contributing_factors": "The nearest primary water supply was found not to be working, delaying initial fire fighting. The battery containers were parked close together, creating a risk of fire spread between units. Two of the adjacent containers were too heavy (around 30 tonnes) for the fire brigade's own equipment to move, requiring the owner's heavy-lift vehicle. The installed aerosol fire suppression system's activation and effectiveness could not be confirmed. Thermal runaway in lithium-ion cells made the fire difficult to fully extinguish, contributing to a later reignition.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lithium-ion battery container at the Automotive Campus showed thermal runaway, so operators must confirm aerosol suppression works and plan for continuous cooling. (2) Three battery containers stood close together at Helmond, so sites must keep enough separation to stop fire spread between units. (3) Two 30-tonne containers at the site could not be moved by fire brigade equipment, so plans must include access to suitable heavy-lift vehicles.", "source_url": "https://nipv.nl/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20241128-NIPV-Brand-in-EOS-Helmond-lessen-incidentbestrijding.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:24:20.141881+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0121", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0121/", "title": "Fire destroys battery storage building at SeAH Changwon Special Steel plant", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an indoor lithium-ion battery energy storage system used for peak shaving at the SeAH Changwon Special Steel ESS facility in Shinchon-dong, Seongsan-gu, Changwon, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea. The facility, operated and owned by SeAH Changwon Special Steel, used batteries manufactured by Samsung SDI, with LS Electric acting as system integrator and EPC contractor. The system had completed an overnight charging cycle and was preparing to discharge during the following peak period when early signs of a problem were reportedly noticed. The fire developed fully several hours later and was fought by local fire crews. One battery storage building, housing several thousand lithium-ion cells, was destroyed. No injuries were reported. The incident occurred roughly a month after another large battery storage fire in the same country, prompting renewed concern among experts about the safety of large-scale battery installations, particularly around seasonal periods when ambient temperatures fluctuate significantly.", "contributing_factors": "Not confirmed by available sources. Commentators noted the fire occurred during a seasonal transition period with variable temperatures and highlighted a recurring pattern of battery storage fires in the region, but no formal root cause had been published at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion battery storage can develop faults after overnight charging and before discharge, so operators should check monitoring systems for early signs during that window. (2) A fire in a building with several thousand lithium-ion cells can destroy the structure before crews arrive, so plans must rely on detection and isolation rather than external firefighting.", "source_url": "https://www.electimes.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=326635", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:24:58.843007+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0122", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0122/", "title": "Fire at Korea Zinc Onsan Smelter ESS Center, Ulsan, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-08", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In August 2023 a fire broke out inside a two-storey indoor battery energy storage facility used for peak shaving at the Korea Zinc Onsan Smelter ESS Center (Plant 1) in Onsan-eup, Ulju-gun, Ulsan, South Korea, operated and owned by Korea Zinc. The fire started in the morning and fire services declared a level one emergency response, deploying all available equipment and personnel from the local fire department. Firefighters used smoke extraction vehicles to clear smoke from the building, then drilled openings into the structure so that remote controlled, unmanned water cannons could apply water directly to the fire. More than seven hours after ignition, firefighting was still in progress. Reports noted that once a fire starts in this type of battery storage system it tends to continue burning until the stored energy is consumed, making full suppression difficult. No information on injuries, cause or final extinguishment time was available at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "No contributing factors were stated in the source. Reporting at the time noted only the general difficulty of suppressing fires in enclosed lithium-ion battery installations.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Fires in indoor lithium-ion battery installations can burn for many hours until stored energy is consumed, so plan incident command and water supply for extended operations. (2) Pre-agree tactics with fire services for enclosed battery sites, including remote water cannons and controlled drilling to reach the fire without entering. (3) Design battery storage buildings with access points, smoke extraction and clear layout marking to support external firefighting.", "source_url": "https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20230823127000057", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:24:59.917984+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0123", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0123/", "title": "Container fire at Claudia battery storage site in Saucats, France", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-08", "country": "France", "country_code": "fr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in a container of lithium-ion batteries at the Claudia battery energy storage facility in Saucats (Barban), Gironde, France, which was in the process of being commissioned. The site is operated and owned by Amarenco, with the battery system integrated by Nidec Industrial Solutions. The fire started around midday and was contained over roughly a day and night by local fire services, who used a water curtain to prevent the flames spreading rather than applying water directly to the burning battery unit, in line with guidance for lithium-ion fires. No injuries were reported and the fire did not spread to nearby forest. Thick black smoke was visible several hundred metres away, prompting concern among nearby residents and farmers about potential effects on crops and woodland. Amarenco stated an investigation into the cause was ongoing, with recent hot weather and the unit having only just been brought into service considered possible factors.", "contributing_factors": "Possible factors under investigation included the unit having only recently been commissioned and preceding heatwave conditions; Amarenco had not confirmed a root cause at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion battery fires in containers produce thick smoke even when contained, so operators must prepare community communication plans in advance. (2) Fire services need pre-agreed protocols for lithium-ion units that use water curtains rather than direct water application. (3) Newly commissioned battery units may need extra thermal checks during hot weather until root causes are known.", "source_url": "https://www.amarencogroup.com/en/one-of-the-largest-european-battery-storage-projects-in-saucats", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:25:06.390718+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0124", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0124/", "title": "Fire at container energy storage station in Longjing District, Taichung", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-07", "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 4 July 2023, fire was reported at an outdoor container energy storage station on Industrial Road in Longjing District, Taichung City, Taiwan. Open flame and smoke came from a container holding lithium iron phosphate batteries. Firefighters cooled the cabinet with water, the manufacturer was notified so that power could be cut, and a firefighter in full protective equipment then opened the door and applied foam inside. The fire was reported under control at about 19:11, with a burning area of about 30 square metres. No casualties were reported. The ignition cause had not been established.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service said the cause was still under investigation. Crews treated the event as an energy storage container fire: an internal electrochemical reaction can continue after flames are knocked down, and opening the door can let in air and cause flash ignition or deflagration. These were described as general hazards of this type of fire, not as a confirmed cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Cool an energy storage container from outside before any entry, because internal electrochemical reaction can continue after flames are out. (2) Open a lithium iron phosphate battery container door only under controlled conditions, because a sudden inrush of air can cause flash ignition. (3) Isolate the external supply to an energy storage container and still treat it as live, because batteries can hold electricity after isolation.", "source_url": "https://n.yam.com/Article/20230704453110", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:25:23.917785+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0125", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0125/", "title": "Battery storage fire at Chaumont Site 1 prompts shelter-in-place order", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2023 a fire was reported at an outdoor battery energy storage system co-located with a solar photovoltaic array at the Chaumont Site 1 / Tops Markets solar-plus-storage project in the Town of Lyme, Chaumont, Jefferson County, New York, United States, operated and integrated by Convergent Energy and Power and owned by NSF Chaumont Site 1. The storage system, supplied by GE, used nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) cells and was a small utility-scale installation of single-digit megawatts with a few hours of duration. Available sources indicate the system had been in service for less than six months, and it is not clear whether the wider project had reached full commercial operation. Local authorities issued a precautionary shelter-in-place order for residents within about one mile of the site while the fire was dealt with. Reported physical damage was limited to part of the installation. No injuries or fatalities were reported in available sources.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in available sources. Sources noted only that the system was recently installed, in service for less than six months, with some ambiguity over whether construction and commissioning were fully complete.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where a new battery system is in its first months of service, agree in writing which party monitors cell data and who may isolate the unit out of hours. (2) Emergency plans for storage sites near housing must set trigger conditions and communication routes for shelter-in-place orders in advance. (3) At co-located solar and storage sites, response plans must cover how to isolate direct current sources that remain live in daylight.", "source_url": "https://www.convergentep.com/portfolio/chaumont-5", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:25:40.781881+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0128", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0128/", "title": "Battery storage failure at Edwards Sanborn E2 in Kern County, California", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A lithium-ion battery energy storage system at the Edwards Sanborn E2 site in Kern County, California, operated by Terra-Gen, experienced a failure incident in February 2024, according to an industry database that tracks stationary battery storage failures. The system was rated at 66 MW and 140 MWh and was approximately 2.2 years old at the time of the incident. The proportion of the installation affected was very small, reported as a fraction of a percent of total capacity. No further public detail is available on the specific trigger, fire or thermal event characteristics, emergency response, injuries or evacuation status. The incident was logged in a database that focuses on failures with potential wider public health and safety impact, most commonly thermal events such as fire or explosion in lithium-ion systems.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available sources.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lithium-ion battery energy storage system can fail within the first few years, so operators should keep monitoring after commissioning. (2) Even a failure that affects only a fraction of a percent of capacity belongs in public databases to show true failure rates.", "source_url": "https://mbrweb.ferc.gov/SearchlkpEIA/Index?page=649", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T12:29:10.563795+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0129", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0129/", "title": "Smoke from battery storage building prompts closure at West Thumb Geyser Basin", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "gas_release", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Utility staff from NorthWestern Energy reported smoke coming from a small building housing a solar-plus-battery energy storage system at West Thumb Geyser Basin, a public visitor site in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. Emergency responders were dispatched and found smoke but no visible flames, and the exterior of the building was undamaged. Because battery off-gas can be corrosive and hazardous if inhaled, the surrounding public area was closed as a precaution while the batteries were allowed to fully discharge and fumes dissipated. The site remained closed for roughly two weeks while fire crews monitored conditions, and it reopened once assessed as safe. No injuries were reported and no fire damage to the structure occurred.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in available sources.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage at public sites needs rapid isolation and controlled discharge plans when smoke appears, to limit exposure to off-gas. (2) Fire crews should monitor battery buildings after smoke events until fumes clear and the site is assessed safe. (3) Precautionary closures protect visitors from toxic battery fumes even with no visible flames or structural damage.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/m46rum88qse1bamxhsoqiprxteaanyze.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:16:02.161083+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0130", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0130/", "title": "Battery storage container fire at Aghione solar site, France", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "France", "country_code": "fr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2023 a fire broke out in a lithium-ion battery storage container at a co-located solar generation site in Aghione, Haute-Corse, France. The battery system was reported to be at about 95% state of charge at the time. An automatic inert gas suppression system activated, and emergency teams responded and isolated power supplies. Shortly after container doors were opened for firefighting, a further thermal event and an explosion occurred, injuring two firefighters who were taken to hospital. Three more firefighters were later hospitalised for smoke inhalation. Nearby homes and an adjacent industrial facility were evacuated and roads were closed, while a residential area several kilometres away was advised to remain indoors. Firefighters applied sustained water cooling to manage thermal runaway and to prevent spread to an adjacent container. Cooling continued for around ten days until temperatures stabilised, and the emergency response concluded after approximately two weeks. An investigation into the causes was opened by the relevant national technological accident authority.", "contributing_factors": "The source states that the battery system was at a high state of charge, around 95%, when the fire started, meaning a large amount of stored energy had to be dissipated before conditions could stabilise. The source also records that a thermal event and explosion occurred shortly after the container was opened during firefighting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lithium-ion battery at 95% state of charge releases large stored energy during fire, so operators should supply state of charge data to responders before any incident. (2) Opening a battery container after inert gas suppression can trigger thermal event and explosion, so procedures must set safe stand-off distances before doors are opened.", "source_url": "https://www.aria.developpement-durable.gouv.fr/accident/60556/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:16:13.473923+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0131", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0131/", "title": "Battery room fire at solar site in Palgeum-myeon, Sinan-gun, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-02", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the battery storage room of a solar power facility in Palgeum-myeon, Sinan-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea, in the early afternoon. Fire crews deployed multiple vehicles and around twenty personnel, bringing the fire under initial control within under an hour. No injuries were reported. Authorities identified the battery room as the origin of the fire and began investigating the exact cause and the extent of property damage. The battery system involved used nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) chemistry. At the time of reporting, the investigation into root cause and financial impact was ongoing, and no further details on the specific battery configuration or capacity were disclosed.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) NMC battery rooms at solar sites need early detection and suppression sized for that chemistry, because fire crews reached initial control only after deploying twenty personnel. (2) Co-located battery rooms require pre-planned access routes for multiple fire vehicles, as response time depended on rapid identification of the origin.", "source_url": "https://www.news1.kr/local/gwangju-jeonnam/4947397", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:16:22.191174+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0132", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0132/", "title": "Fire at Hyundai Steel indoor battery storage system, Incheon, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-09", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2022, a fire was reported in the early morning at an indoor battery energy storage system installed at the Hyundai Steel facility in Incheon, South Korea. The system was used to charge overnight and discharge during the day for energy shifting. Crews from several fire stations attended and an escalated multi-agency response was declared shortly after the initial call. The fire was contained by responders and one firefighter was reported injured during the response. Reporting at the time indicated that around one percent of the installed battery capacity was damaged. No fatalities were reported, and the cause was not disclosed in the available reporting. The battery system was supplied by Samsung SDI.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in available sources.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Indoor BESS at industrial sites needs detection, suppression and ventilation sized for thermal runaway and gas build up. (2) Agree escalated multi-agency response with local fire service before energisation, covering access and isolation. (3) Early detection and module level isolation limits damage to a small share of capacity.", "source_url": "https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/2022/09/06/business/industry/Hyundai-Steel-ESS-energy-storage-system/20220906085743486.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:16:38.310454+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0133", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0133/", "title": "Battery fire at solar plus storage site in Jangseong-gun, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-05", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the energy storage room of a solar power generation facility in Jangseong-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea. Emergency services deployed a large number of personnel and vehicles to bring the blaze under control. Officials reported no casualties, but noted that suppression was difficult due to the risk of battery explosion. Fire investigators believed the fire originated in the lithium ion battery system that stores electricity generated by the co-located solar array. The exact technical cause was under investigation at the time of reporting, with no further public findings identified.", "contributing_factors": "Officials indicated the fire likely originated within the lithium ion battery system, though the precise technical cause was not confirmed in available reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium ion battery fires in solar storage rooms carry explosion risk, so response plans must limit entry and rely on remote isolation. (2) Battery fires at hybrid solar plus storage sites can draw large emergency resources even with no injuries, so operators should pre-agree resource needs with local services. (3) Root cause findings for lithium ion battery fires are often not released, so operators should require internal reviews to capture lessons.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/2fp8fm04q3qdh972k94r10unw20rpi7a.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:17:01.836296+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0134", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0134/", "title": "Battery room fire at solar-plus-storage site in Iksan-si, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-05", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the battery energy storage system room of a solar power facility in Eoryang-ri, Mangseong-myeon, Iksan-si, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea, in the early afternoon. Fire crews brought the visible flames under control within about 40 minutes, but the battery fire continued to smoulder and took several more hours to fully extinguish, with full suppression achieved late that night. No injuries were reported. Around 60 square metres of the ESS room were burned, and local fire authorities estimated the property loss at roughly 200 million Korean won. The cause of the fire was under investigation by fire and electrical safety authorities at the time of reporting, with battery manufacturer Samsung SDI stating that while the fire originated in the battery area, the underlying cause could lie elsewhere in the integrated system.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported at time of publication; investigation into root cause was ongoing by fire authorities and the national electrical safety agency.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery fires in enclosed ESS rooms can smoulder for hours after visible flames are suppressed, so operators must plan for extended monitoring and resources. (2) Root cause analysis for ESS fires needs joint work by fire services and electrical safety regulators, as origin in the battery area may not mean the battery itself failed.", "source_url": "https://www.4th.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=2017462", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:17:05.813961+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0135", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0135/", "title": "Battery storage fire burns for three days at Poggio-di-Nazza site, Corsica", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-06", "country": "France", "country_code": "fr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At the Poggio-di-Nazza solar and storage site in Poggio-di-Nazza, Corsica, France, operated by SUN'R and SPES de Corse (also the site owner), and fitted with two lithium-ion battery storage containers using LG Chem battery modules integrated by Nidec ASI, a fire broke out in one container during the evening while the batteries were at around 87 percent state of charge. No staff were on site. A remote monitoring alarm triggered a call to emergency services, who arrived roughly 75 minutes later. The fire began in a single battery module that entered thermal runaway, likely due to an internal cell defect, possibly aggravated by moisture ingress. It spread through the rack to the rest of the container, including a power conversion unit and on-site data servers. The automatic fire suppression system did not stop the thermal runaway. Firefighters focused on preventing spread to an adjacent transformer compartment and to nearby vegetation, using water cooling. The fire burned for more than three days before being fully extinguished. No injuries were reported, though smoke with an acrid odour was noticed by nearby residents over 400 metres away. The full site was shut down for about two months.", "contributing_factors": "The investigation identified an absence of an extinguishing system effective against a thermal runaway event once initiated, loss of internal compartmentalisation within the container, contact between a technician and the site during the response, and challenges in the emergency service intervention. A possible role of moisture from the container's climate control system was also considered as a contributing factor in the initial cell failure, though this could not be confirmed with certainty.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Automatic fire suppression systems may fail to stop thermal runaway in lithium-ion containers once it starts, so operators should plan for remote isolation and long-duration response. (2) Critical data servers inside battery containers risk total data loss in a fire, so they should be placed in a separate enclosure. (3) Battery fires can last several days, so emergency plans must include sustained cooling and exclusion zones rather than short interventions.", "source_url": "https://www.igedd.developpement-durable.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/rapport_sunr_poggio_vdif_cle5bb821.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:17:06.352764+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0136", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0136/", "title": "Fire and explosion at solar-linked BESS in South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-01", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred at an outdoor energy storage system connected to a 500 kW solar power plant in Singok-ri, Umyeon-myeon, Gunwi-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do. The system comprised a 450 kW power conversion system supplied by Willings and a 1.5 MWh lithium-ion battery supplied by LG Chem, now LG Energy Solution, and had been in commercial operation since August 2018. Firefighters entered the structure after reports of smoke. Ten minutes after they withdrew, an explosion occurred. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The system was operating at 90 per cent state of charge. Firefighters opened the door to the structure. A gas fire-extinguishing system, water system and exhaust were fitted.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Firefighters should not open the door of a lithium-ion BESS on smoke reports alone, as this can allow air to trigger explosion. (2) A gas fire-extinguishing system may not stop explosion in a BESS at 90 per cent state of charge. (3) Operators should give fire services response manuals for the exact BESS model before any incident.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/05zf0bihru9sdsw2x8wt1g76n87tsm13.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:17:36.938823+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0138", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0138/", "title": "Fire in small battery storage unit at ITRI solar site, Longjing District, Taichung", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-03", "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2022 a fire broke out in a small battery storage installation co-located with solar generation at the ITRI Green Energy and Environment Research Laboratories solar storage demonstration site in Longjing District, Taichung City, Taiwan, operated by the Industrial Technology Research Institute. Local fire services were notified and arrived in about 13 minutes, brought the fire under control roughly 19 minutes later and reported it fully extinguished around an hour after the initial call. No injuries were reported. The system used cylindrical nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) lithium-ion cells and had been in service for approximately two years. The cause was not confirmed at the time of reporting. The event prompted wider discussion in the sector about cell chemistry selection and about operations and maintenance arrangements for storage deployed alongside solar demonstration projects.", "contributing_factors": "Reporting at the time stated that no root cause had been confirmed. Commentary published alongside the reports noted that some demonstration-scale storage projects lack a dedicated operations and maintenance budget, and included unverified speculation that a small animal may have entered the enclosure. Neither point was established as a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion battery storage at a solar site needs a dedicated operations and maintenance budget and named inspection responsibility. (2) Enclosures for battery storage must have verified ingress protection and sealed entries to keep out pests and small animals. (3) Cell chemistry selection for storage must include thermal stability and propagation behaviour as well as energy density.", "source_url": "https://baijiahao.baidu.com/s?id=1729523929391463569&wfr=spider&for=pc&searchword=%E5%8F%B0%E6%B9%BE%E5%8F%B0%E4%B8%AD%E5%B8%82%E9%BE%99%E4%BA%95%E5%8C%BA%E7%94%B5%E6%B1%A0%E7%81%AB%E7%81%BE", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:17:49.864587+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0141", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0141/", "title": "Battery storage fire at a solar plant in Yeongcheon, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-03", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the afternoon of 11 March 2021, a fire of unknown cause was reported at a solar power plant with battery storage in Samgwi-ri, Gogyeong-myeon, Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea. The fire service is reported to have extinguished it after about three hours. A failure database lists the system as an indoor solar-integration installation using NMC cells supplied by LG Energy Solution. Injuries, the extent of damage and the cause were not reported in the sources reviewed.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. No contributing factor has been established from the available sources.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Indoor battery rooms at solar sites need a clear alarm path and fire-service access plan, because a fire can take hours to extinguish. (2) Operators should keep chemistry, supplier and layout records ready so an investigation can start without delay. (3) Until a cause is known, similar sites should review detection, shutdown and suppression rather than assume one failure mode.", "source_url": "https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352152X2301589X#event-2021-03-11", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:18:25.946403+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0142", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0142/", "title": "Battery storage container destroyed by fire during commissioning at Perles-et-Castelet substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-12", "country": "France", "country_code": "fr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During acceptance testing of a newly installed hybrid battery and supercapacitor storage unit at the Perles-et-Castelet RTE transformer substation in Perles-et-Castelet, Ariège, France, operated and owned by RTE, with the storage system supplied by Ingeteam as manufacturer and integrator, temperature and smoke alarms activated shortly after the equipment was energised. Personnel evacuated the control room as smoke emerged from one of two stacked containers. Around 45 minutes later, an overpressure event blew open the container doors and a fire broke out, ultimately destroying the storage container despite an extended firefighting response. Investigation established that one battery rack suddenly discharged into an adjacent rack, with the resulting current flowing only through part of the second rack. Insulation resistance in the first rack had fallen close to short-circuit levels. Investigators proposed that a failed electrical connection contacting the rack's metal frame, combined with an insulation fault on a busbar linking a module to its protection unit, may have caused an electric arc upstream of a fuse.", "contributing_factors": "Investigators identified a probable insulation fault at electrical connections passing through the battery rack support frame, potentially combined with a failed electrical connection contacting the metal frame, which may have produced an electric arc not cleared by the fuse protection. The precise root cause of the insulation fault itself could not be determined.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery rack insulation resistance must be monitored continuously at module level, as a sudden drop to short-circuit levels allowed rack-to-rack discharge. (2) Electrical connections through metal rack frames require extra design checks and inspection, since a fault here produced an arc that fuses did not clear. (3) Fire protection and isolation plans for BESS during commissioning must allow for rapid energy isolation, as the container was destroyed despite extended firefighting.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/y2bd6xooip6lmz0mlks13a8roluq8xx0.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:18:46.962678+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0146", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0146/", "title": "Fire in battery storage system at Gimhae in South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-10", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire is recorded at a battery energy storage system in Gimhae, South Korea, on 27 October 2019. The available database record says the energy management system log showed the voltage deviation of each battery in the rack rising continuously, resulting in thermal runaway. The system is recorded as 2.2 MWh, NMC chemistry, 1.5 years old, installed outdoors for solar integration, with damaged capacity reported as 1.0%. No injuries, fire-service response or wider outcome are reported in the source used here.", "contributing_factors": "The only account available is that voltage deviation of the batteries in the rack increased continuously before thermal runaway. No separate root-cause investigation was retrieved.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a continuing rise in rack voltage deviation on the energy management system as an early warning of thermal runaway in a BESS. (2) Outdoor solar-integration storage needs detection and isolation that can limit damage if one rack fails. (3) Retain energy management system logs so voltage trends can be reviewed after a fire.", "source_url": "https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352152X2301589X#event-2019-10-27", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:19:38.627708+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0147", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0147/", "title": "Small explosion and battery fire during maintenance at data centre in Vitry-sur-Seine", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-09", "country": "France", "country_code": "fr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "On 16 September 2019, a small explosion and a battery fire were reported in an indoor lithium-ion battery system at the Scalway DC3 data centre in Vitry-sur-Seine, France. The operator said the fire was on the A inverter chain during planned annual maintenance, that it was brought under control, and that smoke was extracted from the room at once. The two battery chains were isolated. The operator reported that the inverters returned to normal operation and that there was no impact on service. No injuries were reported in the source.", "contributing_factors": "The event was reported during planned annual maintenance on one inverter chain. The source does not state a technical cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Work on an indoor battery string should keep the affected chain isolated so a fault on one inverter does not spread. (2) Battery rooms need a ready means of extracting smoke if a string fails during maintenance. (3) Before a chain is returned to service, operators should confirm the remaining strings are stable.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/pe78cd6cz2rtpxqnq77asduhxes3r5hx.pdf", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:19:41.30031+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0148", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0148/", "title": "Ministry lists unreported solar-linked storage fire in Jangsu", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-05", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 26 May 2019 the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy counted a solar-linked energy storage fire in Jangsu, North Jeolla, as the 23rd ESS fire in its tally. The installation was stated at 1.027 MWh. The local fire service said it had no report of a May incident in Jangsu, although it knew of a separate fire there on 15 January. The ministry told provincial fire officials that the operator had not wanted the event made public because a fire had started and then gone out. No scene inspection by the national forensic institute or the electrical safety body was confirmed. How the fire ended, and how much equipment was damaged, was not established.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. Because the fire service was not notified, the usual joint site investigation did not take place.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Even a small storage fire that goes out on site should be notified, so a record exists. (2) Tallies that rely only on operator notice can diverge from fire-service records. (3) Without a site inspection, cause and damage should not be treated as established.", "source_url": "https://www.seoulfn.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=347465", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:20:14.705281+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0149", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0149/", "title": "Fire destroys 1,200 battery modules at Wando-gun solar storage site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-01", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In early 2019, a fire broke out in the battery energy storage system serving a solar power plant in Wando-gun, South Jeolla Province, South Korea. The blaze destroyed part of the battery building, an area of about 61 square metres, along with roughly 1,200 battery modules housed inside, which were supplied by manufacturer INCELL. No injuries were reported. Emergency services attended in force and brought the fire under control within just over an hour. The system used lithium ion batteries in an indoor configuration and had been in service for just over a year at the time of the incident. Fire authorities initially attributed the fire to an electrical cause, with a fuller investigation into the precise origin ongoing at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Fire authorities were reported as suspecting an electrical fault, described as provisional pending further investigation. No other contributing factors, such as design, installation quality or environmental conditions, were reported in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Indoor lithium ion battery rooms for solar storage need early detection and suppression to stop fire spread beyond one module group. (2) Electrical faults in new battery systems require cell level monitoring from day one to catch issues before they ignite. (3) Initial electrical cause findings must be checked by full root cause work, as early reports can change.", "source_url": "https://news.tvchosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2019/01/15/2019011590074.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T15:20:18.274881+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0150", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0150/", "title": "Battery storage fire at solar site in Geochang County, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-11", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2018 a fire broke out in the battery energy storage room of a solar power generation facility in Wicheon-myeon, Geochang County, South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. The fire burned through a single storey prefabricated sandwich panel structure housing the storage equipment, affecting an area of around 17 square metres. Fire crews extinguished the fire in about one hour and thirty minutes. The site operated without on-site personnel and no injuries or fatalities were reported. The fire service estimated property damage at around 400 million won. Authorities opened an investigation, and the cause remained unconfirmed at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Reporting indicated that the battery system, manufactured by LG Chem, used a nickel manganese cobalt chemistry and had been in service for approximately seven months, in an outdoor, unmanned installation integrated with solar generation. No further contributing factors were confirmed in the available source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Unmanned battery storage in solar sites needs automatic detection and remote alarm transmission. (2) Nickel manganese cobalt batteries need close temperature and voltage monitoring in the first year. (3) Fires in prefabricated sandwich panel enclosures need suppression suited to the structure.", "source_url": "https://www.knnews.co.kr/news/articleView.php?idxno=1268827", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:31:05.043559+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0151", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0151/", "title": "Lithium-ion battery failure recorded at Drogenbos storage site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-11", "country": "Belgium", "country_code": "be", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A lithium-ion battery energy storage system at Drogenbos, Belgium, is recorded as having failed on 11 November 2017. The system is listed at 6 MW and as used for frequency regulation. About 1 per cent of installed capacity is recorded as damaged. The failure mode, whether there was a fire, and any injuries or cause are not reported in the available record.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A record of limited capacity damage in a lithium-ion battery system should still prompt a check that the affected unit was isolated and that neighbouring equipment was not affected. (2) Frequency-regulation batteries cycle often, so monitoring and unit isolation can keep a fault to a small share of capacity.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/oyy8xw3hzgy5btfxqb31233din583w0p.pdf", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:31:05.595407+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0152", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0152/", "title": "Second lithium battery container fire reported at a Shanxi power plant storage station", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-12", "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 21 December 2017 a fire was reported at a lithium battery energy storage power station of a power plant in Shanxi, China, and was reported to have burned the No. 2 energy storage container. The same station was reported to have had a fire in a group of lithium battery containers on 7 March 2017. The cause, any injuries, and damage beyond that container were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A repeat fire in lithium battery containers at the same station in one year shows the need to recheck monitoring, isolation and return-to-service controls after each event. (2) Record each container-level fire event so any repeat pattern becomes visible to operators and insurers. (3) When the cause is not published, treat the record as incomplete and do not assume the first response removed the hazard.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/senpq3dpc0eta14d5bf8vhpluy9eh28r.pdf", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:31:05.674096+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0153", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0153/", "title": "Battery storage fire at solar site in Gunsan, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-06", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2018, a fire broke out in a battery energy storage system, manufactured by Samsung SDI, installed at a solar power facility in Osikdo-dong, Gunsan, North Jeolla, South Korea. Emergency services attended with a substantial number of vehicles, including chemical fire appliances, and around fifty personnel. Fire officials stated that the fire originated in lithium batteries and presented an explosion risk, so initial efforts were directed at preventing spread to surrounding areas rather than direct attack. No injuries were reported. The system was reported to have been in operation for approximately six months before the fire. The cause, the extent of damage and any remediation were not disclosed in the available reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available source. Fire officials were reported as stating only that the fire originated in the lithium batteries and carried an explosion risk.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium battery fires carry an explosion risk, so responders must use containment and exclusion tactics rather than direct attack on the enclosure. (2) Battery systems at solar sites need pre-planned access details and isolation points so responders can decide on containment quickly. (3) Operators must monitor and inspect battery systems from the first months of service as thermal events can occur early.", "source_url": "https://www.nocutnews.co.kr/news/4986119", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:31:11.509188+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0154", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0154/", "title": "Battery fire destroys solar storage system in Mungyeong, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-11", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a solar power generation facility with co-located battery energy storage in Mungyeong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea, less than one year after the storage system was installed. The fire was severe enough to knock the iron door off its housing, and the batteries inside were completely melted. The adjacent mountainside was also charred by the blaze. The incident occurred on the same day as a separate fire at another solar facility elsewhere in the country, part of a wider pattern of solar and storage fires reported in South Korea that year. At the time of reporting, authorities had been investigating a broader wave of similar fires since the previous year but had not yet determined the exact technical cause. The storage system used nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery chemistry.", "contributing_factors": "Local media noted that temperature and humidity control at these facilities needed further investigation, and industry-wide reporting indicated the majority of solar-related fires in the country were attributed to electrical or mechanical problems, with energy storage devices frequently implicated as the fire origin.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Newly installed battery storage with solar needs close monitoring in the first year, as failures cluster early. (2) Temperature and humidity controls in battery enclosures must match local climate conditions. (3) Multiple similar fires in one region signal the need for a systemic investigation rather than isolated fixes.", "source_url": "https://web.archive.org/web/20240411161735/https://news.jtbc.co.kr/article/article.aspx?news_id=NB11732880", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:31:13.749462+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0155", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0155/", "title": "Fire damages battery storage system at solar plant in Samcheok", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-12", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In December 2018, a fire broke out during the evening at a battery energy storage system integrated with a solar generation facility in Samcheok, Gangwon Province, South Korea. The fire destroyed a large number of lithium-ion battery units and damaged part of the building housing the system, resulting in substantial property loss. No injuries were reported in the source. Fire services noted that lithium-ion battery fires of this type are difficult to extinguish, as contact with water can cause further heating and explosion risk. The exact cause could not be determined, as the batteries were consumed so completely that investigators were unable to identify a point of origin. The facility had reportedly undergone a safety inspection earlier the same month under a national programme addressing battery storage fire risk. The incident occurred during a period of rapid growth in storage installations paired with renewable generation in the country.", "contributing_factors": "According to the source report, water damage to the batteries had been identified during a safety inspection before the fire, and the battery supplier, LG Chem, twice requested that the system be taken out of service. The report states that the system remained in service and that the batteries were returned to operating condition before the fire. The register has not independently verified these accounts and no formal cause was established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A supplier notice of water damage to lithium-ion batteries must trigger an automatic operational hold until assessment is complete. (2) Lithium-ion battery fires destroy physical evidence, so battery management and alarm data must be preserved off site for later review. (3) Co-located storage and generation share a building, so fire separation and loss of the shared structure must be assessed together.", "source_url": "https://www.munhwa.com/news/view.html?no=2018122401070227332001", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:31:29.585544+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0158", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0158/", "title": "Berlin transformer substation fire investigated amid grid sabotage spate", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Police in Berlin said they are investigating a fire that affected a construction site and a transformer substation in the Moabit district. Authorities said the power supply was not affected and are working to establish whether the fire was accidental or the result of arson. The incident comes amid a wider series of suspected sabotage attacks on Germany's power grid, including a separate case in the city of Wesel where police found a security fence around another substation had been cut open. German police were also reported to be searching for a man who had sent letters claiming responsibility for grid sabotage attacks after explosives were found at his home.", "contributing_factors": "Investigators have not confirmed a cause. The fire occurred in the context of a reported series of sabotage attempts on grid infrastructure elsewhere in Germany, raising suspicion of arson, though this has not been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer substations need monitored perimeter fencing, as a cut fence was found at a similar site in Wesel. (2) Fires at substations can be isolated quickly to avoid supply loss, so detection systems should trigger automatic isolation. (3) Operators should share threat intelligence with police when sabotage patterns appear across grid sites.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/berlin-police-probe-substation-fire-amid-series-of-attacks-on-grid/ar-AA2bIQTk", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:31:51.772046+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0161", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0161/", "title": "Battery fire at Summerside Sunbank solar farm triggers evacuation order", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the early hours at a battery storage unit forming part of the Summerside Sunbank solar power farm, a municipal solar facility owned and operated by the City of Summerside in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada. Emergency services contained the fire to a single battery unit within a multi-unit storage system rated up to five megawatts. Authorities issued a shelter-in-place order for nearby residents and a voluntary evacuation within a 500 metre radius, citing concerns over smoke and steam potentially carrying toxins, which were exacerbated by recent heavy rainfall and firefighting water application to the site. A reception centre was opened for displaced residents. Fire crews used thermal drones to monitor hotspots and maintained a rotating on-site presence for over a day. Because battery fires cannot be extinguished with direct water application, crews allowed the affected unit to burn out while monitoring for spread. The fire did not spread to adjacent batteries or electrical infrastructure, and no interruption to grid power supply was expected.", "contributing_factors": "Recent heavy rainfall combined with firefighting water application increased ambient smoke and steam, prompting a precautionary shelter-in-place order; root cause of the battery fire itself was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage fires cannot be put out with water, so crews must let the unit burn out while monitoring for spread to other modules. (2) Shelter-in-place orders around battery sites must allow for smoke and steam hazards made worse by rain and firefighting water. (3) Early containment at battery farms can stop fire moving from one unit to adjacent batteries or electrical systems.", "source_url": "https://www.saltwire.com/prince-edward-island/summerside-solar-farm-fire-prompts-shelter-in-place-order", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:32:16.306378+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0164", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0164/", "title": "Substation fire in Utjeha leaves entire village without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Montenegro", "country_code": "me", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A substation in the Bar settlement of Utjeha reportedly caught fire around midday, cutting power to the entire tourist settlement, according to a single local news report. The Bar Protection and Rescue Service attended and the fire was expected to be extinguished quickly. Residents said the settlement had already experienced two days of intermittent outages that week after a utility pole caught fire, prompting a protest at the offices of the Montenegrin Electricity Distribution System (CEDIS) in Bar. Locals reported months of recurring problems including frequent outages, large voltage drops of around 140 volts, and loss of individual phases, which they say has damaged electrical equipment including three-phase water pumps. The outage occurred during the peak summer tourist season, affecting accommodation providers and other businesses in the area. No official cause has yet been confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Residents and local reporting point to a history of unresolved grid reliability problems in the area, including a prior pole fire earlier the same week and recurring voltage drops, and reported delays or lack of response from the utility to repeated complaints. No formal cause of the substation fire itself has been given by authorities.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut supply to a whole settlement, so operators should inspect poles and cables after repeated voltage faults. (2) Recurring voltage drops and phase loss can damage pumps and other equipment, so the utility must respond to complaints before faults worsen. (3) High summer demand in tourist areas raises fire risk in ageing grid assets, so maintenance must be completed before the peak season.", "source_url": "https://en.vijesti.me/news-b/society/821360/At-least-the-substation-is-burning--in-comfort-the-entire-village-is-without-electricity.", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:32:37.556048+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0165", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0165/", "title": "Construction site fire spreads to Tiergarten substation amid grid sabotage probe", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out overnight at a construction site in the Tiergarten district of Berlin, Germany, and spread to a nearby electricity substation. Approximately 50 firefighters responded to bring the blaze under control. Police cordoned off a wide area while investigators examined whether the fire was started deliberately or resulted from a technical fault. The incident occurred against a backdrop of a wider security operation, with authorities separately investigating a suspected break-in at the RWE-operated Niederrhein substation in Wesel, North Rhine-Westphalia, where a hole had been cut in the perimeter fence. It remained unconfirmed at the time of reporting whether any equipment at the Wesel site had been damaged or tampered with, and whether either incident was linked to a broader campaign of attempted attacks on electricity infrastructure attributed to a still at-large suspect.", "contributing_factors": "Investigators had not determined whether the fire in Tiergarten, Berlin was accidental (technical fault) or the result of arson, and the incident occurred amid a wider pattern of suspected sabotage attempts against national grid infrastructure, including the suspected break-in at the RWE-operated Niederrhein substation in Wesel, motivated by opposition to fossil fuel power generation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations near construction sites face fire spread risk, so operators should review site layout and fire barriers. (2) Perimeter checks at grid sites can deter unauthorised access, so fence integrity must be verified regularly.", "source_url": "https://www.trtworld.com/article/9cf5db87b60a", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:32:48.972448+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0166", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0166/", "title": "Large fire at Meeden high-voltage substation proves difficult to extinguish", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Meeden high-voltage substation, operated by TenneT in Meeden, Netherlands, and continued burning over more than a day, with firefighters unable to fully extinguish the flames due to the high voltage nature of the equipment. Emergency responders escalated the incident to a higher coordination level, requiring assistance from additional firefighting regions. Crews adopted a defensive strategy, cooling the station from outside rather than attempting direct suppression, in order to prevent the fire from spreading further. A remote firefighting robot was deployed to assist with suppression efforts given the hazards posed by live high voltage equipment. The exact cause of the fire and any impact on grid supply were not reported in available sources.", "contributing_factors": "The presence of live high voltage equipment reportedly limited direct firefighting methods and prolonged the time needed to bring the fire under control.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High voltage equipment at substations limits direct firefighting, so operators should plan for defensive cooling from outside and use of remote robots. (2) Substation fires can require support from multiple firefighting regions, so insurers should check mutual aid plans for critical sites.", "source_url": "https://nltimes.nl/2026/08/30/large-fire-tennet-high-voltage-substation-meeden-proving-difficult-contain", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:32:58.255133+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0167", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0167/", "title": "Fire takes single turbine out of service at Greater Changhua 4 wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2026, a turbine at Ørsted's Greater Changhua 4 offshore wind farm off Taiwan automatically tripped after its monitoring system detected an abnormal condition. The site team subsequently observed a fire on the turbine, which was extinguished a short time later. No personnel were injured. The turbine was shut down and isolated and a safety exclusion zone was established around it as a precaution, while the rest of the wind farm continued to operate normally. Ørsted, the operator and owner of the site, notified the relevant authorities and stakeholders and said it would investigate the cause with the turbine manufacturer, Siemens Gamesa, with an investigation plan and a repair plan prepared. The root cause remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The operator stated that the cause remained under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Automatic monitoring that trips and isolates a turbine on abnormal conditions limits fire damage and allows the rest of the site to continue generating. (2) A marine safety exclusion zone around an offshore turbine must be set quickly after a fire to protect vessels and personnel. (3) Joint investigation and repair plans with the turbine manufacturer must be agreed in advance to speed recovery after an incident.", "source_url": "https://www.oedigital.com/news/542357-fire-puts-greater-changhua-4-offshore-wind-turbine-out-of-service", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:33:06.955116+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0168", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0168/", "title": "Sabotage-linked transformer fire shuts down Substation 16, Sug Il Juma, Tripoli", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Libya", "country_code": "ly", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The General Electricity Company of Libya (GECOL) reported that on-duty personnel at Substation 16 in Sug Il Juma, Tripoli, Libya, were forcibly removed by members of the public, leading to the shutdown of the station. Lines automatically disconnected as a safety response and could not be restored until security forces intervened, allowing staff to return and reconnect the system. During the incident, a transformer on Route 16 caught fire, which GECOL attributed to unauthorised attempts by the public to restore power independently without coordination with grid operation and control teams. GECOL confirmed it has launched an investigation, in coordination with relevant authorities, into this and other suspected acts of sabotage at several substations, warning that such interference could cause a complete grid collapse and total blackout across the network. The exact date of the incident is not stated in the source.", "contributing_factors": "Public frustration over power outages leading to forced entry and interference at the substation, and unauthorised attempts to restore power without coordination with grid control teams.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a substation can follow unauthorised public interference with equipment, so operators should secure sites against forced entry and train staff on rapid isolation. (2) Forced removal of on-duty personnel at a substation prevents safe restoration, so sites need security plans that protect control staff during unrest. (3) Unauthorised restoration attempts at a substation can cause automatic disconnections and risk wider collapse, so operators must enforce that only control teams manage reconnection.", "source_url": "https://libyaherald.com/2026/08/gecol-launches-investigation-into-substations-sabotage-and-explosion-caused-by-frustrated-public", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:33:12.341992+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0170", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0170/", "title": "Fire at Eastern substation in Nouakchott cuts power to city neighbourhoods", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "Mauritania", "country_code": "mr", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Eastern Substation in northern Nouakchott, Mauritania, on Friday evening, damaging various pieces of electrical equipment and cutting power to surrounding neighbourhoods. A second substation in western Nouakchott experienced a related breakdown around the same time. The President of Mauritania visited the site several days later to assess the damage and review repair progress. Maintenance and repair teams worked continuously to restore power, with officials expressing optimism that supply to homes would be restored within hours, while repairs to the rest of the station's equipment continued. The President ordered the government to provide all necessary human, material and technical resources to accelerate the repair process and called for a transparent investigation into the causes of the incident.", "contributing_factors": "The President stated that the underlying issue relates to the distribution network rather than the production sector, and noted that modernisation of Nouakchott's electricity distribution infrastructure has been ongoing but needs to be accelerated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a substation can damage multiple pieces of equipment at once, so operators should check fire detection and isolation systems on all distribution switchgear. (2) A related breakdown at a second substation shows the network is vulnerable to single points of failure, so insurers should require contingency plans for simultaneous faults. (3) Modernisation of distribution infrastructure must be accelerated where ageing assets are present, to reduce fire risk and outage duration.", "source_url": "https://ami.mr/en/archives/33396", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:33:25.480539+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0171", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0171/", "title": "Converter failure sparks grass fire at Herrington Community Solar Farm, Schaghticoke", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 13 July, smoke was reported from the Herrington Community Solar Farm on Bracken Road in Schaghticoke, New York. Firefighters found dry grass burning beneath a row of panels, with a failed AC/DC converter identified as the ignition source. The converter developed an internal fault that produced a sustained direct current arc, generating enough localised heat to ignite dry vegetation below the array. The protective breaker tripped automatically, disconnecting the circuit and limiting the fire to about two acres of grass. Crews confirmed the site was de-energised before entering, then used ATVs and a water wagon to extinguish the blaze. There were no injuries, no damage to panels or other electrical equipment, and the fire did not spread beyond the site boundary.", "contributing_factors": "Dry grass conditions beneath the array combined with a sustained direct current arc from the failing converter, which does not self-extinguish the way an alternating current fault does because the voltage never passes through zero.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A sustained DC arc from a failing converter can ignite dry grass below the array, so operators should keep a cleared buffer around converter housings. (2) Automatic breaker tripping limited fire spread after the DC fault, so verify this protection during routine maintenance. (3) Fire crews must confirm de-energisation before entry because solar arrays produce voltage when isolated from the grid.", "source_url": "https://energiesmedia.com/one-failed-converter-schaghticoke-solar-farm/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:33:32.999608+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0172", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0172/", "title": "Fire at Wheat Leasows solar farm in Telford involves an electricity pylon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters were called to a blaze at Wheat Leasows solar farm in Hortonwood, Telford, reported at about 2pm on 23 August 2026. A fire service spokesperson said the incident involved grass, hedgerows, an electrical pylon and electrics which were on fire. Two fire engines from Telford Central used four hose reel jets to dampen the area. The report does not say how far the fire spread, whether solar panels or other plant were damaged, or whether anyone was hurt.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The fire service said grass, hedgerows, an electrical pylon and electrics were on fire. No cause was given.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar sites with pylons need a response plan that covers vegetation and electrical fire together. (2) Grass and hedgerows beside electrical equipment should be managed to reduce ground fire risk to plant.", "source_url": "https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/telford/fire-at-telford-solar-farm-involving-electricity-pylon-firefighters-deployed-8936128?itm_source=Internal&itm_campaign=breaking-news-ticker&itm_channel=homepage_banner&itm_content=6", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:33:33.692558+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0173", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0173/", "title": "Substation fire breaks out at Bradwell-on-Sea Wind Farm in Essex", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 21 August, a fire broke out at a wind turbine substation at a wind farm in Bradwell-on-Sea, Essex. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service confirmed firefighters were called at 7.50pm to a fire involving a wind turbine substation. Ten firefighters attended the scene to tackle the blaze. Plumes of smoke were reported rising over Bradwell Marina and were visible from nearby Mersea Island. No details were given in the report regarding injuries, evacuation, or the cause of the fire. The wind farm's operator was not named in the source material.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire at a wind farm can produce visible smoke plumes over coastal areas, so operators should prepare public alerts for nearby communities. (2) Electrical fires in wind turbine substations need quick attendance by fire services with enough staff, so operators should confirm response plans cover remote sites.", "source_url": "https://www.gazette-news.co.uk/news/26486530.bradwell-on-sea-wind-farm-fire-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:33:38.242646+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0176", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0176/", "title": "Fire and explosion at AEP Texas substation in San Angelo, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A structure fire broke out at an electrical substation operated by AEP Texas in San Angelo, Texas. Emergency services attended the scene and witnesses reported a loud fiery explosion coming from the substation as it burned. AEP Texas staff were seen using fire extinguishers and disconnecting the substation from nearby power lines to isolate the fault. Roads adjacent to the site were closed to allow first responders access. Thousands of customers in the surrounding area were reported without power around the same time, though it was not confirmed whether this outage was directly caused by the substation fire. A nearby school was placed on a precautionary safety hold while emergency crews responded, although it was not confirmed whether this was directly linked to the substation fire. No injuries were reported at the time of the initial reporting, and the cause of the fire had not been determined.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires can escalate to explosive failure, so operators must isolate the site from the network at the first sign of fire. (2) Road closures and emergency access plans must be ready for substation fires to protect nearby roads and facilities.", "source_url": "https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/substation-fire-causes-loud-explosion-194722023.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:34:02.846147+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0179", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0179/", "title": "Fire at Jicotea substation leaves Ranchuelo, Cuba without power for days", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "Cuba", "country_code": "cu", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "end_of_life", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Jicotea electrical substation in the municipality of Ranchuelo, Villa Clara province, Cuba, affecting circuits 54 and 94 and requiring a pole change. The Electric Union of Villa Clara confirmed the fire caused a malfunction at the 4kV substation, leaving almost the entire town of Jicotea without power. Five days after the fire, the circuits remained affected, with the utility stating that multiple damages to the substation and power lines were being repaired progressively. Residents reported the substation, in service since 1965, had experienced recurring faults prior to the fire, requiring repeated repairs due to high demand.", "contributing_factors": "Local residents reported the substation equipment dated from 1965 and had a history of shutdowns and faults prior to the fire, attributed to high electrical demand. The Electric Union separately acknowledged nationally that there is a shortage of replacement transformers across Cuba, with only three repair workshops in the country.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation in service since 1965 with recurring faults from high demand needs early replacement of aged switchgear and transformers. (2) Shortage of replacement transformers across the grid delays repair of substation damage and extends outages.", "source_url": "https://en.cibercuba.com/noticias/2026-08-20-u1-e208574-s27061-nid338268-incendia-transformador-subestacion-jicotea-ranchuelo", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:34:17.503979+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0181", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0181/", "title": "Fire and transformer explosion at Tolosa power station blacks out La Plata", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "Argentina", "country_code": "ar", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out around 3 a.m. at a power station in the Tolosa district of La Plata, Buenos Aires province, reportedly causing a transformer operated by distributor Edelap to explode. The blaze had two major fronts, one along Camino General Belgrano and another on Calle 527, and at least four fire crews were deployed to bring it under control. The resulting outage left large parts of La Plata and nearby areas, including Ringuelet, Ensenada, City Bell, Gorina and Gonnet, without power. Traffic lights and public lighting were affected, including a 10 kilometre stretch of the Buenos Aires to La Plata highway that was left completely dark. Authorities ordered a preventive evacuation of residents near the facility while firefighting and damage assessment were underway. No injuries or fatalities were reported, though the fire caused significant property damage. Edelap worked to restore supply, prioritising hospitals and health care facilities.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports that the fire caused a transformer to explode, but does not state the underlying cause of the fire itself.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer explosions at power stations can black out multiple districts, so operators should plan wide-area contingency switching. (2) Fires at substations can spread along multiple fronts, requiring several crews to control. (3) Loss of traffic lights and highway lighting during outages raises road risk, so authorities need speed advisories ready.", "source_url": "https://buenosairesherald.com/society/fire-in-power-station-causes-major-blackout-across-la-plata", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:34:35.909359+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0184", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0184/", "title": "Fire at Bellshill substation causes widespread power outage in Glasgow area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at Bellshill substation on Clay Crescent, Bellshill, Glasgow, with reports of smoke prompting an emergency response. Fire crews attended and extinguished the blaze using two appliances. The incident caused a power outage affecting more than sixty postcodes in the surrounding area. No casualties were reported. ScottishPower, which operates and owns the substation, confirmed the supply issue had been repaired, though some follow up maintenance work remained outstanding. The affected area experienced disruption to electricity supply for an unspecified period while the fire was tackled and repairs were undertaken.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fire can disrupt supply across many postcodes, so operators should verify backup routes and isolation points for each feeder. (2) Fire at a substation may require two appliances to extinguish, so site plans should include access routes sized for that response. (3) Substation fire leaves some maintenance outstanding after initial repair, so operators should schedule follow-up work to restore full redundancy.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/firefighters-rush-to-blaze-at-electrical-substation-as-thousands-of-homes-suffer-outage/ar-AA2acwoW", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:34:54.013967+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0185", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0185/", "title": "Fallen tree sparks fire at transformer substation in Kožlí, Czech Republic", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Czech Republic", "country_code": "cz", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A tree fell onto a transformer substation in Kožlí, in the Havlíčkův Brod region of the Czech Republic, reportedly sparking a fire. Details on the extent of damage, response, and any service disruption were not available due to restricted access to the source article. No further factual details about the incident, including the exact date, the scale of the fire, or whether power supply was interrupted to nearby customers, could be confirmed from the available material.", "contributing_factors": "A fallen tree striking the substation equipment was reported as the immediate trigger of the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A tree falling on a transformer substation can trigger a fire, so operators must inspect and clear tall vegetation that could strike equipment in storms. (2) Mechanical impact from trees on substation plant requires buffer zones wide enough to stop contact during high winds.", "source_url": "https://aroundprague.cz/en/news/society/fallen-tree-sparks-fire-at-transformer-substation-in-ko-l-havl-k-v-brod-region", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:35:07.928757+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0187", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0187/", "title": "Fire at Musaga substation disrupts power in five counties", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "Kenya", "country_code": "ke", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Musaga Substation in Kakamega on the night of 7 August, affecting electricity supply across Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia, Siaya and parts of Vihiga counties. Kenya Power rerouted supply through six alternative substations: Webuye, Mumias, Eldoret, Kitale, Kisumu and Rang'ala. Approximately 90 per cent of customers were restored, though some continued to experience low voltage under the temporary arrangements. Personnel worked to recover damaged control and protection cables, to lay new cables for protection on the 132/33kV lines serving Tororo, Webuye, Lessos and Mumias, and to secure replacement transformers so the substation could return to full capacity.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire requires pre-planned reroutes through multiple neighbouring sites to limit outages across several counties. (2) Fire damage to control and protection cables on 132/33kV lines delays full restoration until new cables are laid. (3) Temporary supply arrangements after a substation fire can leave some customers with low voltage until replacement transformers arrive.", "source_url": "https://www.kenyans.co.ke/news/126056-kenya-power-confirms-90-power-restoration-after-kakamega-substation-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:35:25.735976+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0188", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0188/", "title": "Transformer explosions and fire cut power to Arta villages, Greece", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "Greece", "country_code": "gr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Several villages in the Arta region of western Greece lost electricity for several hours after powerful successive explosions occurred in a transformer at the Grammenitsa Extra High Voltage Center, operated by power utility PPC. The explosions, which happened shortly before midnight, triggered two small fires within the substation. The fire then spread to nearby grassland and forested areas. Fire crews attending the scene had to work around downed live power cables, which created a risk of electrocution during firefighting operations. Settlements in the mountainous part of the prefecture and in the Kambos area were affected by the outage. Power was fully restored to all affected villages by mid-morning, according to state broadcaster ERT.", "contributing_factors": "Transformer explosions at the extra-high-voltage substation caused fire to break out and spread to adjacent grassland and forest; downed live cables complicated the firefighting response. The underlying cause of the transformer explosions was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer explosions at extra-high-voltage substations can ignite nearby vegetation, so operators should maintain firebreaks and clear vegetation around the site. (2) Downed live cables at a substation fire create an electrocution risk for fire crews, so utilities must enable rapid de-energisation protocols. (3) Network redundancy and clear restoration plans limit outage length for villages after a substation failure.", "source_url": "https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1311743/villages-left-without-power-after-fire-in-ppc-substation/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:35:31.167126+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0189", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0189/", "title": "Substation fire cuts power to over 600 homes in Godmanchester", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "More than 600 households lost power after an electrical substation caught fire in Bridge Place, Godmanchester, on 4 August 2026. Two fire crews from Huntingdon attended, used breathing apparatus and a hose reel to extinguish the blaze, and cleared smoke with a positive pressure ventilation fan. The road was closed and police put a cordon in place before handing the site to UK Power Networks at about 11.45pm. The operator said engineers responded to a high voltage network fault and restored supply to 641 customers in stages by rerouting power by 1.22am. The fire service said the cause is believed to be accidental. Some further customers had a brief interruption of a few minutes.", "contributing_factors": "The source states the cause of the fire is believed to be accidental. No further factors are reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rapid response and power rerouting can limit the duration of customer outages after substation faults. (2) Coordination between emergency services and network operators supports safe handover and restoration. (3) Maintaining clear access and cordons around substations aids efficient incident management.", "source_url": "https://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/news/local-news/more-600-households-lose-power-34407655", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:35:42.602386+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0190", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0190/", "title": "Battery wall enters thermal runaway after shed fire in Visalia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A shed fire behind a home in Visalia, California, was extinguished by the Visalia Fire Department on a Wednesday afternoon. After the flames were out, crews identified a battery energy storage system inside the shed that had entered thermal runaway, continuing to generate intense heat and potentially hazardous emissions. Officials issued a shelter in place order for nearby residents while managing the hazard. The order was lifted and roads reopened by Wednesday evening.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A residential battery energy storage system can enter thermal runaway after an external shed fire is put out, so responders must check for continued heat and emissions. (2) Nearby residents may need a shelter in place order during battery thermal runaway to avoid hazardous emissions, even after the initial fire.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/general/california-shed-fire-is-out-but-battery-wall-hits-thermal-runaway-prompting-shelter-in-place/ar-AA29gPRO", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:35:47.19828+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0191", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0191/", "title": "Third turbine failure in three years at North Fork Ridge Wind Farm, Missouri", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 31 July 2026, around midday, a wind turbine collapsed at the North Fork Ridge Wind Farm in Barton County, Missouri, operated by Liberty Utilities. Local residents reported hearing the structure come down. The turbine's base door had broken off and all blades were on the ground. No individuals were near the site at the time and no injuries were reported. Liberty Utilities secured the site and stated it was assessing the situation. This is the third turbine failure event at the same wind farm in under three years: a November 2023 lightning strike caused two blades to detach from a turbine, and a January 2024 incident saw a turbine's blades and base collapse entirely into a pile of debris. The wind farm, completed in early 2021, comprises 69 turbines around 400 feet tall, extending to about 600 feet with blades.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the July 2026 collapse had not been determined at the time of reporting. A prior failure at the same site in November 2023 was attributed to a lightning strike. The cause of a January 2024 full turbine collapse at the site was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Three turbine failures at one wind farm in under three years require a fleet-wide inspection of all 69 units rather than isolated fixes. (2) A turbine collapse at hub height scatters blades and base sections, so operators must maintain an exclusion zone until debris is cleared.", "source_url": "https://www.koamnewsnow.com/news/joplin-news-first/third-wind-turbine-failure-in-north-fork-ridge-wind-farm-barton-county-mo/article_44814564-dd56-43b5-9175-6a14933e9069.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:35:52.542361+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0192", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0192/", "title": "Equipment failure sparks brush fire at East Windsor Solar One, Connecticut", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A brush fire broke out along the perimeter fencing of East Windsor Solar One, a solar generation site in East Windsor, Connecticut, after an equipment failure. Fire crews found a roughly 100 by 50 foot area of dried grass and shrubs ablaze near the fence line, with flames spreading rapidly due to high winds. The fire was contained quickly by the local fire department and no injuries were reported. A separate complaint about sparking wires in the same area was later attributed to grid-side equipment operated by Eversource Energy rather than the generation equipment owned by NextEra Energy. Following the incident, the site remained offline for an extended period while a state utility regulator reviewed maintenance practices and equipment condition. The regulator found the utility's maintenance to be reasonable but ordered further technical studies, including a power quality assessment and equipment inspection, to be completed more than a year after the fire.", "contributing_factors": "Dried vegetation adjacent to the perimeter fencing at East Windsor Solar One, high wind conditions that accelerated fire spread, and an underlying equipment failure whose specific technical cause was not detailed in public reporting. A separate sparking complaint was linked to grid-side equipment operated by Eversource Energy rather than the generation assets owned by NextEra Energy.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Dried vegetation next to perimeter fencing can fuel rapid fire spread in high winds, so operators should clear grass and shrubs before dry seasons. (2) Grid and generation equipment ownership must be clearly marked so fault investigations do not mix separate systems. (3) Privately owned solar sites need defined post-incident inspection powers or regulators cannot act promptly after fires.", "source_url": "https://uk.news.yahoo.com/connecticut-solar-plant-shut-down-220300592.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:35:59.088135+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0193", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0193/", "title": "Residential battery storage fire prompts temporary shelter-in-place order", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2026, a fire was reported involving a battery storage unit at a residential property in a city in the western United States. Local authorities are reported to have issued a temporary shelter-in-place order for nearby residents while emergency responders dealt with the incident. The available source is a short news item only. The cause, the extent of damage, whether anyone was injured, and how long the shelter-in-place order lasted are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A residential battery storage fire can prompt a shelter-in-place order, so local plans must cover gas monitoring and safe distances for nearby homes. (2) Domestic battery units need clear records for crews, as responders must know of stored energy on arrival at a home.", "source_url": "https://kmph.com/news/local/battery-power-wall-fire-causes-temporary-shelter-in-place-in-visalia-visalia-fire-department-battery-thermal-runaway-chemical-reaction-batteries-generating-extreme-heat-potentially-hazardous-gases", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:36:06.149238+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0195", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0195/", "title": "Transformer explosion at Blue Hills Power Station causes island-wide blackout in New Providence", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "Bahamas", "country_code": "bs", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical fire at Blue Hills Power Station in New Providence, Bahamas, caused a complete loss of power across the island in the early hours of the morning. Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) reported that preliminary investigations indicated a suspected underground cable fault had caused the explosion of a 15MVA transformer at the station, triggering the island-wide outage. The fire was extinguished and repair crews began restoring supply in stages to protect grid stability and safety. Within a few hours BPL reported that approximately 50 percent of customers on New Providence had power restored, with teams continuing work to reconnect remaining areas. No injuries, fatalities or evacuations were reported in the source material.", "contributing_factors": "BPL stated that preliminary findings pointed to a suspected underground cable fault as the cause of the transformer explosion; this is described as a preliminary finding pending further investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A suspected underground cable fault triggered explosion of a 15MVA transformer, so operators should improve cable fault detection and monitoring at substations. (2) After a major transformer failure, supply must be restored in stages to protect grid stability, as crews did once the fire was out.", "source_url": "https://www.tribune242.com/news/2026/jul/30/island-wide-blackout-after-transformer-explosion-at-blue-hills-power-station/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:36:21.038701+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0196", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0196/", "title": "Transformer explosion in Hackensack sparks car fires, power outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A distribution transformer exploded on Prospect Avenue near Berry Street in Hackensack, New Jersey, just before 5 a.m. Residents reported hearing multiple loud explosions. The explosion snapped a utility pole, bringing live power lines down onto the roadway. The downed wires ignited several parked vehicles, with six vehicles fully engulfed in fire and a seventh sustaining minor damage. Fire also spread to nearby trees. The Hackensack Fire Department responded but had to secure the area first due to electrical hazards before extinguishing the vehicle fires. More than 1,000 customers lost power as a result of the incident. PSE&G utility crews worked to restore power, with many affected buildings relying on generators in the interim. There were no injuries to fire department members or residents. The cause of the transformer failure remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The transformer explosion caused a utility pole to snap, bringing down live power lines onto the roadway, which then ignited nearby parked vehicles.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution transformer failure can snap a pole and drop live lines onto vehicles, so operators should check pole strength near transformers and mark exclusion zones in response plans. (2) Live lines from a transformer fault can ignite parked cars and trees, so utilities must ensure responders have rapid electrical isolation procedures before fire attack.", "source_url": "https://abc7ny.com/post/hackensack-transformer-explosion-sparks-car-fires-leaves-1000-power/19595442/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:36:31.196433+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0199", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0199/", "title": "Substation overheating trips power supply near Bratton, Telford", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electricity substation on Crowdale Road, Bratton, near Wellington, Telford, serving a residential estate overheated, causing a trip in the electrical supply. The fire and rescue service was called and a crew attended the site, but found that no firefighting action was required. An engineer from National Grid attended to carry out repairs. Shortly after the incident, no power outages were being reported in the surrounding area, suggesting the trip was brief or affected a limited number of properties. No fire, injuries or evacuation were reported in connection with the event.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Overheating in a distribution substation can trigger an automatic protective trip before any fire starts, limiting impact on supply. (2) Fire and rescue attendance at a substation overheating event confirms whether active firefighting is needed or only monitoring.", "source_url": "https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/substation-overheats-and-trips-electrics-on-telford-housing-estate-firefighters-called-8825923", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:36:41.50217+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0200", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0200/", "title": "Transformer fire cuts power to thousands in South Tenerife", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "Spain", "country_code": "es", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A piece of electricity network equipment, believed to be a transformer, caught fire in Guargacho, South Tenerife, within the municipality of Arona, shortly after 7.30pm on a Thursday evening. The fire destroyed the equipment and cut power to thousands of homes in the lower part of the town, while residents in the upper area were unaffected. Firefighters from Las Chafiras, along with Local Police and Guardia Civil, attended the scene but could not tackle the blaze until electricity company engineers disconnected the supply and confirmed it was safe to do so. The fire burned until after 11.30pm, with nearby streets closed during the response. The local medical centre was temporarily closed due to the outage, with patients redirected to a health centre in Las Chafiras. Work began afterwards to install a new transformer and restore supply.", "contributing_factors": "Officials believe insulating oil inside the transformer caught fire, contributing to the intensity of the blaze. The precise cause of the fire has not been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire involving insulating oil may burn for hours until the utility isolates the supply, so operators should pre-plan safe isolation times with local fire services. (2) Loss of a local transformer can close nearby medical centres, so operators and health services should agree contingency power plans for essential facilities. (3) Insulating oil can intensify a transformer fire, so owners should inspect oil condition and seals on distribution transformers as part of routine maintenance.", "source_url": "https://www.canarianweekly.com/posts/Thousands-left-without-power-after-electrical-fire-in-South-Tenerife", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:36:58.231103+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0201", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0201/", "title": "Turbine nacelle destroyed by fire at Pubnico Point Wind Farm, Nova Scotia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the top of a wind turbine tower at the Pubnico Point Wind Farm in West Pubnico, Nova Scotia, Canada, in the evening. By the time fire crews arrived, the nacelle, hub and blades were fully alight. Firefighters were unable to reach the flames roughly 78 metres above ground and instead focused on protecting the surrounding forest and nearby homes from spreading embers. Crews remained on site for several hours until the fire burned itself out. The tower structure remained standing afterwards, but the top assembly was destroyed. No injuries were reported. The cause was not immediately known and was under investigation. The site, operated by NextEra Energy Canada, had experienced a similar turbine fire several years earlier.", "contributing_factors": "Cause not yet determined at time of reporting; turbine nacelles contain significant flammable material including composite blades, foam insulation, wiring and lubricating oil, which can sustain intense fires once ignited. The site had a prior history of a comparable turbine fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire at 78 metres cannot be fought from the ground, so the plan must rest on early detection, remote isolation and a debris exclusion zone. (2) A prior turbine fire at the same site calls for a review of maintenance, component ageing and fire detection systems.", "source_url": "https://www.saltwire.com/nova-scotia/tri-county-vangaurd/fire-in-the-sky-wind-turbine-catches-fire-in-west-pubnico-firefighters-protect-surrounding-area", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:37:02.227904+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0206", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0206/", "title": "Capacitor bank fire at Washington DC electrical substation extinguished", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters responded to a fire at an electrical substation in the 2100 block of N Street NW, Northwest Washington, D.C., after smoke was reported coming from the roof of the two-story facility around 6:19 p.m. Crews found a fire involving a capacitor bank on the roof. The fire was extinguished and contained, and did not spread to adjacent buildings. No injuries were reported and no residents were displaced. Pepco, the electric utility, responded to the scene to assist fire crews. The cause of the fire was not immediately released by D.C. Fire and EMS at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "A fire involving a capacitor bank located on the roof of the substation; the specific cause was not released.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Roof mounted capacitor banks at substations can emit smoke before flames appear. Operators should treat any smoke report as a prompt for investigation. (2) Fire in a roof mounted capacitor bank stayed contained. Operators should check separation and barriers to stop spread to nearby buildings. (3) Utility staff attended to support fire crews. Operators should maintain joint response plans with local fire services for substation fires.", "source_url": "https://wjla.com/news/local/dc-fire-ems-department-dcfireems-final-update-box-alarm-2100-block-n-street-nw-two-story-electrical-substation-smoke-roof-extinguished-capacitor-bank-contained-extension-adjacent-buildings-displacements-pepco-scene-northwest-washington-fire-firefighters", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:37:52.040981+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0207", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0207/", "title": "Maintenance worker killed after being trapped in turbine blade mechanism in Italy", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "Italy", "country_code": "it", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 25-year-old maintenance worker died after reportedly being pulled into the motor mechanism of a turbine blade while carrying out maintenance work at the 'Aria del Vento' wind farm in Mongrassano, in the province of Cosenza, Italy. The incident is reported to have occurred while the worker was positioned at a height of approximately 60 to 70 metres. Fire and rescue services attended the site and used specialised equipment in an attempt to free the worker, but he could not be saved. Local Carabinieri opened an investigation into the exact circumstances of the accident, including whether appropriate personal protective equipment was being used at the time. This account is based on a single published report and some details, including the wind farm operator and turbine specifications, have not yet been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause is still under investigation. Authorities are examining whether the worker was using appropriate protective equipment for work at height and for the maintenance task being performed. No official findings have yet been published.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Turbine blade pitch motors must be isolated and locked out before maintenance work near moving parts. (2) High work at 60 to 70 metres in turbines needs verified personal protective equipment and training. (3) Entrapment risk in blade mechanisms requires machine guarding and safe systems of work.", "source_url": "https://www.notizie.it/en/25-year-old-killed-in-wind-farm-accident-after-being-trapped-in-blade/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:38:11.885948+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0208", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0208/", "title": "Substation fire in Newlands, Johannesburg, leaves residents without reliable power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the early hours of 18 June at a City Power mini substation on Italian Road in Newlands, Johannesburg. Emergency services responded and contained the fire before it spread further. An assessment found extensive damage to an indoor 500kVA transformer, medium and low voltage cables, circuit breakers and associated switchgear. City Power isolated the switching station as a precaution while investigating the cause and preparing repairs. A temporary generator was installed about a week later, but residents reported it repeatedly tripped in the evenings due to overloading. Weeks after the fire, residents in the area were still experiencing unreliable power supply while permanent repairs continued.", "contributing_factors": "City Power said preliminary findings suggested the fire may have been linked to an overload condition or overcurrent fault, which can generate excessive heat and stress on equipment. The utility noted the substation had experienced recurring power trips in the weeks before the fire and was already under monitoring. It also cited ageing infrastructure, rising winter electricity demand from heaters and geysers, and higher occupancy in residential complexes placing additional strain on capacity.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A mini substation fire linked to overload can damage the transformer and switchgear, so operators should act on repeated trips rather than monitor only. (2) A temporary generator installed after a substation outage must match local demand or it will trip repeatedly from overload.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/northcliff-melville-times/news-headlines/local-news/2026/07/21/weeks-after-substation-fire-newlands-residents-still-face-power-issues/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:38:11.891699+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0209", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0209/", "title": "Fire damages four power conversion units at Pokhran BESS site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A localised fire broke out at ACME Solar Holdings' Suryodaya Battery Energy Storage System facility in Pokhran, India. The fire affected four Power Conversion System (PCS) units and was extinguished by the site's in-house fire safety team following established protocols. The company confirmed that none of the battery energy storage containers were damaged, and the incident was limited to the PCS equipment. ACME estimated the financial impact at around Rs 20 lakh, describing it as not material to the business. Restoration work began soon after the fire using spare equipment, with the damaged systems expected to return to service within about a week. The company issued a public statement confirming the cause as an IGBT-related short circuit within the affected PCS units.", "contributing_factors": "The company attributed the fire to an IGBT-related short circuit within the power conversion equipment.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Physical separation of PCS units from battery containers limits fire spread to equipment only. (2) In-house teams trained on protocols can control localised fires at BESS sites quickly. (3) Spare PCS units kept on site allow fast replacement after short-circuit faults.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/other/fire-affects-acme-s-four-units-at-pokhran-bess-facility/ar-AA288C4X", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:38:25.795653+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0210", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0210/", "title": "Reported fire at a grid-scale battery storage facility in India, extent of damage disputed", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported in 2026 at a grid-scale battery energy storage facility in India. The only material available is a news headline and feed summary, from which it appears that the operator issued a public clarification denying that storage containers had been damaged. The full article text could not be retrieved. The date, scale, duration and cause of the fire are not known from the available reporting, and no information was available on injuries, emergency response, damage assessment or operational impact. This entry is recorded for completeness and should not be treated as a verified account. The severity assigned is provisional and is not supported by any confirmed damage assessment.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) When a fire is reported at a battery storage site, issue a factual statement on what was affected and what remains under assessment within the first working day. (2) Record which facts on battery fire damage are confirmed by inspection or the fire service and which remain unverified. (3) Retain thermal management, battery management system and site alarm data for any reported thermal event at battery enclosures.", "source_url": "https://bioenergytimes.com/acme-solar-clarifies-fire-at-pokhran-bess-facility-denies-container-damage-claims/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:38:26.927233+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0211", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0211/", "title": "Explosion at Gariki Injection substation cuts power supply in Enugu, Nigeria", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "According to a statement attributed to MEDL, an explosion occurred at the Gariki Injection Substation in Enugu, Nigeria, resulting in a loss of power supply to the surrounding area. The statement, referenced only by headline in the source material, did not provide further detail on the cause of the explosion, the extent of damage, whether anyone was injured, or how long power supply was interrupted. The original article page could not be retrieved in full, so only the headline and attribution to MEDL are available. No information was found on restoration timelines, equipment involved, or any investigation into the cause.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An explosion at an injection substation can cut power supply to the surrounding area, so operators should build redundancy into substation design. (2) Limited public statements after substation failures leave key details unknown, so utilities should issue fuller reports.", "source_url": "https://dailynewsngr.com.ng/loss-of-power-supply-due-to-explosion-at-gariki-injection-substation-enugu-medl/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:38:43.501562+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0212", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0212/", "title": "Fire at Alquízar substation cuts power to thousands in Artemisa", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "Cuba", "country_code": "cu", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Alquízar electrical substation (Kv 4000) in Artemisa province, Cuba, on Saturday 18 July 2026. The blaze cut power to around 1,800 customers, roughly 7,000 people, in the Mayorquín Sur and Pulido Guanímar districts. Three fire brigades, from Alquízar, San Antonio de los Baños and Güira de Melena, responded and extinguished the flames. Local authorities stated there were no injuries and no collateral damage beyond the substation itself. The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting and was said to be under investigation. The incident occurred amid a severe national generation shortfall in Cuba, with the substation having previously been flagged for dielectric oil theft, though no link to this fire was confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire is under investigation and has not been confirmed. The substation had previously been identified by the local electric company as a site affected by theft of dielectric oil, a widespread problem in Cuba, but no causal connection to this specific fire has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can spread via dielectric oil, so operators should check oil levels and seals at sites already flagged for theft. (2) Three brigades limited damage to the substation itself, so pre-planned mutual aid for remote sites reduces outage scope. (3) Unexplained substation fires during generation shortfalls need fast root-cause checks to avoid repeat loss of supply.", "source_url": "https://en.cibercuba.com/noticias/2026-07-19-u1-e208512-s27061-nid335518-incendio-subestacion-electrica-alquizar-deja-luz", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:38:48.444704+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0213", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0213/", "title": "Company clarifies scope of fire at battery storage site, reported limited to four power conversion units", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Media reports referred to a fire at a battery energy storage facility. The company behind the site issued a public clarification stating the incident was limited in scope and affected four power conversion system units. The cause, timing, emergency response, any injuries and the operational impact are not reported in the available material. This entry is based on a headline and short feed summary only and will be updated if fuller reporting appears.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) BESS operators should issue prompt public clarifications on fire scope to correct early media reports. (2) Power conversion units form a separate failure boundary from battery enclosures and need distinct fire risk controls.", "source_url": "https://www.psuconnect.in/power-sector-news/acme-solar-clarifies-reports-on-pokhran-bess-facility-fire-incident-limited-to-4-pcs-units", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:38:57.943221+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0214", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0214/", "title": "Lightning strike sparks fire at PGE substation in Cornelius, Oregon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Overnight lightning storms sweeping western Oregon caused a fire to break out at a Portland General Electric (PGE) substation in Cornelius, Washington County. Firefighters from the Cornelius Fire Department responded early on 16 July after reports that a piece of substation equipment was on fire. The fire had the potential to disrupt power in the western Washington County areas of Gales Creek and Banks. As of 7:30am, PGE reported 18 active outages affecting approximately 3,300 customers, mostly in western Washington County. The Banks School District closed for the day because power was out at its facilities. No injuries were reported. The story was described by the outlet as developing at time of publication.", "contributing_factors": "A lightning storm passing through the region struck or affected substation equipment, igniting a fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation equipment exposed to lightning needs working surge protection and arrestors. Operators should inspect these before storm seasons. (2) A fire at substation equipment can affect nearby power supply. Utilities need rapid response plans with local fire services.", "source_url": "https://www.koin.com/local/washington-county/lightning-storm-fire-pge-substation-power-outages-what-to-know/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:39:18.877693+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0218", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0218/", "title": "Coney Island transformer explosion sparks fire, cuts power to 900 homes", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Just before 7:00 a.m. on 15 July 2026, a transformer exploded near West 36th Street in Coney Island, New York, during a severe summer heatwave. The blast caused a wooden utility pole to snap and collapse, bringing down live high-voltage lines that draped over several parked cars, one of which caught fire and produced thick black smoke. Because water cannot safely be used on active electrical fires, FDNY crews staged on-street to secure the perimeter while Con Edison worked to de-energise the damaged equipment. Once the lines were confirmed safe, firefighters extinguished the vehicle fire. The failure knocked out power to nearly 900 Con Edison customers at a time when feels-like temperatures were between 95 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Con Edison crews replaced the destroyed pole and transformer, restoring power to the neighbourhood by the afternoon. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not state a specific technical root cause for the transformer failure. The incident occurred during an active heat advisory, which the article links to elevated electrical demand in the area, though this is not confirmed as a direct cause by officials or Con Edison.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformers on distribution networks can fail under high demand in heatwaves, so operators should inspect units ahead of forecast extreme heat. (2) Fire crews cannot use water on live electrical fires, so responders must wait for utility isolation before approaching. (3) Live lines on collapsed poles can drape over vehicles and ignite them, so utilities should prioritise rapid isolation after pole failure.", "source_url": "https://lavocedinewyork.com/en/new-york/2026/07/15/coney-island-transformer-explosion-knocks-out-power-amid-dangerous-heat/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:39:43.170389+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0220", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0220/", "title": "Fire at Weymouth substation near coastal attraction cuts power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at Weymouth substation, adjacent to a coastal visitor attraction in Weymouth, Dorset, England. The blaze produced large plumes of black smoke visible for miles and spread into nearby vegetation before being brought under control. Around 40 fire crews attended at the height of the incident, using hose reels, main jets and foam. The fire caused a loss of power to approximately 100 nearby properties. The adjacent visitor attraction closed to the public as a precaution, though the fire did not spread to its buildings and no staff, visitors, animals, or firefighters were reported injured. Crews remained at the scene into the evening to dampen down the area before the site was declared safe to reopen.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in available sources.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Fire at a substation can spread into nearby vegetation, so operators should keep clear defensible space around the site. (2) Substation fire can cut supply to local homes, so rapid fault isolation and restoration plans are needed. (3) Smoke from a substation fire can affect an adjacent public attraction, so operators should agree precautionary closure steps in advance.", "source_url": "https://uk.news.yahoo.com/large-fire-breaks-electrical-substation-141354694.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:39:57.945964+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0221", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0221/", "title": "Wrong solar power unit blamed for repeated fires at Indian home, compensation awarded", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A headline and short feed summary from The Indian Express report that a residential solar power unit installed at a home in India was of an incorrect type and caused a fire on two separate occasions. A consumer forum reportedly ordered compensation of Rs 30,000 to the buyer. The full article could not be retrieved, so the location, installer, dates, extent of damage and any injuries are not confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Reported as an incorrect or mismatched solar power unit, according to the headline; no further detail is available to confirm the technical cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Installers must match solar unit type to the home's electrical system before fitting, as a mismatch caused two fires. (2) A second fire after the first shows that partial repairs are not enough and a full system check is needed.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-in/money/general/wrong-solar-power-unit-causes-fire-twice-buyer-wins-rs-30-000-payout/ar-AA27P7rU", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:40:08.137949+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0223", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0223/", "title": "Fire reported at coastal electricity substation in southern England", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2026, a fire was reported at an electricity substation close to the seafront of a coastal town in southern England. The only available reporting is a headline, so the cause, scale and duration of the fire are not known. It is not reported whether supply to customers was interrupted, whether anyone was injured, or what emergency services response was required. The severity of the event has not been established and the classification held on this record should be treated as provisional pending further reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. No source material describing cause or contributing conditions was available at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) When only a headline reports a substation fire, the operator should release cause and response details after investigation so others can learn. (2) Incident records opened on initial media reports should be updated or closed as unverified so provisional severity ratings do not persist.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cvge2pppveqo", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:40:18.107789+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0224", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0224/", "title": "Fire at Dhaka substation near FDC intersection cuts power for hours", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "Bangladesh", "country_code": "bd", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an electrical substation near the FDC intersection in the Tejgaon area of Dhaka at around 1:30 pm on a Saturday. The blaze occurred behind the Uttara Center building and caused extensive power outages across large parts of the capital, including the Moghbazar, New Eskaton and Banglamotor neighbourhoods. Three fire units from the Tejgaon station of the Fire Service and Civil Defence responded and worked to contain the fire and prevent it spreading to nearby structures. Residents reported outages lasting more than six hours. Utility officials mobilised emergency maintenance teams to isolate the damaged equipment and restore power to affected areas in stages. The exact cause of the fire and the scale of the damage were not immediately determined.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fire at urban site requires rapid isolation to limit outages across multiple neighbourhoods. (2) Fire service and utility teams must coordinate to contain blaze and restore supply in stages.", "source_url": "https://unb.com.bd/category/Bangladesh/fire-at-fdc-intersection-substation-leaves-moghbazar-eskaton-without-power-for-hours/190408", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:40:22.658037+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0228", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0228/", "title": "Fire at New Milton substation causes major rail service disruption", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2026, a fire broke out at New Milton substation, adjacent to a railway line in New Milton, Hampshire, United Kingdom. Emergency services were called after reports of smoke shortly after 06:30 local time. Fire crews used ventilation fans to clear smoke from the site and stood down later that morning. A section of rail line was closed for several hours, with services resuming that evening. Multiple long distance and regional rail operators were affected, with delays reported of up to 45 minutes, cancellations and revised timetables across a wide area for the remainder of the day. No injuries were reported in connection with the fire.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the source consulted.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire next to a railway can close the line for hours, so operators must map transport corridors and plan service alternatives in advance. (2) Enclosed substations need pre-agreed smoke ventilation methods with fire services to speed clearance and reduce disruption. (3) Joint plans with rail operators for electrical fires must cover isolation, access and service restart criteria.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c5yz6dz14n5o", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:40:59.974475+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0229", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0229/", "title": "Home battery storage system explodes during shed fire near Rostock, Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on 5 June in a wooden shed at a single-family home in Bentwisch, near Rostock, Germany. A battery energy storage system installed at the property had overheated before fire crews arrived. While firefighters were working to extinguish the blaze, the battery exploded, blowing the roof off the shed and causing the structure to collapse. Flying debris from the explosion damaged two neighbouring properties. Three firefighters suffered minor injuries during the incident. Authorities estimated total property damage at about €40,000 (around $47,000). The public prosecutor's office has appointed a fire investigator and police have opened an investigation into the cause of the fire and subsequent explosion.", "contributing_factors": "The battery storage system had overheated prior to the fire brigade's arrival, and the resulting explosion occurred during active firefighting operations, according to the local fire service.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A battery energy storage system that overheats can enter thermal runaway and explode after fire crews arrive, so responders need remote isolation plans before entry. (2) Residential battery units in wooden sheds can produce flying debris that reaches neighbouring buildings, so operators should fit blast-resistant enclosures.", "source_url": "https://www.ess-news.com/2026/07/07/battery-storage-explosion-injures-three-firefighters-in-germany/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:41:06.125024+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0238", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0238/", "title": "Underground transformer explosion at Conti and Bourbon Streets, New Orleans", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An underground electrical transformer exploded at the corner of Conti and Bourbon Streets in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, during a public holiday weekend, causing flames to erupt through the roadway surface. The explosion knocked out power to approximately 900 customers and prompted police to evacuate several blocks, including a hotel, as a precaution. Fire crews worked to control the flames while crews from Entergy New Orleans, the operator and owner of the transformer vault, attempted to restore power. During the response, an individual threatened a repair worker with a firearm, delaying restoration efforts and requiring police intervention. Drones were used by police to provide aerial and thermal imaging support to responders. No injuries were reported. Power was fully restored to the affected area by the following morning, roughly nine hours after the explosion. Entergy New Orleans stated the cause was under investigation and believed to be related to a fire beneath the underground vault housing the transformer.", "contributing_factors": "The exact technical cause of the transformer failure was still under investigation at time of reporting, with early indications pointing to a fire within the underground vault. Restoration of power was delayed after a member of the public threatened a utility lineman during repair works.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Underground transformer vaults need regular inspection to detect fires before they cause street level explosions. (2) Repair crews at electrical incidents may face armed threats, so police support protocols must be in place. (3) Drones give aerial and thermal views that improve safety for responders at urban electrical fires.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/power-restored-after-transformer-explosion-sparks-fire-hotel-evacuation-in-quarter-saturday/ar-AA27efvc", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:42:11.905889+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0240", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0240/", "title": "Transformer fire cuts power to part of Coraopolis, Pennsylvania", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer on the 1200 block of Hiland Avenue in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania caught fire around 12:30 a.m. on a Saturday. The Coraopolis Fire Department responded and posted video showing flames coming from the top of the transformer. Duquesne Light Company's outage map showed that 228 customers lost power as a result of the fire. No injuries were reported in the coverage. The cause of the fire and the extent of equipment damage were not disclosed in the source material.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution transformer fire can cut supply to hundreds of customers, so operators should maintain spare units and rapid switching plans. (2) Fire services can contain a pole-top transformer blaze quickly when given early notice, so utilities should keep direct alarm links to local departments.", "source_url": "https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/transformer-fire-cuts-power-part-coraopolis/SA4UUPNG6FF4HAUF5DEXWXMSBA/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:42:15.71952+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0241", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0241/", "title": "Transformer fire cuts power to downtown Bangor apartment building during heat wave", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A ground-mounted transformer at Gallagher Place in downtown Bangor, Maine, overheated and caught fire on 3 July 2026, during a heat wave with a heat index near 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The transformer sits on a concrete pad next to Bangor House Apartments, a six-storey building housing disabled and elderly residents, with wiring running underground into the building. Firefighters arrived to find smoke and explosions coming from the transformer cabinet. Residents were evacuated until Versant Power arrived to disconnect power. Some residents were later allowed back into the building, though without power. Others were taken by bus to a cooling centre at the Bangor Area Transit Center. The Red Cross was contacted, and officials warned the outage could be prolonged while replacement parts were sourced.", "contributing_factors": "The transformer overheated, reportedly contributing to the electrical fire; the incident occurred during a heat wave, which increased urgency around the loss of power and cooling for vulnerable residents.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Ground-mounted distribution transformers should be checked for thermal overload when serving buildings during heat waves above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. (2) Evacuation plans for elderly and disabled residents must include immediate transport to cooling centres when power is lost. (3) Utilities should hold spare parts for pad-mounted transformers to shorten outages at critical housing.", "source_url": "https://www.bangordailynews.com/2026/07/03/bangor/bangor-police-courts/transformer-fire-knocks-out-power-to-downtown-bangor-apartment-building/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:42:26.217632+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0242", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0242/", "title": "Transformer explosion at CWL substation cuts power to 1,200 customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Thursday evening in Jonesboro, Arkansas, a potential transformer (PT transformer) at a City Water and Light (CWL) electrical substation adjacent to a Chuck E. Cheese near Turtle Creek failed and exploded. The explosion was captured on a Jonesboro Police Department dash camera as an officer was conducting a nearby traffic stop. The failure interrupted electricity to approximately 1,200 CWL customers. Utility crews rerouted power through other circuits and restored service to all affected customers within about 30 minutes. The transformer forms part of substation equipment that steps down voltage from CWL's 69-kilovolt transmission system for distribution to homes and businesses. The cause of the failure remained under investigation, with the utility noting that extreme heat on the day of the incident could have been a contributing factor, though this was not confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "CWL stated that high temperatures on the day of the incident could potentially have been a factor in the transformer failure, though the utility could not confirm this as the direct cause. The cause remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A PT transformer at a 69 kV substation can fail and explode, so operators should check thermal monitoring on voltage step-down units during sustained high temperatures. (2) After a substation transformer failure, rapid rerouting through alternate circuits limits outages to about 30 minutes.", "source_url": "https://jonesbororightnow.com/news/268862-video-explosion-at-cwl-substation-caught-on-police-dash-camera/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:42:32.718761+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0243", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0243/", "title": "Transformer fire burns for hours at Hunterstown generating station", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer at the Hunterstown Generating Station, operated and owned by LS Power, in Straban Township, Adams County, Pennsylvania, caught fire early on Thursday, 2 July 2026, sending thick black smoke over the area for hours during an extreme heat warning. Fire crews and emergency personnel from five counties across Pennsylvania and Maryland responded, including foam liquid carriers, an engine tanker, ambulances and hazardous materials support. The plant was evacuated around 10:10 a.m. as a precaution, though no evacuation was ordered for nearby residents and no shelter-in-place order was issued. By Thursday afternoon crews shifted from actively fighting the fire to allowing the mineral oil in the transformer to burn off within its firewall and containment structure. No injuries were reported. The regional grid operator said electricity reliability was not affected because sufficient backup resources were available.", "contributing_factors": "The official cause of the fire had not been determined and the investigation was ongoing. The incident occurred during a regional extreme heat warning with elevated electricity demand, though sources did not state that heat contributed to the transformer failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fires with mineral oil may require a shift from active suppression to controlled burn-off once initial risk is managed. (2) Large transformer fires at generating stations can draw mutual aid from multiple counties and states with foam and hazmat units. (3) Grid operators should hold enough backup capacity to cover loss of a single transformer during high-demand heat events.", "source_url": "https://www.gettysburgtimes.com/news/local/transformer-fire-burns-for-hours-at-hunterstown-plant/article_7424ecb4-f063-4267-83b4-d1751bf52a67.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:42:33.787711+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0244", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0244/", "title": "Reported explosion at Southampton substation cuts power to hundreds of homes", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Emergency services were called to reports of an explosion at a distribution substation in a residential area of Southampton, United Kingdom, on a Saturday evening. Fire crews attended and carried out thermal imaging checks but found no signs of smoke or fire. Around 300 customers lost power at the time of the reported explosion. Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks restored supply to affected properties within about two hours, and the fire service stood down and handed the incident over to the utility.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Reports of explosions at distribution substations warrant a precautionary fire service response even when thermal imaging later rules out fire. (2) Rapid handover from fire crews to the network operator after a suspected fault supports supply restoration within two hours.", "source_url": "https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/26234552.firefighters-called-reports-explosion-southampton/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:43:13.103599+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0246", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0246/", "title": "Transformer fire erupts at 220 kV power station near Indore, India", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out late at night in a transformer at a 220 kV power station on Jaitpura hill near Dharampuri in the Sanwer area, close to Indore, shortly after light rain had stopped. Flames rose quickly to a large size and were accompanied by a plume of smoke visible from a distance, along with explosion-like sounds reported by people nearby. Grid staff initially attempted to control the fire before more than eight fire tenders were called in. Firefighters and electricity department personnel worked into the night to bring the fire under control, with efforts continuing until around 11.30pm. No injuries or casualties were reported. The cause of the fire had not been established at the time of reporting, and a technical investigation was underway alongside repair works at the site.", "contributing_factors": "The fire started in a transformer shortly after rainfall; no confirmed technical cause had been identified at the time of reporting, and investigation was ongoing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire can produce explosion-like sounds and rapid flame growth after rain stops, so operators should fit early detection and remote isolation on all units. (2) Transformer fires at grid sites can require more than eight fire tenders, so insurers should check that local response capacity matches substation size. (3) A technical investigation into a transformer fire must continue alongside repairs, so operators should plan for parallel teams from the outset.", "source_url": "https://www.bhaskarenglish.in/local/mp/indore/news/indore-power-station-fire-transformer-flames-smoke-138283069.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:43:34.667395+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0247", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0247/", "title": "RTE transformer failure under heatwave cuts power to households in Finistère", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "France", "country_code": "fr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer operated by RTE, France's electricity transmission system operator, failed on Tuesday evening at around 9 p.m. at Ergué-Gabéric, a commune near Quimper in Finistère. The failure cut power to up to 106,000 customers. By Wednesday morning, approximately 68,000 households in southwestern Finistère remained without electricity. The Finistère prefecture attributed the incident to an accidental failure linked to intense heat, as the region was under a red heatwave alert with Météo-France issuing red alerts for 58 departments nationally. RTE and Enedis teams worked overnight on securing and restoring supply, with full restoration not expected before the end of the day. Care homes for dependent elderly residents affected by the outage were provided with backup generators. No casualties were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Extreme heat reduced the transmission capacity of electrical equipment and increased network operating constraints, according to the Finistère prefecture and national meteorological alerts.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should review transformer cooling and load limits ahead of heatwaves, as extreme heat reduced capacity and caused the failure at Ergué-Gabéric. (2) Transmission and distribution teams must coordinate overnight restoration plans, as supply to 68000 households remained off the next morning. (3) Care homes need pre-positioned generators during extended outages, as backup units were supplied after the heat-related failure.", "source_url": "https://energynews.pro/en/rte-transformer-failure-cuts-power-to-68000-households-in-finistere", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:43:41.624177+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0248", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0248/", "title": "Fire breaks out at solar farm at Cape Cod Gateway Airport, Hyannis", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a solar farm located at Cape Cod Gateway Airport in Hyannis, Massachusetts, just before 10:30 AM on 19 June 2026. Fire crews responded and the fire was quickly contained. The airport was temporarily closed due to fire apparatus being present on the airfield. No injuries were reported. The single available report does not specify the cause of the fire, whether solar equipment itself was involved or damaged, or the duration of the airport closure.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a solar farm on an active airfield requires early coordination with airport operators to limit closure time. (2) Quick containment of solar farm fires reduces disruption, so remote monitoring and fast response plans are essential.", "source_url": "https://www.capecod.com/cape-wide-news/fire-breaks-out-in-solar-farm-at-cape-cod-gateway-airport/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:43:45.051418+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0249", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0249/", "title": "Smoke and fire incident at Battery Box, Pinhoe Road, Exeter", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Emergency services were called to the Battery Box battery energy storage system on Pinhoe Road, Exeter, Devon, after smoke was seen coming from the unit. The system had been recently installed on leased land and connects to the electricity grid to store renewable energy and discharge it at peak demand. The operator, Amp Clean Energy, shut down the batteries in line with standard safety procedures once smoke was observed. The fire and rescue service isolated the unit from a nearby substation, established a cordon, and cooled the affected cabinet using a hose reel. Amp Clean Energy stated the smoke originated from the cabinet housing the connection point to the electricity network, rather than from the battery modules themselves, which it said were unaffected. An investigation into the cause was launched jointly with the network operator. No cause had been confirmed at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Amp Clean Energy reported that the smoke originated from the grid connection cabinet rather than the battery units. No link to ambient temperature was identified by the operator, though this had not been confirmed. The cause remained under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grid connection cabinets at battery sites need routine thermal and electrical checks as well as the battery modules. (2) Operators should agree isolation steps with the network operator in advance so fire crews can act quickly. (3) Joint reviews with the network operator help separate grid faults from battery faults.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1myx91g1dvo", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:43:46.279116+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0250", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0250/", "title": "Transformer fire at CFE substation cuts power across Cancun", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "Mexico", "country_code": "mx", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An early-morning fire broke out at CFE's Canek substation in Cancun after a transformer was damaged, causing a detonation and a column of smoke and flames visible to nearby residents. The fire cut electricity to more than 10,000 users across over 50 zones of the city. Firefighters, Civil Protection personnel, municipal police and traffic agents responded, establishing a security perimeter to contain the blaze without risking personnel. No injuries were reported. CFE restored power to all affected users by midday, though some residents reported continued intermittent outages afterwards. Technical staff remained on site to carry out repairs to the damaged transformer. The cause of the transformer damage remains under investigation by CFE.", "contributing_factors": "The article notes that Cancun's electricity demand, driven by tourism growth, has been rising by nearly double digits annually while most of Mexico's generation capacity is located roughly 1,000km away in Veracruz, creating transmission congestion and reliability stress on local substations. The specific technical cause of the transformer failure was not confirmed and remains under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A damaged transformer can detonate and produce flames, so operators should verify remote isolation and establish a security perimeter before staff approach. (2) Substation transformer fires need coordinated multi-agency response to contain the blaze safely.", "source_url": "https://mexicobusiness.news/energy/news/transformer-fire-cfe-substation-cuts-power-across-cancun", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:44:08.857558+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0251", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0251/", "title": "Fire at Hala Naka Road grid station in Hyderabad causes six hour outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "Pakistan", "country_code": "pk", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in one of three large power transformers at the Hala Naka Road 220kV grid station in Hyderabad, Pakistan in the early morning, disrupting electricity supply to the city and nine surrounding towns for approximately six hours. Eight urban feeders and ten outlying 132kV grid stations lost supply. A high voltage direct current transmission link connected to the affected system was also impacted, with knock-on effects on supply to a major nearby city. Fire crews and National Grid staff worked together to bring the blaze under control within about five hours. The damaged transformer was isolated and the network was re-energised through the two remaining transformers of the same capacity, restoring supply. National Grid ordered an investigation into the cause and stated the damaged unit would be repaired or replaced. No injuries were reported in the available account.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. National Grid stated an investigation into the cause of the fire had been ordered but no findings were available at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Redundant transformer capacity at a 220kV grid station allows supply to be restored quickly by isolating the damaged unit and routing load through unaffected units of the same capacity. (2) Transformer fires at grid stations require close coordination between fire crews and National Grid staff to contain the blaze and limit outage duration to six hours. (3) A single transformer fire at a 220kV grid station can affect an HVDC transmission link and cause knock-on supply loss to a major nearby city.", "source_url": "https://www.dawn.com/news/2008422", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:44:09.90708+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0253", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0253/", "title": "Vegetation fire burns 10 acres at solar farm near California Valley, California", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A vegetation fire broke out on the morning of 15 June 2026 at a solar farm near California Valley, San Luis Obispo County, California, close to Highway 58. The specific name of the solar farm was not given in the source. Flames spread through approximately 10 acres of grass within the solar farm property. CAL FIRE San Luis Obispo County Fire crews responded and were able to halt the fire's forward progress relatively quickly, helped by favourable ground conditions and the fact that the burn area was bordered by roads on all sides, which aided containment. By 12:45 p.m. the same day, CAL FIRE announced the fire had reached 100 percent containment. Crews remained on scene for several hours afterwards to reinforce containment lines and work towards full extinguishment. It is unclear whether any solar panels were damaged. The cause of the fire is under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grass fires at solar farms spread fast through vegetation, so operators should cut grass and clear fuel within perimeters to limit burn area. (2) Roads around a solar farm act as firebreaks, so site plans should use them to speed containment of vegetation fires. (3) Early calls to local fire crews and clear access help contain grass fires at solar sites before they grow large.", "source_url": "https://www.edhat.com/slo/news/vegetation-fire-at-california-valley-solar-farm-contained-at-10-acres/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:44:20.935146+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0256", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0256/", "title": "Vessel collision at Port of Esbjerg damages nine wind turbine blades", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "Denmark", "country_code": "dk", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 10 June 2026, the wind turbine installation vessel (WTIV) Brave Tern, owned by Fred. Olsen Windcarrier, struck Cadeler's vessel Wind Keeper, a shore crane and a pier while manoeuvring in high winds at the Port of Esbjerg, Denmark. The vessel had just completed load-out of nine turbine blades destined for RWE's 1.1GW Thor offshore wind farm, and the collision damaged all nine blades. Local media reported that one person was taken to hospital for a check-up. The Danish Maritime Authority detained the Brave Tern following the incident and inspected both vessels and the port infrastructure for further damage. Each blade is estimated to be worth approximately €3.6m. It remains unclear whether the incident will delay installation work on the Thor wind farm, which began in March 2026 and is scheduled for completion this year.", "contributing_factors": "High winds and poor weather conditions during harbour manoeuvring were cited as contributing to the collision.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High winds during port manoeuvring of a loaded WTIV can cause collisions with other vessels, cranes and piers, so operators must enforce wind limits specific to vessel size and load. (2) Damage to high-value turbine blades in port can create supply and schedule risks for an offshore wind farm even before installation starts.", "source_url": "https://splash247.com/wtiv-incident-damages-offshore-wind-blades-at-port-of-esbjerg/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:44:42.186745+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0257", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0257/", "title": "Cable insulation failure blamed for fire at GRIDCo's Akosombo Substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "Ghana", "country_code": "gh", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Akosombo Substation, operated by GRIDCo, which serves the switchyard of the Akosombo Dam in Akosombo, Ghana, on 23 April 2026. The blaze damaged the switch system and the primary control room, resulting in the loss of 1,000 megawatts of power. A seven-member investigation committee later concluded that the fire was caused by insulation failure in cables within the low voltage panel, with the fault spreading through interconnected systems before being contained. The committee ruled out any deliberate action, attributing the incident instead to a technical and structural failure linked to the ageing condition of key components at the site. The committee recommended building a new, modern control room to replace the existing one, which dated from 1964.", "contributing_factors": "Ageing electrical components and cable insulation within the substation's low voltage panel; an outdated control room built in 1964 that had not been modernised.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Low voltage panel cable insulation at substations should be inspected and replaced before end of life to avoid fire. (2) Control rooms from 1964 should be replaced with modern designs to limit fault spread. (3) Interconnected systems require isolation to stop a local cable fault from causing major capacity loss.", "source_url": "https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Here-is-why-the-Akosombo-Substation-fire-occurred-2038738", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:44:53.66588+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0259", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0259/", "title": "Substation fire cuts power to over 4,000 residents in New Albany, Indiana", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a Duke Energy substation near Kenzig Road and Paoli Pike in New Albany, Indiana, at around 11:30 a.m. City officials said a large electrical line supplying the substation broke and fell to the ground, producing several large electrical arcs that ignited a brush fire in the surrounding area. Several employees were working nearby when the line fell but were not injured. Firefighters responded and had the fire under control by around noon. Outage maps showed more than 4,000 customers without power in the area at the time. Utility crews restored power to all affected customers by 3:45 p.m. the same day.", "contributing_factors": "A broken overhead electrical line supplying the substation caused arcing that ignited nearby brush.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Overhead lines feeding substations must be inspected for wear, as a break can drop the conductor and create arcs that start fires. (2) Brush and vegetation near substations and feeder lines should be cleared, since arcing from a fallen line can ignite dry material. (3) Rapid fault isolation and clear outage updates limit customer impact, as power was back for all 4,000 by mid afternoon.", "source_url": "https://www.wlky.com/article/power-outage-new-albany-indiana/71560466", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:45:10.093974+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0260", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0260/", "title": "Substation fire in southwestern Germany cuts power to thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an electricity substation in southwestern Germany in the early hours of Monday, 8 June 2026, cutting power to thousands of customers in the area. Local city authorities confirmed the outage and linked it to the fire at the substation. Grid operator Netze-BW said it was looking into the incident and, according to reports, considered arson a possible cause. At the time of reporting, the exact number of affected customers, the duration of the outage, whether anyone was injured, and full details of the damage had not been disclosed.", "contributing_factors": "Grid operator Netze-BW reportedly considered arson as a possible cause, though this has not been confirmed by further reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut power to thousands of customers, so operators should review local supply redundancy and outage response. (2) When arson is considered a possible cause of a substation fire, operators should check physical security measures.", "source_url": "https://montelnews.com/news/13d9e0c4-ba6b-4d09-82a4-d56d5fc120bb/thousands-without-power-after-substation-fire-in-germany", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:45:20.170868+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0262", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0262/", "title": "Fire at Godhra GETCO substation causes prolonged power cuts", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a GETCO (Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation) substation serving the town of Godhra, damaging several electrical panels. The damage disrupted power distribution across eastern and western parts of the town, affecting more than 95,000 consumers. Outages persisted for several days during a period of high summer temperatures, with many areas reportedly experiencing outages lasting several hours daily. Replacement panels were subsequently installed, but officials indicated the underlying issue extended beyond the fire itself, citing insufficient substation capacity for the town's growing electricity demand. Residents, frustrated by the prolonged disruption, staged street protests. A distribution company official said approval had already been granted for two additional substations to address rising demand, alongside the two existing ones. Injuries or fatalities were not reported in the source.", "contributing_factors": "Officials indicated the town's substation capacity had not kept pace with a sharp increase in electricity demand over recent years, contributing to the severity and duration of the outage once the fire damaged panel infrastructure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation panels damaged by fire can leave large areas without supply when spare capacity is absent, so operators should verify that demand growth has not outstripped installed redundancy. (2) A single substation fire can cause multi-day outages across a town, therefore planners must secure approvals for new substations before demand exceeds the capacity of existing sites. (3) Prolonged summer outages after substation damage can trigger public protests, so distribution companies should prepare clear communication plans for extended supply interruptions.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vadodara/godhra-residents-reel-under-prolonged-power-cuts-after-substation-fire/articleshow/131540113.cms", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:45:27.25908+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0263", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0263/", "title": "Small fire at Geneva East Side substation quickly contained without outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A small fire broke out at the East Side Drive substation in Geneva, Illinois, after a report of an explosion and fire was received by the fire department at 3:20 p.m. Fire crews arrived within minutes and found a small infrastructure fire with a little smoke. About 30 minutes later, ComEd crews arrived to de-energize the affected high-voltage equipment. The fire was brought under control in less than an hour. Local officials said the incident did not cause any power outages in the area. There was some confusion over which utility operated the substation, with a ComEd spokesperson stating the city maintains its own electric utility, while the fire chief said power arrives on ComEd's lines before transferring to the local substation.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not known at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires need quick utility de-energisation after fire service arrival to stop escalation. (2) Shared or unclear ownership of substation assets requires clear protocols between fire departments and utilities. (3) Energised high-voltage equipment must stay off limits to responders until de-energised by professionals.", "source_url": "https://www.shawlocal.com/kane-county-chronicle/2026/06/04/genevas-east-side-substation-fire-was-small/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:45:35.203043+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0265", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0265/", "title": "Fire at aging Taipower wind turbine prompts nationwide inspection order", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 70 metre high wind turbine operated by state utility Taiwan Power Co (Taipower) caught fire in Mailiao Township, Yunlin County, on a Sunday. The turbine had begun commercial operation in 2010 and had been in service for nearly 16 years at the time of the fire. Taipower said the fire is suspected to have been caused by overheated components, though the exact cause remained under investigation. The incident prompted the Taiwanese premier to order a nationwide inspection of all wind turbines older than 15 years and a review of high-altitude firefighting capabilities. Taipower was instructed to inspect 76 turbines of the same type within one month, and the Energy Administration was given three months to propose improved maintenance and operational requirements.", "contributing_factors": "Suspected overheating of components in an ageing turbine that had operated for nearly 16 years; exact cause still under investigation at time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators of 70 metre wind turbines should fit thermal monitoring on nacelle components to detect overheating before fire starts. (2) Insurers should require checks on turbines after 15 years in service, as ageing fleets need targeted inspection. (3) Regulators must plan high-altitude firefighting for wind turbines before incidents occur.", "source_url": "https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/06/03/2003858472", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:45:54.417965+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0266", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0266/", "title": "Substation equipment fire causes major power outage in Tralee", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "Ireland", "country_code": "ie", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A major power outage affected more than 10,000 customers in Tralee, County Kerry, after equipment at a substation caught fire. ESB Networks, the operator, confirmed the fire as the cause of the disruption. Crews mobilised immediately to assess the damage, made the area safe and carried out necessary repair work. Supply was fully restored to all affected customers by 11pm the same evening. No injuries or fatalities were reported in connection with the incident. ESB Networks acknowledged the disruption caused to the local community and thanked customers for their patience during the repair works.", "contributing_factors": "The source states only that substation equipment caught fire; no further cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation equipment fire can cut supply to more than 10,000 customers at once, so operators should verify network redundancy and switching plans for rapid rerouting. (2) After a substation fire, crews must reach the site quickly to make the area safe and complete repairs before midnight on the same day.", "source_url": "https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/tralee-outage-caused-by-substation-equipment-catching-fire-485034", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:46:05.081189+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0268", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0268/", "title": "Transformer fire cuts power to hundreds in downtown Toronto", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an electrical transformer in downtown Toronto, Canada, knocking out power to hundreds of customers in the surrounding area. The fire was reported on 26 May 2026. This is based on a single brief news report; the exact location, the utility involved, the cause of the fire, the duration of the outage, and any injuries or evacuations have not yet been reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fires in dense urban zones can cut supply to many customers at once, so operators should review fire barriers and rapid isolation on city grid assets. (2) Early reports of transformer faults in populated areas need quick verification, as brief news alone leaves outage scope and risks unclear.", "source_url": "https://www.ctvnews.ca/toronto/video/2026/05/26/transformer-fire-knocks-out-power-to-hundreds-of-customers-in-downtown-toronto/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:46:10.536723+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0269", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0269/", "title": "Substation transformer fire spreads to hedgerow near Burford village", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters were called to an electricity substation near Burford village hall, close to Tenbury Wells, after a twin pole-mounted transformer was found to be alight. The fire spread from the transformer to nearby hedgerow and undergrowth. Two fire appliances attended, with crews from Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service assisted by colleagues from Herefordshire. The fire was extinguished using one hose reel jet, and a thermal imaging camera was used to check for remaining heat sources. National Grid also attended the scene. No injuries were reported in the source material, and no further details on cause, downtime or repair works were given.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Pole-mounted transformer faults can ignite nearby vegetation, so operators should maintain hedgerow clearance around substations. (2) Joint attendance by fire services and network operators supports safe isolation and extinguishment of substation fires. (3) Thermal imaging cameras confirm full extinguishment of transformer fires before crews leave.", "source_url": "https://www.ludlowadvertiser.co.uk/news/26135508.firefighters-called-electricy-substation-burford/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:46:21.204022+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0270", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0270/", "title": "Substation current transformer explosion causes citywide blackout in Gurgaon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 220 kV current transformer at the Sector 72 substation in Gurgaon developed a fault at around 7.50pm on 22 May 2026. The malfunction caused an explosion and fire before the protective breaker could trip, leading to the shutdown of both circuits feeding several residential and commercial zones. The failure triggered a cascading impact across connected substations, cutting power to sectors including 38, 44, 46, 56, 52 and 15, leaving nearly half the city without electricity for hours. The outage also halted Rapid Metro operations. Teams from Haryana Vidyut Prasaran Nigam Limited (HVPNL) and Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (DHBVN) worked through the night and restored both 220 kV circuits by late night. The operator has since suspended three junior engineers responsible for the substation pending a technical investigation into whether negligence, inadequate maintenance or equipment failure caused the incident.", "contributing_factors": "The power utility indicated that extreme heat and rising electricity demand may have caused thermal stress on the current transformer. A detailed technical investigation is underway to determine whether negligence or inadequate preventive maintenance also contributed. Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam attributed the failure to thermal heating, which caused an oil leak in the current transformer during a period of extreme heat and record electricity demand, and the transformer exploded before operators could trip the breaker to isolate the fault. The resulting cascade affected at least eight substations across the city.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Current transformers can develop oil leaks from thermal stress during extreme heat and peak demand, so operators should increase thermal monitoring and load checks on such units. (2) A current transformer fault can escalate to explosion before the breaker trips, so operators must verify protective relay settings and breaker response times on high voltage assets. (3) A substation fault can cascade across multiple connected sites, so network operators should review segmentation and redundancy to limit outage scope.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/3-jes-suspended-after-blast-at-power-substation-halts-metro-hits-supply-in-gurgaon/articleshow/131295844.cms", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:46:32.131145+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0272", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0272/", "title": "Transformer fire at Gurugram substation triggers widespread power outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the main transformer at the 220 KV power station in Sector-72, Gurugram, Haryana, on a Friday evening at around 7:50 pm. According to Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (DHBVN), a technical fault caused an oil leak in the current transfer circuit, which escalated before the operator could trip the breaker, leading to a transformer explosion and fire. The blast ruptured the collars of the Current Transformer, triggering faults in adjacent systems. Two 220 kV substations in Sector 56 and Sector 52, along with five linked 66 KV substations in sectors 15, 38, 44, 46 and 56, lost supply, causing a large-scale blackout. Rapid Metro services were briefly halted. Electricity department staff repaired the circuit and fully restored the system by 10:10 pm the same night.", "contributing_factors": "Officials stated the primary cause was excessive heat (thermal heating), which led to an oil leak in the current transfer circuit that escalated before the breaker could be tripped, resulting in an explosion and fire that ruptured Current Transformer collars.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Thermal monitoring on transformer current transfer circuits allows breaker tripping before an oil leak escalates to explosion. (2) Interconnected substation networks need segregation to prevent one transformer fault from tripping adjacent 220 kV and 66 kV sites. (3) Clear coordination between distribution utility engineers speeds circuit repair and limits blackout duration after a substation fire.", "source_url": "https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/gurugram-power-outage-hits-several-parts-after-transformer-fire-at-sector-72-substation20260523014837", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:46:39.848728+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0275", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0275/", "title": "Transformer fire cuts power to downtown Lancaster, Ohio police headquarters", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire occurred in downtown Lancaster, Ohio, knocking out power to a section of the city including the local police headquarters. The Lancaster Police Department reported the outage via social media, noting that its own facility was without electricity. Authorities closed the 100 block of South Broad Street and an adjacent alley while crews responded to the scene. Multiple traffic signals in the downtown area lost power, prompting police to instruct drivers to treat affected intersections as four-way stops. As of the report, utility crews had not given an estimated time for power restoration. No injuries were reported in connection with the fire or the resulting outage.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire can cut supply to critical sites such as police headquarters, so operators should fit backup power to those facilities. (2) A transformer fault that removes traffic signals requires drivers to treat intersections as four-way stops until power returns. (3) Utility crews at a transformer fire site should give a restoration estimate soon after arrival to aid local planning.", "source_url": "https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/transformer-fire-knocks-out-power-to-downtown-lancaster-police-headquarters", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:46:59.131984+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0278", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0278/", "title": "Wind Turbine Blade Snaps at Lal Lal Wind Farm South of Ballarat", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 15 May 2026, a blade snapped on a wind turbine over 160 metres tall at the Lal Lal Wind Farm, located off Yendon-Egerton Road south of Ballarat, Victoria. Nearby residents reported hearing loud noises as the blade broke and was left hanging precariously from the turbine. The wind farm operator confirmed the failure occurred on a V136-3.8 MV model turbine. Site staff responded immediately, securing the area and establishing an exclusion zone. No injuries were reported and the operator stated there was no risk to the public. WorkSafe inspectors attended the site and were making inquiries to determine whether further regulatory action is required. The cause of the blade failure was under investigation at the time of reporting. The wind farm, spanning 2100 hectares and comprising 60 turbines, has been fully operational since 2020.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; the cause of the blade failure was under investigation at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A snapped blade on a V136-3.8 MV turbine can hang and create falling debris risk, so operators must set an exclusion zone at once. (2) After a blade failure on a turbine over 160 metres tall, site staff need plans for immediate area security and public safety checks.", "source_url": "https://www.thecourier.com.au/story/9247163/explosions-heard-as-wind-turbine-blade-snaps-at-lal-lal-wind-farm/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:47:18.09307+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0279", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0279/", "title": "Wind turbine catches fire near Warrensburg, Illinois, road closed", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine near Kenney and Hampshire Roads in Warrensburg, Macon County, Illinois, caught fire on a Sunday evening, described by witnesses as a large fireball with burning debris falling to the ground. Five fire departments responded but were unable to actively fight the fire due to the turbine's height, approximately 340 feet, over 500 feet with the blade pointed upward, far exceeding the reach of a standard 100 foot ladder truck. Crews instead monitored the situation, kept the surrounding area clear given nearby agricultural land, and waited for the fire to burn out, which it did by around 11pm. A section of Hampshire Road was closed for at least two days afterwards as a precaution against falling debris. No injuries were reported. The cause remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The extreme height of the turbine prevented direct firefighting intervention, and the cause of the ignition had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine at 340 feet exceeds ladder reach, so crews must monitor and clear the area rather than fight the fire directly. (2) Burning debris can fall after flames end, so road closures near agricultural land must last several days.", "source_url": "https://www.wcia.com/news/macon-county/it-was-a-big-fireball-basically-firefighters-respond-to-wind-turbine-fire-in-macon-co/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:47:28.742116+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0280", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0280/", "title": "Transformer fault causes fatal power surge in Gundli Village, Rajasthan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fault developed in an 11kV overhead power line passing through Gundli village in Bhilwara district, Rajasthan. The fault caused a nearby transformer to catch fire and sent a power surge into the village electrical network. A resident was electrocuted while plugging in a mobile phone charger and died at the scene, while seven other people suffered burn injuries. Electrical appliances in around 50 homes were reportedly damaged by the surge. Villagers went to the Gundli village grid substation (GSS) to have the supply cut off but allegedly found staff there unresponsive. A crowd eventually forced the shutdown of the supply. Police detained two linemen from the substation in connection with the incident, and a case was registered while an investigation was launched. Villagers later protested, demanding compensation and relocation of the line away from the village.", "contributing_factors": "An unrepaired or undetected fault on the 11kV line led to a transformer fire and a surge into consumer wiring; villagers allege that substation staff were intoxicated and unresponsive when contacted, delaying the shutdown of the supply.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Unresponsive staff at a grid substation delayed supply shutdown after an 11kV line fault was reported. (2) A fault on an 11kV overhead line led to a transformer fire and surge into consumer wiring. (3) Medium voltage lines routed through villages increase the risk of surges damaging appliances in nearby homes.", "source_url": "https://www.bhaskarenglish.in/local/rajasthan/news/bhilwara-ex-sarpanch-son-dies-police-drunk-arrest-linemen-137959316.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:47:42.034623+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0281", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0281/", "title": "Transformer fire at Amona substation cuts power to Sanquelim and Valpoi for 12 hours", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer at the Amona 220kV substation in Navelim, Sanquelim, Goa, caught fire following lightning, strong winds and heavy rain in the early hours. The resulting explosion damaged bus bars used for power transmission within the substation, destroyed insulators and completely burnt the transformer oil, rendering the facility non-functional. Power supply to Sanquelim and Valpoi substations was interrupted at around 5am and was gradually restored across affected areas by 5pm, roughly 12 hours later. Fire and emergency services from Bicholim brought the blaze under control. Around 80 to 90 personnel, including engineers and staff, were deployed to carry out restoration work, partly through back-feeding from alternative sources and using balance transformers, since one transformer was extensively damaged. Heavy rain also caused snapped conductors and uprooted poles in some areas. Domestic power was restored first, with industrial consumers expected to receive regular supply only after a further few days.", "contributing_factors": "Lightning strike combined with strong winds and heavy rain in the early hours preceded the transformer fire and explosion; the loss of one transformer left the substation reliant on back-feeding and balance transformers to restore supply.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lightning with strong winds and heavy rain can trigger transformer fire and explosion, so operators should verify surge protection and structural security on exposed units. (2) Loss of one transformer forces reliance on back-feeding and balance units, so substations should maintain spare capacity or tested restoration paths. (3) Heavy rain can also snap conductors and uproot poles, so crews must inspect overhead lines after storms before full restoration.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/sanquelim-valpoi-without-power-supply-for-12-hours-after-blast-at-amona-substation/articleshow/131126105.cms", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:47:42.16107+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0282", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0282/", "title": "Explosion damages Sanquelim substation and disrupts supply", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A major explosion occurred at the Nhavele-Sanquelim power substation in the early hours of Friday. Officials said the blast destroyed the bus bars and the fire damaged the insulators. Transformer oil caught fire and was completely burnt, leaving the substation non-functional. Supply was disrupted in Sanquelim and several nearby villages in Bicholim taluka, including Sakhali. Bicholim Fire and Emergency Services brought the fire under control. The electricity department began large-scale repairs, with restoration still under way.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not report a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An explosion and fire at a substation can disable bus bars, insulators and transformer oil systems together and take the site out of service. (2) Even after the fire is controlled, the extent of equipment damage can keep residential supply off while repairs continue. (3) Operators should be ready to prioritise restoration of homes while the full scope of damage is still being established.", "source_url": "https://www.thegoan.net/goa-news/major-explosion-at-sanquelim-power-substation-triggers-massive-outage/148235.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:47:43.031905+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0283", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0283/", "title": "Turbine blade failure shuts down section of Lal Lal wind farm, Australia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In May 2026 a turbine blade broke away and fell to the ground at the Lal Lal wind farm near Ballarat, Victoria. Nearby residents reported hearing a loud noise likened to an explosion, and the incident was briefly mischaracterised on social media as sabotage; this was debunked by fact-checkers. The site operator confirmed the event was the result of a blade failure rather than any deliberate act. The affected turbine and surrounding grid sector were shut down as a precaution while engineers assessed the site. No injuries were reported. Reported details such as the operator name, turbine capacity, blade dimensions, exact turbine identifier and a possible link to a 2019 lightning strike at the same site come from a single, less well corroborated report and have not been independently confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "The operator attributed the event to a blade failure. One report speculated, without confirmation, that a 2019 lightning strike at the same site may have caused internal micro-fractures that propagated over time, but this causal link is not verified and is not corroborated by other reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A blade failure that detaches at height needs immediate turbine shutdown and isolation of the surrounding grid sector until inspection. (2) Clear statements after a loud mechanical event prevent social media claims of sabotage or explosions.", "source_url": "https://streamlinefeed.co.ke/news/turbine-blade-breaks-victoria-wind-farm-lightning", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:47:54.448686+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0284", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0284/", "title": "Transformer explosion causes power outages in South Philadelphia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer explosion was reported in South Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, resulting in power outages for residents in the surrounding area. The incident was covered by local broadcaster NBC10 Philadelphia. The source material available does not specify the exact location of the transformer, the utility or operator responsible, the date and time of the explosion, the number of customers affected, the duration of the outage, or whether there were any injuries. No information was provided on the cause of the explosion or any subsequent repair or restoration work undertaken. Further reporting would be needed to establish these details with confidence.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer explosion in an urban distribution network can interrupt supply to nearby residents until the unit is isolated and replaced. (2) When a grid transformer fails, operators must confirm the exact site and affected customers quickly because public reports often omit these details.", "source_url": "https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/video/news/local/transformer-explosion-causes-power-outages-in-south-philly/4401868/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:47:58.225506+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0285", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0285/", "title": "Construction worker dies after crane falls from cliff at Korean wind farm site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A construction worker died after a crane fell from a road on a cliff at the site of a renewable energy project in South Korea, reported as an onshore wind farm development. The exact circumstances, including the cause of the crane's fall, have not been publicly disclosed. The site name, developer, contractor and specific location within South Korea were not reported in available coverage.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Crane operations on cliffside access roads at wind sites need ground stability checks before use. (2) Heavy plant routes at wind developments on unstable terrain must be inspected for edge risks.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/onshore-wind/wind-farm-death-after-crane-falls-from-cliff/2-1-1989081", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:48:11.668548+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0289", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0289/", "title": "Substation fire near water treatment works cuts power across parts of Guernsey", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "Guernsey", "country_code": "gg", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an electricity substation near the Juas water treatment works on Les Juqueurs Road, Vale, Guernsey, at around 11:50 BST. Guernsey Electricity said switchgear at the substation had failed, triggering the fire. Most electricity supply in the north of the island was deliberately switched off to allow the fire service to safely deal with the incident, leaving parts of Vale and St Sampson without power. Vale Primary School was among the sites affected but remained open, with parents advised to collect children at the usual time. Guernsey Water, whose treatment works was near the affected substation, used its own generator to maintain operations. Power to private properties was subsequently restored. The precise cause of the switchgear failure had not been determined at the time of reporting, and investigations were continuing.", "contributing_factors": "Guernsey Electricity stated that switchgear at the substation failed, but the underlying cause of that failure had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Switchgear failure at a substation can force deliberate power shutdowns across a wide area to let fire crews work safely. (2) Water treatment works near substations need independent generators to keep running during outages.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c3e249d0pk1o", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:48:42.216975+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0290", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0290/", "title": "Fire breaks out at lithium battery storage facility in Rainworth, Nottinghamshire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a lithium battery storage facility in Rainworth, near Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom, involving two stacked storage containers. Fire crews from four stations responded, with firefighters remaining on scene for several hours. Residents in the surrounding area were advised to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke in the vicinity. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident. The cause of the fire was not immediately known at the time of reporting, with an investigation expected to follow. Footage from the scene showed flames and thick smoke emerging from the containers, which required a sustained firefighting response involving multiple appliances.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lithium battery storage fire in stacked containers can need a sustained response from multiple stations, so operators should plan for extended appliance deployment and water supply. (2) Smoke from a BESS fire can affect nearby homes, so operators must have rapid protocols to advise residents to close windows and doors. (3) The origin of a lithium battery fire is not always clear at first, so insurers should expect a formal investigation before confirming the root cause.", "source_url": "https://www.chad.co.uk/news/emergency-incident/fire-crews-tackling-blaze-at-rainworth-battery-storage-unit-8457523", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:49:05.420906+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0294", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0294/", "title": "Aging turbine collapses at Jaunmiki wind park in Latvia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "Latvia", "country_code": "lv", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "end_of_life", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 26 April 2026, one of five wind turbines at the Jaunmiki wind park in Bunkas parish, Latvia, collapsed. The wind park is operated and owned by SIA Jaunmiki. The turbine, manufactured in the 1990s, had not produced electricity for three years due to unresolved technical issues. The grid operator first reported a power outage in the area at around 8am, and by midday SIA Jaunmiki confirmed a turbine had fallen. Power supply to the site was cut immediately and cleanup began the same day. The owner said the turbine most likely collapsed due to strong winds and that there were no suspicions of foul play, though the exact cause remains under investigation. Following the incident, Latvia's Climate and Energy Minister ordered urgent inspections of all older wind turbines nationwide, particularly those no longer generating electricity.", "contributing_factors": "The turbine was manufactured in the 1990s and had been non-operational for three years due to technical faults that would have required significant investment to fix. Strong winds are suspected as a contributing cause of the collapse. SIA Jaunmiki had reportedly been planning to sell the wind park rather than repair it, with a sale agreement anticipated for May.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An idle turbine from the 1990s still needs inspection because it collapsed after three years without power generation. (2) Strong winds can bring down an aging idle turbine, so operators must check structural integrity before leaving units standing.", "source_url": "https://bnn-news.com/latvia-to-urgently-inspect-old-wind-turbines-after-accident-279721", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:49:21.626253+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0298", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0298/", "title": "Substation fire reported to have cut about 1,000 MW from a national electricity supply", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Ghana", "country_code": "gh", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at an electricity substation, with the national energy ministry quoted as saying the event cut about 1,000 megawatts from the national supply. Reporting available at the time of writing is limited to a headline and short summary, so the cause of the fire, the duration of any outage and the extent of physical damage are not reported. It is not reported whether anyone was injured, or how emergency services responded. The 1,000 MW figure refers to supply reported lost rather than the rated capacity of the affected equipment.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a substation can remove 1,000 MW of supply from a national system, so operators should review redundancy and switching options at critical nodes. (2) Early official statements on lost supply help system users plan during an investigation, so ministries should issue them promptly after substation fires. (3) Root cause findings after major substation fires allow checks for similar equipment weaknesses, so reports should be published once complete.", "source_url": "https://www.myjoyonline.com/akosombo-substation-fire-cuts-about-1000mw-from-national-supply-energy-ministry/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:49:54.62002+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0301", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0301/", "title": "Transformer explosion sparks fire and injuries at Bucharest heating plant", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "Romania", "country_code": "ro", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion involving a high-capacity electrical transformer occurred at the CET Vest district heating facility in Bucharest, Romania. The transformer, which contained insulating oil, ignited and triggered a fire that intensified due to the oil. Emergency services were deployed to control the blaze and secure the site. Several people were reported injured, though the exact number and no fatalities have been confirmed. Officials said the incident was contained to the affected section of the facility. The precise cause had not been established at the time of reporting, with investigators examining both technical failure and possible external interference.", "contributing_factors": "The transformer contained insulating oil, which intensified the fire once ignited. The technical cause, including equipment condition, maintenance history and operational procedures, remains under investigation, and authorities are also considering whether external interference contributed to the event. These points are not yet confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Oil-filled transformers need fire systems rated for oil fires, as the oil can intensify the blaze once ignited. (2) Operators should install blast walls or separation around high-capacity transformers to limit fire spread to one section. (3) Root cause checks must include external interference as well as equipment condition and maintenance history.", "source_url": "https://transformer-magazine.com/news/transformer-explosion-injures-workers-in-bucharest/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:50:26.331839+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0302", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0302/", "title": "Suspected arson fire at Rocherlea substation cuts power to 1500 homes in Tasmania", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Vandals are reported to have set fire to a mattress placed next to an electrical substation at Rocherlea, in northern Tasmania, on a Sunday afternoon. The fire caused extensive damage to the substation and left approximately 1500 customers in Launceston's northern suburbs without power on a cold day. The operator, TasNetworks, described the act as deeply reckless and appealed to the public for information that might lead to an arrest and conviction. No injuries were reported. The company noted that the resulting repair costs would ultimately be borne by customers through network charges. Tasmania Police and Crimestoppers were named as points of contact for anyone with information, with an offence report number issued for the case.", "contributing_factors": "A fire, suspected to have been deliberately started by unidentified individuals who placed a burning mattress next to the substation, caused damage sufficient to interrupt supply; the substation appears to have been accessible enough for the fire to spread to equipment.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation next to an external fire can suffer extensive damage when combustible material is placed against it, so operators should enforce clearance zones around all perimeter fencing. (2) A substation that remains accessible to the public allows vandals to place burning items close to live equipment, so operators should review and upgrade fencing and surveillance at similar sites.", "source_url": "https://esdnews.com.au/vandals-spark-fire-at-substation-in-tasmania/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:50:35.004126+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0304", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0304/", "title": "Fire destroys off-grid solar plant at Belatandi village, West Champaran, Bihar", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on a Monday afternoon at an off-grid solar power plant at Belatandi village, under Bankatwa panchayat, in the remote Don region of West Champaran district, Bihar, near the Valmiki Tiger Reserve. The blaze spread rapidly and completely destroyed the facility before firefighting could begin. Fire brigade teams were unable to reach the site in time because of the area's hilly, forested and inaccessible terrain. The plant was the sole electricity source for two villages, part of a wider network of around 22 villages in the Don area that depend on off-grid solar systems. Residents were left without power, raising safety concerns given the proximity of wildlife from the adjoining tiger reserve. The Bagaha electricity supply division, which administers off-grid power in the region, said it had ordered an investigation into the cause and would arrange alternative power supply for the affected villages. This report is based on a single news source and has not yet been independently confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Local residents alleged the fire was linked to poor maintenance and that plant staff were often absent, but this has not been officially confirmed. The remote, hilly and forested location delayed firefighting response.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Off-grid solar plants in remote forested terrain need local fire response plans because fire brigades cannot reach the site quickly. (2) Off-grid solar plants that supply power to isolated villages must have backup arrangements to avoid total loss of supply. (3) Operators of off-grid solar plants should ensure documented maintenance and on-site presence to limit fire risk.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/2-villages-plunge-into-darkness-after-fire-destroys-solar-power-plant-in-west-champaran/articleshow/130243145.cms", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:50:43.336298+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0305", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0305/", "title": "Lawsuit alleges recurring wind turbine fires near Mechanicsville, Iowa", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A farmer in Cedar County, near Mechanicsville, Iowa, has filed a lawsuit against Nordex USA, which does business as Acciona Windpower North America and Anchor Wind, alleging that three fires broke out on two wind turbines installed on his land under a 2010 easement agreement. According to the lawsuit and accompanying reporting, a turbine fire in March 2023 scattered debris across roughly 160 acres, a second turbine caught fire in May 2024, and that same turbine caught fire again in August 2024 when a blade reportedly fell to the ground. Photo captions in the source report attribute the fires to lightning strikes, while the lawsuit separately alleges the company was aware of unspecified mechanical problems with the turbines and failed to repair them. The lawsuit claims contractor clean-up work using farm equipment further fragmented debris, and that a local grain co-operative refused to accept grain contaminated by the debris. The company reportedly issued a partial payment of $230,000, but the parties have not agreed on the full extent of damages. These are allegations in an active lawsuit and have not been independently confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports two different possible causes: photo captions attribute the fires to lightning strikes, while the lawsuit separately alleges pre-existing mechanical problems that were not repaired. Neither cause has been confirmed, and the manufacturer, Nordex, had not responded to requests for comment at the time of reporting. Industry data cited in the article note that lightning is the most common cause of wind turbine fires generally, with mechanical and electrical failures also contributing across the sector.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lightning protection on wind turbines must be inspected after each strike, as photo captions attribute the fires to lightning strikes. (2) Clean-up after a turbine fire should avoid farm equipment that fragments debris, as this spread contamination across 160 acres. (3) Operators should repair known mechanical faults promptly, since the lawsuit alleges the company failed to repair unspecified mechanical problems.", "source_url": "https://www.thegazette.com/news/crime-and-courts/iowa-farmer-sues-after-3-fires-break-out-in-wind-turbines/article_c5ccb742-b2be-5079-9327-116e1b1f97a8.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:50:55.31663+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0307", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0307/", "title": "Substation fire near Vienna Town Hall cuts power to homes and businesses", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a power substation near Vienna Town Hall on Center Street in Vienna, Virginia, on the morning of 1 April 2026. The blaze knocked out power to multiple homes and businesses in the surrounding area. The Town of Vienna posted an update on social media around 10:22 a.m. noting that Dominion Energy crews were on site working to restore power. By shortly before 11 a.m., power had been restored to most affected homes and businesses, with Dominion Energy expecting full restoration to remaining outage locations by mid-afternoon. The cause of the fire, injuries, and damage extent are not reported in available coverage.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a grid substation can interrupt supply to many customers, so operators should confirm isolation and redundancy plans work quickly. (2) Rapid crew attendance at a substation fire limits outage length, so operators should check mobilisation times in response plans.", "source_url": "https://www.dcnewsnow.com/news/local-news/virginia/fairfax-county/power-restored-to-homes-businesses-after-substation-fire-near-vienna-town-hall/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:51:06.279494+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0309", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0309/", "title": "Transformer fire cuts power to dozens of buildings in Youngstown, Ohio", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire occurred around 11pm on South Phelps Street in downtown Youngstown, Ohio. Firefighters responded and observed heavy smoke coming from the transformer grate. Once the smoke subsided, Ohio Edison crews were called to de-energise the transformer. The fire caused power outages affecting up to 36 buildings in the surrounding area overnight, including the OH WOW! Science Center and the Purple Cat building. As of the following morning, 12 customers remained without power, with FirstEnergy expecting restoration by 10:30am. The cause of the fire was unknown at the time of reporting, though crews suspected that heavy water from storms the previous night may have played a role.", "contributing_factors": "Crews suspected that heavy water from storms the previous night may have contributed to the transformer fire, though the cause was not confirmed at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Distribution transformers can fail after heavy rain if water enters the unit, so operators should inspect them following storms. (2) Fire crews cannot approach live electrical equipment, so utility crews must de-energise before they enter the area. (3) Transformer fires can leave dozens of buildings without power overnight, so operators should give clear restoration times to customers.", "source_url": "https://www.wfmj.com/news/local-news/youngstown/transformer-fire-causes-overnight-power-outages-in-youngstown/article_bb6d1c9b-a1f0-414e-8038-ed477a3f1239.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:51:18.878957+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0310", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0310/", "title": "Transformer fire at Gonder Substation in Ely, Nevada prompts emergency response", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire occurred at the Gonder Substation near Ely, Nevada (White Pine County), with a visible fire and smoke plume seen from several miles away. Mt. Wheeler Power responded to the incident involving a transformer owned by NV Energy. Local fire crews and Mt. Wheeler Power personnel attended the site to manage the situation and ensure area safety. No service outages were anticipated as a result of the incident. Traffic along U.S. Highway 93 near the substation was backed up due to emergency response activity, with motorists advised to use caution and expect delays. The utility stated it would continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information became available.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fires at substations can produce smoke plumes visible for miles, so operators should prepare timely public updates to limit concern. (2) Emergency response at roadside substations can back up highway traffic, so operators should include traffic control in response plans.", "source_url": "https://elynews.com/2026/03/31/transformer-fire-at-gonder-substation-no-outages-expected/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:51:23.340957+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0311", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0311/", "title": "Electrical substation fire cuts power in central Toledo", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at an electrical substation in central Toledo, Ohio, reportedly leaving thousands of customers without power. Emergency crews responded and power was later restored. The original source article could not be accessed at review time, so details beyond the headline and summary, including the specific substation, fire cause, and outage duration, are not confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fire can interrupt supply to thousands of customers, so operators should verify redundant feeds and rapid isolation procedures. (2) Coordinated emergency and utility response aids quicker supply restoration after substation events.", "source_url": "https://www.wtol.com/article/news/local/thousands-without-power-in-central-toledo-crews-respond-to-electrical-substation/512-8a27050e-b4ea-4fec-a42b-95f1aee07469", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:51:30.847817+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0312", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0312/", "title": "Blown transformer causes explosion and smoke at Bethesda Federal Campus", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Saturday afternoon, emergency crews responded to reports of smoke and the sound of an explosion at the Intelligence Community Campus-Bethesda facility on Sangamore Road in Bethesda, Maryland. Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service identified the cause as a blown transformer located in an on-site substation. Responding crews recorded an isolated power outage in the area as a result of the failure. No injuries were reported among staff, responders or the public. The facility, a 36 acre federal campus that opened in 2015 and serves as the main site of the National Intelligence University, remained otherwise unaffected according to the report. Details on the extent of equipment damage or the duration of the outage were not disclosed in the available reporting.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A blown transformer in a substation can produce an audible explosion and visible smoke even when the fault stays contained. (2) Segmented substation design limits a single transformer fault to an isolated outage rather than wider loss.", "source_url": "https://patch.com/maryland/bethesda-chevychase/smoke-explosion-linked-blown-transformer-fire-officials", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:51:36.659698+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0314", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0314/", "title": "Substation explosion cuts power to Roodepoort suburbs in Johannesburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred at one of the main electricity substations serving Roodepoort, west of Johannesburg, on a Thursday in late March 2026. The event affected several substations across a large area, leaving multiple suburbs without power. City Power, the municipal electricity utility, said technicians were sent to the site to investigate the cause of the disruption. The utility stated that most restoration work would be carried out overnight and into the following morning so that power could be returned to affected residents. No cause had been confirmed at the time of reporting, and the utility did not disclose details on injuries, damage extent or the specific substation involved.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation explosions can affect multiple connected sites, so operators should map interdependencies and maintain spare capacity in nearby units. (2) When a substation fails, technicians must reach the site quickly to assess damage and begin restoration before peak demand returns.", "source_url": "https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/substation-explosion-leaves-roodepoort-suburbs-without-power/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:51:48.650957+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0315", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0315/", "title": "Isle of Palms transformer fire triggers outage after years of warning signs", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A pole-mounted distribution transformer caught fire in Isle of Palms, South Carolina, igniting the utility pole and causing debris to land in nearby yards. The event left more than 900 customers without power for several hours. Dominion Energy, which operates the equipment, stated the cause was high winds that caused energised lines to contact the pole, triggering a fuse to operate as designed and cut power, which some observers described as an explosion. A nearby resident said the transformer had shown signs of trouble for several years, including a lightning strike and repeated crackling and popping noises, which he reported to the utility multiple times before the fire. Dominion Energy replaced the damaged equipment and restored service. No injuries were reported. Property damage, including landscaping, was noted at the affected residence.", "contributing_factors": "Dominion Energy attributed the failure to high winds causing contact between energised lines and the pole. A resident reported recurring abnormal noises and a prior lightning strike over several years, though the utility maintains the cause was weather related rather than a failing unit.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators must log and track public reports of crackling noises on pole-mounted distribution transformers to spot degradation before fire. (2) Clear public communication after fuse operation on distribution lines reduces alarm when events appear as explosions.", "source_url": "https://abcnews4.com/news/local/isle-of-palms-homeowner-says-transformer-showed-warning-signs-for-years-before-fire", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:51:49.014023+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0317", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0317/", "title": "Underground substation fire breaks out near Stockport fuel station", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported involving an underground electricity substation close to a fuel station in Stockport, Greater Manchester, based on a Facebook video shared by Manchester Evening News. Footage showed flames rising from below ground level near the petrol station forecourt, and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service crews attended. The exact date of the incident, the substation operator, site name and cause of the fire were not confirmed in the available material, and it is not known whether the fuel station was evacuated or whether operations were disrupted.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Underground substation fires near fuel stations require prompt attendance by local fire crews. (2) Public video reports can emerge before operator confirmation of events at colocated sites.", "source_url": "https://www.facebook.com/ManchesterEveningNews/videos/flames-soared-from-underground-close-to-a-stockport-fuel-station-after-a-fire-br/1226156092837794/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:52:16.905796+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0318", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0318/", "title": "Brush fire burns grass beneath panels at Wisconsin solar farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "near_miss", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A grass fire broke out beneath panels at the North Rock Solar Farm in the town of Fulton, Wisconsin, reportedly on a Monday afternoon in late March 2026 (exact date not confirmed by the source). Strong winds drove the blaze across about 10 acres of grass under the arrays. Lakeside Fire-Rescue was called out shortly after 12:30pm and used brush fire tank trucks, water on the ground between arrays, and hand tools to contain the fire. Multiple local fire departments assisted to bring the blaze under control quickly. Fire officials said suppression efforts kept flames low to the ground and away from panels and wiring mounted three to seven feet above ground. No damage to solar equipment was reported at the time of the article. The cause of the fire remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Strong winds appear to have spread the grass fire quickly across the site; dry vegetation beneath the panel arrays likely provided fuel. The precise cause of ignition has not yet been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Strong winds can spread grass fires quickly under solar arrays, so operators should clear dry vegetation to limit fuel. (2) Fire crews must use ground-based water and hand tools near live panels rather than direct sprays.", "source_url": "https://www.gazettextra.com/news/brush-fire-ignited-at-town-of-fulton-solar-farm/article_64f1a6eb-7e69-446a-a5cb-808f1ed2be8b.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:52:18.183141+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0325", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0325/", "title": "Wind turbine fire reported near Ambli Village in Vijayanagara after lightning strike", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine near Ambli village in the Vijayanagara district of Karnataka, India, reportedly caught fire after being struck by lightning, according to a headline report. The underlying article could not be accessed, so details such as the extent of damage, injuries, or the affected turbine component are not yet confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "A lightning strike is reported as the trigger for the fire. Further contributing factors, such as the presence or absence of lightning protection systems, are not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lightning strike can start a fire in a wind turbine nacelle, so operators should check that lightning protection and grounding remain intact after storms. (2) When an article gives no detail on protection systems, insurers should require proof that such systems were fitted and serviced.", "source_url": "https://www.latestly.com/socially/india/news/karnataka-wind-turbine-catches-fire-near-ambli-village-in-vijayanagara-after-lightning-strike-watch-video-7357029.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:53:22.069874+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0327", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0327/", "title": "Three workers die in wind turbine fire in South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a wind farm in Yeongdeok County, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea, killing three workers. One worker was found dead at the turbine, with two others initially unaccounted for before later being confirmed dead. A major firefighting operation was launched to contain the blaze, reportedly including the use of firefighting helicopters. Korean media reported that the same wind farm had already suspended operations for investigation following a turbine collapse the previous month. The operator of the wind farm and the manufacturer of the turbines involved were not identified in initial reports. Local police stated that the exact cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The wind farm had reportedly suspended operations the previous month following a separate turbine collapse, but no confirmed link between that event and the fire has been established in the reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind farms that suffer a turbine collapse need checks on all other turbines before operations restart. (2) Wind turbine fires require response plans that account for workers at height inside the nacelle.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/accidents-and-casualties/three-dead-after-wind-turbine-blaze/2-1-1963863", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:53:30.433313+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0330", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0330/", "title": "Fire at Zhuyuan Extra High Voltage substation in Hsinchu kills two workers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Zhuyuan Extra High Voltage Substation in Hsinchu City, Taiwan, on a Monday in March 2026 during equipment testing. Three workers at the site were injured and taken to hospital. Two of them later died from their injuries, raising the death toll to two. Taiwan Power Co., which operates the facility, confirmed the incident. Prosecutors, fire investigators and police jointly carried out evidence collection at the site the following day. Firefighting operations were completed and crews withdrew, with the site handed over to fire investigators for further examination. The case remains under investigation, with authorities stating that further details will be released once findings are confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "The fire occurred during equipment testing at the substation, though the specific technical cause had not been confirmed at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Equipment testing at extra high voltage substations requires strict exclusion zones for non-essential personnel, as fires can cause fatal injuries to workers on site. (2) Operators must prepare for rapid medical response during planned testing at high voltage facilities, given the risk of serious burns and trauma.", "source_url": "https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202603170024", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:53:39.871549+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0331", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0331/", "title": "Storm-damaged solar panel catches fire at Kankakee County farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Following tornadoes that struck the Kankakee, Illinois area, a fire broke out at a solar farm located in a rural area southwest of Kankakee. According to the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office, multiple fire agencies responded at around 4:15 p.m. on Wednesday to a fire involving an active panel within the facility. The fire was successfully resolved with no reported injuries. The incident occurred amid widespread tornado damage in the region, which had damaged nearly 500 structures in Kankakee County. Following the fire, local emergency management and mutual aid agencies issued a safety reminder encouraging residents with solar panels to have their systems inspected by professionals and advising first responders to exercise caution when responding to incidents involving storm-damaged solar panels.", "contributing_factors": "The fire is understood to have been related to storm damage from tornadoes that swept through the region two days earlier, which appears to have affected an active panel at the site.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Storm-damaged solar panels can remain live and ignite, so operators must isolate arrays and inspect all wiring after tornadoes before restart. (2) First responders need protocols for live dc circuits on solar farms after storms, as standard tactics may fail on damaged arrays. (3) Hidden electrical faults from high winds require professional checks, since visible damage alone does not reveal all risks.", "source_url": "https://patch.com/illinois/manhattan/fire-breaks-out-solar-farm-tornado-recovery-efforts-continue-kankakee-sheriff", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:54:00.302714+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0334", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0334/", "title": "Orange & Rockland substation fire triggers second major outage in a week", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an Orange & Rockland electric substation in Orangetown, New York, causing widespread power outages across the southern part of Rockland County. The utility's outage map showed service interruptions across multiple communities as crews worked to assess damage and restore power. This was the second significant outage event in less than a week, following an earlier overnight outage that had left around 7,000 customers without power for approximately four hours. At the time of publication, Orange & Rockland had not confirmed a definitive cause of the fire, though local reporting linked it to an equipment failure at the facility. Emergency responders and utility crews focused on restoration efforts while investigators sought to determine what triggered the incident.", "contributing_factors": "The exact cause of the substation fire had not been confirmed by the utility at the time of reporting. An advocacy group, Data Center Crisis, suggested the fire could be linked to grid strain or overload, though this was not verified by Orange & Rockland or officials.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation equipment failure can trigger repeated outages, so operators should inspect for stress after the first event rather than wait for another. (2) When utilities leave substation fire causes unconfirmed, unverified claims spread, so they should issue root cause reports quickly.", "source_url": "https://rocklandnews.com/orange-rockland-power-outage-2026-march/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:54:19.854169+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0335", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0335/", "title": "Nacelle fire damages turbine at Waymart Wind Farm near Browndale, Pennsylvania", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 9 March 2026, residents near Browndale, Pennsylvania, saw one of the 43 turbines at the Waymart Wind Farm, owned by Sequitur Renewables, on fire. The blaze was seen coming from the nacelle, the housing behind the blades that contains the gearbox, generator and electrical systems. Local fire officials were alerted and Browndale Fire Company and Waymart Volunteer Fire Department responded, with Forest City Area Emergency Services on standby. Given the turbine's remote ridge location and the presence of snowpack limiting fire spread, officials and wind farm personnel decided to let the fire burn itself out rather than attempt suppression. Fire crews left the scene at around 9pm, roughly two to two and a half hours after the fire began. No injuries were reported. Sequitur Renewables personnel were due to inspect the turbine afterwards to assess damage and plan recovery. A cause had not been released at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The turbine's remote ridge-top location and limited access made direct firefighting impractical, and responders judged that surrounding snowpack reduced the risk of the fire spreading to nearby vegetation, so it was allowed to burn out under monitoring.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Remote ridge-top turbines with limited access require pre-agreed protocols on when to let a fire burn out rather than attempt suppression. (2) Snowpack around a turbine site can reduce fire spread risk and support a monitored burn-out decision. (3) Local volunteer fire services often reach remote turbines first, so operators need clear communication links with them.", "source_url": "https://www.tricountyindependent.com/story/news/fire/2026/03/12/waymart-wind-farm-turbine-browndale-pa-fire-damage/89099181007/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:54:28.444494+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0336", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0336/", "title": "Grass fire burns near panels at FPL Sparkleberry Solar Farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "near_miss", "severity": "near_miss", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A brush and grass fire broke out midday at the Florida Power & Light Sparkleberry Solar Energy Center on Pilgrim Trail in Molino, Florida. The fire occurred in four to five inch tall grass growing around rows of solar panels. Florida Forest Service personnel allowed the fire to burn towards a nearby road before using a small amount of water to extinguish it. Multiple units of Escambia County Fire Rescue also responded to the scene. An FPL spokesperson confirmed there was no damage to any solar equipment and that the facility continued to operate normally throughout the incident. The cause of the fire remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Overgrown grass measuring four to five inches around the solar panel rows provided fuel for the fire. The specific ignition source had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Four to five inch grass around solar panel rows can fuel fires, so operators should cut vegetation to keep fuel loads low. (2) A vegetation fire near solar arrays needs coordinated forestry and fire rescue response to stop it reaching equipment.", "source_url": "http://www.northescambia.com/2026/03/firefighters-extinguish-grass-fire-at-fpl-solar-farm-in-molino", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:54:35.216792+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0337", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0337/", "title": "Entergy substation fire cuts power to thousands in Lake Charles", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an Entergy electrical substation off Big Lake Road, near Vincent Road and the Graywood neighbourhood in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Smoke was visible across south Lake Charles and roads in the area were closed. The incident caused a power outage affecting around 4,500 Entergy customers, with 160 still without power several hours later. No one was on site at the time and no injuries were reported. Entergy crews deenergised the substation, and firefighters began extinguishing the fire at around 3:35pm. Entergy officials described the event, reported to involve an explosion, as having come with no apparent warning. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation according to Entergy officials.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An unstaffed substation fire can still cut power to thousands, so operators must ensure remote monitoring and rapid isolation plans. (2) Early deenergisation of a substation allows safe firefighting and limits damage spread.", "source_url": "https://www.kplctv.com/2026/03/02/entergy-substation-fire-off-big-lake-road/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:54:45.679473+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0344", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0344/", "title": "Substation fire destroys transformer, cuts power in Vanderbijlpark", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Town substation in Vanderbijlpark on 23 February 2026, cutting electricity to hundreds of households across several areas including Bonanne, Bophelong, Bophelong extensions and CW1, 2, 3, 5, 6, and NW7 smallholdings. The fire was allegedly caused by overloading and/or technical faults. The municipality, Emfuleni Local Municipality, stated that the 30 mVa transformer and associated cables were damaged beyond repair. Repair crews began rigging a standby transformer for testing, with restoration timelines to be communicated once testing was completed. Residents faced the prospect of being without power for days or possibly weeks. Political councillors criticised the municipality for poor maintenance, inadequate planning, and ageing infrastructure, calling for urgent communication of restoration timelines.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was allegedly caused by overloading and/or technical faults, according to the municipality; councillors also pointed to ageing infrastructure and poor maintenance as underlying issues.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation transformers near rated capacity risk catastrophic failure when ageing infrastructure is present. (2) Utilities need standby transformers ready to shorten outages after a transformer is damaged beyond repair. (3) Ageing infrastructure and poor maintenance raise the chance of overload faults leading to fire.", "source_url": "https://www.ofm.co.za/article/centralsa/340750/substation-fire-leaves-vaal-residents-in-dark-", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:55:27.596572+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0345", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0345/", "title": "Transformer explosion at Bloemfontein substation cuts power to suburbs", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At around 21:15 on 23 February 2026, one of the 132/33 kV transformers at the Bayswater distribution centre in Bloemfontein exploded, causing a fire and leaving several northern suburbs without electricity. The Mangaung fire brigade was dispatched and extinguished the blaze. No injuries were reported. Centlec, Mangaung's power utility, deployed technical teams to begin restoration work. An initial estimated restoration time of 24 hours was given, but reporting indicates many residents remained without power beyond this. The source also referenced an outage of around 48 hours in parts of the north, though the timing given is inconsistent with the reported time of the explosion, so this figure should be treated as unconfirmed. Non-functioning traffic lights caused congestion at affected intersections. Centlec said a preliminary investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the explosion and the extent of damage, with the restoration timeline dependent on the findings and severity of damage to the transformer and associated equipment.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion had not been determined at the time of reporting; Centlec said a preliminary investigation would be conducted to establish the cause and assess damage.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation transformer explosion can ignite a fire that spreads to nearby equipment, so operators should fit early detection systems and remote isolation switches. (2) Power loss at a distribution substation can disable traffic lights and create road congestion, so utilities must maintain contingency traffic plans. (3) Restoration after a transformer failure often exceeds initial estimates when damage assessment is incomplete, so utilities should publish conservative timelines.", "source_url": "https://www.ofm.co.za/article/centralsa/340745/transformer-explosion-leaves-parts-of-bloemfontein-in-darkness", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:55:35.393679+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0346", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0346/", "title": "Two workers die after work basket fall at Birstein wind turbine, Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Two 32-year-old workers died after a work basket they were in fell from the upper part of a wind turbine under construction in Birstein, northeast of Frankfurt, Germany. The incident occurred on a Wednesday morning, according to police cited by the German Press Agency (dpa); the exact calendar date has not been independently confirmed. Other workers at the site heard the incident and called for an ambulance, but rescue services were unable to save the two men, who are believed to have died instantly. It was initially unclear why the work basket fell from height. Emergency services, including the fire brigade, attended the site, and police investigations were opened. An expert was expected to be appointed to reconstruct the exact chain of events and determine the cause of the failure.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the work basket's fall from height had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Work baskets used at height on wind turbines under construction must have verified attachments, as sudden failure caused instant deaths. (2) Sites under construction need tested rescue plans for height incidents, given delays in reaching workers. (3) An independent expert must reconstruct events after any basket failure to stop recurrence at other sites.", "source_url": "https://www.sarawaktribune.com/two-workers-fall-to-death-inside-wind-turbine/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:55:35.511706+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0347", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0347/", "title": "Transformer fire at Vladivostok power plant cuts power to 48,000 residents", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "Russia", "country_code": "ru", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire occurred at the Severnaya thermal power plant substation in Vladivostok on 10 February, producing a bright flash and loud explosion reported by local residents on social media. The event caused an immediate blackout affecting approximately 48,000 residents in the Soviet district of the city. The disruption also knocked out pumping equipment, cutting water supply to several residential buildings while temperatures were around 2 to 3 degrees Celsius below freezing. Energy workers responded by disconnecting the high-voltage line known as Volna-Burun at around 4pm local time to isolate the fault. Power was restored to the affected district by approximately 5pm the same day. Prosecutors from the Pervorechensky district attended the site to examine compliance with fire safety regulations at the substation. The cause of the transformer fire remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in detail; local prosecutors were investigating compliance with fire safety regulations in the operation of the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a substation can cut water pumping in freezing weather, so operators should check backup power to pumps near substations. (2) Rapid isolation of a high-voltage line after a transformer fire can restore power within an hour, so test isolation procedures regularly. (3) Prosecutors review fire safety compliance after a substation transformer fire, so keep records ready for such checks.", "source_url": "https://euromaidanpress.com/2026/02/10/transformer-explosion-blacks-out-48000-homes-in-russias-far-east-port-city/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:55:58.21269+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0349", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0349/", "title": "Lightning strike suspected in wind turbine fire at La Casa Wind Farm, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at the La Casa Wind Farm in Stephens County, Texas, operated by NextEra Energy and owned by La Casa Wind, caught fire early on 14 February 2026 as a thunderstorm passed through the area. The Breckenridge Fire Department, which responded to the report at about 7:30 a.m., said the likely cause was a lightning strike. The nacelle and one blade were largely burned. At around 10:15 a.m. the remaining portion of the damaged blade flared up again, sending flames from the broken blade. Firefighters were unable to fight the fire at the top of the turbine, which stands 290 to 375 feet high, but contained a fire on the ground after part of a rotor blade fell near the turbine base. The fire department left the scene by around noon with plans to continue monitoring. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "A lightning strike during a thunderstorm is cited by the fire department as the likely cause. A resident quoted in the article noted that wind turbines nationally have experienced fire problems related to lightning strikes and severe weather.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lightning protection on wind turbine blades and nacelles must be checked after storms, since a strike can start a nacelle fire. (2) A nacelle fire at 290 to 375 feet cannot be fought from the ground, so plans must rely on remote isolation and monitoring. (3) Operators must set an exclusion zone around a burning turbine, since a rotor blade section can fall near the base.", "source_url": "https://breckenridgetexan.com/2026/02/14/lightning-strike-suspected-in-stephens-county-wind-turbine-fire-this-morning/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:56:03.030709+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0352", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0352/", "title": "Fire damages transformers at Wadeville 2nd Input substation, Ekurhuleni", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Wadeville 2nd Input Substation, operated by the City of Ekurhuleni, on 31 January 2026. The blaze damaged two 15 MVA transformers, while a third transformer at the site was unaffected. City technicians were dispatched to stabilise the network and began working around the clock to repair the damage. The substation remained out of service for almost three weeks, causing widespread power outages across Wadeville, Albemarle, Castleview, Dinwiddie, Phumula, Mapleton Ex 10, Buhle Park, Rondebult, Roodekop and surrounding industrial and residential areas. Priority for restoration was given to industrial and business customers supplied through nearby substations due to their economic importance. Power was partially restored on 5 February but had to be switched off again after batteries failed to reach full charge. A local business group assisted the municipality by arranging a crane to help replace a transformer and contributing towards costs of the crane and component manufacturing.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported in the source. The substation was also undergoing an upgrade to increase capacity, though it is not stated whether this was related to the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire that damages two 15 MVA transformers can leave the site out of service for three weeks, so operators should keep spare transformers or mobile units ready for rapid swap. (2) Batteries that fail to reach full charge after partial restoration can force another shutdown, so technicians must verify all auxiliary systems before re-energising. (3) An upgrade in progress at the time of the fire may affect repair priorities, so operators should record the upgrade status in any incident report.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/germiston-city-news/news-headlines/local-municipal-news/2026/02/10/city-wag-work-together-to-restore-power/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:56:15.167738+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0353", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0353/", "title": "Fire at Bree substation cuts power across Johannesburg CBD", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the early hours at the Bree substation in central Johannesburg, cutting electricity supply to large parts of the city centre including Newtown, Braamfontein, Bank City and Marshalltown. City Power, the municipal electricity utility, said the substation would remain switched off until safety inspections, damage assessments and risk evaluations were complete. Three floors of a residential building situated above the substation were evacuated as a precaution after sections of the concrete roofing were found to be deteriorating and falling. The site remained hazardous due to residual heat, boiling transformer oil, smoke and carbon fumes, preventing teams from entering to assess the damage or begin a formal cause investigation. Structural engineers and labour department inspectors attended to assess the condition of the facility and surrounding buildings. Over 500 outage calls were logged by residents and businesses.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The formal investigation into the cause of the fire had not begun at the time of reporting, pending safety clearance to enter the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a substation beneath a residential building needs pre-set evacuation and structural checks before teams enter. (2) Residual heat, boiling oil and fumes after a substation fire block entry, so plan for delayed assessments. (3) A substation fire that stops supply needs clear public updates while access is blocked.", "source_url": "https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2026-02-06-bree-substation-switch-off-will-endure-until-safety-all-clear-after-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:56:27.05244+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0356", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0356/", "title": "Transformer explosion collapses building wall in Johannesburg, South Africa", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Emergency services in New Doornfontein, Johannesburg, responded to a reported substation fire just before 6am. On arrival crews found the substation ablaze, and during the response an explosion occurred, causing a wall of an adjacent student residence building to collapse. Four people in the vicinity were injured, including one student and three security guards, all of whom sustained third-degree burns. They were transported by Gauteng Provincial Government ambulance services to nearby hospitals. Emergency services remained on site to check whether anyone was trapped under the rubble, awaiting heavy equipment to help clear debris. Nearby residents were accounted for. The matter was handed over to the local electricity utility, City Power, for further investigation. The cause of the explosion had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the transformer/substation fire and subsequent explosion had not yet been determined.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations near occupied buildings risk wall collapse from explosion, so operators should review buffer distances and structural protections. (2) Electrical explosions can trap people under rubble, so responders need heavy equipment ready for immediate search. (3) Handover to the utility after the event allows prompt root cause work and network checks.", "source_url": "https://iol.co.za/news/south-africa/2026-02-02-update-student-and-security-guards-suffer-severe-burns-in-joburg-gas-blast/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:57:10.494308+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0357", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0357/", "title": "Transformer failure causes large power outage in Denver metro area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer failure and resulting equipment damage at an Xcel Energy substation just before 3 p.m. on Sunday caused a power outage that left more than 195,000 people without electricity in the southeast Denver metro area. The outage affected Aurora 911 service, RTD light rail, and operations at Denver International Airport, including concourse trains. CORE Electric customers were also impacted. Xcel said power was restored to all customers by 5:47 p.m. the same day and that the transformer was being replaced. Aurora later said 911 service was working again, and the airport reported that operations had returned to normal. RTD ran shuttle buses in place of the H Line and the R Line.", "contributing_factors": "Xcel Energy said a transformer failure and the resulting equipment damage at one of its substations caused the outage. No further cause is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation transformer failure can cut power to many customers and disrupt 911, rail and airport services, so operators must map dependent loads in advance. (2) Restoration after a substation transformer failure requires a plan to replace the unit and verify when linked services recover. (3) When a substation supplies emergency and transport loads, outage plans must include direct coordination with those services.", "source_url": "https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/large-power-outage-leaves-thousands-in-denver-area-in-the-dark", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:57:12.759538+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0359", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0359/", "title": "Brush fire reported beneath panels at Lake Placid Solar Farm under construction", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters responded to a reported 30-acre brush fire on the evening of 27 January 2026 (date inferred from the report) at the Next Gen solar farm in Lake Placid, Florida, according to Highlands County Fire Rescue. Fire units from two stations and a battalion were on scene by 10:10 p.m. The solar farm was under construction and its equipment was not operational at the time. Officials said the solar panels themselves did not catch fire; the fire burned grass and brush underneath and around the panels. By the next morning most of the fire was out, though a small section in an adjacent empty field was still burning and forestry crews remained on site to monitor it.", "contributing_factors": "The site was under construction with equipment not yet operational. The fire spread through grass and brush on the ground; no electrical or solar equipment was reported involved.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Vegetation under arrays during construction can fuel ground fires that spread to installed panels, so operators should clear grass and brush early. (2) Fire services need prompt notice that equipment is not operational so they can judge risks without assuming live electrical hazards. (3) Firebreaks and access routes limit spread towards new infrastructure on sites still being built.", "source_url": "https://www.mysuncoast.com/2026/01/29/firefighters-battle-30-acre-brush-fire-lake-placid-solar-farm/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:57:25.363628+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0360", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0360/", "title": "Substation fire leaves Alberton without power for days", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A substation known as Z9 in Alberton, South Africa suffered severe fire damage that knocked out power to large parts of the town from Tuesday. Cables, transformers and other critical electrical components were badly burnt, forcing technicians to replace major infrastructure rather than carry out routine repairs. The city said the scale of destruction required specialised equipment, replacement transformers and new cabling, all of which had to be sourced and installed under strict safety conditions. Restoration was estimated for the following Saturday, meaning affected residents faced several days without electricity, refrigeration, internet connectivity or reliable communication. Small businesses reported mounting financial losses during the outage. The source does not mention any injuries or fatalities.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not state the cause of the substation fire, only that it caused extensive damage to cables, transformers and associated equipment.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer and cable fires in substations can require full replacement of major equipment rather than repair. (2) Utilities need rapid access to replacement transformers and cabling to limit multi-day outages after substation fires. (3) Extended substation outages leave residents without refrigeration and communications for several days.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/alberton-record/news-headlines/local-news/2026/01/23/alberton-residents-still-in-darkness-after-z9-substation-caught-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:57:27.41715+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0362", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0362/", "title": "Fire breaks out on wind turbine at Ngong Wind Power Station, Kenya", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "Kenya", "country_code": "ke", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on Tuesday afternoon on one wind turbine at the Ngong Wind Power Station in Kajiado County, Kenya, operated by the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen). The affected 0.85MW turbine was offline for scheduled routine maintenance at the time. KenGen confirmed that no personnel were injured, with all site staff accounted for thanks to established safety protocols and a prompt response from the on-site emergency team. The incident, which occurred at approximately 3pm, was isolated to the single turbine and did not affect the remaining units at the 25.5MW facility, which continued to operate normally with no interruption to electricity supply to the national grid. Footage of the fire circulated widely on social media. KenGen's safety team has begun an investigation, working with relevant safety and regulatory authorities, to determine the cause, assess damage and identify corrective measures.", "contributing_factors": "The turbine was offline for scheduled routine maintenance at the time the fire occurred; no further contributing factors have been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine fire during maintenance stayed limited to one unit because the asset was already offline and isolated from the rest of the 25.5MW facility. (2) On-site emergency teams and safety protocols allowed all staff to be accounted for with no injuries after a turbine fire.", "source_url": "https://eastleighvoice.co.ke/news/276088/kengen-confirms-no-injuries-after-ngong-wind-turbine-fire", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:57:54.200623+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0363", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0363/", "title": "Wind turbine fire at Kirkby Moor Wind Farm in Cumbria", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on a wind turbine at Kirkby Moor Wind Farm in Kirkby Moor, Cumbria, during the afternoon. Multiple fire crews from several stations attended the scene. The fire service described the blaze as small and stated there was no risk to the public. Crews worked alongside the turbine operator to extinguish the fire and secure the site, with the effort taking several hours before the flames were fully out. The cause of the fire was not disclosed by the fire service. No injuries were reported and there was no indication of wider disruption to surrounding areas or infrastructure.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A small wind turbine fire can still need multiple fire crews from several stations, so operators should plan for extended response times even when the blaze is limited. (2) Wind turbine fires at height require close work with the operator to extinguish and secure the site, so joint procedures should be in place before an event.", "source_url": "https://www.newsandstar.co.uk/news/25786371.firefighters-called-wind-turbine-kirkby-moor/?ref=rss", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:57:55.514495+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0365", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0365/", "title": "Turbine fire takes half of Tararua wind farm offline for hours", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "New Zealand", "country_code": "nz", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at Mercury's Tararua wind farm near Palmerston North caught fire on a Sunday evening. A member of the public alerted emergency services, who responded around 5pm with fire crews from Ashhurst and Palmerston North. The fire was contained to the single turbine and a small number of minor ground fires nearby, all of which were quickly extinguished, with fire crews leaving the scene before 6pm. Mercury said the turbine effectively put itself out. Half of the wind farm was taken offline while the affected turbine was removed from service, with the rest of the farm returning to full service by around 10pm that evening. There was no one near the turbine at the time and no injuries were reported. Mercury said it expected the wind farm to return to full operation the following day, excluding the affected turbine, and that the cause of the fire would be investigated.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting and was to be investigated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine fire at height can self-extinguish if isolated early, so operators should plan for remote shutdown and a debris exclusion zone rather than ground-based firefighting. (2) Public reports of visible fires can trigger a faster response than site monitoring alone, so operators should maintain close ties with local emergency services. (3) Rapid removal of one turbine from the grid can keep the rest of a wind farm operating, limiting lost generation to a small share of output.", "source_url": "https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/emergencies_local/584381/mercury-s-tararua-wind-farm-was-offline-for-hours-after-a-turbine-caught-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:58:01.457706+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0368", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0368/", "title": "Fire reported at electrical substation in Sinton, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an electrical substation located near the Steel Dynamics Southwest-Sinton Flat Roll Division facility in Sinton, Texas. Fire crews from Sinton and Taft responded to the scene. Local reporting states the substation is owned by Steel Dynamics Southwest-Sinton Flat Roll Division, though the substation's ownership was not further confirmed in the source. As of publication, the cause of the fire, any resulting power outages, and any impact on the Steel Dynamics facility had not been released. This was reported as a developing situation.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations near industrial facilities need coordinated emergency planning with multiple local fire services. (2) Public disclosure of cause and impacts lets other operators learn from similar events.", "source_url": "https://www.kristv.com/news/local-news/in-your-neighborhood/san-patricio-county/sinton/crews-working-to-extinguish-fire-at-aep-electrical-substation-in-sinton", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:58:24.024701+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0370", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0370/", "title": "Balloons cause transformer fire and brief outage in Millington, Tennessee", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Wednesday evening in Millington, Tennessee, a set of party balloons flew into overhead power lines connected to a transformer on Bill Knight Road. The contact tripped a power pole breaker and ignited a small grass fire near the pole around 6:20pm. The fire was quickly extinguished and no injuries or property damage were reported. A Memphis Light spokesperson confirmed that 31 customers lost power as a result of the incident. Crews were dispatched to the scene and reset the power pole breaker. According to Memphis Light's outage map, all affected customers had power restored following the repair.", "contributing_factors": "Balloons made contact with overhead power lines, causing a breaker trip and a small grass fire near the transformer pole.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Balloons contacting overhead distribution lines can trip breakers and ignite grass fires, so operators should clear vegetation near poles and fit bird guards. (2) Rapid breaker action and crew response kept the outage brief and limited damage on this distribution asset.", "source_url": "https://www.actionnews5.com/2026/01/15/party-balloons-cause-transformer-fire-power-outages-millington/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:58:32.484192+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0373", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0373/", "title": "Substation explosion in Cleveland triggers widespread power outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news report stated that an explosion occurred at an electrical substation in Cleveland, Ohio, resulting in an unspecified number of power outages in the surrounding area. The report did not identify the specific substation, the utility operator, or provide details on the cause of the explosion. No information was given on whether the explosion resulted in fire, injuries, or evacuations. The scale of the outage was described only as affecting an unknown number of customers, with no restoration timeline provided at the time of reporting. Further details, including the substation's operator, exact location, and root cause, were not available in the source material.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) An unidentified substation explosion prevents operators from checking similar sites for the same fault, so every report must name the exact location and owner. (2) No data on fire, injuries or evacuations after a substation blast leaves responders without a clear plan, so initial reports must state these facts at once.", "source_url": "https://www.cleveland19.com/video/2026/01/13/cleveland-substation-explosion-sparks-unknown-number-power-outages/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:58:59.015989+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0374", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0374/", "title": "Construction worker killed by runaway trailer at Neweg Energy Project, New Brunswick", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A pilot truck driver was fatally crushed at the Neweg Energy Project wind farm construction site in the Springdale area, east of Sussex, New Brunswick, Canada, after a six-axle transport dolly, with a gross weight of more than 27,000 kilograms, became detached from an off-road forklift while a wind turbine tower was being unloaded. The worker was run over while attempting to stop the runaway dolly. A coroner's inquest jury later ruled the death an accident and issued a series of safety recommendations directed mainly at Windturbine Construction Team, the company responsible for installing the turbines. The inquest did not assign blame or legal responsibility. Separately, Windturbine Construction Team was charged under occupational health and safety legislation with failing to ensure an industrial lift truck was not loaded beyond its capacity and failing to ensure it was used only for its designed purpose; it pleaded guilty to the first charge and the second was withdrawn.", "contributing_factors": "The inquest jury's recommendations focused on on-site supervision and chain of command, morning safety meetings, clarity of scope of work and responsibilities, review of the equipment used against its intended purpose, competence and training of equipment operators, and the right to refuse unsafe work. A guilty plea was entered to a charge of failing to ensure an industrial lift truck was not loaded beyond its capacity. No single cause was formally attributed by the inquest.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check that an off-road forklift is never loaded beyond rated capacity when handling wind turbine tower sections. (2) Define on-site supervision and chain of command before any heavy transport or unloading starts at a wind farm site. (3) Confirm operator training and equipment suitability each day before moving loads over 27,000 kg.", "source_url": "https://uk.news.yahoo.com/coroner-inquest-rules-n-b-235901900.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:58:59.997249+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0375", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0375/", "title": "Coroner's inquest reported to have made safety recommendations after a fatal accident during wind farm construction", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An inquest is reported to have examined a fatal accident that occurred during construction work at a wind farm and to have issued recommendations following the hearing. Only a headline and a short feed summary were available at the time of writing. The location, the date of the accident, the number of people involved, the activity underway at the time and the content of the recommendations were not reported in the material available. It is not confirmed from the available material whether the site is onshore or offshore. This entry is held as a stub and should be updated or withdrawn once a primary report is obtained.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available source material.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should treat coroner findings on construction fatalities as input to risk reviews even when the site is not their own. (2) Construction phase risk assessments and permits must stay separate from operational ones and be reviewed at each contractor change.", "source_url": "https://globalnews.ca/video/11612059/coroners-inquest-into-wind-farm-construction-site-fatal-accident-makes-recommendations", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:59:01.198954+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0379", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0379/", "title": "Fire and reported explosions break out at Yate electricity substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an electricity substation in Yate, South Gloucestershire, with local residents reporting hearing explosions and seeing thick black smoke rising from the site. Emergency services attended the scene to respond to the incident. The news report was based on a live rolling news feed and did not confirm the cause of the fire, the extent of damage, whether any injuries occurred, or whether power supplies to the surrounding area were affected. No operator or owner of the substation was named in the source material, and the report did not specify how the fire was brought under control or how long emergency crews remained on site.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires with explosions and heavy smoke need early alerts to emergency services so they can secure the perimeter before residents approach. (2) Rolling news feeds on substation incidents must state quickly whether supplies are affected so residents and businesses can plan.", "source_url": "https://www.gazetteseries.co.uk/news/25756487.explosions-fire-breaks-yate-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:59:36.049785+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0380", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0380/", "title": "Transformer explosions cut power to hundreds in Andover, Massachusetts", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A series of transformer explosions occurred in the early hours of a Sunday morning along railroad tracks parallel to Lupine Road in Andover, Massachusetts. An initial explosion was followed by three additional loud explosions captured on a nearby business security camera within about one minute. The explosions, which began around 4:44 a.m., knocked out power to more than 230 customers, with thousands affected in total across the town. There were no reported injuries. Some residents reported damage to household appliances, including at least one refrigerator, in social media posts following the outage. National Grid, the utility serving the area, did not immediately provide comment. The incident occurred in the same week that National Grid officials had appeared before the town's select board to discuss a high rate of power outages in the community.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. No official cause had been given by the utility at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer explosions along rail tracks can knock out power to hundreds overnight, so operators should inspect similar equipment in areas already flagged for high outage rates. (2) Explosions in grid transformers can send surges that damage household appliances, so utilities should fit surge protection and advise customers on claims.", "source_url": "https://andovermanews.com/video-early-morning-transformer-explosion-leave-thousands-without-power-in-andover/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T17:59:40.972898+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0381", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0381/", "title": "Fire at Church Street Battery Storage Facility, Warwick, New York, involves unauthorized system", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on 19 December 2025 inside a single battery container at the Church Street Battery Storage Facility in the Village of Warwick, New York. Convergent is reported as the site's operator. The blaze triggered an alarm and activated the site's emergency response plan. No injuries were reported and the fire stayed confined to one unit. Hazmat teams conducted continuous air monitoring, detecting hydrogen cyanide at 0.5 parts per million near the site, about half the federal safety limit, while downwind monitors recorded zero readings. Village officials later said the system had been activated and fully charged without notifying the village, and that the operator did not hold a required Certificate of Compliance at the time, meaning the facility should not have been operational. According to reporting cited by the source, this was the third BESS fire in the Warwick area within a two year period; it is not yet clear from available sources whether this occurred at the same site as an earlier 2025 Warwick container fire already in this register.", "contributing_factors": "Officials suggested water infiltration may have caused the fire, echoing two earlier 2023 incidents at sites operated by the same company in the area following heavy rain. Severe weather before the December fire may also have contributed. The facility was reportedly operating without the required Certificate of Compliance and had been activated and charged without notifying village authorities.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators must hold a valid Certificate of Compliance before activating or charging a battery storage system. (2) Local authorities must be notified before activation or recharging of a BESS, especially after outages or repairs. (3) Battery containers must be assessed for water ingress resistance in areas prone to heavy rainfall.", "source_url": "https://ctif.org/news/should-not-have-been-operational-unauthorized-system-was-involved-recent-bess-fire-according", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:00:00.126627+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0382", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0382/", "title": "Transformer explosion at California battery storage site triggers mass outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 9 January 2026, around 4:15pm, an explosion occurred near a transformer at ENGIE's Sierra Battery Storage facility near Chinese Camp in Tuolumne County, California. The Tuolumne County Fire Department initially reported the explosion as involving lithium-ion batteries at a neighbouring facility, Pacific Ultrapower, but the sheriff's office later confirmed the explosion was linked to a transformer at ENGIE's site. ENGIE stated the facility experienced an electrical issue, causing some circuits and equipment to trip, but confirmed there was no fire. Nearly 30,000 PG&E customers lost power across the county, with about half restored within an hour and most restored by 7pm. Cal Fire crews responded and assisted with a localised evacuation of the plant as a precaution; all employees were accounted for and evacuation orders were later lifted. No injuries were reported. The facility was disconnected from the grid pending investigation.", "contributing_factors": "ENGIE reported an electrical issue that caused circuits and equipment at the Sierra Battery Storage facility to trip, associated with a transformer explosion; the exact technical cause was still under investigation at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer explosion at a battery storage site trips circuits and equipment, so operators should check and strengthen rapid grid disconnection after any electrical fault. (2) Initial reports may misidentify the facility, so site operators should maintain direct links with emergency services for accurate first response. (3) An explosion at one energy site can affect power supply to thousands, so operators should review interconnection protocols to limit outage spread.", "source_url": "https://www.kcra.com/article/tuolumne-county-power-outage-jan-9/69962119", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:00:07.812027+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0383", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0383/", "title": "Wire theft suspected as cause of solar farm fire in North Carolina", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a solar installation operated by ACT Power Services near Cal Floyd Road in Northampton County, North Carolina. Officials from the North Carolina Forest Service said the fire was not caused by equipment malfunction or intentional burning, but evidence suggested it was sparked by wire theft, with cut electrical wires arcing or sparking and igniting dry grass beneath the panels. Strong winds pushed the fire east and north-northeast, and it eventually burned about 45 acres, including roughly 15 acres of surrounding woodland. About 30 firefighters from local departments and the Forest Service worked the scene for several hours, using bulldozers to cut firebreaks. The fire was brought under control by about 5:30pm without reaching nearby homes. No injuries were reported. Officials noted that three holes had been cut in the perimeter fencing, consistent with a pattern of recurring wire theft at the site.", "contributing_factors": "Suspected theft of copper wiring from the rear of solar panels, cut wires arcing or sparking while the array was generating power, dry cured grass beneath the panels acting as fuel, and strong west winds spreading the resulting fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Perimeter fencing at solar sites must be checked often for cuts, as three holes showed recurring theft that led to live wire exposure. (2) Dry grass under panels must be cleared, as it fuelled the fire started by arcing from cut wires. (3) Strong winds can spread fire quickly across a site and into woodland, so early isolation and firebreaks are needed.", "source_url": "https://www.rrdailyherald.com/news/local/wire-theft-suspected-in-45-acre-solar-site-fire/article_e4c88746-39fb-5361-8586-cc142a175e7a.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:00:10.751618+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0387", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0387/", "title": "Substation explosion on Gloucester Close cuts power in Chippenham", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A substation on Gloucester Close in the Queens Crescent area of Chippenham, Wiltshire, caught fire and exploded shortly after 6pm on 6 January 2026. At least one explosion was heard as the fire broke out, knocking out power to hundreds of homes in the town. Two fire crews, from Chippenham and Corsham, attended and remained on scene for at least two hours, also accessing a nearby garden to prevent the fire spreading to a house. Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSE) engineers attended to resolve the fault. Power was restored to most properties within a few hours, though around 80 homes remained without electricity into the evening, with restoration expected by 11pm the same day.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire near houses needs quick access to adjacent land to stop spread to property. (2) Engineers must isolate faults fast after an explosion to limit outage duration for hundreds of customers. (3) Fire crews and network teams need joint plans to manage both fire containment and supply restoration.", "source_url": "https://www.wiltshire999s.co.uk/chippenham-homes-power-after-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:00:27.380158+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0388", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0388/", "title": "Large fire breaks out at Oncor electrical substation in Dallas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Dallas Fire-Rescue units were dispatched shortly after midnight to an Oncor electrical substation on Sargent Road in the Cedar Crest area of Dallas following reports of a fire. Arriving crews found a large volume of fire and heavy black smoke visible across parts of the city. Because the fire involved energised electrical equipment, incident command worked with Oncor to have the substation de-energised so that suppression operations could safely proceed. An Airport Rescue Firefighting unit was called in to apply specialised foam to the blaze, supported by a hazardous materials team. The fire was largely extinguished by early morning, with crews remaining on site to cool debris. No customers lost power as a result of the incident, and no injuries were reported. The cause remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; the cause of the fire is stated by fire officials to be under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires on energised equipment need prior de-energisation, so operators must maintain joint protocols with fire services for quick isolation. (2) Large substation fires may need airport foam units, so operators should pre-arrange access to specialised foam beyond airport sites. (3) Substation fires near homes produce smoke and runoff, so plans must include prompt hazardous materials support.", "source_url": "https://www.fox4news.com/news/dallas-fire-rescue-used-foam-put-out-oncor-electrical-substation-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:00:38.620905+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0389", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0389/", "title": "Cable short circuit trips offline Nipomo battery storage facility in California", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "near_miss", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A cable short-circuited at the Caballero battery energy storage system (BESS) facility in Nipomo, California, shortly after 11 a.m. on a Monday morning, triggering an automatic safety shutdown that took the facility offline. Firefighters, including CAL FIRE, responded in full to the site off Joshua Street. On arrival, crews confirmed there was no fire and no emergency, and cleared the scene shortly afterwards. A spokesperson for the facility said the automatic trip was a safety feature built into the design that shuts off power when a fault is detected, and that employees determined the short circuit did not pose a safety risk to the facility's operations or to the public.", "contributing_factors": "A cable short circuit was identified as the trigger for the automatic protective shutdown. No further technical detail on the cause of the short circuit was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A cable short circuit at a BESS site triggers automatic protective shutdown, so operators should verify that fault detection systems isolate power before faults spread. (2) Fire services attend full responses to BESS electrical faults even when no fire occurs, so sites should brief responders on automatic trip functions in advance. (3) Clear statements from operators after an automatic trip help confirm no public risk, so communication plans should cover fault events.", "source_url": "https://www.ksby.com/nipomo/no-emergency-at-nipomo-bess-facility-after-fire-response", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:00:41.945319+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0392", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0392/", "title": "PG&E transformer fire triggers power outage in San Francisco's Richmond District", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire in the Richmond District of San Francisco caused an unplanned power outage affecting more than 11,000 Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E) customers on Sunday night. The fire was reported around 7:45 p.m. near 12th Avenue and Balboa Street. Fire officials said firefighters secured the scene until PG&E crews arrived. PG&E attributed the outage to an overhead equipment failure but did not provide further detail. The outage affected customers and some traffic signals in the Richmond District, Golden Gate Park and the Presidio until around 11 p.m. The incident occurred as PG&E was preparing to restore grid power to about 6,000 customers in the same area who had relied on temporary generators since the prior week, following a larger outage that began 20 December and affected 130,000 customers citywide at its peak.", "contributing_factors": "PG&E stated the outage was caused by an overhead equipment failure, without providing further detail. The utility did not confirm whether the failure was connected to the planned switch back to grid power that occurred later the same night.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Overhead equipment failure can ignite a transformer fire, so operators should check connections and insulation before any planned restoration switch. (2) Fire services must secure a live transformer site until utility crews arrive, so joint response plans need clear handover rules. (3) An outage during a return to grid power after a prior event needs extra monitoring to avoid repeat customer impact.", "source_url": "https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/sf-power-outage-21265683.php", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:01:04.240589+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0393", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0393/", "title": "Fire at PG&E Saratoga substation cuts power to 21,000 on Christmas Eve", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Christmas Eve morning, a Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) substation in Saratoga, California, caught fire and emitted black smoke, cutting power to around 16,500 customers directly, with additional outages in the wider area (about 21,000 total, some storm related). PG&E was alerted to the fire at 8:25am at its facility on Glen Brae Drive. The company said the fire went out on its own while crews were on site. Power was restored to most customers by around 11:30am, with the remainder restored by noon. PG&E stated the cause was an equipment failure, with the investigation ongoing, and said it was too early to determine whether stormy weather contributed, noting a separate San Francisco substation-related outage the prior weekend. A local resident speculated a transformer had become overloaded, but this was not confirmed by PG&E.", "contributing_factors": "PG&E identified the cause as equipment failure, with further investigation ongoing. It was not yet confirmed whether stormy weather in the area contributed to the failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation equipment failure can trigger wide outages without external triggers. Operators should inspect and maintain substation assets on a routine schedule. (2) A substation fire may self-extinguish once isolated. Crews need rapid response and monitoring to confirm isolation and prevent spread. (3) Storm effects on substation equipment must be assessed promptly after events. Utilities should review weather data alongside failure analysis.", "source_url": "https://losgatan.com/fire-at-saratoga-substation-turns-the-lights-out-for-21000-on-christmas-eve1/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:01:07.324525+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0395", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0395/", "title": "Cable theft fire damages Olivenhoutbosch substation, South Africa", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-12", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the early hours of Thursday, 25 December 2025, a fire broke out at the Olivenhoutbosch substation operated by the City of Tshwane. The blaze was attributed to cable theft, which damaged critical electrical equipment including cabling and switchgear. One transformer was later confirmed serviceable, while testing and repairs continued on the remaining equipment. The fire caused extensive infrastructure damage and resulted in power outages across several areas, including Zwartkop, Highveld, Eco Park, Kosmosdal, Blue Valley, Louwlardia, Rua Vista, Thatchfield, parts of Olievenhoutbosch, and ABSA Ext 36. City officials said restoration work would take several days to complete safely due to the extent of the damage. No injuries or fatalities were reported in connection with the incident.", "contributing_factors": "Cable theft damaged critical electrical equipment at the substation, which led to the fire and subsequent extensive damage to cabling and switchgear.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Cable theft at a substation can damage cabling and switchgear and start a fire, so operators should add physical barriers and monitoring around exposed cables. (2) Damage to transformers and switchgear from theft can leave parts of the site out of service for days, so plans must cover staged testing and safe restoration.", "source_url": "https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/power-restoration-underway-after-olivenhoutbosch-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:01:13.005938+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0396", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0396/", "title": "Explosion at Good Hope substation triggers widespread power outages in Guyana", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-12", "country": "Guyana", "country_code": "gy", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Shortly after midday, a loud explosion was heard at the Good Hope Substation on the East Coast of Demerara, operated by Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL). The substation, a key interconnection point between the Demerara and Berbice systems, went offline immediately after the blast. Investigations found smoke coming from the main breaker panel in the switchgear room. The sudden loss of the substation destabilised the national grid, causing multiple feeders to trip. GPL began incremental restoration efforts and restored power to most affected areas within about an hour, though customers along the East Coast Demerara corridor from Success to Hope remained without electricity at the time of reporting. A mobile substation was deployed to Good Hope as a temporary measure while engineers assessed the damage and planned repairs.", "contributing_factors": "GPL stated the explosion and smoke originated from the main breaker panel in the substation switchgear room. Commentators cited in the report noted that the transmission and distribution system remains prone to disturbances despite past investment, though this is a general observation rather than a confirmed technical cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation that links two grid regions needs backup paths or fast transfer schemes, because loss of the main breaker panel removed supply from both Demerara and Berbice systems. (2) Mobile substations should be kept ready for critical sites, because the unit deployed at Good Hope allowed most customers to be restored within an hour. (3) Switchgear rooms at interconnection substations require targeted inspection of breaker panels, because the explosion and smoke started in the main breaker panel.", "source_url": "https://www.stabroeknews.com/2025/12/21/news/guyana/explosion-at-good-hope-substation-triggers-outages/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:01:39.305066+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0398", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0398/", "title": "Six workers killed as tower collapses at Avada solar plant in Nagpur", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A tower structure collapsed at the Avada solar plant in the Butibori industrial area near Nagpur, Maharashtra, resulting in the deaths of six workers. Local police attended the scene and launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse. Rescue operations were carried out to recover those affected. Video footage of the aftermath circulated in local media reporting. Details of the exact structure involved, whether it was a transmission tower, mounting structure or other installation, were not specified in initial reporting. The stage of construction or commissioning at the time of the collapse was also not confirmed in the source material.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Tower structures at solar plants can collapse during erection, so operators must verify load capacity and stability before workers enter the area. (2) When the exact type of tower or mounting frame is unclear, sites should apply exclusion zones around all tall structures until design checks are complete.", "source_url": "https://www.indiatvnews.com/maharashtra/nagpur-building-collapse-workers-killed-at-avada-solar-plant-in-butibori-industrial-area-watch-video-police-investigation-rescue-operation-2025-12-19-1022463", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:02:19.514767+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0400", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0400/", "title": "Solar farm fire near Dubbo prompts rescue chief to flag training gaps", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at a solar farm in the Dubbo area of New South Wales, Australia. A local rescue service chief was quoted saying crews had not been trained for the unique dangers of renewable energy sites. The source article was blocked from full retrieval, so only the headline and URL are available; details such as the exact site, date, cause, extent of damage, and any injuries are not reported and are not yet confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Not confirmed. The only available detail is a stated lack of specific training among responding rescue crews for renewable energy site hazards, attributed to a rescue service chief.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rescue crews need training on solar photovoltaic hazards, as crews had not been trained for the unique dangers of renewable energy sites. (2) Solar farm operators should share site hazard details with local rescue services in advance to address training gaps for renewable energy sites.", "source_url": "https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/dubbo/rescue-crews-left-unprepared-for-unique-dangers-of-renewable-energy-rollout/news-story/32f8e0412ed9390b2c6702900362b919", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:02:35.25+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0403", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0403/", "title": "Wind farm worker suffers severe burns after power cabinet explosion near Aviemore", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A subcontractor working as a maintenance manager at a wind farm near Aviemore, Scotland, was engulfed in flames after a power cabinet controlling 33,000 volts exploded while he was working on it. Court reporting indicates the cabinet had reportedly not been switched off before work began. The explosion caused severe burns to his face, chest, neck, scalp, arm and hand, requiring multiple surgeries and leaving lasting scarring. The incident came to light through a court case reported by the Inverness Courier, which did not name the wind farm, its operator, or the date of the explosion. No fatalities were reported.", "contributing_factors": "According to court reporting, a power cabinet supplying 33,000 volts had reportedly not been switched off or isolated before maintenance work began. Further details of the case have not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A 33 kV power cabinet must be isolated and proved dead before any maintenance work starts on it. (2) Lockout-tagout procedures must apply to all subcontractors on high-voltage wind farm equipment. (3) Independent verification of isolation is needed rather than assumption that switching has occurred.", "source_url": "https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/inverness-sheriff-court-round-up-driver-admits-death-of-fiv-420749/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:03:15.161892+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0404", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0404/", "title": "Substation fire in Oakington, Cambridgeshire triggers local power outage affecting nearby school", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-11", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred at an electrical substation in Oakington, Cambridgeshire, causing a power outage that affected a nearby residential area and a primary school. The outage began in the evening and continued into the following day, forcing the school to close for a day while power was restored. Fire crews attended the substation and worked alongside UK Power Networks, the local electricity distribution network operator, to make the area safe. A separate fire alarm activation at the school on the same evening was investigated by fire crews, who found no fire and took no firefighting action. No injuries were reported in connection with either event.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at an electrical substation can cut supply to a school, so operators should check backup connections for nearby critical sites. (2) Fire crews must work with the network operator to isolate a substation after an electrical fire before restoration can start. (3) A school with a single grid link needs plans for a multi-day outage after a substation fault.", "source_url": "https://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/news/local-news/cambridgeshire-school-shuts-after-fire-32949233", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:03:31.21301+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0407", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0407/", "title": "Wind turbine fire in Trawden near Colne prompts fire brigade response", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-11", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 19 November 2025, a wind turbine on Burnley Road in Trawden, near Colne in East Lancashire, caught fire. Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service was alerted just after 2pm and dispatched three fire engines from Colne, Burnley and Darwen to the scene. Fire crews found the turbine well alight and used hose reels to extinguish the blaze. The incident was brought under control and crews remained at the scene for approximately 30 minutes before standing down. No further details on the cause, extent of turbine damage, or any injuries were reported by the fire service or in the article.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rural wind turbine fires require rapid brigade attendance with hose reels, so operators should check that local fire services have mapped access and water points for turbine sites. (2) Fires in wind turbines can be brought under control in about 30 minutes when crews reach the base, so operators should confirm ground level isolation points and safe stand-off distances.", "source_url": "https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/25635125.fire-crews-attend-wind-turbine-fire-trawden-colne/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:04:08.108392+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0408", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0408/", "title": "West Nile Street substation fire prompts evacuation of nearby retail store", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-11", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the West Nile Street substation in Glasgow city centre during the afternoon. Emergency services attended after the alarm was raised, with more than fifty firefighters, eight fire engines, a high reach appliance and a command support unit deployed to tackle the blaze. A nearby retail store was evacuated as a precaution while crews dealt with the incident, and several surrounding roads were closed to traffic. Members of the public reported hearing explosions and seeing lights flicker in the area shortly before the fire became apparent. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident. The cause of the fire had not been confirmed at the time of reporting, and it was unclear how long road closures or any repair works would remain in place.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires in city centres can force evacuation of nearby retail stores, so operators should pre-plan access routes and shelter points with local businesses. (2) Reports of explosions and flickering lights can precede a substation fire, so operators should log and investigate such reports promptly. (3) Urban substation fires require large fire service deployments and road closures, so operators should maintain joint response plans with emergency services.", "source_url": "https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/buchanan-street-hm-store-evacuated-36253261", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:04:11.107088+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0409", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0409/", "title": "Substation fire from transformer explosion cuts power across Vaal region", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-11", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Risiville substation, which is shared between the Emfuleni and Midvaal local municipalities, after a current transformer (CT) exploded on Thursday night. The blaze forced Midvaal to switch off supply as a safety precaution to several areas including Risiville, Risi Small Farms, Glendonald and McKay Estates. Residents in Three Rivers received an alert stating the main substation had exploded and was on fire, with municipal teams and the fire brigade attending the scene. Emfuleni's Executive Director confirmed the CT explosion and said further investigations would proceed during daylight, with no estimated restoration time given at the time of reporting. Residents were warned they could be without power for the weekend. The substation reportedly has a troubled history, with a previous transformer explosion at the site taking nearly two weeks to repair.", "contributing_factors": "The source attributes the incident to the explosion of a current transformer (CT) at the substation. No further contributing factors, such as maintenance history or equipment age, are detailed beyond a reference to a prior similar explosion at the same site.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A current transformer explosion at a substation can force immediate isolation of supply to multiple municipalities, so operators should keep joint emergency switching plans ready. (2) Sites with prior current transformer or transformer explosions need extra condition checks because repeat failures extend repair time.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/vaalweekblad/news/news-news/2025/11/14/parts-of-emfuleni-and-midvaal-plunged-into-darkness-after-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:04:22.401781+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0411", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0411/", "title": "Transformer failure reduces capacity at Waratah Super Battery in New South Wales", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The 850MW Waratah Super Battery in New South Wales, Australia, experienced a transformer failure during Hold Point testing as the facility transitioned towards full operational output. Two of the three transformers at the site, manufactured by Wilson Transformer, were affected, with one reportedly suffering damage described as 'beyond repair' according to media reports. The developer, Akaysha Energy, confirmed a temporary loss of capacity was notified to the energy market due to a transformer outage. The facility continues to operate at a reduced interim capacity of 350MW while engineers conduct detailed diagnostic inspections on site to determine whether the transformers can be rectified or require replacement. The developer stated the situation does not indicate broader system issues or safety faults, and the facility remains connected to the National Electricity Market, continuing to meet its System Integrity Protection Scheme service requirements at the interim capacity. The failure was reported to have occurred in October 2025 and to have delayed commissioning of the project, an AU$1 billion development built by Akaysha Energy, owned by BlackRock, on the site of the former Munmorah coal power station near Budgewoi. The developer's chief executive described the failure internally as catastrophic.", "contributing_factors": "The failure was identified during Hold Point testing as the battery system was being brought up to its full rated capacity, with issues arising in two of the three transformers at the site, supplied by Wilson Transformer.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer failures during Hold Point testing at battery sites require on-site diagnostics before capacity can be restored. (2) Three transformers allow a battery to keep supplying grid services at reduced capacity after one fails. (3) A single transformer failure can delay full commissioning of an 850MW battery project.", "source_url": "https://www.energy-storage.news/catastrophic-failure-of-transformer-at-waratah-super-battery-australias-giant-shock-absorber-for-the-grid/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:04:38.372016+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0412", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0412/", "title": "Brush fire ignites beneath solar panels at Prince George County solar farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 7 November 2025, Prince George County Fire and EMS in Virginia responded to a report of smoke in the 3500 block of Rives Road at about 2:55pm. Firefighters found heavy smoke and traced it to a brush fire on a solar farm. Vegetation beneath several solar panels appeared to have ignited. Additional units were called to assist and the fire was extinguished within about half an hour. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remained under investigation at the time of reporting, and no further details on the site operator or extent of damage were available.", "contributing_factors": "Crews reported that vegetation beneath several solar panels appeared to have ignited, though the specific ignition source was not identified and the cause remained under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Vegetation under solar panels can catch fire and produce heavy smoke, so operators must keep ground cover cut low and check clearance regularly. (2) A brush fire at a solar farm can be put out in half an hour once crews arrive, so sites need quick access routes and clear maps for local fire services. (3) Smoke from a solar farm fire is visible off site, so operators should have set procedures to alert fire services and guide them on arrival.", "source_url": "https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/prince-george/brush-fire-solar-farm-rives-road/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:04:47.926078+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0415", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0415/", "title": "Cable short circuit sparks fire at Lunwei East District floating solar park, Taiwan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-11", "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in a section of the 192 MW Lunwei East District floating solar park in Changbin Industrial Park, Changhua County, Taiwan. The project contractor, United Renewable Energy Engineering Co (URE), said the fire was caused by a short circuit in a cable, resulting in the combustion of around 30 metres of cable line. Approximately 10 MW of the plant was preventively shut down during the incident. The fire was brought under control within an hour, and restoration work subsequently recovered the cables and associated waste materials. No injuries were reported, and URE stated there was no impact on the overall operation of the solar farm or its surrounding environment. The company clarified that solar modules, made primarily of aluminium and glass, were not involved in the combustion, and no pollutants were found to have leaked following inspection by fire and environmental protection units.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was attributed to a short circuit affecting the insulation layer of a cable connected externally to the floating platform.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Cables on floating solar platforms need regular inspection of insulation where exposed to moisture, to prevent short circuits. (2) Preventive isolation of a 10 MW section limits fault spread on a 192 MW floating solar site. (3) Rapid control within one hour plus environmental inspection confirms no pollutant leak from cable combustion.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine.com/2025/11/06/short-circuit-in-cable-causes-fire-at-taiwanese-floating-pv-plant/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:05:02.72876+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0416", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0416/", "title": "Worker dies after wind turbine fire in southern Brazil", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Brazil", "country_code": "br", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Wind Power Monthly reported on 28 October 2025 that a worker had died after a wind turbine caught fire in southern Brazil. The available text does not give the site, the operator, the date of the fire, or how the fire and the death occurred.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine fire with a fatality shows why crews need a clear plan for fire, rescue and evacuation at height. (2) People should be kept clear of a burning turbine, and the machine isolated, until the fire is out. (3) Early reports should record the site, date and sequence so other operators can learn from the event.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1937505/worker-dies-wind-turbine-fire-southern-brazil", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:05:17.769391+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0420", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0420/", "title": "Battery room fire at Dumka Airport Solar Plant in Jharkhand", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the battery room of a solar power plant at Sidhu Kanhu Airport in Dumka, Jharkhand, India. Officials said the batteries caught fire, possibly due to a short circuit. The blaze was brought under control within a few minutes after authorities contacted the local administration. No injuries were reported and no major damage was noted. The solar plant, which is maintained by a private agency, serves an airport that does not have any scheduled commercial services. The private agency responsible for maintenance has been asked to investigate the technical issues that led to the fire.", "contributing_factors": "A short circuit was cited as the likely cause, according to officials, though this has not been formally confirmed by an investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery rooms at solar plants need regular electrical checks to find short circuit risks before fires start. (2) Site teams must contact local services at once so fires in battery rooms are stopped before they spread. (3) Maintenance agencies must finish a full technical check after any battery fire before systems restart.", "source_url": "https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/fire-at-dumka-airport-solar-plant-no-injuries-reported-1912027", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:05:44.275164+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0421", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0421/", "title": "Fire destroys Bosworth substation in Ekurhuleni, causing widespread outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 23 September 2025, the Bosworth electrical substation in Ekurhuleni, South Africa, caught fire. Emergency services responded to a structural fire alarm and found an electrical panel house fully engulfed in flames, with part of the roof having already collapsed. Responding crews required backup due to the scale of the fire. An electrician was called to site to advise on safety before firefighters could begin suppression. Three attack lines were used to contain and extinguish the blaze, with defensive cooling applied to nearby transformers to protect them from fire exposure. The fire caused widespread power outages affecting Alrode North, outside Alberton, and Thokoza township. It was reported that a power failure in the area was followed by a loud explosive sound from one of the transformers, after which flames were seen from the electrical panel building. Investigations into the cause were ongoing at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "A power surge is alleged to have caused an explosive event in one of the transformers immediately after power was restored following an earlier outage, which is suspected to have triggered the fire in the adjacent electrical panel building.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Power restoration after an outage should include monitoring for surge conditions that could stress transformers and switchgear. (2) Emergency responders at substation fires should coordinate with qualified electricians before suppression, given risks of live equipment. (3) Protective cooling of adjacent transformers during a panel house fire can help prevent escalation and additional equipment loss.", "source_url": "https://www.sowetan.co.za/news/2025-09-24-fire-guts-ekurhuleni-substation-sparking-widespread-outages/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:05:48.413967+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0422", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0422/", "title": "Wind turbine fire prompts fire service response in Fermanagh", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 10 October 2025, the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) attended a fire at a wind turbine on Makenny Road, Ballinamallard, in Co Fermanagh. A photograph from the scene showed smoke billowing from the top of the turbine while it stood in a field, consistent with a fire in or near the nacelle, though this is not explicitly confirmed by the source. The report describes the incident as ongoing at the time of publication, with fire crews confirmed in attendance. The cause of the fire, the turbine operator, its capacity, and whether the fire was fully extinguished are not reported. No injuries were mentioned in the source material.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Smoke from the top of a turbine requires fire service attendance even in rural areas, as crews must reach elevated components. (2) Fire crews need clear access to respond to nacelle-level fires that cannot be fought from the ground.", "source_url": "https://www.impartialreporter.com/news/25534904.fire-service-attendance-fire-fermanagh-wind-turbine/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:06:02.216784+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0424", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0424/", "title": "Fire reported at ComEd electrical substation in Hoffman Estates, Illinois", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 8 October 2025, a fire broke out at a ComEd electrical substation near Shoe Factory Road in Hoffman Estates, Illinois. A local television helicopter captured footage of white smoke billowing from the substation area just before 6 a.m. The report noted the incident was still developing, that ComEd and the fire department had been contacted for further details, and that it was unclear whether power supply to the surrounding area was affected. No information was provided on the cause of the fire, any injuries, or the extent of damage to equipment at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can produce visible smoke that draws media attention before details are confirmed, so operators should issue holding statements at first report. (2) When a substation fire occurs, early uncertainty about power supply requires utilities to assess and report outage status without delay.", "source_url": "https://abc7chicago.com/post/chopper-7-fire-comed-electrical-substation-show-factory-road-hoffman-estates-illinois/17962924/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:06:19.238466+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0426", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0426/", "title": "Man critically injured after electrical contact at NYSEG's Ansco substation in Binghamton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A man was found on fire inside a fenced, energised enclosure at the Ansco substation, operated by NYSEG, in Binghamton's First Ward on a Monday afternoon in October 2025. Police said the man suffered serious burns consistent with electrocution and was left in critical but stable condition. Responding firefighters and medics had to approach cautiously to avoid being electrocuted themselves, and NYSEG workers cut power to the site so first responders could safely reach and treat the man. Investigators have not confirmed how he entered the fenced, barbed-wire enclosure or his motive, and the case remains an open and active investigation. Local reporting noted police would not speculate on whether the man may have been attempting to remove copper from the site.", "contributing_factors": "Unauthorised entry into a live, fenced substation enclosure; possible attempted metal theft, though not confirmed by investigators; presence of energised equipment accessible to an intruder.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Unauthorised entry into a live substation can cause severe burns, so operators should check perimeter fencing and barbed wire for gaps at legacy sites. (2) Responders cannot safely approach an energised casualty, so utilities must maintain rapid de-energisation protocols with control rooms. (3) Possible metal theft at substations requires intrusion alarms or monitoring, especially at older facilities.", "source_url": "https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/news/top-stories/binghamton-man-catches-fire-inside-nyseg-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:06:36.795891+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0429", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0429/", "title": "Fire at Thokoza substation Z7 causes power outage in Ekurhuleni", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the early hours of Wednesday, 24 September 2025, at the Thokoza substation Z7, operated by the City of Ekurhuleni. Emergency services responded and extinguished the fire. The incident caused a power supply interruption affecting residential and industrial customers in Thokoza North, Hostels, Mpilisweni and part of Alrode. City technicians were reported to be working around the clock to conduct repairs. At the time of the report, an estimated restoration time had not been established and investigations into the cause of the fire were ongoing. Customers were urged to treat the electrical network as live while repair work continued.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can interrupt supply to both residential and industrial customers, so operators should verify network redundancy for affected areas. (2) Live network hazards during repairs require clear public warnings to avoid injury. (3) Early emergency response limits fire spread at substations, so utilities should maintain joint response plans with local services.", "source_url": "https://www.ekurhuleni.gov.za/press-releases/top-news/parts-of-thokoza-without-power-due-to-fire-at-substation-z7/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:06:46.582158+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0431", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0431/", "title": "Fire-damaged offshore turbine reported under removal, United Kingdom", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During 2025, a turbine at an offshore wind farm in the United Kingdom was reported to have been damaged by fire and to be undergoing removal from the site. The date of the fire, its cause, the extent of damage and whether anyone was injured have not been reported. Only a headline and feed summary were available, so this account is provisional and may be revised if fuller reporting appears.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An offshore turbine fire can lead to removal, so operators should include loss of a single unit in availability and revenue contingency planning. (2) Offshore turbine removal after fire needs heavy lift vessels and marine support, so pre-agreed contracts should be in place. (3) A nacelle fire on an offshore turbine requires plans that cover personnel accounting, exclusion zones and debris recovery at sea.", "source_url": "https://www.offshorewind.biz/2025/09/22/fire-damaged-turbine-being-removed-at-rwes-uk-offshore-wind-farm/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:07:05.932555+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0433", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0433/", "title": "Lithium battery fires reported at a solar power site in the south-western United States", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2025, local media reported that lithium battery fires broke out at a solar power plant site in the south-western United States. The available material is a headline and short feed summary only. It does not state the scale of the fire, whether battery storage equipment, solar equipment or both were involved, how the fire was controlled, or whether anyone was hurt. No cause has been reported and no outcome has been confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Local media reports on lithium battery fires at solar sites often lack detail on scale or equipment involved. (2) Operators should verify the extent of lithium battery fires themselves before updating procedures.", "source_url": "https://news3lv.com/news/local/fire-townsite-solar-plant-boulder-city-henderson-southern-nevada-power-electricity-utility-emergency-response", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:07:13.646278+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0434", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0434/", "title": "Fire at Cydna substation cuts power to parts of Sandton, Johannesburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Cydna substation operated by City Power, cutting electricity supply to parts of Sandton and surrounding areas including Melrose, Illovo and Houghton in Johannesburg. The utility said the fire was preliminarily believed to have been caused by an attempted theft of copper cables at the substation. Repair crews worked over several days to restore supply, with City Power targeting restoration by Sunday evening, days after the fire started on the preceding Thursday. Police and law enforcement were informed of the suspected theft and vandalism, and an investigation was launched to identify those responsible. The outage affected residents and businesses in the affected suburbs for multiple days while repairs were carried out.", "contributing_factors": "City Power stated the fire was preliminarily attributed to attempted theft of copper cables at the substation, described by the utility as vandalism and theft.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Copper cable theft at substations can start fires that cut supply to large areas, so operators should fit secure cable enclosures and intrusion detection. (2) Repair work after substation fires takes several days, so utilities need spare parts and crews ready for rapid response.", "source_url": "https://www.ewn.co.za/sandton-power-expected-to-be-restored-sunday-evening-after-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:07:20.110254+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0438", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0438/", "title": "Solar inverter fire extinguished at solar farm near Robards, Kentucky", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Tuesday afternoon in September 2025, fire crews were dispatched to a solar farm in Robards, Henderson County, Kentucky, after a solar inverter caught fire. Dispatch officials received the call shortly before 3:30 p.m. The fire was extinguished by responding crews, but the unit was left to smoulder afterwards as a precaution. Firefighters remained on scene until at least 9 p.m. that evening to monitor the site and ensure the fire did not reignite. Two local fire departments, the Robards Community Fire Department and the Cairo Volunteer Fire Department, responded to the incident. No further details on the cause of the inverter fire, injuries, or damage extent were reported by the source.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported beyond the fact that a solar inverter caught fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar inverter fires require extended monitoring after extinguishment because the unit may smoulder and reignite. (2) Remote solar farms need mutual aid agreements so local fire departments can reach the site promptly.", "source_url": "https://www.14news.com/2025/09/17/firefighters-put-out-fire-solar-farm-henderson-county/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:07:45.219223+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0439", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0439/", "title": "Fire at aging Memphis substation cuts power to 12,000 customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a clear day with no severe weather, an electrical substation operated by Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) on University Street, north of Hunter Avenue in Midtown Memphis, erupted in flames, sending bright blue sparks and thick smoke into the air. The fault interrupted service and MLGW had to transfer nearly 12,000 customers to other circuits to restore power. Utility officials confirmed at a board meeting the following day that an electrical fault had triggered the fire and that protective equipment, which should have tripped off automatically, failed to operate as designed. The transformer at the site was damaged, and MLGW said it would need to replace breakers, insulators and cabling. Staff confirmed the substation was built in 1973, making it roughly 50 years old at the time of the incident.", "contributing_factors": "MLGW officials attributed the failure to the age of the equipment, describing it as vintage, and stated that protective equipment which should have tripped off did not operate as intended. The utility's CEO noted that equipment beyond 30 years in the distribution system becomes more susceptible to failure, and that such failures are typically dramatic when they occur.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Protective relays and breakers at substations must be tested regularly so they trip on fault as designed. (2) Equipment over 30 years old in distribution systems should be inspected and replaced to avoid sudden failure. (3) Substations need circuit transfer options so power can be restored quickly when one site fails.", "source_url": "https://www.fox13memphis.com/news/mlgw-confirms-fire-happened-at-50-year-old-substation/article_e3666a79-8b56-4405-94c5-962320e4a3fa.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:07:48.571126+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0441", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0441/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at Aviva's Pitheavlis site in Perth", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A single onshore wind turbine at Aviva's Pitheavlis site in Perth, Scotland, collapsed in the early hours of the morning after its blade and turbine arms detached from the nacelle. Nearby residents reported hearing a loud crack before a section of the structure fell to the ground close to a public path. On-site security observed the failure shortly before 1am. Emergency services attended to confirm there was no fire or physical risk, and found none. No injuries were reported. Aviva, which operates and owns the site, described the cause as an engineering fault and stated it was working with the equipment supplier to determine the root cause. The turbine, which had been operational for under a year, was to be dismantled to allow investigation and eventual repair.", "contributing_factors": "Aviva described the failure as resulting from an engineering fault; a full root cause investigation with the equipment supplier was ongoing at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A blade and arm detachment from the nacelle on an onshore turbine can send sections close to a public path, so operators should review exclusion zones around nearby paths. (2) An engineering fault in a turbine operational for under a year led to collapse, so insurers should check recent installation quality records even on new assets.", "source_url": "https://uk.news.yahoo.com/giant-250-foot-wind-turbine-102541520.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:08:09.048823+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0442", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0442/", "title": "Suspected arson fire destroys panels at Viddalba solar plant, Sardinia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "Italy", "country_code": "it", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A photovoltaic system of around 5,000 panels caught fire at the Viddalba solar plant in Sardinia, Italy, in the early hours of 8 September 2025. Surveillance cameras reportedly captured two people exiting a car and deliberately setting fire to the solar panels. The Sassari fire department confirmed the incident and said its personnel worked for several hours from around 4 a.m. to extinguish the flames. The plant is owned and operated by Avru. Police are investigating the fire as suspected arson. Local renewable energy associations described it as part of a pattern of hostility towards renewable projects in the region.", "contributing_factors": "Sources report the fire followed deliberate ignition by two individuals captured on surveillance footage, in what local associations characterised as an act of hostility towards renewable energy development in the area.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Surveillance at solar PV sites must cover access roads and panel arrays to capture vehicle and person movements before ignition. (2) PV panel fires require extended fire service attendance, so operators should pre-plan water supply and access routes for rural sites. (3) Sites in regions with documented hostility to renewables need perimeter barriers and remote monitoring beyond standard fencing.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine.com/2025/09/10/pv-system-fire-under-investigation-as-suspected-arson-in-italy/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:08:19.758149+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0443", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0443/", "title": "Transformer fire cuts power to Riverdale shopping strip for over a week", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire occurred on the night of 2 September 2025 on West 235th Street in Central Riverdale, New York City, knocking out electricity to a shopping centre between Johnson and Oxford avenues. Businesses including a pharmacy, a supermarket, a dry cleaner and a wine shop lost power for more than a week. Some stores closed entirely, while others used generators or improvised power sources, such as one owner running lines from his car, to stay open. The supermarket estimated food spoilage losses of more than 2 million dollars. Con Edison said the cause of the fire remained unclear and that equipment inside the building housing the shopping complex was damaged. The utility said power could only be restored once the landlord arranged repairs to damaged equipment on his property and an upgrade from two to four service lines, as the previous system was already overcapacity.", "contributing_factors": "The utility stated the electrical system serving the site was already overcapacity, requiring an upgrade from two to four service lines before power could be restored. The landlord alleged that utility wires caught fire and burned out cables beneath the building, a claim the utility did not confirm.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An overcapacity electrical system at a commercial site can turn a transformer fault into an outage lasting more than a week, so the utility should upgrade service lines before faults occur. (2) Damage to equipment inside the building housing the shopping complex delayed restoration until the landlord arranged repairs, so owners and utilities should agree clear responsibilities for shared infrastructure.", "source_url": "https://www.riverdalepress.com/stories/transformer-fire-leaves-riverdale-shopkeepers-without-electricity,195886", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:08:22.663146+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0446", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0446/", "title": "Transformer fire at Pepco substation prompts evacuation in Washington DC", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A large transformer caught fire at Pepco's Benning Service Center substation in Northeast Washington DC on a Wednesday afternoon in September 2025. DC Fire and EMS responded to reports of the fire and deployed foam and hazmat units to help extinguish the flames. Buildings adjacent to the transformer were evacuated as a precaution. Officials reported no injuries. Power to the affected equipment was partially isolated by crews before a water supply was established and firefighters began an active fire attack. Pepco stated that its teams were on site working with emergency personnel, and warned that emergent power outages could occur in the surrounding area as a result of the incident, though none had occurred at the time of reporting. The cause of the fire was under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire was stated to be under investigation at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation transformer fires can need foam and hazmat units from fire services, so utilities should keep pre-planned response agreements with local crews. (2) Adjacent buildings must be evacuated as a precaution during a transformer fire until risks are fully known. (3) Utilities need clear public messages on possible outages during equipment fires to manage local expectations.", "source_url": "https://www.dcnewsnow.com/news/local-news/washington-dc/large-transformer-catches-on-fire-at-pepco-plant-in-dc/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:08:29.355507+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0447", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0447/", "title": "Fire destroyed turbine at Scroby Sands Offshore Wind Farm in 2023", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 15 August 2023 a fire broke out in the nacelle of turbine T06 at the Scroby Sands offshore wind farm, situated about 1.5 miles off the coast of Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. The blaze produced thick black smoke visible from Lowestoft and other nearby coastal areas as it spread through the nacelle housing the generator. The fire resulted in the total operational loss of the turbine. Two years later, operator RWE Renewables confirmed plans to dismantle the damaged structure, having obtained the necessary marine licences from the Marine Management Organisation and The Crown Estate. The removal operation, expected to take around 38 days using a jack-up vessel, involves extracting the burned nacelle, blades and upper tower section, with the foundation left untouched for now. Recovered components will be brought ashore at Great Yarmouth for recycling.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire at an offshore wind turbine can result in total loss of the unit given the difficulty of firefighting access at sea. (2) Decommissioning a fire-damaged offshore turbine can require extensive licensing processes with regulators such as marine management authorities, extending timelines well beyond the incident itself.", "source_url": "https://www.greatyarmouthmercury.co.uk/news/25443335.fire-damaged-wind-turbine-set-removed-scroby-sands/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:08:51.448272+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0453", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0453/", "title": "Explosion and fire at Alghero electrical substation, cause not yet confirmed", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "Italy", "country_code": "it", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Shortly before 7pm on 27 August 2025, a loud bang was heard in the historic centre of Alghero, Sardinia, when an electrical substation on Via Machin exploded, sending a thick column of smoke into the surrounding streets. Firefighters attended the scene to secure the area and no injuries were reported. The explosion caused a power outage affecting several streets in the city centre, leaving residents and businesses without electricity while repair work was carried out to restore supply. According to initial reports, the substation had reportedly been repaired in recent days following earlier disruptions, which were said to be linked to overloading of the local network during peak tourist periods, though this has not been independently confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "A single news report suggests possible overloading of the electricity network, linked to seasonal tourist demand, with the same substation reportedly repaired shortly before the explosion. This has not been confirmed by the grid operator or a second source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An electrical substation that fails soon after repair needs checks for network overload before further use. (2) Overloading during peak tourist periods can lead to substation explosion, so operators should review seasonal capacity.", "source_url": "https://www.unionesarda.it/en/sardinia/a-loud-bang-shakes-the-center-of-alghero-an-explosion-on-via-machin-causes-an-electrical-substation-to-catch-fire-b4kt8sj7", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:09:23.963291+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0454", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0454/", "title": "Transformer fire at Egat station causes blackout across Phetchaburi city", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "Thailand", "country_code": "th", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A large transformer caught fire inside the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) distribution station on Phetkasem Road in Muang district, Phetchaburi, at around 7.27am. Thick black smoke billowed into the sky and the blaze caused a widespread power outage affecting households, government offices, hospitals, the Provincial Waterworks Authority, department stores, shops and local markets across the city. Firefighters from Phetchaburi's Muang municipality and nearby tambon administration organisations were deployed and took more than 40 minutes to bring the fire under control. Officials said the fire caused extensive damage to equipment at the station, rendering the power distribution system inoperable. Electricians from the Provincial Electricity Authority worked to reroute electricity from alternative sources, and power was gradually restored to affected areas by 9am. The cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the transformer fire was under investigation at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fire at a distribution station can disable the entire local grid, so operators should install fire walls and automatic isolation between units. (2) Black smoke from a transformer fire spreads quickly, so stations near urban areas need early smoke detection linked to rapid shutdown. (3) Rerouting from alternative sources can limit outage length after a transformer failure, so planners should maintain tested backup paths.", "source_url": "https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3091190/transformer-fire-triggers-widespread-blackout-across-phetchaburis-muang-district", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:09:26.208844+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0456", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0456/", "title": "Vegetation fire at Beryl, Utah solar farm doused by fire crews", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a solar farm near Beryl, Utah, spreading across about 10 acres of the property and threatening nearby structures related to the solar farm. Enterprise Fire Department responders arrived around 10:45 a.m. and, with assistance from Color Country Interagency Fire Center and Beryl Fire Department crews, extinguished the blaze within about 20 minutes of arrival using hand tools to cut off the fire's spread followed by water to douse the remaining flames. The Enterprise Fire Chief said the fire was human caused, likely resulting from mowing equipment at the site striking a rock and producing a spark. It was noted that the solar company maintained low fuel loads in the area, which limited the amount of vegetation available to burn. No injuries or serious damage were reported by the solar farm or fire crews.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was reportedly caused by mowing equipment striking a rock and producing a spark, according to the Enterprise Fire Chief. Low vegetation fuel loads maintained at the site were noted as limiting the fire's spread.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Mowing equipment on solar farms can strike rocks and create sparks that ignite dry vegetation. (2) Low fuel loads around solar arrays limit vegetation fire spread and protect site structures. (3) Mutual aid from several fire agencies allows quick containment of vegetation fires at solar sites.", "source_url": "https://www.stgeorgeutah.com/flood-and-fire/solar-farm-fire-near-beryl-extinguished-with-swift-collaboration/article_2792f017-0a95-493b-b3fe-a18fcf2f56e9.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:09:45.820198+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0457", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0457/", "title": "Lightning strike triggers transformer explosion in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 11 August 2025, a lightning strike during a thunderstorm hit a power line at the intersection of Highway 17 and Shelmore Boulevard in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, and a nearby transformer exploded shortly afterwards. Police video showed flames at the point of the lightning strike followed by sparks and flames from the transformer on the opposite side of the road. The event brought down power lines across the roadway and caused power outages in the area. First responders managed traffic at seven intersections for about three hours while utility crews carried out repairs. No injuries were reported, and Dominion Energy restored power and removed the downed wires. This account is based on a single news report; further details on the transformer's protection equipment and full outage scope have not yet been reported.", "contributing_factors": "A direct lightning strike during a thunderstorm struck a power line and is reported to have caused the transformer to explode. No independent engineering investigation has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Overhead distribution transformers can explode after a direct lightning strike on a nearby line, so operators should verify surge protection settings on pole-mounted units. (2) Downed lines after a transformer failure require traffic management at multiple junctions, so utilities should pre-plan joint response with police.", "source_url": "https://www.fox5dc.com/weather/watch-south-carolina-lightning-strike-causes-frightening-transformer-explosion", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:09:56.91451+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0458", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0458/", "title": "Arc flash injures three workers at OUC substation in downtown Orlando", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Early on a Thursday morning, an incident initially reported as an unknown explosion occurred at an Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) substation at 129 Robinson St. in downtown Orlando. Orlando Fire and Police departments responded, with 16 fire units attending the scene and providing medical transports. Three OUC employees were taken to hospital. OUC's safety team conducted a preliminary investigation and identified the event as an arc flash, described as the light and heat produced by an arc fault, a type of electrical discharge resulting from a connection through air to ground or another voltage phase in an electrical system. Police temporarily closed Garland Avenue and Robinson Street for the investigation before reopening them. OUC did not disclose the specific nature of the employees' injuries.", "contributing_factors": "OUC's preliminary investigation identified the event as an arc fault causing an arc flash; no further technical cause was disclosed in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation arc flash from an arc fault can cause multiple worker injuries, so operators should enforce safe working distances and arc flash protective equipment. (2) Initial reports of substation arc flashes may be logged as explosions, so utilities should issue rapid clarification to emergency services. (3) Urban substations require pre-agreed protocols with police and fire for road closures during arc flash investigations.", "source_url": "https://mynews13.com/fl/orlando/news/2025/08/14/reports-of-an--unknown-explosion--at-ouc-substation-in-downtown-orlando", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:09:59.990019+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0459", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0459/", "title": "Domestic fire reported to have prompted a safety warning about solar battery storage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2025, media reporting in the United Kingdom indicated that a fire at a residential property was associated with a battery storage system installed alongside a solar photovoltaic installation, and that the incident led to a public safety warning about domestic battery storage. Only a headline and a short summary were available at the time of drafting, by way of a news aggregator rather than a primary report. The date within the year, the cause, the extent of damage, whether anyone was injured, the response by emergency services and the type, make or capacity of the battery system were not reported. The entry is retained as a prompt for review rather than as a verified account.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available source material.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Domestic battery storage systems can be linked to house fires, so installers must confirm systems meet manufacturer instructions and installation standards. (2) Incidents with domestic battery storage prompt safety warnings, so operators should track warnings and review similar systems in their care.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c754r2e9kndo", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:10:12.147618+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0460", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0460/", "title": "Fire breaks out at battery storage facility in South Los Angeles", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at 4:33 a.m. at a battery storage facility located at 16208 South Vermont Street, near the border between Los Angeles and Gardena, California. The Los Angeles Fire Department initially took a defensive firefighting approach due to the large battery storage and a subterranean electrical vault in the building. Large amounts of battery material were burning off, creating hazards for firefighters and the nearby community. Hazmat specialists monitored air quality and water runoff, while the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power worked to de-energise the structure. A crew of 144 firefighters took about five hours to contain the fire, which was knocked down by 10:45 a.m. Hazmat units remained on scene afterwards to examine hazards from the burning of lead-acid batteries. No injuries were reported and no evacuations were ordered.", "contributing_factors": "The presence of large battery storage and a subterranean electrical vault complicated firefighting efforts, requiring a defensive approach and de-energisation of the structure before crews could fully engage.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage sites with subterranean vaults need pre-planned defensive tactics because direct entry is unsafe. (2) Fire services must coordinate with utilities to de-energise battery facilities before interior work begins. (3) Hazmat monitoring of air and runoff is required when lead-acid batteries burn.", "source_url": "https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/battery-storage-facility-fire-south-los-angeles/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:10:16.688969+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0461", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0461/", "title": "Substation explosion near Nikitas causes total blackout across northern Cyprus", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "Cyprus", "country_code": "cy", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred at around 5am inside the central circuit breakers of a substation near the village of Nikitas, southwest of Morphou, in the Turkish Cypriot administered north of Cyprus. The blast caused serious damage to the substation's transformer. Kib-Tek, the area's electricity authority, said both of the north's power stations were automatically taken offline for safety reasons, causing the entire regional grid to collapse. Hospitals and police stations switched to diesel generators, traffic lights failed, an online government platform went offline, and water pumping was disrupted across several districts. A later attempt to restore power failed within ten minutes after a fault at one power station. Power was gradually restored through the day and was fully restored roughly 18 hours after the explosion, at around 10pm.", "contributing_factors": "The explosion originated in the substation's central circuit breakers and damaged the transformer. A trade union leader publicly attributed the failure to inadequate maintenance and management shortcomings, while the electricity authority stated the substation was newly built and disputed claims of neglect.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An explosion in central circuit breakers can damage the transformer and force both power stations offline, so operators should verify automatic isolation settings at substations. (2) A failed restoration attempt after ten minutes shows that reconnection must be staged and verified after a substation fault.", "source_url": "https://cyprus-mail.com/2025/08/08/all-of-norths-electricity-goes-out-after-substation-explosion", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:10:28.782603+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0462", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0462/", "title": "Mini battery storage system ignites garden shed fire in Wickford, Essex", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters were called to a garden fire on Highcliffe Road, Wickford, at about 11.30am on a Saturday. Crews from Basildon and Wickford found a wooden garden shed fully alight, with flames beginning to affect three nearby properties. Residents reported hearing a huge bang and seeing large amounts of black smoke, and some reported that the electrics in nearby houses had gone off. Firefighters removed BBQ gas canisters from the fire scene and worked around solar panels on the property to prevent further spread. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the fire started in a small battery energy storage system connected to the household solar panel installation. Injuries were not reported in the source.", "contributing_factors": "The exact technical cause has not been reported. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service issued general advice that solar and battery installations should be fitted by reputable, qualified companies and maintained according to manufacturer guidance; this was general safety guidance rather than a stated finding about the cause of this incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A domestic BESS can fail with a sudden forceful event that produces loud bangs and heavy smoke, so operators should site units away from homes and install early detection. (2) Gas canisters near a BESS increase fire spread risk, so insurers should require clear separation distances around household battery units. (3) Solar panels on a property with a BESS fire complicate firefighting, so installers must plan access routes and isolation points at the design stage.", "source_url": "https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/25378041.residents-heard-huge-bang-wickford-garden-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:10:32.584444+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0464", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0464/", "title": "Worker dies in incident at wind farm near Rockhampton, Australia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A worker died following an incident at a wind farm near Rockhampton in Queensland, Australia, according to a news report. The article confirming the death was not fully accessible, and available information is limited to a headline stating the fatality and naming the town. The wind farm's name, operator, the nature of the incident, and the circumstances leading to the death have not been reported. It is not known whether the site was under construction, commissioning, or in normal operation, nor whether emergency services attended. This entry will be updated as further reporting becomes available.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind farm operators must ensure full incident details reach the public quickly so peers can review risks at similar sites. (2) Limited headline-only reports on wind farm fatalities prevent timely safety checks by other owners.", "source_url": "https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/rockhampton/nicolas-hohua-identified-as-man-killed-in-wind-farm-incident/news-story/48491d6b1f2a92729272f3833944eaf3", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:11:03.981365+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0465", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0465/", "title": "Transformer explosion and fire cuts power to hundreds in Chromepet, Chennai", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-07", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A distribution transformer on New Colony's first street in Chromepet, Chennai, exploded with a loud noise around 8am, triggering a fire. Residents said the transformer, one of two installed close together, had been leaking oil for several days and that garbage had accumulated beneath it despite a fence and warnings. Officials suspect the combination of leaked oil and garbage ignited the fire after the unit burst. Residents alerted the fire service and police, and a team from the local fire and rescue station extinguished the blaze after more than 30 minutes. Electricity board officials disconnected power in the area and began removing the damaged transformer for replacement by evening. The outage affected more than 800 houses, shops and offices across 25 streets.", "contributing_factors": "A reported ongoing oil leak from the transformer that had not been addressed, combined with garbage accumulated underneath the unit despite fencing and warnings to residents.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Oil leaks from distribution transformers must be fixed at once, as the text shows an unresolved leak for several days led to ignition. (2) Barriers and warnings alone do not stop waste accumulation under transformers, so operators must add active monitoring and clearance. (3) Fire services need direct access routes to urban transformers, since the text reports more than 30 minutes to extinguish the blaze.", "source_url": "https://www.dtnext.in/news/chennai/transformer-explosion-triggers-fire-hundreds-face-power-cut-in-chromepet-840949", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:11:06.439717+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0467", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0467/", "title": "Explosion at 66kV substation cuts power across Kempton Park", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-07", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred at the Main Supply 66kV substation operated by the City of Ekurhuleni, on the Meter Panel 1 side, causing a municipal breaker to trip overnight. The explosion severely impacted the entire 66kV ring network supplying Kempton Park, leaving large parts of the city, including the CBD, airport area and numerous residential suburbs, without electricity. Technical teams attended the site to assess damage and isolate the affected panel. The municipality was advised to switch supply over to a second panel, Meter Panel 2, but experienced technical challenges and awaited an engineer before restoration could proceed. At the time of reporting there was no estimated restoration time. Traffic lights at many intersections were also affected, requiring extra caution from motorists. The City of Ekurhuleni had not issued a formal statement at the time of publication.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports that an explosion at Meter Panel 1 caused a municipal breaker to trip, and that switching to a backup panel was delayed by technical challenges on the municipality's side pending an engineer's attendance.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An explosion at Meter Panel 1 tripped the municipal breaker and cut the 66kV ring, so operators should verify that backup panels can accept load without delay. (2) Technical teams attended the site to assess damage and isolate the affected panel, therefore substations need rapid on-call engineers for switchover during faults. (3) The 66kV ring failure left traffic lights out across Kempton Park, so operators must plan public alerts for non-functioning signals when supply is lost.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/kempton-express/news-headlines/local-news/2025/07/21/explosion-at-66kv-substation-leaves-kempton-park-in-the-dark/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:11:22.79752+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0468", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0468/", "title": "Transformer fire reported in Olyphant, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Emergency crews responded to a transformer fire in Olyphant, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, on 10 July 2025. Local news coverage reported that fire crews were dispatched to the scene, but the article text could not be fully retrieved, so further details about the cause, the extent of damage, and whether power was interrupted to nearby customers are not confirmed. It is not known which company owns or operates the affected transformer, nor whether it is part of a substation or a standalone distribution unit. No information is available regarding injuries or evacuations at the time of this report.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fires need fast crew dispatch to stop spread to nearby cables and switchgear. (2) Operators should confirm and publish basic details on grid fires so insurers can track equipment risks.", "source_url": "https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/lackawanna-county/crews-respond-transformer-fire-olyphant-lackawanna-county-lafayette-street/523-d7de86c9-fdc0-4665-84a6-16e6eabdf243", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:11:53.111479+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0469", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0469/", "title": "Transformer explosion at Rengpang Substation cuts power across Tamenglong District", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The sole 3.15 MVA, 33/11 kV transformer at the Rengpang control room in Tamenglong district, Manipur, tripped with a loud explosion at around 4:17 PM on a Sunday, causing extensive damage to the 11kV incomer panel. A follow-up attempt to recharge the system the next day, after panel installation work, failed when the transformer exploded again around midday. The control panel was completely burnt in the incident. The failure caused a prolonged power outage affecting the 132/33 kV substation at Rengpang and 33/11 kV substations at Tamenglong, Tousem and Khoupum. A replacement transformer was being arranged from Imphal by the Manipur power department, with officials estimating up to five days for it to arrive and be installed. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The site relied on a single transformer with no redundancy, so its failure caused a complete outage across multiple downstream substations. A second explosion occurred during recharging after panel repair work, suggesting the underlying fault may not have been fully resolved before re-energising the system.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A single 33/11 kV transformer with no redundancy leaves multiple downstream substations without supply after one failure. (2) Re-energising a transformer after the first explosion without resolving the root fault led to a second blast. (3) Remote sites need pre-positioned spares, as arranging a replacement from Imphal takes up to five days.", "source_url": "https://ukhrultimes.com/transformer-blast-causes-power-outage-in-tamenglong/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:12:38.395091+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0470", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0470/", "title": "Explosion and fire at power substation cause outages near Sudbury", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-07", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 2 July 2025, an explosion and fire occurred at a power substation on O'Neil Drive in the Garson community of Greater Sudbury, Ontario. Amateur video captured the blast shortly before 6 a.m. local time. The event caused widespread power outages affecting Garson and surrounding communities. No details were provided on the cause of the explosion, the extent of physical damage to the substation, or whether anyone was injured. The article does not identify the operator of the substation or the scale of the outage in terms of affected customers.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation explosions can spread fire quickly, so operators should fit blast detection and automatic isolation to limit damage. (2) Public video of a blast gives early timing data, so investigators should collect amateur footage promptly after any substation event.", "source_url": "https://www.ctvnews.ca/northern-ontario/video/2025/07/02/captured-on-camera-sudbury-area-power-station-explosion/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:13:58.979229+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0471", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0471/", "title": "Explosion at Overgate substation near Dundee shopping centre caused by component failure", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical substation exploded metres from the entrance to the Overgate shopping centre in Dundee at around 10.40am on Wednesday 26 February 2025. The explosion blew apart part of the substation, scattering bricks and destroying a wall. Emergency services, including the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, attended and a cordon was erected. No damage was reported to the shopping mall itself, and shops continued trading as normal. Following an investigation, network operator SSEN Distribution concluded that the cause was the failure of a component connecting high-voltage cables to one of the three transformers at the site. The company stated it subsequently carried out rigorous studies and testing on similar components across its network and found no further issues.", "contributing_factors": "The explosion was caused by the failure of a component connecting high-voltage cables to one of the substation's three transformers, according to SSEN Distribution.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Failure of a high-voltage cable connection component can cause explosive damage at a substation, so operators should inspect and test identical connections on transformers. (2) After a component failure at a substation, network operators should test similar components across the network to check for latent defects.", "source_url": "https://news.stv.tv/north/electrical-substation-explosion-which-destroyed-wall-near-dundees-overgate-shopping-due-to-component-failure", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:14:02.843483+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0472", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0472/", "title": "Bronx transformer fire cuts power to apartment building in Morris Park", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During a heat wave, a utility transformer on Eastchester Road in the Morris Park section of the Bronx, New York, failed and caught fire on Wednesday evening. Residents reported hearing a crackling sound followed by a loud bang before the unit exploded, with burning debris reported to have fallen onto two parked cars. The failure knocked out power to a seven-story apartment building housing 71 families, along with some traffic lights and a few nearby homes and businesses. The building lost water service along with electricity. Con Edison crews responded to remove the damaged transformer and replace the burned utility pole, working overnight in extreme heat and humidity to restore service. Injuries were not reported in the available source. The outage was one of several affecting the utility's service area during the heat wave, which also strained the grid and prompted voltage reductions elsewhere.", "contributing_factors": "The transformer failure occurred during a sustained heat wave, which Con Edison said was causing increased strain across its electrical system and additional outages in other areas.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A pole-mounted transformer fire can throw burning debris onto nearby cars, so operators should clear vegetation and enforce vehicle exclusion zones around such units. (2) Sustained heat waves raise load on distribution transformers and can trigger sudden failures, so utilities must increase monitoring and voltage reductions in advance.", "source_url": "https://abc7ny.com/post/bronx-transformer-fire-families-morris-park-left-dark-no-air-conditioning-con-ed-working-restore-power/16849400/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:14:11.906977+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0474", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0474/", "title": "Solar panel fire tackled on rooftop near Newquay beach", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Cornwall Fire Service responded to a solar panel system fire on a building in Island Crescent, near Towan Beach, Newquay, at about 12:20 BST. Two fire engines and an aerial ladder platform attended. Crews secured the area and the affected panel was removed by firefighters and an electrician.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar panel fires need electricians on site to remove damaged panels safely. (2) Aerial ladder platforms give safe access to elevated solar arrays during fires.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp901yvvyn5o", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:14:16.093265+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0475", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0475/", "title": "Fire at Pennsylvania substation triggers multi-day power outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a Met-Ed (FirstEnergy) electrical substation in Gardners, Adams County, Pennsylvania, at around 8:50pm on 23 June 2025, during a period of high heat and demand. The fire initially disrupted power to about 13,500 customers. Firefighters extinguished the blaze quickly, allowing restoration to roughly 8,000 customers, but around 5,500 remained without power the following day, with repairs expected to take multiple days. Separately, a transformer failure at a nearby Met-Ed substation in Littlestown left over 4,000 customers without power the same night. FirstEnergy mobilised temporary substations and crews worked around the clock to restore supply, while affected cooperatives rerouted transmission to partially restore service to some substations.", "contributing_factors": "The outages occurred during a period of extreme heat, increasing electrical demand and strain on the grid. The exact cause of the Gardners substation fire had not been determined at the time of reporting, and the operator stated a full assessment would follow once power was restored.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire during peak summer demand disrupts supply for days, so operators should pre-position temporary substations and reroute plans. (2) Transformer failures at nearby sites can coincide with substation fires, so utilities must inspect all local assets under high load. (3) Extreme heat raises grid strain, so operators should monitor substations closely and reduce load before failures occur.", "source_url": "https://local21news.com/news/local/fire-reported-at-substation-in-adams-county", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:14:26.266652+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0476", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0476/", "title": "Grass fire breaks out at Wild Azalea Solar Energy Center in Florida", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A grass fire broke out at the Wild Azalea Solar Energy Center, a Florida Power & Light solar site in Gadsden County, Florida, on the evening of 24 June 2025. A Florida Forest Service Aviation Unit aircraft spotted the blaze at about 5pm and guided ground crews to the location, which was off Atwater Road and not visible to firefighters until they gained access to the property. Mount Pleasant Volunteer Fire Department, the City of Chattahoochee Fire Department, Gretna Fire Rescue Department and the Sycamore Volunteer Fire Department all responded. The fire was extinguished the same evening. No injuries, equipment damage or evacuation were reported in the available account.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was located well off the access road and was not visible to ground-based firefighters until aerial spotting directed them to the site, delaying initial access.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A grass fire at a remote solar array can stay hidden from ground crews, so early aerial spotting is needed to cut response time. (2) Mutual aid from several fire departments speeds arrival at a large rural solar site when one crew alone would be too slow. (3) Access roads must reach every part of a solar site, otherwise crews lose time finding a fire that is not visible from the main route.", "source_url": "https://www.wctv.tv/2025/06/25/grass-fire-solar-farm-gadsden-county-extinguished-tuesday-evening/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:14:31.093901+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0478", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0478/", "title": "Vestas turbine fire at Enel Green Power Wind Farm in Chile", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Chile", "country_code": "cl", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine manufactured by Vestas caught fire during a rainstorm at Enel Green Power's 24MW Los Buenos Aires wind farm in southern Chile. The brief news report did not specify the exact turbine model, the date of the incident, or whether anyone was injured. No further operational details, cause findings, or response information were provided in the source material. The incident was reported by an industry trade publication with limited detail beyond the location, operator, and turbine manufacturer.", "contributing_factors": "The fire occurred during a rainstorm, though the source does not state whether weather was a direct cause of the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A Vestas wind turbine caught fire during a rainstorm, so operators should check nacelle seals and electrical insulation on turbines at exposed sites. (2) Fire at hub height during poor weather limits ground access, so remote detection and isolation plans must be in place before any storm.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1922031/vestas-turbine-catches-fire-wind-farm-chile", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:14:43.769838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0480", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0480/", "title": "Transformer fire at Ayyanaroothu substation near Panneerkulam, Thoothukudi", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an electricity board substation at Ayyanaroothu near Panneerkulam in Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu, in the early hours of a Saturday morning. The substation, operated by Tangedco and commissioned in 2014, steps down power generated by wind and solar farms in the region. According to sources cited in the report, a transformer caught fire following an electricity leak at around 4am. The transformer held approximately 80,000 litres of oil, which fuelled the fire and allowed it to spread rapidly. Foam tenders and fire vehicles from several stations, including Thoothukudi Thermal Nagar, NTPL and Tirunelveli, were called to the site. Officials built a sand barrier around the transformer to contain oil leakage. The fire was fully extinguished by around 4:30pm the same day, meaning the response and containment effort lasted roughly twelve hours.", "contributing_factors": "An alleged electricity leak in a transformer is cited by sources as the initial cause; the large volume of transformer oil present (around 80,000 litres) contributed to the fire spreading and burning for an extended period.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Large oil-filled transformers need robust leak detection and early alarms, as an electricity leak at 4am allowed ignition and rapid spread. (2) Bunding or sand barriers around transformers limit the spread of burning oil and should form part of emergency plans. (3) Substations with large oil inventories require coordinated multi-station foam response because full extinguishment can take twelve hours.", "source_url": "https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2025/Jun/08/fire-breaks-out-at-substation-in-tamil-nadus-ayyanaroothu", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:15:11.079058+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0482", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0482/", "title": "Transformer fire at Tangedco substation near Kayathar contained after ten hours", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out around 4 a.m. at a power transformer in a Tangedco substation at Panikkarkulam village near Kayathar, Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu. A technical fault in one of four transformer units ignited the transformer oil, of which each unit holds around 70,000 litres, causing the fire to spread rapidly and produce thick black smoke. Power supply was cut to prevent the fire spreading to the other three units. Seven fire tenders from several nearby towns and two private firefighting vehicles were deployed, using water jets and foam extinguishers to cool the transformer, before sand was applied using JCB machines to fully extinguish the blaze. The fire was brought under control after about ten hours and fully doused by 4 p.m. Only the one unit was affected, with no disruption to public life reported.", "contributing_factors": "Large volume of transformer oil (approximately 70,000 litres) fuelled the rapid spread of the fire, and the substation's nitrogen suspension fire suppression system failed to function as intended.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Oil-filled transformers holding around 70,000 litres each need working nitrogen injection systems, as this unit's suppression system failed to operate. (2) Operators at multi-unit substations should isolate power to a faulted transformer at once, as this cut prevented spread to the other three units. (3) Substations with large oil volumes require pre-planned multi-agency response, given the ten-hour effort with seven tenders and foam.", "source_url": "https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/massive-fire-breaks-out-at-transformer-in-substation-near-kayathar/article69669175.ece", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:15:16.347201+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0485", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0485/", "title": "Transformer explosion near The Woodlands Mall sparks fires and outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 22 May 2025, emergency dispatchers in The Woodlands, Texas received multiple 911 calls reporting an explosion and large smoke cloud near The Woodlands Mall along the I-45 feeder road. Fire crews confirmed a large electrical transformer had exploded, igniting nearby trees. After the utility, Entergy, confirmed power had been shut off, firefighters extinguished the blaze. The explosion caused power outages affecting areas north and south of the mall, requiring multiple elevator rescues. A separate large grass and woods fire broke out simultaneously on the east side of I-45, which was brought under control by several fire departments. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the transformer explosion was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer explosion had not been determined at the time of reporting and was under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer explosion can ignite vegetation fires, so operators should plan for rapid multi-agency response to secondary blazes. (2) Transformer outages can trap people in lifts, so utilities must coordinate quick elevator rescue plans during power loss. (3) Fire crews need confirmed de-energisation from the utility before tackling electrical fires.", "source_url": "https://www.woodlandsonline.com/npps/story.cfm?nppage=81572", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:15:52.696436+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0486", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0486/", "title": "Fire and transformer explosion at GRIDCo substation cuts power to Obuasi", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "Ghana", "country_code": "gh", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) substation supplying electricity to Obuasi and surrounding communities in the Ashanti Region. The fire led to the explosion of a transformer, causing a major power outage across the affected area. The incident occurred on Wednesday, 21 May 2025. Firefighters attended the scene and brought the blaze under control. Following the fire, GRIDCo engineers began assessing the extent of the damage to substation equipment before restoring supply. GRIDCo issued a public apology for the inconvenience caused and stated that its engineering team was carrying out checks to confirm the integrity of equipment at the station prior to reconnecting customers. As of the report, power supply to Obuasi and neighbouring communities remained disrupted while restoration work continued.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation transformers need fire barriers, as a fire led to the explosion of a transformer. (2) Engineers must check substation equipment integrity after fire before reconnection.", "source_url": "https://www.citinewsroom.com/2025/05/gridco-assures-obuasi-of-swift-power-restoration-following-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:15:59.085921+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0487", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0487/", "title": "Tornado wrecks Pioneer Solar Farm near Bennett, Colorado", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A tornado that touched down near Bennett, Colorado on 18 May 2025 caused extensive damage to the Pioneer Solar installation, an 80 megawatt facility spanning 540 acres that has been operating since late 2020. Photographs showed solar panels ripped and bent, with metal sheeting from nearby farm structures embedded in some panel sections. The same storm system damaged more than a dozen buildings in the nearby town. CORE Electric Cooperative, which purchases power from the site, said it was assessing the damage in coordination with the facility's owner and operator, Idemitsu Renewables. The utility stated the damage would not affect reliability of supply to its customers, as it has agreements with other solar and wind facilities and a coal plant to diversify its generation portfolio.", "contributing_factors": "Related reporting indicates tornadoes affecting the Bennett and Elizabeth area were rated EF-2 by the National Weather Service, though this rating is not confirmed specifically for the tornado that struck the Pioneer Solar site. Debris from nearby farm structures, including metal siding, was blown into the solar installation, contributing to panel damage.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Debris from nearby farm structures can damage solar panels in high winds, so operators should assess surrounding buildings in site risk plans. (2) A diversified generation portfolio across sites and technologies lets utilities absorb loss of one facility without affecting supply.", "source_url": "https://www.cpr.org/2025/05/20/tornado-wrecked-colorado-pioneer-solar-farm/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:16:09.911013+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0489", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0489/", "title": "St John's Wood electrical substation, London, catches fire twice in two weeks", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The St John's Wood electrical substation, on Cunningham Place / Aberdeen Place in St John's Wood, London, operated and owned by UK Power Networks, caught fire for the second time in two weeks. Firefighters were called at 2.10pm on 12 May 2025 after fire broke out at the site. Three metres of high voltage cabling connected to the substation were destroyed. London Fire Brigade took 16 calls and advised nearby residents to keep doors and windows shut due to smoke. The fire was brought under control by 5.45pm. Two weeks earlier, on 29 April 2025, an explosion described by a nearby resident as a 'fireball' had caused a fire at the same substation at 5.30am, sending smoke into the sky. UK Power Networks said that earlier fire may have been caused by a fault on a piece of equipment. Investigators believe the cause of the 12 May fire was accidental.", "contributing_factors": "UK Power Networks stated the earlier fire may have been caused by a fault on a piece of substation equipment. Investigators believe the second fire was accidental, though the exact technical cause of the repeat incident is not stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High voltage cabling at substations must be fully inspected after a fire, as three metres were destroyed in the repeat event. (2) A substation equipment fault that leads to fire requires root cause analysis before return to service to stop recurrence within weeks.", "source_url": "https://www.hamhigh.co.uk/news/25163104.st-johns-wood-substation-catches-fire-second-time/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:16:41.681424+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0491", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0491/", "title": "Second fire at Aberdeen Place substation, Maida Vale, disrupts London Underground and Elizabeth line", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an electrical substation in the Aberdeen Place area of Maida Vale, north west London, on 12 May 2025, around three weeks after a major blaze at the same site. London Fire Brigade received 16 calls and sent crews from Paddington and Harrow. High-voltage cabling connected to the substation was found alight, with around three metres of cabling destroyed. The associated power outage disrupted four London Underground lines and the Elizabeth line ahead of the afternoon rush hour, and affected hundreds of businesses south of Oxford Street. Residents nearby were advised to keep windows and doors shut due to light smoke in the area. The earlier fire at the same substation, on 29 April 2025, involved 15 fire engines and around 100 firefighters, spread to part of a neighbouring residential roof, and led to 80 people being evacuated from nearby flats.", "contributing_factors": "The operator, UK Power Networks, stated that the earlier April fire was caused by a fault on a piece of equipment in the substation. The May fire occurred at the same site only weeks later, involving high-voltage cabling, though the specific cause of the second fire was not detailed in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High-voltage cabling at a substation can ignite and spread quickly, so operators should inspect cabling runs for damage after any nearby fire. (2) A second fire at the same substation weeks later points to possible repair gaps, so full equipment checks must precede return to service. (3) A substation fault can cut power to multiple rail lines, so operators should verify backup feeds for transport hubs.", "source_url": "https://www.lbc.co.uk/article/firefighters-london-substation-massive-blaze-6cWQD_2/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:16:55.325073+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0492", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0492/", "title": "Fire destroys turbine nacelle at EnBW wind farm in Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at a wind farm operated by EnBW in Germany reportedly caught fire, destroying the nacelle and a rotor blade, with debris falling to the ground. The exact site, date and cause have not yet been reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire on a wind turbine can destroy the nacelle and a rotor blade, so operators should fit early detection and suppression systems. (2) Debris from a burning wind turbine nacelle falls to the ground, so operators must set and enforce an exclusion zone.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1918433/fire-destroys-turbine-enbw-wind-farm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:16:56.383845+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0494", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0494/", "title": "Transformer explosion during maintenance cuts power in Salmiya, Kuwait", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "Kuwait", "country_code": "kw", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A minor explosion occurred at the Al-Raas M (Head M) main transformer station during maintenance work, causing a power outage that affected parts of Salmiya, Kuwait. The incident resulted in the loss of approximately 25 megawatts of electricity supply to the area. One engineer working at the site sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment. Kuwait's Ministry of Electricity confirmed that safety protocols were immediately enforced following the explosion, and crews worked to restore system stability. This account is based on a single news report; further details on cause and duration were not available.", "contributing_factors": "The explosion occurred during maintenance work at the transformer station. The specific technical cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer stations require strict isolation and lockout during maintenance because an explosion occurred while work was under way. (2) Site safety protocols must cover immediate protection of remaining staff after a transformer explosion.", "source_url": "https://www.arabtimesonline.com/news/explosion-at-transformer-station-causes-power-outage-in-salmiya/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:17:22.416608+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0495", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0495/", "title": "Transformer explosion sparks fire, cuts power to homes in Turramurra", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A high-voltage electrical transformer at a roadside kiosk on Bannockburn Road, Turramurra, in Sydney's north, caught fire and exploded, with flames spreading towards an adjoining power pole and overhead wires. Fire and Rescue NSW crews attended and found around 11,000 volts of live electricity alight. Firefighters established a safety zone and used hose sprays from a distance to fight the fire safely, given the electrocution risk. It took six fire trucks and 22 firefighters about 30 minutes to contain the blaze, with a further 30 minutes to fully extinguish the fire and cool the transformer oil. The incident cut power to more than 100 homes, some of which remained without electricity into the following morning. No injuries were reported. Energy officials and police are investigating the cause.", "contributing_factors": "Fire and Rescue NSW suggested one possibility was that a vehicle had struck the roadside transformer, pushing it off its mount and causing an internal short circuit, though this was not confirmed as the cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High-voltage live equipment requires a safety zone and hose sprays from a distance to avoid electrocution risk. (2) Roadside transformers need physical protection such as bollards if vehicle impact can push them off mount and cause short circuit.", "source_url": "https://www.nine.com.au/australia-news/sydney-turramurra-fire-homes-without-power-live-electricity-as-transformer-goes-up-in-flames-20250507-p5zdfv.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:17:30.908562+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0497", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0497/", "title": "Earthing transformer fire at Achimota substation causes Accra power outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Ghana", "country_code": "gh", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An earthing transformer at the Achimota Bulk Supply Point, operated by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), unexpectedly caught fire during April 2025. The fire caused widespread power outages across various parts of Accra, including the Abelemkpe area, affecting customers over the course of the month. Images released by ECG showed significant charring and damage to the affected transformer. ECG worked to restore supply to affected customers, and by early May 2025 the utility confirmed that power had been restored to all affected areas. ECG's Public Relations Officer for the Accra East Region stated the company was working to ensure stability of supply and prevent similar incidents in future, though no further detail on the cause of the fire was provided.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported beyond the statement that an earthing transformer at the substation unexpectedly caught fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An earthing transformer fire at a bulk supply point caused widespread outages, so operators should apply the same monitoring to auxiliary transformers as to main units. (2) Supply to affected Accra customers was not fully restored until early May, so utilities need tested plans for rapid isolation and replacement of failed substation earthing transformers.", "source_url": "https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/business/Power-restored-in-parts-of-Accra-following-Achimota-substation-fire-1982491", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:17:50.359238+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0498", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0498/", "title": "Fishing vessel sinks after colliding with offshore wind turbine near China", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fishing vessel returning from a trip in the Yellow Sea near China collided with an offshore wind turbine, causing the vessel to sink. Reporting describes the sinking as deadly, indicating one or more fatalities, though the exact number was not specified. An investigation into the incident found that the vessel's captain had failed to keep a proper lookout, which contributed to the collision. Details of the wind farm's identity, the vessel's name, and the precise location were not disclosed in the source. The incident underscores the risks that can arise where vessel traffic intersects with offshore wind infrastructure, particularly in areas used for fishing or general shipping close to turbine arrays.", "contributing_factors": "An investigation into the sinking found that the vessel's captain had failed to keep a proper lookout while navigating near the wind turbine.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Vessel captains must maintain a proper lookout when navigating near offshore wind turbines. (2) Offshore wind farms in fishing areas need clear marking and communication to local fleets.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/accidents-and-casualties/vessel-in-deadly-sinking-after-wind-turbine-collision-failed-to-keep-lookout/2-1-1813828", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:18:09.651537+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0501", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0501/", "title": "Substation fire in St John's Wood spreads to nearby flats", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an electrical substation on Victoria Passage, Aberdeen Place in St John's Wood. The blaze involved an electrical transformer and spread to the roof of a neighbouring residential block. Around 100 firefighters attended with 15 fire engines, including a turntable ladder and bulk foam unit. Approximately 80 to 100 residents were evacuated from nearby flats, with a major incident declared and later stood down. Thick smoke affected the area, prompting advice to keep windows and doors closed. Power supplies were not interrupted. The cause is under investigation by London Fire Brigade, UK Power Networks and the Metropolitan Police. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "A fault on a piece of equipment was reported by the operator as the origin of the fire. The cause remains under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fires at urban substations can spread to adjacent buildings, so operators should check separation distances and fire walls. (2) Bulk foam units and turntable ladders help contain substation fires near homes, so response plans should include these appliances.", "source_url": "https://www.mylondon.news/news/west-london-news/st-johns-wood-fire-sees-31530434", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:18:36.05388+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0503", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0503/", "title": "Transformer fire at London substation triggers major incident and evacuations", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical transformer caught fire at a substation on Aberdeen Place in Maida Vale, west London, in the early hours of the morning. The operator, UK Power Networks, said the cause was a fault on a piece of equipment within the substation. Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters from London Fire Brigade attended, using a 32 metre turntable ladder and foam suppression to tackle the blaze. Part of the roof of a nearby residential block also caught alight. Around 80 to 100 residents, including elderly and vulnerable people, were evacuated from nearby flats to a community centre. London Fire Brigade declared a major incident due to the fire affecting high profile infrastructure and nearby residential buildings, standing it down later the same morning. No injuries were reported and electricity supplies to customers were not interrupted.", "contributing_factors": "UK Power Networks attributed the fire to a fault on a piece of equipment within the substation, describing it as an isolated incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault on substation equipment can start a transformer fire that spreads to nearby roofs, so operators should verify fire separation distances and barriers around grid assets. (2) Transformer fires at urban substations need foam and high-reach ladders, so response plans must include access routes and multi-agency coordination near homes.", "source_url": "https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/london-maida-vale-london-fire-brigade-alice-one-b2741517.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:18:54.764135+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0506", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0506/", "title": "Fire destroys storage godown at NTPC solar plant construction site in Dahod", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out around 9:30 pm at a godown storing construction materials for NTPC's under-construction 70 MW solar plant in Bhatiwada village, Dahod district, Gujarat. The blaze caused extensive damage, with nearly the entire godown burnt down. Around seven to eight employees and four security guards present at the site were rescued safely and there were no casualties. Fire tenders from Dahod and neighbouring Godhra, Jhalod and Chhota Udepur were dispatched to fight the blaze, which continued overnight due to strong winds hampering firefighting efforts. The fire was reported almost under control by the following morning.", "contributing_factors": "Strong winds were reported to have hampered firefighting efforts, according to a fire officer quoted in the report. The cause of the fire itself was not stated in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Strong winds can prolong fires at remote sites, so operators should pre-plan for delayed response and wind-resistant storage. (2) Construction materials create high fire loads in godowns, so early detection and suppression systems are essential.", "source_url": "https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/fire-breaks-out-at-godown-of-ntpc-s-solar-plant-in-gujarat-s-dahod-no-casualties-13000524.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:19:17.023849+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0507", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0507/", "title": "Transformer station fire cuts power to thousands in Red Bluff, California", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Saturday night in April 2025, a transformer caught fire at a station located on the Reynolds Consumer Products property in the southern part of Red Bluff, California. The fire produced a bright blue glow visible across the night sky and was witnessed by local residents. The incident caused nearly 7,000 PG&E customers to lose power, including attendees at the Red Bluff Round-Up, whose Saturday night concert was forced to shut down mid event. Cal Fire Tehama-Glenn responded to the scene. PG&E restored power to the affected area within about two hours. The Red Bluff Round-Up was able to resume its final show the following day without further disruption.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the transformer fire was not stated by the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fire at a station cut supply to nearly 7000 customers, so operators should check protection settings and backup feeds for similar sites. (2) Fire at grid infrastructure near an event halted a concert, so planners should map nearby stations and rehearse power loss procedures.", "source_url": "https://krcrtv.com/news/blue-skies-in-red-bluff-while-fire-at-transformer-station-knocks-out-power", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:19:24.706797+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0508", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0508/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at Geumsungsan Wind Farm in Hwasun County, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 4.7 MW wind turbine at the Geumsungsan Wind Power Plant in Hwasun County, Jeonnam, South Korea, broke at the middle of its tower and collapsed at around 2:50am on 21 April 2025. The turbine was one of 11 units at the site and had been in commercial operation since June 2023. No casualties occurred because the collapse happened in a restricted access area. Following the collapse, turbines numbered 8 to 11 at the site were placed under safety inspection while units 1 to 7 continued normal operation. The local authority, Hwasun County, stated it planned to investigate the exact cause of the failure together with the turbine manufacturer and suppliers.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the tower breaking at the mid-section had not been determined at the time of reporting, and investigation with the manufacturer and suppliers was ongoing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine tower that breaks at mid-section can collapse suddenly, so operators should check all similar towers for structural integrity after one failure. (2) After one turbine collapses at a multi-unit site, place other units of the same design under safety inspection before they resume operation. (3) Root cause work on a tower failure must include the manufacturer and suppliers to find whether the defect is systemic.", "source_url": "https://biz.chosun.com/en/en-society/2025/04/21/CZ34S37DZFFD5PYGKANJJ5PAJQ/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:19:26.304762+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0511", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0511/", "title": "Transformer explosion knocks out power to thousands in Boyd County, Kentucky", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 19 April 2025, high tension powerlines and a transformer reportedly exploded in Boyd County, Kentucky, causing a widespread power outage that affected about 4,422 Kentucky Power customers. The explosion sparked structure fires and brush fires around the Westwood and Ashland areas. Traffic lights in the City of Ashland went out, prompting officials to advise drivers to treat affected intersections as four-way stops. Crews temporarily closed part of U.S. 23 to remove the downed high-tension lines. Power was reported restored to affected customers by the following afternoon, ahead of the utility's original overnight restoration estimate. This account is based on a single local news report and has not yet been independently corroborated.", "contributing_factors": "Failure of high tension powerlines and an associated transformer led to explosion and secondary fires; no specific technical root cause has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High tension powerline and transformer failure can spark structure and brush fires, so operators should plan joint response with fire crews for quick access and isolation. (2) Grid faults that cut power to traffic signals need pre set four way stop rules and fast public notices to keep roads safe. (3) Downed high tension lines require road closures for safe removal, so operators should issue clear updates on expected restoration times.", "source_url": "https://wchstv.com/news/local/nearly-4500-without-power-in-boyd-co-outage-impacting-traffic-lights-dispatchers-say", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:19:40.403165+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0513", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0513/", "title": "Transformer failure at Tyler Substation cuts power to 6,300 customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fell at a substation located at the intersection of Grande Boulevard and Broadway Avenue in Tyler, Texas, causing a power outage that affected approximately 6,300 customers. The outage disrupted multiple traffic signals throughout the city, including several along Broadway Avenue. The City of Tyler's traffic operations department deployed generators to restore power to some intersections, though others remained without power for a period. City officials advised drivers to treat darkened traffic signals as four-way stops. According to Oncor, the utility operator, power was expected to be restored by approximately 1:30pm, and Oncor later confirmed that all power had been restored by that time.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not report the underlying cause of the transformer failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation transformer failure can cut supply to traffic signals across a city, so operators should map critical loads and pre-position backup power at key intersections. (2) When a substation outage hits traffic controls, clear public advice on four-way stops reduces collision risk until signals return.", "source_url": "https://www.ketk.com/news/local-news/tyler-traffic-signal-power-outage/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:19:53.093457+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0514", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0514/", "title": "Fire and explosion at Brakfontein Substation cuts power to Centurion suburbs", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 3 April 2025 a fire broke out at the Brakfontein Substation in Centurion, part of the City of Tshwane's electricity network, causing extensive damage and, according to reporting, an explosion that knocked out power to multiple suburbs including Rooihuiskraal North, Amberfield, Heuweloord, Monavoni, Eldoraigne, Celtisdal and parts of Wierdapark. As of ten days after the fire, restoration was still in progress in phases, with some areas restored and others still outstanding. Technicians had to condition a repaired or replacement transformer through a soaking process to ensure insulation and windings could safely take load, then perform sequential tests before energising the substation. Power was being restored in phases, starting with Amberfield 1 and 2, prioritising critical infrastructure and essential services, with residents warned to stay away from the site during repairs.", "contributing_factors": "Extensive fire damage to substation equipment, described by City officials as requiring careful transformer conditioning and sequential testing before safe re-energisation. No specific ignition cause was disclosed in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation transformer damage requires a soaking process to condition insulation before safe load, so operators must allow extra time in restoration plans. (2) After major substation failure, phased re-energisation prioritising critical infrastructure limits further network instability.", "source_url": "https://iol.co.za/news/2025-04-13-tshwane-makes-progress-in-restoring-power-to-centurion-suburbs-after-substation-explosion/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:20:07.716691+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0516", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0516/", "title": "Balcony battery storage unit catches fire in family home in Neuenhaus", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A balcony battery energy storage system caught fire in a residential home in Neuenhaus, Lower Saxony, on 25 March 2025. A neighbour noticed smoke and alerted emergency services, who brought the fire under control within two hours. The house was unoccupied at the time. The battery, a Zendure 2.4 kWh lithium iron phosphate unit paired with a 1.78 kW balcony solar system, had reportedly been activated only two weeks before the fire. The blaze damaged the home's heating and hot water systems and caused extensive damage to the utility room where the battery was installed. The unit was located in an annex whose roof structure required inspection afterwards. The rest of the house remained habitable, though the occupants temporarily relocated. The exact cause of the fire had not been established at the time of reporting, and an investigation was under way.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not established at the time of reporting. The battery had only been in operation for around two weeks prior to the incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A new Zendure balcony battery should be monitored closely in the first weeks after activation. (2) Battery storage in an enclosed utility room without fire separation can damage heating systems. (3) Early detection by a neighbour and rapid response limited damage to one annex.", "source_url": "https://www.ess-news.com/2025/04/01/balcony-battery-storage-system-catches-fire-in-german-home/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:20:13.314924+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0518", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0518/", "title": "Transformer fire at Grimsby substation cuts power to shops and homes", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews were called to a substation in the Friargate area of Grimsby shortly before 2pm following reports of a fire. On arrival, firefighters found smoke coming from a transformer within the substation. The incident caused a power cut affecting thousands of people across the Freshney, Park, West Marsh and Yarborough wards of Grimsby. Multiple shops and businesses within the Freshney Place shopping centre had to close to the public as a result. Traffic lights at Frederick Ward Way were also temporarily out of action. Northern Powergrid engineers attended and worked to restore supply, with some residents regaining power by around 3.20pm and full restoration expected by approximately 5pm the same day.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported beyond smoke being observed coming from a transformer in the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Smoke from a substation transformer can cut power to thousands across several wards, so operators should check isolation switches and backup feeds for rapid rerouting. (2) A transformer fault at a substation can force shops and traffic systems to close within hours, so network plans must include quick customer alerts and traffic light backups.", "source_url": "https://www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk/news/grimsby-news/freshney-place-shops-hundreds-residents-10069144", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:20:26.315413+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0519", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0519/", "title": "Fire at National Grid substation on Albert Road, West Bridgford", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A small electrical fire broke out at the National Grid electrical substation on Albert Road in West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire, affecting the power supply to around 200 nearby homes. Residents in the vicinity were advised to remain indoors with windows and doors closed while the fire was brought under control. Electricity supply was restored to all affected properties within about six hours. A subsequent investigation by National Grid concluded that the fire did not originate from the substation kiosk itself and was not the result of failed electrical equipment on site, indicating that external, third-party damage was the likely cause. The substation was later confirmed to be fully operational again, several weeks after the fire.", "contributing_factors": "An investigation attributed the fire to third-party damage rather than an internal equipment failure, though the specific nature of that damage was not detailed in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Third-party damage at a substation kiosk can cause fire and outage, so operators should check perimeter security and external impact monitoring. (2) Public advice to stay indoors with windows closed during a substation fire limits exposure while response teams work.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c3vw44lzzdvo", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:21:21.480819+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0522", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0522/", "title": "Vestas turbine blade damage forces Aneo wind farm in Norway offline", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Norway", "country_code": "no", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Vestas V117-4.2MW wind turbine at a wind farm owned by Aneo in Norway suffered damage to two of its blades, forcing the turbine and the wider site offline. The incident was reported as the second such occurrence at the site in a matter of months, though the earlier event was not described in detail. The turbine was photographed showing visible blade damage. No information was provided on the cause of the blade failure, whether any injuries occurred, or the extent of repairs required.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports this was the second such incident in a matter of months at the same wind farm, suggesting a possible recurring or unresolved issue with turbine blades, though no root cause was confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Repeat blade damage on a Vestas V117 within months at the same site requires root cause investigation before turbines return to service. (2) Operators should review inspection protocols for turbine blades after visible damage forces a site offline.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/damage-to-vestas-turbine-forces-wind-farm-offline/2-1-1793427", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:23:31.842599+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0523", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0523/", "title": "Northern Powergrid worker seriously injured in Huddersfield substation fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a high-voltage electrical substation on Market Street in Huddersfield at around 20:30 on a Saturday evening in March 2025. Emergency services, including West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and West Yorkshire Police, were called following reports of an explosion at the site, which is operated by Northern Powergrid. A member of Northern Powergrid staff working at the substation suffered serious burns and was taken to Leeds General Infirmary with what police described as life-threatening injuries. Fire crews worked alongside police and Northern Powergrid personnel to tackle the blaze and secure the site. Northern Powergrid confirmed it was carrying out an investigation into the cause of the incident, and the Health and Safety Executive said it would also investigate.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the explosion and fire had not been determined at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High-voltage substation work carries a risk of sudden explosive failure that can cause severe injury even to trained personnel. (2) Rapid coordination between emergency services and site operators is critical to safely securing a substation following a fire or explosion.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cz03e5elgx0o", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:23:38.796859+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0524", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0524/", "title": "Turbine hub and blades detach and fall at Erie Shores Wind Farm, Ontario", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At approximately 5:03pm on a Saturday evening, the hub of a wind turbine at the 99MW Erie Shores Wind Farm in Ontario detached from the tower and fell to the ground with all three blades still attached. The site, owned and operated by Capstone Infrastructure, comprises 66 turbines supplied by GE Vernova. The operator confirmed that no employees or members of the public were injured and that surrounding landowners, neighbours and their properties were safe. As a precaution, the entire wind farm was taken offline while an investigation began into the cause of the failure. The operator stated it was engaging relevant parties and would provide further information as it became available. At the time of reporting, no cause had been determined for how the hub detached from the tower.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The operator stated no known cause had been established at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After hub detachment, the operator took the entire wind farm offline as a precaution during investigation. (2) The operator confirmed no injuries to staff or public and that neighbouring properties remained safe.", "source_url": "https://reneweconomy.com.au/two-more-wind-turbines-suffer-damage-in-canada-and-norway/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:23:48.833685+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0526", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0526/", "title": "Fatal turbine elevator entrapment at Markbygden wind complex, Sweden", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Sweden", "country_code": "se", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A worker died after becoming trapped between an elevator and the shaft inside a GE Vernova wind turbine at the Markbygden wind complex in Sweden. The incident occurred the previous year relative to the report. Following an investigation, authorities decided not to bring charges over the death. Limited additional detail on the exact sequence of events, the worker's task at the time, or the date of the incident has been made public. The turbine involved was manufactured by GE Vernova. No further information on the turbine's operational status at the time, such as whether it was undergoing maintenance or was in normal service, has been disclosed in reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The source states only that the worker became trapped between the elevator and the shaft inside the turbine; no further contributing factors were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind turbine elevators must have interlocks that prevent movement when a person is in the shaft gap. (2) Operators should inspect elevator shaft guarding on all turbines after any entrapment report.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/no-charges-after-man-crushed-to-death-in-ge-vernova-wind-turbine/2-1-1788588", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:24:08.501935+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0527", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0527/", "title": "Onshore wind turbine reported to have collapsed in calm conditions, second turbine reported struck by lightning", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2025, a report described an onshore wind turbine in the central United States collapsing on a day characterised as calm, and a separate turbine being struck by lightning. The report does not state whether the two events involved the same wind farm. The date, extent of damage, any injuries, turbine type and age, and whether operations were suspended were not reported. Only a headline and short summary were available, so the circumstances of both events remain unconfirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The available source does not state a cause for either event.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An onshore wind turbine collapsed in calm conditions, so operators should check tower integrity and bolt tension on a fixed schedule even without extreme wind. (2) A turbine was struck by lightning, so operators should test lightning protection systems, receptors and earthing continuity at exposed sites.", "source_url": "https://reneweconomy.com.au/wind-turbine-collapses-on-calm-day-in-oklahoma-another-is-struck-by-lightning/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:24:24.025361+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0528", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0528/", "title": "Two workers die in fall at Plum Creek Wind Farm, Winside, Nebraska", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Two wind turbine maintenance technicians fell to their deaths on Saturday 22 February 2025 while working at the Plum Creek Wind Farm near Winside, Wayne County, Nebraska. The local sheriff's office said the men, part of a wind turbine maintenance crew, had experienced an unspecified equipment failure which caused them to fall from a turbine. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. The 230MW site, which uses 82 turbines of 2.8MW each, is owned and operated by Ørsted and was completed in 2020. The workers were employed by a specialist wind turbine maintenance contractor rather than the site owner. Ørsted and GE Vernova, the turbine manufacturer, both confirmed the incident and offered condolences. An investigation into the cause of the equipment failure was ongoing at the time of reporting, with no further technical details disclosed.", "contributing_factors": "Reported cause was an unspecified equipment failure during maintenance activity at height on a wind turbine; no further technical detail on the specific component or system involved has been disclosed publicly.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind turbine fall protection equipment must undergo rigorous inspection and failure mode analysis because failure at height leads to fatalities. (2) Site owners must maintain auditable certification of equipment used by contracted maintenance crews independent of their own systems.", "source_url": "https://reneweconomy.com.au/two-workers-fall-to-their-death-after-equipment-failure-at-wind-farm/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:25:07.719333+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0530", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0530/", "title": "Battery storage site fire in East Tilbury brought under control after 24 hours", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 19 February 2025, a significant fire broke out at a battery energy storage system (BESS) site under construction in East Tilbury, Essex. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service mobilised crews from Orsett, Basildon and Corringham fire stations, who tackled the blaze for almost 24 hours. The site consists of multiple containers housing battery units. The fire service initially stated the cause was a fault in one of the battery cells within a single containerised battery unit, leading to ignition. Crews used thermal imaging cameras and drones to monitor temperatures and manage the fire in a controlled way, applying water to prevent heat transfer to adjacent units. On 20 February, the fire service confirmed the fire had been brought under control and crews began scaling back their response. Injuries and evacuations were not reported in the source.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was reported to have started from a fault in a single battery cell within one containerised battery unit, leading to ignition. The fire service stated that appropriate spacing between battery units and a reliable local fire water supply helped limit the spread of the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Spacing between containerised battery units limits fire spread from a single failed unit to neighbours. (2) A reliable local fire water supply at BESS sites supports effective emergency response. (3) Thermal imaging cameras and drones allow crews to monitor cell temperatures and manage the fire in a controlled way.", "source_url": "https://www.thefpa.co.uk/news/significant-battery-site-fire-brought-under-control", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:25:47.352508+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0531", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0531/", "title": "Fire at Victorian solar farm prompts toxic smoke warning", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at a solar farm in Victoria, Australia, prompting a public warning about toxic smoke. The source article was behind a paywall and bot-detection barrier at the time of review, so the site name, operator, cause, scale, timeline and emergency response could not be confirmed from the accessible text. The headline indicates the fire was significant enough to prompt a smoke warning to nearby residents, consistent with combustion of photovoltaic modules, inverters or associated electrical equipment.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the accessible text.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Fires at solar farms can produce toxic smoke from PV modules or inverters, so operators must maintain community notification protocols. (2) Emergency plans for solar sites should address smoke hazards from burning equipment rather than fire suppression alone.", "source_url": "https://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/news/victoria/toxic-smoke-warning-after-victorian-solar-farm-fire/news-story/357d618fa188fa9b10b572e35bfe57e8", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:25:51.476856+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0535", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0535/", "title": "Turbine fire at Coldham Wind Farm near Wisbech, Cambridgeshire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine caught fire at Coldham Wind Farm, near Wisbech, in Cambridgeshire, UK. The site is operated and owned by ScottishPower Renewables, with turbines manufactured by Vestas. The incident was reported by a local news outlet in early February 2025. No further details on the cause, the turbine's capacity, injuries or emergency response were provided in the available source material. The report consisted primarily of a brief headline and website navigation content, with no substantive account of how the fire started, how long it burned, or what damage resulted. As such, this entry reflects only the confirmed fact that a wind turbine fire occurred at this location.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine fire at Coldham Wind Farm shows that operators must prepare for limited initial public detail on turbine fires. (2) ScottishPower Renewables should publish full reports on Vestas turbine fires so insurers can assess nacelle fire risks quickly.", "source_url": "https://www.cambsnews.co.uk/news/breaking/wind-turbine-on-fire-at-coldham-near-wisbech/34944/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:26:37.607761+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0536", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0536/", "title": "Wind turbine blade collapse damages houses at Kalpitiya wind farm, Sri Lanka", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-02", "country": "Sri Lanka", "country_code": "lk", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 2 February 2025, a blade from a wind turbine at a wind farm in the Kurinjipitiya area of Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka, detached and fell, destroying a storeroom and slightly damaging two nearby houses. No one was inside the storeroom at the time and no injuries were reported. Local residents alleged that the turbine, part of a wind farm operated by Senok Wind Power Pvt Ltd, had not been properly maintained despite being exposed to corrosive salt-laden coastal winds since it was installed over a decade earlier. According to reporting citing the Daily Mirror, the affected homeowner did not report the incident to police because the company agreed to pay compensation directly. The turbines at the site are reported to stand around 270 feet tall with blades around 190 feet long. The company operates five turbines in the area.", "contributing_factors": "Residents allege inadequate maintenance of an ageing turbine exposed to salt-laden coastal winds for over a decade; this has not been independently confirmed by an official investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Blades on coastal turbines need more frequent inspection to counter salt corrosion and fatigue. (2) Operators must report incidents that affect residents to authorities to allow industry learning.", "source_url": "https://srilankamirror.com/biz/collapsed-wind-turbine-blade-was-unmaintained/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:26:43.990722+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0539", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0539/", "title": "Wind turbine fire reported at Anoux wind farm near Briey, France", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-01", "country": "France", "country_code": "fr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine believed to belong to the Anoux wind farm near Briey, in the Meurthe-et-Moselle department close to the Luxembourg border, caught fire on a Thursday evening in January 2025. Flames burst from the top of the turbine with burning debris falling to the ground, captured in footage shared locally. A local farmer raised the alarm at around 9.45pm. Firefighters from the Mancieulles brigade attended, with reinforcements from Briey joining them. There was no human presence in the immediate area and the fire did not spread beyond the turbine. Authorities set up a safety perimeter and halted electricity production at the site. The extent of damage to the turbine and the cause of the fire were not confirmed in reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Burning debris from a nacelle fire can fall to the ground, so operators must set an exclusion zone at the tower base as soon as a fire is reported. (2) Local residents near remote turbines can give early warning of fire, so operators should maintain good links with nearby farms and villages. (3) Once a turbine fire is known, operators must isolate power and set a safety perimeter before firefighters arrive to limit spread.", "source_url": "https://today.rtl.lu/news/world/wind-turbine-near-luxembourg-border-erupts-in-spectacular-fire-2270568", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:27:19.711439+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0543", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0543/", "title": "Fire at Welwyn Garden City Substation causes large smoke plume", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-01", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at Welwyn Garden City Substation in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, at around 10.20am on 11 January 2025. The blaze produced a large tower of black smoke that was visible for miles, with residents reporting sightings from as far away as London Colney and Hertford. Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to the scene and initially dispatched two fire engines. The fire was subsequently brought under control, and crews carried out damping down operations at the site. No injuries were reported in connection with the incident. The event occurred on the same day as a separate large industrial fire at a business centre in nearby Letchworth, which also required a significant fire service response.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires can produce large visible smoke plumes, so operators should prepare public communication plans in advance. (2) Electrical substation fires can be controlled by damping down after initial response, limiting harm to staff. (3) Fire services may need extra resources when substation fires coincide with other local incidents on the same day.", "source_url": "https://www.whtimes.co.uk/news/24850053.videos-photos-show-welwyn-garden-city-substation-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:30:14.457405+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0544", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0544/", "title": "Company fined after worker fatality at Sussex wind farm construction site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A worker died on 18 July at a wind farm construction site near Sussex, New Brunswick, Canada, in what officials described as a workplace incident. Following an investigation, provincial workplace safety authorities imposed a fine of CA$25,000 on Windturbine Construction Team Inc, the contractor involved in the wind farm project. The report did not specify the mechanism of the fatal incident, such as whether it involved a fall, equipment failure or another cause. The company's fine was reported by CBC News alongside comments from the deceased worker's family reacting to the penalty. No further technical details about the turbine, site capacity or construction phase were provided in the source.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Construction contractors must maintain safety protocols during turbine assembly after a fatality at the Sussex site. (2) Authorities should publish the mechanism of fatal incidents so other contractors can address similar risks.", "source_url": "https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.6613002", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-07T18:30:22.604406+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0548", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0548/", "title": "Breaker explosion and fire at Mylapore substation in Chennai injures two engineers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A circuit breaker at Mylapore substation, a 230kV power substation operated by TNPDCL in Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, exploded during evening operating hours, triggering a fire. Two utility engineers working at the site suffered minor burns and were taken to hospital for treatment. The explosion and resulting fire caused a power outage affecting several surrounding neighbourhoods, with supply to eight downstream substations interrupted. A customer helpline that was itself powered from the affected substation also went offline, preventing residents from reporting the outage. Fire crews attended the site to extinguish the blaze while a separate rectification team worked to restore power. Utility officials stated that the situation was brought under control and that supply would be progressively restored to affected areas.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in detail beyond the breaker explosion itself; no root cause for the equipment failure was disclosed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Backup or redundant power arrangements for customer service infrastructure such as complaint helplines should not depend on the same substation they are meant to report faults for. (2) Personal protective equipment and safe working distances around high-voltage switchgear are essential given the risk of sudden breaker failure. (3) Rapid coordination between fire services and utility rectification teams can help limit outage duration following equipment fires at substations.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/other/fire-at-mylapore-substation-interrupts-power-supply-in-surrounding-areas/ar-AA2bKZph", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-08T05:06:08.338654+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0550", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0550/", "title": "Grass fire burns over 30 acres at solar farm complex near Hillsboro, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Monday 7 September, multiple first responder agencies battled a grass fire that broke out at a solar farm complex near Hillsboro, Texas, in the 100 block of HCR 4323. Hill County Emergency Management reported that the fire burned at least 33 acres within the solar farm complex. Crews from Itasca Fire, Covington Fire, Hillsboro Fire, Bynum Fire, Woodbury Fire, Milford Fire, the Hill County Sheriff's Office and the Hill County Office of Emergency Management responded to contain the blaze. The fire was subsequently extinguished and all responding units cleared the scene. It is not reported whether solar panels or other equipment were damaged, or what caused the fire; the available reporting describes it as a grass fire on the solar farm property.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grass fires inside solar farm boundaries can spread across dozens of acres, so operators must ensure multiple access points for rapid agency response. (2) A grass fire on solar farm land may affect panels or cabling even after it is put out, so post-incident inspection of all equipment is required.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/multiple-agencies-battling-fire-at-solar-farm-near-hillsboro/ar-AA2bLyRW", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-08T05:06:21.968619+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0554", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0554/", "title": "Explosion and fire at Chinchwad Extra High Voltage Substation, Pune disrupts power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A technical fault led to an explosion in a medium voltage current transformer and breaker unit at the Chinchwad Extra High Voltage Substation in Chinchwad, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune, Maharashtra, operated by Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission, triggering a fire around midday during normal operation. The fire was brought under control by firefighters shortly after ignition. The fault disrupted supply on multiple high voltage feeders connected to the site, cutting power to roughly 310,000 consumers across the metropolitan area. Two connected 132 kV substations were also affected, and about 1,500 industrial consumers in one of those areas reportedly lost supply. A metro rail system briefly lost its supply from a nearby substation as a knock on effect. Grid operators isolated the damaged bay and restored most consumers within a few hours using alternative feeders and routes, although around 125,000 consumers faced longer delays because of load constraints on the remaining network. No injuries or casualties were reported.", "contributing_factors": "A technical fault in a current transformer and breaker unit at the Chinchwad Extra High Voltage Substation. The cause was not further detailed in available reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault in a medium voltage current transformer and breaker unit at a substation can cut supply to 310,000 consumers, so operators should verify backup feeder capacity and load limits on alternative routes. (2) Isolation of a single damaged bay after a current transformer failure allowed most supply to be restored within hours via alternative routes, so substations should maintain diverse interconnections. (3) Industrial consumers may face longer delays after a substation fault because of load constraints on remaining network, so contingency plans must address this asymmetry.", "source_url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/pune/pimpri-chinchwad-power-cut-after-substation-blast-fire-brought-under-control-10865755/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-08T06:46:01.629473+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0555", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0555/", "title": "Single container fire at West Warwick 3 Battery Storage Site in Warwick, New York", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 19 December 2025, a fire occurred at the West Warwick 3 Battery Energy Storage Site (28 Church Street), located in Warwick, New York, United States. The facility is operated by Convergent Energy and Power, owned by Warwick Valley BBA, and uses battery systems manufactured by Powin, with Convergent serving as integrator. The battery system, rated at 4.0 MW and 17.9 MWh using lithium iron phosphate chemistry, was fully charged at the time of the incident. The fire was contained to a single battery container, with damage estimated at under one percent of total system capacity. There were no reported injuries. The state of charge was reduced to fifty percent as a precaution. Local fire, police and EMS services responded, along with a county hazardous materials team. Air quality monitoring was carried out for several days afterward. The same site had experienced an earlier fire in 2023, attributed to water infiltration. Following the December 2025 incident, the battery system was disconnected from the grid, internal connections removed and voltage drawn down, with battery removal and a formal Root Cause Analysis subsequently undertaken.", "contributing_factors": "A prior fire in 2023 at the same site was attributed to water infiltration. Weather-related factors were presumed to have contributed to the December 2025 fire, pending completion of a formal Root Cause Analysis. The battery manufacturer, Powin, subsequently declared bankruptcy. The facility was reported to be operating without a current municipal Certificate of Compliance at the time of the incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Outdoor battery enclosures need robust weatherproofing where a site has prior water infiltration failures. (2) Operators must hold a current municipal Certificate of Compliance for battery storage facilities. (3) Air quality monitoring after a battery fire should continue for several days to track off-gassing.", "source_url": "https://villageofwarwickny.gov/28-church-street-west-warwick-3-battery-energy-storage-site-fire-information-updates/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-08T06:48:00.392386+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0556", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0556/", "title": "Battery module fire contained at Valley Center Battery Storage Project, California", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A small electrical failure occurred within a single battery module at the Valley Center Battery Storage Project, a recently commissioned lithium-ion battery energy storage facility in Valley Center, San Diego County, California, operated and owned by Terra-Gen, using battery modules manufactured by LG Energy Solution. The fault produced smoke, which triggered the site's fire suppression and detection systems. According to the local fire marshal, the systems operated as designed and the event was contained to a single battery module, described as roughly the size of a DVD case. An adjacent battery enclosure also shut down automatically after detecting smoke, even though it was not directly affected, which the fire marshal characterised as an overly cautious response. Multiple fire engines from local fire protection districts attended the site as a precaution. No injuries were reported and there was no significant fire beyond the contained module-level event.", "contributing_factors": "An electrical failure within a single battery module produced smoke that activated fire detection and suppression systems; smoke also triggered a conservative automatic shutdown of an adjacent, unaffected enclosure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion battery modules need smoke detection and suppression sized for module level events so that a fault stays inside one module. (2) Smoke detection in BESS sites can shut down adjacent enclosures that are not affected, so operators should plan for this loss of availability. (3) Module level containment reduces the need for external fire crews, so response plans can focus on isolation and exclusion zones.", "source_url": "https://www.energy-storage.news/terra-gen-battery-storage-560mwh-bess-valley-center-san-diego-california-online/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-08T06:52:00.781959+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0557", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0557/", "title": "Substation fire on Garriochmill Way cuts power in Glasgow's Kelvinbridge Area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred at the Garriochmill Way / Henderson Street substation in the Kelvinbridge/Maryhill area of Glasgow, Scotland, during the early evening. Emergency services attended after residents reported hearing a loud bang, with one witness describing it as sounding like an explosion. Two fire appliances attended, crews cordoned off the site, and the fire was extinguished with crews leaving the scene around an hour and a quarter later. SP Energy Networks, the operator and owner of the substation, described a network fault that interrupted supply to almost 300 customers across 13 postcodes. Engineers were reported on site working to restore supplies. Photographs from the scene were reported to show damage to the substation. No injuries were mentioned in the reporting, and the cause and extent of equipment damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. SP Energy Networks described the event only as a network fault.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation network fault can produce a loud bang and fire that alarms residents, so the operator should issue prompt public updates. (2) Fire crews at a substation must cordon the site and liaise with network staff before firefighting to allow safe isolation. (3) Visible damage to substation equipment after a fault requires inspection before return to service.", "source_url": "https://uk.news.yahoo.com/explosion-glasgow-electrical-substation-leaves-215035493.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-08T06:56:55.161043+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0558", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0558/", "title": "Substation transformer fire cuts power to F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at a substation transformer knocked out power across F.E. Warren Air Force Base near Cheyenne, Wyoming, on a Saturday night. The base reported that critical components at the substation were damaged, and power had not been restored by the following day. Crews from the Western Area Power Administration and High West Energy were working with the base to restore supply, with an estimated repair time of 12 to 24 hours from the Sunday update. The outage occurred during a period of high temperatures, prompting the base to issue heat safety guidance to personnel and families living on site while power remained off. No injuries, fatalities or evacuations were reported in connection with the fire. Total restoration time and the technical cause of the fire have not been confirmed in reporting so far.", "contributing_factors": "The base attributed the outage to damage to critical components at the substation caused by the transformer fire; no further technical cause was disclosed in the source, and it is not confirmed which organisation operates the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation transformer fire can damage critical components and cause extended outages, so sites should plan backup feeds or on-site generation. (2) An outage during high temperatures requires prompt heat safety guidance for personnel and families on site. (3) Coordination with external grid crews is needed when a base substation loses supply, so joint response plans should be in place.", "source_url": "https://www.stripes.com/branches/air_force/2026-07-12/transformer-fire-knocks-out-power-to-fe-warren-afb-22248802.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-08T06:58:47.49182+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0559", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0559/", "title": "80m turbine collapses at Byeolparang Park Wind Farm in Yeongdeok", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 2 February 2026, an 80 metre wind turbine at the Byeolparang Park wind farm (Changpo Wind Power Complex) in Yeongdeok-eup, Yeongdeok County, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea collapsed, with the tower and blades falling across an internal road. Wind speeds at the time were only 5 to 7 metres per second, gusting to 12 metres per second, well below the turbine's 20 metres per second design wind speed. The turbine, Unit 21, manufactured by Vestas, had operated since May 2005 and had recently passed a safety inspection. Investigators reviewing footage concluded that a rotating blade tore apart, unbalancing the rotor and causing it to strike and buckle the tower. No injuries occurred because the site's visitor centre was closed at the time, and a passing vehicle narrowly avoided the falling debris. The road was closed indefinitely while the cause is investigated.", "contributing_factors": "The turbine had been in service for over 20 years, near or beyond the typical service life attributed to turbine blades; investigators are focusing on why a carbon fibre blade tore during rotation, causing rotor imbalance and tower failure, though the root cause has not been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A carbon fibre blade on a Vestas turbine can tear in rotation and unbalance the rotor, so operators should add fatigue testing for blades over 20 years old. (2) Tower failure can occur at wind speeds well below design limits on aged turbines, so risk assessments must account for fatigue rather than overload alone. (3) Falling turbine debris can reach internal roads, so operators should keep access restriction plans ready for structural failures.", "source_url": "https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/02/02/TXRSXEBMPNHDDDMKVLIKHQCJ5A/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-08T07:08:22.02937+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0560", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0560/", "title": "Substation reactor fire in Southern Brazil triggers nationwide blackout", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "Brazil", "country_code": "br", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred in a reactor at a transmission substation in Southern Brazil, part of a grid network associated with Eletrobras, causing the facility to shut down and the region to disconnect from the wider system. The affected region had been exporting a significant volume of power to other parts of the network. Automatic protection systems activated elsewhere to rebalance the grid following the disturbance, causing load interruptions in several regions. In total, around 10,000 megawatts of load were shed and more than one million consumers were affected by outages. The system operator reported that equipment restoration and load recovery began within minutes, with all affected loads restored within approximately two and a half hours. Authorities described the event as an isolated infrastructure failure rather than a supply shortage, and stated that an investigation into the root cause was under way.", "contributing_factors": "A fire in a reactor at a substation in Southern Brazil caused the initial disconnection; the wider disturbance was propagated through automatic protection mechanisms designed to rebalance the interconnected grid. The underlying cause of the reactor fire had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reactor fire at a transmission substation can disconnect a region that exports power, so operators should review export capacity limits and backup paths. (2) Automatic protection systems can propagate a local fault into load shedding across regions, so coordination settings need review after each event. (3) Restoration after a substation reactor fire can begin within minutes, so plans should confirm rapid load recovery times.", "source_url": "https://canalsolar.com.br/en/fire-substation-era%C3%A7%C3%A3o-brazil/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-08T07:09:32.982173+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0561", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0561/", "title": "Wind turbine fire destroys nacelle and blade at Bulgana Green Power Hub, Victoria", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in one of 56 Siemens Gamesa SG 3.4-132 turbines at the 194MW Bulgana Green Power Hub, operated and owned by Neoen, near Great Western, Victoria, which also hosts a 20MW Tesla battery storage system. The Country Fire Authority (CFA) attended overnight after the turbine's main body was reported alight, established safety zones and kept clear of the structure due to the fire risk from the height of the turbine. Neoen, as site operator, was contacted and the turbines were shut down. Several hours later a blade caught fire, detached and fell to the ground. The fire destroyed the nacelle and the blade. Energy Safe Victoria investigators and engineers attended the scene and, at the time of reporting, the cause of the fire remained unknown. No injuries were reported and the wind farm was taken offline pending investigation. The fire began at about 9.30pm on 28 May 2025. Seven Country Fire Authority units from the Ararat, Stawell and Great Western brigades attended, and crews were recalled at about 3.20am when the blade caught fire, detached and fell.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting; Energy Safe Victoria stated the cause was still unknown while its investigators and engineers were on site.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire at hub height cannot be fought from the ground, so plans must rest on exclusion zones. (2) Operators must have rapid shutdown protocols for handover to fire authorities during turbine fires. (3) Burning blades can detach and fall, so response plans must include this risk.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/fire-rips-through-siemens-gamesa-wind-turbine/2-1-1826454", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-08T07:14:28.499774+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0562", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0562/", "title": "Traverse Wind Energy Center turbine bent and burning after storm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An onshore wind turbine at Traverse Wind Energy Center in central Oklahoma is reported to have suffered a structural failure during a severe thunderstorm, with reported wind gusts of around 30 miles per hour in the area. Video footage described in reporting showed the tower bent and folded, with the rotor area smouldering and fire involvement. The operator, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, was reported to have secured the site and said no personnel were near the turbine at the time, with no injuries reported. The cause of the collapse was described as under investigation. Reporting is limited, and the turbine model, its age, the state of neighbouring turbines and any effect on site output or grid supply have not been reported. The exact date of the event is not clearly stated in the available reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not established. The failure is reported to have occurred during a thunderstorm, but the technical cause had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Tower collapse at a wind site during a thunderstorm requires prompt site securing to keep staff clear of unstable structures and burning debris. (2) A turbine collapse with rotor fire at height needs pre-planned defensive response from local fire services rather than active firefighting. (3) Structural failure can occur in storms with gusts around 30 miles per hour, so weather alone must not end the investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1908269/turbine-collapses-wind-farm-oklahoma", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-08T07:16:14.060426+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0572", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0572/", "title": "Battery cabinet smokes at solar-plus-storage site in Douglas, Massachusetts", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Emergency responders were called to a commercial fire alarm at a solar energy facility equipped with a battery energy storage system in Douglas, Massachusetts, after smoke was observed coming from a single battery cabinet. On arrival, crews confirmed the condition was limited to one cabinet and established a water supply as a precaution, but no water application or fire department intervention was ultimately required. A drone-based thermal assessment confirmed no elevated temperatures in neighbouring cabinets. Responders continued monitoring until the affected cabinet returned to ambient temperature several hours later. No hazardous materials release, injuries, evacuation, or impact to the surrounding community were reported. The site was returned to the operator, BlueWave Asset Management, which arranged a fire watch while the contents of the affected cabinet were removed from service.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery cabinet thermal events at solar storage sites can stay contained if crews isolate the unit and monitor temperatures rather than apply water. (2) Drone thermal imaging confirms that heat has not spread to other battery cabinets and avoids wider intervention. (3) A post-event fire watch and removal of the affected cabinet from service allows safe handover even without an active fire.", "source_url": "https://shrewsburypost.com/2026/08/07/douglas-solar-battery-storage-facility-incident-contained-after-battery-cabinet-failure/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-09T05:06:29.686613+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0574", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0574/", "title": "Fire damages 30 hectares of Bobov Dol solar park", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Bulgaria", "country_code": "bg", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Around 30 hectares of the photovoltaic park at the Bobov Dol Thermal Power Plant were affected by a fire that broke out on 4 September near Palatovo village in Dupnitsa Municipality. The fire destroyed cables, inverters and photovoltaic panels. Around 100 hectares of the park were saved. Nine firefighting teams brought the fire under control in about four hours. The cause is being investigated as part of pre-trial proceedings opened by police in Dupnitsa, with prosecutors also notified.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported. Police have opened pre-trial proceedings and notified prosecutors.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a large photovoltaic park can destroy cables, inverters and panels across a wide area even when much of the site is saved. (2) Site access and isolation arrangements should let firefighting teams reach and contain a park fire quickly. (3) Until the cause is known, preserve evidence and treat the event as under investigation rather than assuming a single failure mode.", "source_url": "https://www.bta.bg/en/news/1199867-fire-damages-30-hectares-of-bobov-dol-solar-park", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:16:31.2111+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0578", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0578/", "title": "Transformer explosion causes outage in Brewster during heat wave", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During extreme heat, high electricity demand was reported as likely causing scattered power outages across Cape Cod, with hundreds of customers out in towns including Falmouth, Bourne, Barnstable, Chatham and Brewster. Bourne Police reported a transformer fire on the power lines along Bournedale Road, cutting power in that area, including Sagamore Beach. Early the following evening a transformer exploded in flames on Main Street (Route 6A) at Underpass Road in Brewster. The source reported that no one was injured and that 262 customers lost power. Eversource crews worked on restoration. Later updates said the Brewster outage and the other larger outages had been restored, with about a dozen isolated outages still being worked on. No cause was reported for the Brewster explosion.", "contributing_factors": "The source linked the scattered outages to high demand in extreme heat. It did not state a cause for the Brewster transformer explosion.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat extreme heat and high demand as a period of higher stress on distribution equipment, and watch for new outages as others are restored. (2) Keep restoration updates specific to each outage, including where no estimate has yet been posted. (3) Plan for traffic control when pole and line replacement closes or restricts a public road.", "source_url": "https://www.capecod.com/cape-wide-news/high-demand-due-to-heat-likely-causing-scattered-power-outages-across-the-cape/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:19:59.003593+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0579", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0579/", "title": "Transformer fire on Cleveland Public Power grid causes outage during heat wave", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During a period of extreme heat and high electricity demand in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, a transformer operated by Cleveland Public Power near West 57th Street and Memphis Avenue in Cleveland appeared to catch fire in the late afternoon. The resulting outage affected nearby customers, including a local restaurant that had to close early for a second consecutive day due to power loss. Cleveland Public Power did not immediately provide further details on the cause or extent of the incident. Separately, FirstEnergy carried out planned, temporary outages in Lakewood and Cleveland to install new utility poles intended to strengthen the local grid and reduce the risk of longer outages during high demand, with affected customers experiencing outages of up to about an hour.", "contributing_factors": "High electricity demand during a heat wave is reported as coinciding with the outage. The source does not confirm a specific technical cause for the transformer fire, and Cleveland Public Power had not provided further details at time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution transformer under high load during heat can fail and cause local outages, so operators should check loading limits on similar units before forecast peaks. (2) An unplanned transformer outage can force businesses to close for a second day, so utilities should give prompt updates on duration and scope. (3) Repeated outages at one site point to a need for targeted checks or upgrades to avoid repeat failures under stress.", "source_url": "https://www.news5cleveland.com/news/local-news/from-a-transformer-fire-to-intentional-outages-many-in-cuyahoga-county-are-without-power", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:20:17.719337+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0580", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0580/", "title": "Inverter fire at a solar array in Pamelia, New York", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A small fire broke out on Sunday morning, 7 June 2026, at a solar array off State Route 12 and Wayside Drive in the Town of Pamelia, New York. The Glen Park Fire Department said an inverter caught fire, likely from an electrical short. Crews were on scene for about an hour and a half and reported that the fire was contained to the point of origin. No injuries, damage beyond the point of origin, or operator were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service said the inverter fire was likely caused by an electrical short. No other cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An inverter electrical short in a solar array can start a fire that stays limited to one unit. (2) Fire crews should note time on scene and confirm spread separately when an inverter fire occurs.", "source_url": "https://www.wwnytv.com/2026/06/07/solar-farm-fire-town-pamelia-sunday/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:20:49.244527+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0582", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0582/", "title": "Transformer fire at Vistovochnaya substation disrupts power in Tashkent districts", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "Uzbekistan", "country_code": "uz", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 1 June 2026 a report was received at 18:57 that a transformer was burning at the 110 kV Vistovochnaya substation on Kichik Halqa Yo'li Street in the Olmazor district of Tashkent. Fire-rescue crews arrived at 19:01, contained the fire at 19:12 and extinguished it at 19:17. Uzbekistan National Electric Networks JSC said networks connected to the 6 kV equipment leaving the substation were left without voltage, with supply interruptions in parts of the Shaykhontohur and Olmazor districts. No injuries were reported. The cause had not been identified.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. A special team was still identifying the malfunction and working to clear it.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A short interval between the first report and fire-service arrival can limit how long a substation fire burns. (2) A fault at a higher-voltage substation can leave connected lower-voltage networks without supply in more than one district. (3) Until the operator reports a cause, treat the failure mode as unknown and keep the public account to what has been confirmed.", "source_url": "https://zamon.uz/en/2026/06/01/a-fire-broke-out-at-an-electrical-substation-in-tashkent", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:21:01.252629+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0584", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0584/", "title": "Short circuit in lithium battery cells reported as cause of fire at Rufford Colliery BESS", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A trade report states that a fire at Rufford Colliery BESS, a battery energy storage site in Rainworth, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom, operated by Gresham House and owned by Gresham House Energy Storage Fund, was caused by a short circuit within nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) lithium-ion battery cells. Only a headline level report is available. The date, scale of the fire, emergency response, any injuries and any loss of availability were not reported, and the finding has not been corroborated by a second source or by an official investigation report.", "contributing_factors": "Reported as a short circuit within NMC battery cells. The underlying trigger for the short circuit was not stated. Not otherwise reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A short circuit in NMC lithium-ion cells can start a fire, so operators should fit detection systems able to isolate strings before thermal runaway spreads. (2) Battery management systems must be proven to detect abnormal cell voltage or temperature early, as the trigger for this short circuit is unknown. (3) Confirmed cause findings should be published after BESS fires so other operators can check the same failure mode in their own fleets.", "source_url": "https://www.ess-news.com/2026/05/07/exclusive-short-circuit-in-nmc-batteries-caused-fire-at-uk-bess-project/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:21:38.611323+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0590", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0590/", "title": "Transformer fire cuts power in East New York amid cold", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire in East New York, Brooklyn, left residents without power overnight during bitter cold. Firefighters were called just after 7:30 p.m. to Shepherd Avenue near Linden Boulevard and Hegeman Avenue for reports of burning wires and a smoking transformer. Crews stood by while Con Edison isolated the damaged equipment and began repairs. Con Edison's outage map showed more than 1,500 customers without power across Brooklyn, including about 300 near Shepherd Avenue. Temperatures were in the teens, and neighbours reported no lights and no heat. Con Edison estimated that power in the Shepherd Avenue area could be restored by around 7 a.m., though that time could change. The cause of the outage was still under investigation. Utility officials said extreme cold may have been contributing to outages reported across the borough.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported. Extreme cold was cited as a possible contributor to outages across Brooklyn, not as a confirmed cause of this fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep a clear procedure for isolating damaged grid equipment while emergency crews stand by. (2) Give the public a restoration estimate for the affected area, and say when that time may change, especially in extreme cold. (3) Point residents without heat or power to warming centres and other public resources while repairs continue.", "source_url": "https://brooklyn.news12.com/2026/01/27/transformer-fire-knocks-out-power-for-hundreds-in-east-new-york-amid-extreme-cold/4XUmhFJB1hNjxbBv87gkY1", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:24:03.626759+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0591", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0591/", "title": "Transformer explosion knocks out power across Cleveland's West Side", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer explosion on Cleveland's West Side, near Fenwick Avenue, knocked out power to more than 1,000 customers on a Monday evening. The blast coincided with a house fire, prompting multiple Cleveland Division of Fire units to respond, alongside reports of downed power lines across roads. Several nearby homes suffered blown electric meters and interior electrical damage, including exploded light fixtures, as high voltage reportedly surged into individual houses. Cleveland Public Power (CPP) crews responded overnight, restoring most customers by rerouting power through alternate circuits, though some remained without power over 24 hours later while damaged lines were replaced. CPP confirmed no substation damage occurred. No injuries were reported. The cause of the explosion remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "A house fire and transformer failure occurred in the same area at the same time, though the sources do not clarify which triggered which or whether they were linked.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution transformer explosion can send high voltage into nearby homes and damage meters and wiring, so operators should inspect all properties within the affected area after such an event. (2) Downed power lines after a transformer failure can block roads, so responders must mark hazards and reroute traffic until lines are cleared. (3) Rerouting through alternate circuits can restore most customers after a transformer explosion, so utilities should maintain spare circuit capacity in urban networks.", "source_url": "https://www.news5cleveland.com/news/local-news/transformer-explosion-causes-power-outages-on-clevelands-west-side", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:24:36.37912+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0594", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0594/", "title": "PG&E substation fire causes power outage in South Bay", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred at a PG&E electrical substation in the South Bay area of California, resulting in a power outage affecting local customers. The news report provides only a brief video segment with limited detail on the cause, extent, or duration of the outage, or on the specific substation involved. No information was given on injuries, damage, or how long power was disrupted.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut supply to many customers, so operators should keep redundant feeders and fast switching ready. (2) When public reports give little detail on substation fires, insurers need prompt technical data to judge asset risk.", "source_url": "https://www.nbcbayarea.com/video/news/local/pge-substation-fire-south-bay-power-outage/4003125/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:25:30.950728+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0595", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0595/", "title": "Third battery fire at Warwick storage site raises safety questions", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A lithium-ion battery fire broke out on a Friday night at an energy storage facility operated by Convergent Energy and Power on Church Street in Warwick. The company said the fire was localised in one unit, extinguished within 24 hours and caused no injuries. Officials said the fire was out, while crews continued to monitor falling battery temperatures for several days. Heavy rain and wind were reported. Air-quality monitors around the site and nearby areas did not show readings above federal guidelines, though final data had not been released. The report describes this as the third lithium-ion battery fire in Warwick in roughly two years, involving two Convergent sites. The company said systems there had been replaced after the 2023 incidents.", "contributing_factors": "A local official said heavy rain and wind may have let water into the system and started the fire, as was said of earlier Warwick incidents. The operator said it was too early to determine the cause and that a root-cause analysis was under way.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage enclosures need to keep water out in severe weather if water ingress is not to create electrical faults. (2) Air-quality checks after a battery fire do not by themselves show whether smoke has left residue on surfaces, soil or water. (3) Repeat fires at sites run by the same operator are a reason for independent inspection and for sharing root-cause findings once they are known.", "source_url": "https://westchester.news12.com/third-lithium-ion-battery-fire-in-warwick-raises-renewed-questions-about-safety-and-toxic-exposure", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:25:40.273331+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0597", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0597/", "title": "Substation breaker fire near Rhodes College knocks out power to 11,000 in Memphis", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a substation breaker, described as being about the size of a car, near Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. The fire caused more than 11,000 Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) customers to lose power, including the Memphis Zoo, which closed early as a result. Fire crews extinguished the blaze. MLGW crews then restored the substation bank and switched circuits to restore power to the majority of affected customers by around 6pm the same day. By the following day, MLGW reported that more than 99% of affected customers had power restored. The cause of the fire remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the substation breaker fire was still under investigation at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A car-sized breaker fire at a substation can be contained by ground crews, so operators should ensure rapid access for fire services. (2) Circuit switching after a substation bank failure limits outage length, so utilities should keep switching plans ready.", "source_url": "https://wreg.com/news/over-11000-mlgw-customers-without-power-after-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:27:51.345605+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0599", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0599/", "title": "Contractor strikes high-voltage line, sparking transformer fire in Downtown Brooklyn", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 23 August 2025, a contractor working near 365 Bridge Street in Downtown Brooklyn struck a high-voltage feeder line, sparking a transformer fire. The blaze prompted a major emergency response, with 12 FDNY units and around 60 firefighters attending the scene. Nearly 230 residents lost power as a result of the incident. One person was taken to Brooklyn Hospital Center for treatment. Inside the affected building, several elevators went out of service, leaving some residents struggling to leave. Firefighters brought the incident under control by around 11am. Con Edison crews worked through the day to restore power, which was fully reinstated by 5pm the same evening, with repair crews remaining on site into the night to complete infrastructure repairs.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was caused by a contractor accidentally striking a high-voltage feeder line during work near the site, according to the FDNY.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High-voltage feeder lines near excavation sites must have verified locating and marking before work starts, as an accidental strike caused this fire. (2) Elevators in residential buildings need backup power or fail-safe protocols, since loss of supply left residents unable to leave.", "source_url": "https://brooklyn.news12.com/2025/08/23/transformer-fire-and-power-outage-disrupt-downtown-brooklyn/6hh0GD4Q9IXktHyxSYFaYU", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:28:21.921698+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0600", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0600/", "title": "Fire guts Palm Ridge Substation control room, cutting power to thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-07", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on 3 July 2025 in the ripple control room of an electricity substation serving Palm Ridge and Sky City in Ekurhuleni, South Africa. The blaze damaged electrical breakers housed in the control room, cutting power to thousands of households and businesses. Ekurhuleni's Disaster and Emergency Management Services attended the fire. At the time of reporting, the cause of the fire had not been established and was under investigation by fire safety officers and city electrical engineers, with no confirmed timeline for restoring supply. Local businesses reported closures due to the extended outage, and residents expressed frustration over repeated infrastructure failures in the area.", "contributing_factors": "Residents alleged that widespread illegal electricity connections from nearby informal settlements, reportedly numbering over 1,500, place additional strain on the network, though the city had not confirmed this as the cause of this specific fire at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in a ripple control room can damage breakers and cause long outages, so operators should fit early detection and automatic isolation in such rooms. (2) Illegal connections may overload substation equipment, so operators should inspect and remove unauthorised links where strain is reported. (3) Control room fire investigations must check both internal condition and external load factors before naming a root cause.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/alberton-record/news-headlines/local-news/2025/07/04/palm-ridge-plunged-into-darkness-as-substation-fire-sparks-outrage-and-renewed-calls-for-action/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:28:57.278704+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0602", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0602/", "title": "Fatality after heavy machinery incident at Australian wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-07", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A man died during construction of an onshore wind farm in Australia on 2 July 2025. The report describes a heavy machinery incident. The site, the companies involved and the circumstances are not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Heavy machinery on wind farm construction sites can cause fatal injury, so operators must keep all workers outside moving plant exclusion zones. (2) Heavy machinery incidents during onshore wind farm builds need full task and control review before any repeat work.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1924127/man-dies-heavy-machinery-incident-australian-onshore-wind-farm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:29:34.372476+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0603", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0603/", "title": "High Prairie wind farm turbines idle after collapses", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Three turbines collapsed last year at Ameren's High Prairie Wind Farm. The collapses were attributed to extreme weather. An Ameren representative told the Adair County Commission that blades came off and the resulting imbalance caused the turbines to fall. Most turbines remained idle while inspections continued. About 15 turbines assessed as unaffected had been returned to service, with further units to be added. Blades were to be replaced using inspection data. Landowners were to be notified if turbines on their property needed repair, and road repairs were planned after the main works.", "contributing_factors": "The collapses were attributed to extreme weather. The operator reported that blades came off and imbalance then caused the turbines to fall. The inspection and blade-replacement work was still under way when this was reported, so a confirmed failure mechanism has not been published.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind turbine blades that detach in extreme weather create imbalance and can bring down the whole tower, so operators must ground the unit at once. (2) After extreme weather, inspect every blade on the site before any restart, then use the data to decide which blades to replace. (3) Keep landowners and local councils updated while inspection and repair plans are still forming.", "source_url": "https://www.ktvo.com/news/local/amerens-high-prairie-wind-farm-turbines-idle-after-collapses/article_9ff346bb-6da7-5df8-8f54-1c51116b97b0.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:31:18.311714+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0604", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0604/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses near Kildare in northern Oklahoma", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine collapsed on a private farm east of Kildare in Kay County, northern Oklahoma, with debris scattered across a field. Firefighters responded to a report of the downed turbine at about 7:20 a.m. Residents at least four miles away reported hearing the sound. Fire officials described the collapse as unusual because it was not a windy day. No injuries or fires were reported. The cause has not been reported, and which company operated this turbine has not been confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported. Officials said the collapse was unusual because it was not a windy day.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine can collapse on a calm day, so structural checks must cover fatigue and defects even without high wind. (2) Debris from a collapsed turbine can spread across a field, so operators must secure the site promptly. (3) When the operator of a failed turbine is unclear, quick identification is needed to start the investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/2025/02/27/watch-oklahoma-wind-turbine-mysteriously-collapses-debris-scattered/80696815007/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:31:24.510943+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0610", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0610/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at Berrybank Wind Farm in Victoria", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-02", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at Berrybank Wind Farm, around 80km south-west of Geelong in Victoria, Australia, collapsed after strong gusts and storms. The 112m tall turbine fell, with its blades broken on the ground. The site, operated by Naturgy with Vestas as service and maintenance provider, was temporarily closed. No injuries were reported. WorkSafe Victoria responded to the incident. The Bureau of Meteorology recorded wind gusts over 60km/h. Vestas noted a preliminary investigation into possible lightning strikes during severe storms on 3 February. The remaining turbines at Berrybank Stage One and Stage Two were paused for assessment.", "contributing_factors": "Strong wind gusts and possible lightning strikes during storms.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should conduct immediate post-storm inspections of all turbines after severe weather events. (2) Temporary shutdown protocols can limit further risk while assessments are completed. (3) Coordination with regulators such as WorkSafe and Energy Safe Victoria supports thorough incident review.", "source_url": "https://www.nine.com.au/australia-news/vic/wind-turbine-collapses-berrybank-wind-farm-victoria-20250205-p5zat5.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-09T09:32:44.942792+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0612", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0612/", "title": "Fires at Fordsburg substation and Central substation in Johannesburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "City Power reported fires at Fordsburg substation and Central substation within about a two week period, cutting power to surrounding communities and businesses in Johannesburg. At the first substation, around 90 percent of affected residents had power restored almost immediately, while the remaining 10 percent were without electricity for about nine days. A second substation fire, at one of 19 substations in the inner city, affected further residential and commercial customers, and no restoration timeline was given because the site had to be cleared before investigators could assess the damage. The utility stated that most cable joint faults would result in a 'pop' that can be repaired, and that the equipment should not catch fire, leading it to suspect that foul play may have been involved. Investigations were continuing at the time of reporting and the utility said tampering could not be ruled out. No injuries or fatalities were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The utility noted that some of its infrastructure and cable joints are ageing and susceptible to damage, while also stating that some of the damage observed pointed to possible tampering. No cause had been confirmed at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation cable joints that should only produce a pop must be checked for signs of tampering when fire occurs instead. (2) Ageing substation infrastructure needs targeted inspection where damage patterns suggest possible interference beyond normal wear. (3) Clearance procedures at fire damaged substations must allow rapid investigator access to avoid extended outages.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-za/news/other/city-power-suspects-tampering-behind-substation-fires/ar-AA2bRfIx", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T12:18:07.697638+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0613", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0613/", "title": "Fire reported at an electrical substation in Berlin's Moabit district", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Monday night, a fire was reported on the grounds of an electrical substation in Berlin's Moabit district, according to a short report citing the Berlin police. Rescuers were said to have received the report at about 2:40 a.m., describing a fire at a construction site and part of the substation. Forensic experts were reported to be examining whether the cause was a technical malfunction or a possible crime. The same report said the city's power supply was not disrupted. The extent of damage to substation equipment was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. The source said investigators were still considering a technical malfunction or a possible crime.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported fire on substation grounds, including a construction area, should be checked as an asset incident until the equipment involved is confirmed. (2) Where both a technical fault and a crime remain open, operators should preserve evidence and avoid closing the cause early. (3) An uninterrupted city supply does not remove the need to inspect the part of the substation said to have been involved.", "source_url": "https://1news.az/en/news/20260907144506895-Fire-breaks-out-at-an-electrical-substation-in-Berlin", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-09T20:16:42.796251+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0617", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0617/", "title": "Substation fire reported in Lancaster County, United States, power reported restored", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Local reporting states that fire crews responded to a fire at an electrical substation in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania area reporting, and that power was restored. Only a headline and short feed summary were available, so the cause of the fire, the extent of any outage, the scale of damage and whether anyone was injured are not reported. The substation owner and the exact location within the county were not named in the available reporting. This entry is provisional and will be updated if fuller reporting appears.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Electrical substation fires need prompt fire crew response to limit damage and speed supply restoration. (2) Network operators should coordinate with fire services during substation incidents to restore power quickly.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/power-restored-fire-crews-respond-to-lancaster-county-substation-fire/ar-AA2bUBg8", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-10T05:06:28.565952+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0625", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0625/", "title": "Solar farm fire reported to have reignited, prompting a renewed shelter in place order, Canada", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "According to a single news report dated 9 September 2026, a fire at the Sunbank solar farm was the subject of a voluntary shelter in place order issued by the City of Summerside, Canada. The order was lifted, but within hours the city reinstated it because the fire had reignited. No further detail is available from the reporting seen. The cause of the fire, the equipment involved, the extent of damage, whether anyone was hurt, and how long the reinstated order remained in force were not reported. This entry is provisional and will be updated if fuller reporting appears.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Fires at solar farms can reignite after appearing out, so monitoring must continue before lifting orders for nearby communities. (2) Shelter in place orders need a clear trigger for quick reinstatement when site conditions change.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-ca/news/other/summerside-reinstates-shelter-in-place-warning-as-solar-farm-fire-flares-up-again/ar-AA2bUSG4", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-10T05:07:19.54909+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0626", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0626/", "title": "Transformer fire at Lakeview Avenue substation prompts emergency in Mayville, New York", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A malfunction at the Lakeview Avenue electric substation in Mayville, New York, operated by the Village of Mayville, led to a series of loud bangs, flames and small transformer failures, causing a brief fire. A feeder line failed, cutting power to part of Mayville for about ninety minutes before crews redirected supply from a second substation to restore service. Officials later declared a state of emergency to expedite repairs at the damaged substation. As part of the repair works, a four hour villagewide power outage was scheduled so crews could assess the extent of the damage and establish a repair timeline, with officials aiming to complete repairs before the onset of winter.", "contributing_factors": "Mini-transformers failed and one feeder blew out at the Lakeview Avenue substation, according to the mayor, who described the cause in general terms rather than as a confirmed technical root cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A second interconnected substation allowed supply to be rerouted and restored in ninety minutes after the feeder failure. (2) Mini-transformers and feeders at distribution substations need targeted inspection when general failure descriptions are given. (3) Declaring a state of emergency can speed repairs at a damaged substation ahead of winter.", "source_url": "https://www.observertoday.com/news/top-stories/2026/09/state-of-emergency-declared-in-mayville-over-transformer/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-10T12:17:47.240506+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0627", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0627/", "title": "Battery container fire and explosion in Vastra Frolunda, Gothenburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "Sweden", "country_code": "se", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in a battery storage container holding around nine tonnes of lithium batteries in the Sisjon industrial area of Vastra Frolunda, Gothenburg. The container, which was on wheels, was moved from indoors to outdoors after smoke was detected. Firefighters used a cutting extinguisher to cool the battery pack, but several minutes later an explosion occurred. A nearby building sustained some damage in the early stages of the fire and was evacuated as a precaution. Police issued a public warning (VMA) due to hazardous smoke, and residents in the area were told to stay indoors. One person was taken to hospital by ambulance due to breathing difficulties. Firefighting continued overnight. The following day, the batteries began smoking again, and the container was eventually submerged in water inside a larger container using a crane.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports the fire originated in a container of lithium batteries (NMC chemistry) and that an explosion occurred after initial cooling efforts; no specific root cause or ignition source was confirmed in the reporting, and police stated a technical investigation would follow.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lithium battery container can explode after initial cooling with a cutting extinguisher, so operators should keep exclusion zones during any move or response. (2) Lithium battery fires can reignite the day after apparent control, so plans must include extended monitoring and a means to submerge the container. (3) Smoke from an NMC battery container can affect nearby buildings and residents, so response plans should include prompt public warnings and evacuations.", "source_url": "https://www.svt.se/nyheter/lokalt/vast/gifitig-rok-efter-brand-i-container-i-sisjon", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:15:14.386379+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0628", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0628/", "title": "Battery storage cabinet fire at Guangtong Logistics Park, Zhuhai City", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-08", "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An indoor lithium-ion battery energy storage cabinet at Guangtong Logistics Park, Pingbei 2nd Road, Xiangzhou District, Zhuhai City, caught fire on 19 August 2023. The system comprised five battery cabinets connected in series, with cabinets 1 and 2 involved in the fire, covering an area of about 5 square metres. The Zhuhai Fire and Rescue Detachment dispatched 9 fire trucks and 39 personnel, extinguishing the visible fire within about 30 minutes of arrival using water cannons and hydrants. During subsequent cooling, the battery cabinet reignited. Staff, protected by fire crews, used a forklift to move each cabinet to an outdoor open area, where they were cooled for up to 9 hours until confirmed safe with no risk of re-ignition. No casualties were reported. The cause of the fire remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Reignition occurred during the cooling phase after initial suppression, indicating residual thermal risk within the battery cabinets. The indoor architecture of the system limited natural smoke extraction, requiring fire services to open additional smoke outlets and deploy mobile ventilation equipment.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Indoor BESS cabinets can reignite after initial suppression, so operators must plan extended cooling and monitoring before declaring safety. (2) Indoor sites limit smoke extraction, so operators should fit mechanical ventilation and pre-planned smoke outlets. (3) Forklift relocation of burning cabinets requires pre-agreed procedures with fire crews to limit escalation.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/hsn360uwto0vl70f5xa8w3s7jftty6wv.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:15:22.962378+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0629", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0629/", "title": "Fire severely damages Maxnod data centre in Saint-Trivier-sur-Moignans", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-03", "country": "France", "country_code": "fr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "On 28 March 2023 a fire severely damaged the Maxnod data centre in Saint-Trivier-sur-Moignans, France, and took the facility offline. A witness reported the fire in the battery room of the site's photovoltaic system, and lithium ion batteries are suspected. Local authorities said the response used about 81 firefighters and 49 vehicles. One firefighter was reported to have had a minor injury. No fatalities were reported. How much of the building was lost is not fully clear: one account said the machine room largely survived but was affected by soot and water.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been confirmed. Reporting links the fire to the battery room of the photovoltaic system, and lithium ion batteries are suspected.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Segregate battery storage into dedicated fire-rated rooms, away from other equipment. (2) Check that suppression arrangements are suitable for a lithium ion battery fire. (3) Plan for a battery fire that may continue until the stored energy is spent, and for smoke and water damage beyond the point of ignition.", "source_url": "https://www.networkworld.com/article/972090/data-center-fires-raise-concerns-about-lithium-ion-batteries.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:15:26.453639+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0630", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0630/", "title": "Water based suppression system leak causes battery shorting at Moss Landing Phase II", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 13 February 2022, an early detection safety system activated at the 100 MW Phase II building of the Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility in Moss Landing, California, operated by Vistra Energy. An investigation found that the water-based suppression system released water that contacted batteries, and there was early evidence that water hoses leaked, causing some batteries to short and create smoke inside the building. Firefighters who attended found around ten melted battery racks. The building's systems contained the event without requiring outside firefighting assistance, although off-site emergency responders were contacted as a precaution. No injuries to personnel were reported. The Phase II system was taken offline following the incident, and restart of the adjacent Phase I facility, which was unaffected, was paused while the operator assessed the Phase II event and incorporated any lessons learned.", "contributing_factors": "Early evidence pointed to leaking water hoses in the water-based suppression system, which allowed water to contact batteries and cause shorting, similar to a prior incident at the adjacent Phase I facility in September 2021.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Water hoses in battery storage suppression systems must be inspected regularly for leaks that could contact energised racks and cause shorting. (2) Melted battery racks found after a water leak show that suppression system design must prevent water reaching live cells. (3) A repeat water leak event at an adjacent phase requires review of shared suppression system specification and maintenance across the whole site.", "source_url": "https://investor.vistracorp.com/news?item=220", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:15:54.112124+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0631", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0631/", "title": "Tesla Megapack fire destroys mobile supercharger battery unit in Baker, California", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On New Year's Day 2023, a fire broke out in a Tesla Megapack battery unit mounted on a trailer, used as a mobile Supercharger at a charging station in Baker, California. Witnesses, including electric vehicle owners charging at the busy holiday site, saw the mobile unit burn. According to onlookers, the fire affected roughly half of the site's 40 charging stalls, though photographic evidence suggested the physical damage was largely contained to the Megapack itself. Police tape was used to cordon off a large section of the site, including nearby permanent Superchargers, as a precaution. The cause of the fire was not disclosed publicly. It was reported as one of the first known fires involving a mobile Supercharger trailer, though stationary Megapack units have caught fire before at other sites.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire had not been determined or disclosed at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A mobile Megapack fire on a trailer can disrupt many charging stalls, so operators must set wide exclusion zones around temporary battery units. (2) Mobile battery trailers need the same monitoring as fixed units because early fires can spread before crews arrive.", "source_url": "https://insideevs.com/news/629514/tesla-mobile-supercharger-fire-baker/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:16:06.317551+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0632", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0632/", "title": "Battery overheating forces shutdown of Moss Landing Phase I storage facility", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 4 September 2021, the Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility in California, operated by Vistra Energy, experienced an overheating issue affecting a limited number of battery modules in its Phase I 300 MW/1200 MWh system. Local fire crews responded to a reported structure fire around 8pm but found no fire, instead discovering scorched battery racks and melted wires. Vistra Energy said its risk mitigation and safety systems detected modules operating above normal temperature and activated targeted sprinkler systems aimed at the affected modules. The company stated the event was controlled and contained without external assistance, though fire crews remained on site overnight. The entire Phase I facility was taken offline pending an investigation into the root cause, conducted with engineering contractor Fluence and battery manufacturer LG Energy Solution. The adjacent Phase II 100 MW system, in a separate building, was unaffected and remained operational.", "contributing_factors": "Vistra Energy stated it had not determined a root cause at the time of reporting and cautioned against assuming the batteries themselves caused the incident. The article notes LG Energy Solution had separately announced a battery cell replacement programme in May 2021 for cells made between April 2017 and September 2018 due to electrode production issues, though it is not stated whether these cells were used at Moss Landing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Targeted sprinklers can contain battery module overheating before it becomes open fire. (2) Separate buildings for each phase limit an incident to one phase only. (3) Fire crews need prior briefing on battery layouts, as a structure fire call may mean no flame.", "source_url": "https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2021/09/07/moss-landing-energy-storage-facility-knocked-offline-after-batteries-overheat", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:16:11.174493+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0633", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0633/", "title": "Fire at Solar+Storage Facility in Haenam County, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-01", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred at a solar photovoltaic and battery energy storage facility located in Hwangsan-myeon, Haenam-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea. The fire was detected through the site's remote monitoring system, which triggered an automatic fire suppression response. Local news coverage reported that the fire, at a solar power facility in Haenam, was extinguished within about one hour. According to the EPRI BESS Failure Incident Database, the affected battery system had a capacity of 11.7 MWh using lithium-ion chemistry in an indoor architecture, and only a very small fraction of the installed capacity, roughly 0.002 percent, was damaged. No injuries were reported in available sources. The specific site operator, owner or equipment suppliers were not named in the reporting reviewed.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in available sources.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Remote monitoring of indoor lithium-ion battery systems can trigger automatic suppression before a fire spreads. (2) Automatic suppression in colocated solar and storage sites can limit damage to a tiny fraction of capacity.", "source_url": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYuu9eoj8l4&t=6s%20%20%20%20http://www.hnwoori.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=207422", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:16:14.398221+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0634", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0634/", "title": "Consumers Energy battery fire triggers shelter-in-place in Standish, Michigan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A battery storage installation operated by Consumers Energy in Standish, Michigan caught fire on 19 April 2021. A worker noticed sparks coming from a battery container at around 3:00pm local time, and a fire broke out that was contained to a single container. Local authorities issued a shelter-in-place order covering a half-mile radius to the east, north and south of the site due to concerns about potentially toxic fumes from the lithium-ion batteries. HAZMAT teams were called in to assess air quality and the surrounding area, and determined there was no danger. The shelter-in-place order was lifted around 7:00pm, roughly four hours after it began. No injuries were reported. The battery system used lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry and was very new at the time of the incident.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not state a confirmed root cause. The fire was limited to one container out of the installation, and the system was reported as very new (effectively zero years old) at the time of the incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Sparks noticed early in a battery container limited the fire to one enclosure. (2) HAZMAT air quality checks allowed the shelter-in-place order to end after four hours. (3) LFP battery fires still require toxic fume precautions even when very new.", "source_url": "https://www.wsgw.com/standish-battery-installation-fire-causes-shelter-in-place-no-adverse-conditions-found/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:16:34.839832+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0635", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0635/", "title": "Fire during commissioning of Tesla Powerpack battery system at Bohle Plains, Australia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-04", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out during commissioning of a battery energy storage system comprising Tesla Powerpacks at Bohle Plains, Australia, on 7 April 2021. The system was rated at 4.0 MW and 8.0 MWh, used NMC lithium-ion chemistry, and was installed in an outdoor configuration as part of a virtual power plant application. Tesla acted as the system integrator. The available source, an entry in the EPRI battery energy storage system failure incident database, does not provide further detail on the cause of the fire, the extent of damage, the emergency response, or whether anyone was injured. No information on downtime, financial loss or regulatory action was reported in the source used for this entry.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire during commissioning of an outdoor NMC BESS shows that pre-energisation checks must include full fire detection and suppression readiness. (2) Tesla Powerpack systems used in virtual power plant applications need documented safety checks before energisation.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/31jolklmn9pxakjvlx3jgccbt02t6o78.pdf", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:16:48.029602+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0636", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0636/", "title": "Battery storage fire at Koryo Steel plant in Yangsan, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-01", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at approximately 7:31 a.m. at the energy storage system (ESS) installed at the Koryo Steel plant in Yangsan, South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. The ESS was used for peak demand reduction at the steel plant. Fire services responded and the blaze was extinguished around 11:16 a.m., more than four hours after ignition. According to the report, this was the third fire at this peak-shaving ESS installation, following earlier incidents in July and December of the previous year. The battery was supplied by LG Chem, the power conditioning system by Destin Power, and installation was carried out by LG CNS. A company representative stated the plant did not rely entirely on the ESS and that operations would not be disrupted.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not state a confirmed root cause. It notes this was the third fire at the same ESS installation within roughly six months, suggesting a recurring or unresolved issue with the system.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An ESS for peak demand reduction at a steel plant can burn for over four hours, so operators should fit early detection and remote isolation. (2) A third fire at the same peak-shaving ESS within six months shows a recurring fault, so the operator must complete root cause work before restart.", "source_url": "http://www.snmnews.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=439056", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:16:49.859259+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0637", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0637/", "title": "Battery container fire at KEPCO frequency regulation ESS in Yongin, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-10", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in one of twelve battery containers at the Sinyongin substation energy storage system, operated by state utility KEPCO for frequency regulation. The facility, installed in July 2015, comprised 12 containers totalling 24MW using lithium-ion batteries supplied by Samsung SDI. The fire started around 15:20 local time and firefighters deployed 24 units of equipment to bring it under control. Authorities noted the fire was not linked to bird or animal intrusion into the installation. This was the second fire at a KEPCO frequency regulation ESS facility that year, following an earlier fire at the Gyeongsan substation in May 2018. It formed part of a wider series of ESS fires reported across South Korea during 2018, prompting national scrutiny of ESS safety.", "contributing_factors": "The specific technical cause of the fire was not stated in the source. The facility was around three years old at the time of the incident and used battery systems manufactured by Samsung SDI. Authorities had already conducted emergency inspections of ESS sites nationwide following the earlier Gyeongsan substation fire, but this did not prevent a further incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A battery container fire at an ESS site may require many fire units to control, so operators should check that local response plans match the scale of lithium-ion container fires. (2) An earlier fire at another KEPCO frequency regulation ESS did not prevent recurrence, so operators should carry out full fleet diagnostics after any single event. (3) Ruling out animal intrusion does not identify battery faults, so operators should still run complete system diagnostics on similar Samsung SDI units.", "source_url": "http://www.e2news.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=203394", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:17:02.223416+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0638", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0638/", "title": "Explosion and prolonged fire at Orsted battery storage site in Liverpool", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the early hours of 15 September 2020, an explosion occurred at the Orsted battery energy storage system (BESS) on Carnegie Road, Liverpool, before emergency responders arrived. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service received calls reporting a large explosion with smoke and flames near the site. Crews found one of three storage containers fully involved in fire, with a container door blown roughly 6 metres away, consistent with a blast. Firefighters adopted defensive tactics, using water jets and ground monitors to cool and contain the fire rather than entering the vicinity due to electrical hazards. The fire was declared under control by around 06:30, but continued to burn intermittently due to thermal runaway within the lithium ion cells. Firefighting and monitoring continued for approximately 59 hours, with full handover of the site on 17 September. No injuries were reported. The automatic fire suppression system fitted to the unit did not activate.", "contributing_factors": "The site's automatic fire suppression system failed to activate for reasons under investigation. Orsted, which remotely manages the site from Denmark, did not alert the fire service when the automatic fire alarm system actuated; contact was only made by Orsted after fire crews were already in attendance. Operational risk information available to responding crews about the BESS site and its specific fire risks was described as inadequate. The fire produced a significant explosion, propelling debris several metres, which occurred before firefighters arrived.", "lessons_learned": "(1) BESS containers need verified automatic fire suppression that activates on detection, as the system here failed to actuate and allowed thermal runaway to continue. (2) Remote operators must trigger immediate verified alerts to local fire services on alarm, since Orsted in Denmark did not call until crews were already present. (3) Site risk information must include BESS layout, chemistry and voltage so crews can plan defensive tactics before arrival, given the explosion and debris.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/ro9v9uyekoen9638b9e5etppd97rq113.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:17:04.123705+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0639", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0639/", "title": "Battery storage fire and explosion at Jecheon ESS Plant, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-12", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 17 December 2018, a fire broke out at a battery energy storage system (ESS) installation in Jecheon, North Chungcheong Province, South Korea. The system, approximately one year old, used nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) lithium-ion cells manufactured by LG Chem in an indoor architecture for demand charge management, with a capacity of 9.3 MWh. An explosion occurred during the incident. This was one of a series of ESS fires reported across South Korea in late 2018, prompting the national government to recommend that all ESS sites not yet subject to detailed safety inspection be shut down until such inspections were completed. No injuries or fatalities were reported in connection with this specific fire.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the source. The incident occurred amid a broader pattern of unexplained ESS fires across South Korea in 2018.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Indoor NMC battery systems can produce explosion risk, so operators should fit early gas detection and automatic isolation. (2) A series of similar fires at ESS sites requires fleet wide checks rather than isolated responses. (3) Sites without recent detailed safety checks should be shut down promptly after any incident in the fleet.", "source_url": "https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20181223011551062?input=1195m", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:17:16.619544+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0640", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0640/", "title": "Lithium-ion battery fire during assembly at S&C Electric Franklin Facility", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": "2016-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 10 August 2016, a fire broke out in the assembly area of S&C Electric Company's Franklin, Wisconsin facility. The fire started in a utility-scale energy storage system that was still in a partially assembled state, with lithium-ion batteries present but not connected to any power source or load. The fire began in a battery manufacturer's DC power and control compartment within a battery rack and then spread to adjacent batteries. Because the system was only partially assembled, its fire suppression and containment system was not fully functional and the container doors were open, allowing personnel to evacuate safely. The facility's own fire protection system triggered an alarm and sprinklers. Local fire departments responded, cut power to the area, applied foam and then used large volumes of water to cool the batteries. The fire remained contained to the single container and extinguished within a few hours. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The system was in a partially assembled state at the time of the fire, meaning the fire suppression and containment system within the container was not yet operational and the container doors were open for personnel access. The fire originated in a battery manufacturer's DC power and control compartment of a battery rack while an agent of the battery manufacturer was working on the system.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A battery rack fire in a partially assembled BESS can spread to adjacent units when doors are open and the container suppression system is not yet active. (2) Water cooling after initial foam application can limit heat spread in lithium-ion battery fires even if the fire is not fully extinguished at once.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/a634woxxwjqf2bx29k6fhsxdyfc2t1m6.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-10T20:17:21.020229+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0641", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0641/", "title": "Substation fire reported to have caused BART service delays, San Francisco Bay Area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Reporting on 10 September 2026 said a fire at a substation serving the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system had caused a series of service delays, and that BART was continuing recovery from the fire. The cause, the extent of equipment damage, any injuries, and the timeline for full restoration were not reported in the available material. This entry is based on a headline and short summary only and will be updated if fuller reporting appears.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can disrupt rail transit services for days beyond the site itself, so operators should map all dependent loads and pre-agree contingency timetables. (2) Substation plant for critical infrastructure needs documented spares and rapid repair contracts to shorten recovery after fire damage.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/bart-continues-recovery-from-substation-fire-that-sparked-series-of-delays/vi-AA2bZaPb", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T05:09:23.713632+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0642", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0642/", "title": "Rooftop solar fire at Lineage Cold Storage Warehouse in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on 17 June 2026 at a rooftop solar array on a nearly 500,000 square foot Lineage cold storage warehouse in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles, California. The site is operated by Los Palos Street Operating, owned by Altus Power, with Pearce Services acting as integrator responsible for maintenance work. A crew was working to bring the high voltage panels back online after an earlier fire in August 2024 had shut the array down. According to the Los Angeles Fire Chief, two small fires started during the repair work and the workers believed they had put both out, then called 911 when a third ignited. The fire burned for eight days, destroying the warehouse and around 88 million pounds of frozen food, and sent smoke and odours into surrounding neighbourhoods. Lineage has since filed a lawsuit against Los Palos Street Operating, the operator of the solar array, and Pearce Services, the integrator responsible for its maintenance, alleging the fire was caused by negligent reenergisation of the array despite connector failures and damaged wiring identified beforehand. The defendants deny the allegations and say they will contest the claims in court.", "contributing_factors": "According to the lawsuit, more than 200 connector failures had been identified in the array roughly a month before the fire, eight of them in the area where the fire started. The suit alleges Pearce Services, as the maintenance contractor, used thousands of jumper connections between devices whose cables were otherwise incompatible, creating thousands of potential failure points, and that post-fire inspections revealed damaged wiring and loose connections. The lawsuit also alleges the August 2024 fire had damaged the array and that Lineage had directed the array be kept off until safety issues were addressed. These are allegations made in litigation, are denied by Los Palos Street Operating and Pearce Services, and have not been confirmed by a published fire investigation report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Before reenergising a solar array after a fault, identified connector and wiring defects should be remediated and independently verified. (2) Non-standard jumper connections between incompatible cables create large numbers of potential failure points and should be avoided. (3) Where several small fires occur during repair work, crews should treat this as a possible systemic fault and stop work.", "source_url": "https://www.dailybulletin.com/2026/09/10/lineage-sues-solar-array-operator-over-massive-boyle-heights-warehouse-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T05:09:44.839554+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0643", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0643/", "title": "Fire suppression chemicals linked to toxic groundwater at East Hampton battery plant", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on 31 May 2023 at a battery energy storage plant on Cove Hollow Road in East Hampton, New York, described by the source as owned by NextEra Energy and National Grid. Firefighters fought the blaze for about 30 hours. Around 5,000 pounds of NOVEC 1230 fire-suppression gas were used in combination with an internal sprinkler system, alongside more than 1.4 million to 2.2 million gallons of water. New York State's Department of Environmental Conservation has preliminarily found that the combination of the suppression gas and the water produced the forever chemical PFPrA, measured at up to 10,000 parts per billion in groundwater just south of the plant, against a state health screening level of 3 parts per billion. Four Suffolk County Water Authority wells about 2,500 feet away were affected; the authority stopped using them and has sued the plant owners. Tests so far have not shown the plume affecting 27 private drinking water wells in the area. A final DEC report is expected in the autumn of 2026.", "contributing_factors": "Preliminary DEC findings attribute the groundwater contamination primarily to the interaction of the NOVEC 1230 fire-suppression gas with the large volumes of firefighting water, rather than to the lithium-ion batteries themselves. The DEC said only 0.04 per cent of the batteries at the plant burned and that soil tests found no traces of heavy metals. The DEC commissioner said the 3M-made suppression system has since been discontinued, and that the state confirmed it was not used at other plants in New York that experienced fires. The exact cause of the thermal runaway fire has not been released.", "lessons_learned": "(1) NOVEC 1230 fire-suppression gas combined with firefighting water at a BESS site can form PFPrA at 10,000 parts per billion, so operators should test suppression chemistry for persistent environmental byproducts before use. (2) Only 0.04 per cent of batteries burned at this modular containerised site, so insurers should verify that design limits fire spread compared with enclosed buildings. (3) Four water wells 2,500 feet from the plant were taken out of service after PFPrA detection, so operators must agree groundwater testing protocols with regulators in advance.", "source_url": "https://www.newsday.com/long-island/environment/east-hampton-battery-storage-plant-fire-toxic-plume-bezl0l1a", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T05:09:53.661226+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0644", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0644/", "title": "Fire at South Manheim Substation causes outages in Lancaster County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the South Manheim Substation in Penn Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, on the evening of Wednesday 9 September 2026. Emergency dispatch received reports of the fire just after 7.15 p.m. in the 300 block of Bucknoll Road. The Manheim Fire Department responded to the scene. At the onset of the fire, PPL reported more than 2,200 power outages in the area of the fire. Power was fully restored to customers in the area by 8.35 p.m. the same evening, and the scene cleared just after 9 p.m. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire was not immediately clear.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source states the cause of the fire was not immediately clear.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can trigger over 2,200 outages, so operators should maintain rapid isolation and restoration plans to limit customer impact to under two hours. (2) Substation fires require local fire service attendance even when supply is restored quickly, so site access routes and hazard information must stay current. (3) Power restored within two hours after a substation fire shows value in pre-planned switching, yet root cause work must still follow to prevent repeats.", "source_url": "https://www.wgal.com/article/fire-lancaster-county-substation-power-outages-thousands/73659251", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T05:10:17.850051+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0647", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0647/", "title": "Battery storage fire at farm building in Zuidland, Netherlands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 22 July 2024, a fire broke out in batteries housed in two containers inside a farm shed on the Krommedijk in Zuidland, on the Voorne-Putten peninsula in the Netherlands. The batteries stored energy generated by solar panels on the farm. The fire started at around 05:45 and flames broke through the roof of the shed, releasing large amounts of smoke that drifted towards the polder area near Hekelingen. A fire service spokesperson said that extinguishing the fire could take several days because battery fires of this kind are difficult to put out. No further details on injuries or evacuation were reported in the source.", "contributing_factors": "The source states only that lithium-ion battery fires are inherently difficult to extinguish, without giving a specific technical cause for the ignition.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion battery fires in containers are hard to extinguish, so operators should plan for extended isolation and response times. (2) Battery containers inside an enclosed shed let fire and smoke spread through the structure, so operators should review building separation and venting. (3) Smoke from a battery fire in a rural shed can drift across nearby land, so operators should set up early downwind monitoring.", "source_url": "https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/1864806/brandweer-mogelijk-nog-dagen-bezig-met-blussen-van-brandende-accus", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:17:54.821765+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0648", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0648/", "title": "Battery storage fire at Intilion system near Medessen, Priestewitz, Germany, injures worker", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a solar park with co-located battery energy storage near the village of Medessen in the municipality of Priestewitz, Meissen district, Saxony, Germany, on 18 April 2024. The site included a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery energy storage system manufactured by Intilion with a capacity of 3.7 MWh that had been in operation for just over one year. The fire caused damage reported to be in the millions of euros. One worker was injured in the incident. Limited detail is available on the sequence of events, extent of the fire spread, or the emergency response, as the original news article could not be fully retrieved at the time of drafting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available source material.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An LFP battery in outdoor solar co-location can suffer thermal failure after one year, so operators must keep monitoring active rather than reduce checks on young systems. (2) A fire in a battery enclosure injured a worker during normal operation, so exclusion zones and safety protocols must stay in place at all times.", "source_url": "https://www.saechsische.de/lokales/meissen-lk/grossenhain/feuer-im-solarpark-bei-medessen-schaden-in-millionenhoehe-WCGY4CRGDKCXADETXLXOXYHTEI.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:18:04.073988+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0649", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0649/", "title": "Battery storage fire reported at Jinan-gun facility in South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-01", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 19 January 2025 at approximately 14:59, a fire broke out at an energy storage system (ESS) facility in Bugui-myeon, Jinan-gun, North Jeolla province, South Korea. The fire damaged part of the facility ceiling (approximately 3 square metres) as well as batteries and modules. Fire services estimated the property damage at around 6.1 million Korean won. No injuries were reported. Firefighters who responded to the report extinguished the blaze after approximately 3 hours and 31 minutes. Police and fire authorities were investigating the exact cause of the fire at the time of reporting. The facility name, operator, capacity and technology supplier were not disclosed in the source report.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The exact cause of the fire was still under investigation by police and fire authorities at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A battery storage fire can damage ceiling panels and modules, so operators should check fire resistance of building fabric around ESS units. (2) Fire services can contain a battery storage fire within hours, so operators should plan rapid access routes and early detection systems.", "source_url": "https://www.news1.kr/local/jeonbuk/5665848", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:18:10.337171+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0650", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0650/", "title": "Battery storage fire at solar and storage site in Anjwa Township, Shinan-gun, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-01", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 4 January 2025 a fire broke out at an energy storage system (ESS) co-located with a solar facility in Anjwa Township, Shinan-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea. The battery equipment was manufactured by LG Chem, and the system was integrated by KCH group. The fire destroyed one battery pack. Sixteen fire personnel and nine vehicles were deployed and extinguished the blaze within 44 minutes of the report being received. Fire authorities estimated property damage at around 25 million Korean won. No injuries were reported in the source article. Fire and police investigators said the fire was believed to have been caused by a chemical factor within the battery system, and were continuing to investigate the exact cause.", "contributing_factors": "Fire and police authorities suspected a chemical factor within the battery system as the cause, though the precise cause remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A battery pack fire at a co-located solar and storage site was limited to one unit when crews responded with sixteen personnel and nine vehicles. (2) Operators should fit detection systems tuned to chemical failure modes in LG Chem battery packs to allow early isolation.", "source_url": "https://m.fpn119.co.kr/a.html?uid=227567&sc=sc87", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:18:22.072279+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0651", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0651/", "title": "Fire at Yeonggwang solar and battery storage site in South Korea, no injuries", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 13 June 2024, a fire broke out at a battery energy storage facility co-located with a 100MW solar plant in Baeksu-eup, Yeonggwang-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea. The blaze was reported shortly after midday and fire authorities responded with 19 pieces of equipment, including one helicopter. The fire took around three hours and twenty minutes to extinguish. One battery storage building was destroyed. No one was inside the facility at the time and no injuries were reported. Local authorities issued an emergency safety alert advising nearby residents to evacuate the area and asking drivers to use alternative routes, citing concerns about possible explosion risk during firefighting. The exact cause of the fire and the scale of the financial loss were still under investigation by fire authorities at the time of reporting. The site had been in commercial operation for around three and a half years.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in detail. Local reporting on a separate incident at a different, smaller facility in the same county described lithium iron phosphate battery overheating as a suspected cause, but this has not been confirmed for this specific incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage fires may need extended response with aerial support, so operators must plan for prolonged isolation and specialist access. (2) Co-located sites should have pre-set evacuation and route plans because battery fires create uncertain explosion risks. (3) Operators of three-and-a-half-year-old systems should review shared investigation findings to assess similar fire risks.", "source_url": "https://www.ygnews.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=313534", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:18:29.591487+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0652", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0652/", "title": "Battery storage fire at solar plant in Jecheon, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-10", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 17 October 2023 at around 17:40, a fire broke out in the battery energy storage system (ESS) attached to a solar power facility in Songhak-myeon, Jecheon-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, South Korea. Fire crews responded after being alerted and took around five hours to extinguish the blaze, bringing it under control by approximately 22:40. No injuries or fatalities were reported. The fire damaged an internal area of about 43.56 square metres and destroyed roughly 300 solar modules. Local fire authorities estimated the property damage at approximately 1.22 billion Korean won. Police and fire investigators were reported to be examining the exact cause of the fire at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The exact cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting; investigation by police and fire authorities was ongoing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery fires in co-located ESS can spread to solar modules, so operators must install detection and suppression that limits damage to adjacent equipment. (2) Battery fires require extended suppression times, so response plans should allow for several hours of firefighting effort.", "source_url": "https://www.ccdailynews.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=2233868", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:18:47.892557+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0653", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0653/", "title": "Battery storage fire burns for days at Idaho Power substation near Melba", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 2 MW battery energy storage system at Idaho Power's substation near Melba, Idaho, caught fire in the early hours of 2 October 2023. The fire burned intermittently until the afternoon of 4 October. The battery system had recently been installed for use as a distribution resource. The blaze did not affect Idaho Power's distribution grid and the substation continued operating throughout the incident. As of 5 October, Idaho Power had not yet been able to investigate the cause because the fire's heat was still too high to allow access. Drones were flown over the site to monitor temperatures. A senior Idaho Power executive noted that similar battery storage fires occur occasionally across the country and are generally uncommon.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause had not been determined at the time of reporting because residual heat prevented investigators from accessing the unit.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery energy storage fires can burn intermittently over several days, so operators must plan for extended exclusion zones and delayed access. (2) Drones allow temperature monitoring of battery fires without sending staff into hazardous zones. (3) Battery storage at substations can be sited so a fire leaves grid operation unaffected.", "source_url": "https://www.newsdata.com/clearing_up/briefs/idaho-powers-2-mw-battery-system-catches-fire-at-substation/article_0c8ad540-646d-11ee-932c-8fede7705d0a.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:18:53.257087+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0654", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0654/", "title": "Battery storage fire breaks out at Proxy Delhaize supermarket in Braives, Belgium", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-12", "country": "Belgium", "country_code": "be", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the battery energy storage system at the Proxy Delhaize supermarket in Braives, Belgium, on the morning of 26 or 27 December 2023. The store had installed eight lithium ion battery units with a combined capacity of 144 kWh outside the building to store surplus solar energy from more than 1,200 rooftop panels. The fire started in the battery units, which were located outside the main shop structure. Local fire services from the Hesbaye emergency zone attended, describing it as the first incident of its kind in the region involving commercial energy storage batteries rather than electric vehicles. A specialised contractor removed the damaged battery units and submerged them in a water filled container to cool them before disposal. The store manager stated the shop narrowly avoided being destroyed.", "contributing_factors": "Fire service and an industry association representative said the cause could not be confirmed but speculated it might involve a fault in an individual battery cell, a short circuit in electrical panels, or a connection issue with the battery system itself. It was also suggested that increased electrical demand during the festive period, from refrigeration, lighting and higher customer footfall, raised questions about whether the battery system was adequately sized for the load.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery units sited outside the main building limited fire spread to the shop. (2) Damaged lithium ion units need prompt immersion in water by specialists. (3) Commercial battery systems must match peak loads from refrigeration and lighting.", "source_url": "https://www.sudinfo.be/id765542/article/2023-12-27/incendie-au-proxy-delhaize-de-braives-cause-de-ces-batteries-electriques-tout", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:19:16.190046+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0655", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0655/", "title": "Battery Storage Fire and Fume Release at Two Warwick, New York Sites", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Two lithium-ion battery energy storage sites in Warwick, New York experienced separate incidents within about 24 hours of each other during a storm. A fire broke out at a storage site on County Route 1 that burned for several days, while a second site on Church Street Extension emitted fumes that worried nearby residents. Hazmat crews carried out around 20 hours of air metering over three days and reported no elevated levels of battery-related chemicals. The school district also tested surfaces in buses and classrooms and found no harmful residue. Batteries at the Church Street site were packaged and removed for disposal, while the batteries at the County Route 1 site were left in place after cooling to assist investigation. Convergent Energy and Power, the integrator, and Powin, the battery manufacturer, said they had staff on site working with local fire officials to determine the cause.", "contributing_factors": "A large storm affected both sites around the time of the failures. Both sites used a newly deployed battery system model that had been in service for only a short period before the incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A newly deployed battery system model requires close monitoring in its first months, as both sites used one that had been in service only a short period. (2) Storm events near new battery assets call for rapid response, as a large storm affected both sites around the time of the failures. (3) Independent air and surface testing after a fume event helps confirm no spread, as hazmat crews found no elevated levels and school tests found no residue.", "source_url": "https://hudsonvalley.news12.com/lithium-ion-batteries-removed-from-warwick-storage-site-following-2-fires", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:19:27.297358+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0656", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0656/", "title": "Battery storage fire at solar plant in Chilgok, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at approximately 14:33 on 7 April 2023 in the battery energy storage system (ESS) facility of a solar power plant in Dongmyeon-myeon, Chilgok-gun, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. Fire authorities dispatched 86 personnel and 31 vehicles to the scene. The blaze took around six hours to bring under control, with full extinguishment declared at approximately 20:36 the same day. A lightweight steel-frame structure and a 9,120 kWh ESS unit were damaged by the fire. No injuries were reported. Fire and police authorities stated they were investigating the exact cause and the extent of the damage, which was estimated by fire authorities at approximately 1.683 billion Korean won.", "contributing_factors": "The exact cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting; fire and police authorities stated an investigation was ongoing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) ESS fires at solar sites can take six hours to control even with 86 personnel and 31 vehicles, so operators must fit robust on-site suppression and early detection. (2) Lightweight steel-frame structures housing ESS can be fully damaged by fire, so insurers should check fire spread limits in co-located solar and storage designs. (3) Root cause findings after unexplained ESS ignition should be published to help the industry avoid repeat events.", "source_url": "https://www.newspim.com/news/view/20230408000045", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:19:35.330814+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0657", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0657/", "title": "Battery fire at Damyang Solar Power Plant ESS marks fifth South Korean ESS fire of 2022", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-12", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the battery room of the Damyang Solar Power Plant ESS, an energy storage system co-located with a solar power plant in Deokgok-ri, Mujeong-myeon, Damyang-gun, Jeollanam-do. The facility manager was alerted by an abnormal alarm from the ESS monitoring equipment at around 15:32 and found smoke leaking from the battery room, with no visible flames. The fire department was notified immediately. Damyang Fire Department dispatched 22 fire appliances and about 150 firefighters. The onboard carbon dioxide suppression system had activated before crews arrived, and water was applied to control the blaze. Because stored energy in the battery continued to release heat, full extinguishment was expected to take around three days. The 9.1 MWh battery system and associated power conversion equipment were damaged. This was reported as the fifth ESS fire in South Korea in 2022 and the 38th cumulative ESS fire incident in the country since 2017.", "contributing_factors": "The battery had reportedly undergone a prior intervention roughly two years before the fire, when manufacturer Samsung SDI replaced batteries and retrofitted additional capsule-type fire suppression equipment following a period of frequent ESS fires nationally. The specific technical trigger for this event (battery cell fault versus other equipment fault) was not confirmed in the source reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Smoke or alarm detection without visible flame should trigger immediate isolation and fire service notification, as battery room fires can develop with limited external warning signs. (2) Retrofitted suppression and battery replacement after earlier fires do not eliminate recurrence risk, so ongoing monitoring remains necessary. (3) Suppression systems should be designed for extended thermal runaway events, since full extinguishment of a battery fire can take considerably longer than typical response timeframes.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/3jzjdsmtv1q186pt0gbrop8zx506vv6d.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:19:38.237309+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0658", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0658/", "title": "ESS fire at Yeongam Solar Power Complex, Daemyung Energy, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-12", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at 4:28pm on 27 December 2022 in one of 24 energy storage system (ESS) buildings at the Yeongam solar power complex, operated by Daemyung Energy in Geumjeong-myeon (Geummyeon-myeon), Yeongam-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea. The site combines a 94MW solar array with a 251MWh battery storage system used to shift peak generation for grid balancing. The fire was contained to one of the 24 ESS buildings, each of reinforced concrete construction. The Yeongam Fire Station dispatched 21 vehicles, including pump and chemical trucks, and 45 personnel. Fire officials stated that because it was a battery fire, efforts focused on preventing spread rather than extinguishing it directly, allowing it to burn out. Casualties were not reported in the source. This was the same site where a separate ESS fire occurred in June 2018, linked to a wind farm battery installation, which destroyed a 12MWh battery, a 4MW power conversion system and a building.", "contributing_factors": "The site had previously experienced an ESS fire in 2018 linked to a co-located wind farm battery system. Industry commentary cited in the source suggested that battery aging, insufficient continuous monitoring and inadequate separation between ESS buildings were contributing risk factors in recurring ESS fires nationally, though no official cause had been confirmed for this specific incident at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Prior ESS fires at the same site call for extra monitoring and separation checks to limit repeat events. (2) Reinforced concrete ESS buildings can contain a battery fire to one unit when spread is prevented. (3) Battery fires require plans for burn-out periods as direct extinguishing is not used.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/aroriw7lw45hgemvr1ka6ha56slj7arf.pdf", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:19:49.555859+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0659", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0659/", "title": "Battery compartment fire during commissioning at Hainan Tianneng Yingge Haiyanchang storage station", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-10", "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At around 18:30 on 20 October 2022, a fire broke out in one of ten battery compartments (No. 6) at the 25MW/50MWh energy storage system forming part of the Hainan Tianneng Yingge Haiyanchang 100MW photovoltaic project energy storage power station in Yinggehai, Hainan, China. The local fire department was notified and firefighters arrived at the site by 18:50. There were no casualties. The energy storage system was still in the commissioning stage, had not been connected to the grid or handed over from the EPC contractor, PowerChina Hainan Electric Power Design, to the operator, Hainan Tianneng Electric Power, so the incident did not affect grid operation. Technical staff advised that the fire could not be safely extinguished with water at the scene. Because the burning compartment did not threaten surrounding equipment, the decision was taken to let the fire burn itself out before further disposal action.", "contributing_factors": "The battery system was in the commissioning phase and had not yet been formally handed over to the operator, Hainan Tianneng Electric Power. Reports noted that the site had recently conducted photovoltaic fire emergency drills but appeared to lack specific emergency drills and plans for energy storage battery fires.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery energy storage systems need fire emergency drills and response plans specific to the chemistry, separate from generic photovoltaic plans. (2) Fires can occur during commissioning before handover or grid connection, so protocols must include dedicated fire monitoring and response. (3) Water may not be safe or effective for lithium iron phosphate battery fires; agree tactics in advance, including controlled burn-out if isolation is assured.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/x0ssb49bjyryp6iin2pwlxrtt8dlgddi.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:20:05.861786+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0660", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0660/", "title": "Battery storage fire destroys solar facility in Hongseong, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-04", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 6 April 2021, a fire broke out in an energy storage system supplied by LG Energy Solution at a solar power generation facility in Hongseong, South Chungcheong Province, South Korea. The fire, which involved an explosion, destroyed the solar facility, which was operated by an individual, and caused property damage estimated at 440 million won. Firefighters extinguished the blaze approximately four hours after it started. Police and fire departments stated that the fire appeared to have started inside the energy storage unit and said a joint inspection would be carried out to determine the exact cause. The battery system was approximately three years old at the time of the incident and used nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) chemistry in an outdoor architecture.", "contributing_factors": "The energy storage system used lithium-ion battery cells supplied by LG Energy Solution. The source notes that LG Energy Solution cells of similar type had previously been linked to fire incidents in electric vehicles, though no direct causal link to this specific incident was confirmed at the time of reporting. The cause of the fire had not been formally determined and was subject to a joint police and fire department investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Outdoor battery energy storage systems at solar sites need early detection and suppression because a fire can escalate to explosion within minutes. (2) Operators of three-year-old NMC battery systems should review cell history from the same supplier in other uses such as electric vehicles. (3) Joint police and fire inspections after an ESS fire help determine root cause when the origin is inside the battery unit.", "source_url": "http://www.businesskorea.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=64241", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:20:17.639628+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0661", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0661/", "title": "Fire breaks out at Gunwi battery storage system in South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-09", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 29 September 2019, a fire occurred at a battery energy storage system in Gunwi, South Korea. The system, rated at 1.5 MWh and used for solar integration, was discharging at the time of the incident. The system used NMC cells manufactured by LG Chem and was approximately 1.8 years old at the time of the failure. According to the EPRI BESS Failure Incident Database, the fire resulted in damage to approximately 1.0% of the installed capacity. No further details on injuries, evacuation or emergency response were reported in the available source.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not state a confirmed root cause. The system used nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) lithium-ion cells supplied by LG Chem and was in solar integration service at the time of the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) NMC cells from LG Chem in solar integration service require checks on thermal monitoring during discharge. (2) Damage limited to 1% capacity shows value of early isolation for BESS fires.", "source_url": "https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352152X2301589X#event-2019-09-29", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:20:23.490277+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0662", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0662/", "title": "Fire and explosion reported at solar-storage BESS in Hadong, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-10", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred in a battery energy storage system (BESS) at a solar-plus-storage facility in Hadong, South Korea, on 21 October 2019. A nearby resident reported hearing an explosion at the time of the incident. The cause was determined to be a sudden deterioration in the insulation performance of the battery system. The BESS used NMC lithium-ion battery cells supplied by LG Chem and was around 1.3 years old at the time. Damage was estimated at around one percent of the installed capacity. The incident is recorded in the EPRI BESS Failure Incident Database.", "contributing_factors": "Sudden deterioration in insulation performance within the battery system. The battery cells were supplied by LG Chem and used NMC chemistry, installed in an outdoor architecture as part of a solar integration application.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Insulation resistance should be continuously monitored in outdoor battery storage systems, as degradation can develop gradually before triggering a fault. (2) Early warning systems capable of detecting insulation deterioration could help prevent escalation to fire or explosion. (3) Battery systems co-located with solar generation require the same rigorous electrical safety monitoring as standalone BESS installations, regardless of relatively young system age.", "source_url": "https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352152X2301589X#event-2019-10-21", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:20:24.819091+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0663", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0663/", "title": "Battery storage fire follows charging rate increase in Yesan, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred at a 1.5 MWh battery energy storage system used for solar integration in Yesan, South Korea. According to the EPRI BESS Failure Incident Database, the system's charging rate had been increased from 70 percent to 95 percent, and the fire broke out two days later. The system was installed outdoors and used NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) lithium-ion cells manufactured by LG Chem. The battery system was approximately 1.7 years old at the time of the incident. Reported physical damage was limited to about 1.0 percent of the installed capacity. No information on injuries, evacuation, or emergency response was available in the source record.", "contributing_factors": "The recorded database entry links the fire to an increase in the battery charging rate from 70 percent to 95 percent two days before the event. The battery chemistry was NMC, a lithium-ion chemistry associated with higher thermal runaway risk than some alternatives such as LFP.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An increase in charging rate on an NMC BESS should be preceded by a risk assessment of thermal margins. (2) NMC cells in outdoor BESS need closer monitoring after any change to state of charge limits.", "source_url": "https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352152X2301589X", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:20:59.489957+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0664", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0664/", "title": "Battery storage failure at SK Ulsan CLX site, Ulsan, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-01", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 12 January 2022, a 10 MW, 50 MWh battery energy storage system in Nam-gu, Ulsan, South Korea, using NMC cell chemistry and installed indoors for peak load reduction, experienced a failure event approximately two years after entering service. According to the EPRI BESS Failure Incident Database, the event damaged about 1 percent of the installed capacity. No cause, fire response, injury or evacuation information has been reported. Based on matching location and capacity, the site is inferred to be SK Ulsan CLX, operated, owned and with equipment manufactured by SK On, though this identification has not been directly confirmed by any incident report. A 2018 news report describes a similarly sized 50MWh ESS installed at the SK Ulsan CLX complex by SK Innovation and SK E&S, but that article does not describe this incident.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in available sources.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Indoor NMC battery systems need early detection systems because a failure can still damage capacity even two years after commissioning. (2) Operators should confirm site identity from direct reports rather than matching capacity alone.", "source_url": "https://www-infostockdaily-co-kr.translate.goog/news/articleView.html?idxno=51773&_x_tr_sch=http&_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=en-US", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:21:00.812696+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0665", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0665/", "title": "ESS fire at solar facility in Chilgok, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-05", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at approximately 3:40 p.m. on 4 May 2019 at a solar power generation facility in Gasa-myeon, Chilgok-gun, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. The local fire department estimated property damage at around 610 million won and suspected the fire originated in the site's energy storage system (ESS), which used batteries manufactured by LG Chem. The facility, which began operating in February 2017, had temporarily halted ESS operation following a government recommendation late the previous year that all ESS facilities at risk of fire spread be shut down. According to reports, some batteries within the ESS had been replaced the previous month and the system was being restarted when the fire occurred. This was reported as the 22nd ESS fire in South Korea since August 2017. A joint industry-government investigation team and the National Forensic Service conducted a site examination, with a full cause report expected the following month.", "contributing_factors": "The fire occurred during restart of the ESS following partial battery replacement, after the system had been shut down in line with a government recommendation addressing a wider pattern of ESS fires across the country.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Restart of an ESS after partial battery replacement must use staged checks and monitoring, as the fire started during restart following replacement. (2) A pattern of 22 ESS fires since 2017 requires fleet-wide root cause work rather than isolated fixes.", "source_url": "https://www.munhwa.com/news/view.html?no=2019050701071327106001", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:21:02.101186+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0666", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0666/", "title": "Fire during new product testing of Powin batteries in Tualatin, Oregon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out during a new product test of six large lithium-ion battery cells at a warehouse in Tualatin, Oregon, United States, on 11 April 2019. The cells used lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry and were manufactured by Powin. The system architecture was indoor and the batteries had zero years of prior operational history, indicating the fire occurred during initial testing rather than in-service use. The application was categorised as manufacturing and testing rather than a commissioned energy storage installation. No further details on the scale of the fire, emergency response, injuries, or resulting downtime were disclosed in the available source material.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported by the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion battery cells can ignite during initial tests, so test areas need detection and suppression suited to LFP chemistry. (2) Indoor test sites for new battery cells require fire systems matched to the scale and chemistry from the first test.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/y4wwm0713u4n2h5coidatjakmi0zfb38.pdf", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T09:21:09.476263+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0667", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0667/", "title": "Fire damages battery energy storage system at KEPCO Jeju facility", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-09", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At around 4:55am on 14 September 2018, a fire broke out in the basement of the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) Jeju headquarters, located in Yeondong, Jeju City, South Korea. The basement housed an energy storage system (ESS) used for solar power integration. KEPCO staff extinguished the fire immediately after it was discovered. No injuries were reported. The ESS equipment installed in the basement was damaged in the incident. Fire authorities attended the scene and indicated that the fire appeared to have originated in equipment that converts solar-generated power into electricity, though the exact cause of the fire remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Fire authorities suspected the fire originated in ESS equipment that converts solar-generated power into electricity, but the precise cause was still under investigation and not confirmed in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An indoor ESS in a basement needs early fire detection and suppression because fire can spread fast in an enclosed space. (2) On-site staff should be trained to isolate and fight small ESS fires at once to stop spread before external services arrive. (3) Power conversion equipment in solar ESS setups should be checked first in any fire probe as it is a known ignition source.", "source_url": "https://www.jejusori.net/news/articleView.html?idxno=209847", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:20:55.607312+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0668", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0668/", "title": "Battery storage fire at Daesung Industrial Gas plant in Ulsan, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-01", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the battery energy storage system (BESS) located at Daesung Industrial Gas's plant in Seongam-dong, Nam-gu, Ulsan, South Korea, on 21 January 2019. The fire started on the second floor of the three-storey ESS building and spread upward to the third floor. Large flames were reported before firefighters brought the blaze under control, with the fire fully extinguished around 12:30pm, roughly three hours after it broke out. The system was a lithium-ion battery installation used for demand charge management, housed indoors, and had been in operation for approximately seven months prior to the incident. No further details on injuries, cause or damage were available in the source material.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Indoor multi-storey lithium-ion BESS needs fire containment between floors to stop vertical spread. (2) Lithium-ion BESS in first year of operation needs close monitoring for early faults.", "source_url": "http://www.motie.go.kr/motie/ne/presse/press2/bbs/bbsView.do?bbs_cd_n=81&bbs_seq_n=161771#event-2019-01-21", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:20:56.83217+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0669", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0669/", "title": "Battery storage fire destroys energy storage room at solar site in Cheonan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-11", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At around 4:03pm on 12 November 2018, a fire broke out at a solar power facility in Mokcheon-eup, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, South Chungcheong Province, South Korea. The fire involved the site's energy storage room and destroyed 187 lithium-ion battery units. Firefighters extinguished the blaze within approximately two hours. There were no injuries or fatalities reported. Local fire authorities estimated property damage at approximately 154 million Korean won. At the time of reporting, the exact cause of the fire remained under investigation by the fire department. The battery energy storage system, which supported solar integration at the site, had a capacity of 1.2 MWh and had been in operation for under a year prior to the incident.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. Fire authorities stated the exact cause was still under investigation at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion battery rooms at solar sites need early detection and suppression, as fires can destroy many units before firefighters arrive. (2) BESS units under one year old need extra commissioning checks and monitoring, given the risk of early failure.", "source_url": "https://fpn119.co.kr/sub_read.html?uid=106529§ion=sc121", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:20:58.020822+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0670", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0670/", "title": "Fire at solar-linked battery storage system in Jangsu, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-01", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a lithium ion battery energy storage system located in Jangsu, North Jeolla Province, South Korea, on 15 January 2019. The system, which was integrated with a solar generation asset, was in standby mode after completing a charging cycle when the fire started. The battery system had been in service for approximately 0.8 years at the time of the incident. The fire resulted in one reported employee injury. Damage was recorded as affecting about one percent of the installed capacity. The installation was housed in an indoor system architecture. No further detail on the fire response, cause investigation or site name is available from the source.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium ion battery systems can ignite in standby after a charge cycle, so operators must keep monitoring and isolation active outside discharge periods. (2) Indoor battery housing can raise risks to nearby staff during thermal events, so enclosed spaces need robust detection and suppression systems. (3) Battery faults can appear within the first year, so early-life monitoring and commissioning checks remain essential for solar-linked storage.", "source_url": "http://www.motie.go.kr/motie/ne/presse/press2/bbs/bbsView.do?bbs_cd_n=81&bbs_seq_n=161771#event-2019-01-15", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:21:04.029733+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0671", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0671/", "title": "Battery storage fire destroys solar site ESS in Yeongju, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-11", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At around 3:55pm on 12 November 2018, a fire of unknown cause broke out at a solar power facility in Jangsu-myeon, Yeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. The fire occurred in a 33 square metre sandwich panel building housing an energy storage system (ESS) that was on standby after charging. All 374 lithium-ion batteries installed in the ESS were burned. The fire was extinguished within about an hour. The fire department estimated property damage at approximately 702.25 million won. The solar facility, rated at 1,500 kW, had received its generation licence in July of the previous year. No injuries were reported in connection with this incident.", "contributing_factors": "The exact cause of the fire was not determined at the time of reporting. Local reporting noted that solar and ESS facilities in the region lacked specific firefighting standards, and that lithium-ion battery fires can reach temperatures that standard gas-based fire suppression systems cannot cool.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Gas-based suppression in lithium-ion ESS may fail to cool thermal events, so operators should fit systems rated for battery fires. (2) ESS in solar sites without tailored standards need updated detection before standby fires spread to all cells.", "source_url": "https://www.kyongbuk.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=1044891", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:21:09.465305+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0672", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0672/", "title": "Battery storage container fire at solar site in Taean, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-09", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 7 September 2018 at around 14:54 local time, a fire broke out in a container housing lithium-ion batteries at a solar power facility in Taean-eup, Chungcheongnam Province, South Korea. The container was used to store lithium-ion batteries charged from solar generation. Fire authorities reported that approximately 200 to 300 batteries were destroyed in the blaze. A resident passing the site noticed smoke and flames and alerted the fire service. The fire was fully extinguished. The source report does not mention any injuries or fatalities. Police and fire authorities said they would investigate the exact cause of the fire and the extent of the damage. The facility and operator were not named in the report.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the source; the exact cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion battery containers at solar sites need internal fire detection and suppression to limit spread inside the enclosure. (2) Passers-by can spot smoke and flames early, so operators should add automated detection to reduce reliance on external alerts.", "source_url": "https://www.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2018/09/07/2018090702722.html?utm_source=naver&utm_medium=original&utm_campaign=news", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:21:16.688429+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0673", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0673/", "title": "Fire at wind farm battery storage system in Yeongam-gun, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-06", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 2 June 2018 at around 4:13pm local time, a fire broke out in a building housing a battery energy storage system inside a wind power plant in Geummyeon, Yeongam-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea. The local fire brigade responded and had the scene under control by around 5:55pm. No injuries were reported. Fire authorities stated they believed the fire started in the storage facility, which stored electricity generated by the wind turbines, and said they were investigating the cause and extent of the damage. The battery system was reportedly around 2.4 years old at the time of the incident and used Samsung SDI NMC lithium-ion cells in an indoor installation supporting wind power integration.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported beyond the fact that the fire originated within the storage facility; cause was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Indoor BESS installations require early thermal monitoring to detect anomalies before fire spreads to the building structure. (2) BESS supporting wind integration needs the same detection standards as standalone units to limit fire duration. (3) NMC lithium-ion cells in indoor BESS demand published post-incident findings to improve sector learning on thermal risks.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/tbb7gdkagkvntj71rx94alio18d44t8i.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:21:46.282652+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0674", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0674/", "title": "Battery storage fire at solar plant damages 306 battery units in Haenam, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-07", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 12 July 2018, at around 16:24, a fire broke out in an equipment building at a solar power plant in Songji-myeon, Haenam County, South Jeolla Province, South Korea. The fire service deployed 15 fire trucks and took about two hours to bring the blaze under control. Firefighters reported difficulty extinguishing the fire because the lithium battery material reacts violently with water, and dry chemical powder extinguishers were used instead. In total, 306 battery units were damaged. No injuries were reported. The fire service estimated property damage at approximately 460 million South Korean won. The cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The lithium battery chemistry involved is water reactive, which complicated firefighting and required use of dry chemical extinguishing agents instead of water.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium battery fires in equipment buildings react violently with water, so operators must stock dry chemical extinguishers and train responders on their use. (2) Battery storage fires can damage hundreds of units before control, so operators should fit early detection and automatic isolation in equipment buildings.", "source_url": "https://www.khan.co.kr/national/incident/article/201807122109001", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:21:57.233397+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0675", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0675/", "title": "Battery fire at KEPCO Gyeongsan Substation energy storage site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-05", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 2 May 2018, a fire broke out at the KEPCO Gyeongsan Substation, operated by Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), in Jinryang-eup, Gyeongsan-si, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. The fire involved a lithium ion battery energy storage system used for frequency regulation, reported to be about 1.8 years old at the time. More than 100 charging facilities and batteries were burned. Firefighters brought the blaze under control within two and a half hours. No injuries or fatalities were reported. The fire department made an initial damage estimate, and police opened an investigation into the cause. No further details on the root cause were available at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the source. Police investigation into the cause was ongoing at the time of the article.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lithium ion BESS fire spread to more than 100 units, so operators must fit barriers between racks and install early thermal detection. (2) Firefighters took two and a half hours to control the blaze, so remote isolation and debris exclusion zones must be pre-planned for outdoor sites.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/0ohn1fnl9gtmk14l57uitoa9kpwy2sgu.pdf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:22:04.33571+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0676", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0676/", "title": "Lithium-ion ESS warehouse fire at Cheongwon Buyong Agro-Industrial Complex, Sejong, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-07", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at around 08:31 on 28 July 2018 in a battery storage warehouse attached to a paper production factory in the Cheongwon Buyong Agro-Industrial Complex, Bugang-myeon, Sejong, South Korea. The warehouse held roughly 2,000 lithium-ion battery packs, each weighing 57 kg, manufactured by Samsung SDI, used in a large energy storage system (ESS) that stored power overnight for use during peak daytime demand. Flames and yellow smoke, attributed to lithium-ion cells reacting to high heat, made access difficult, and firefighters were also concerned about possible explosion or building collapse. Around 60 firefighters with 23 vehicles, including a remote-controlled wall-breaching water cannon truck and articulated ladder trucks, fought the fire for about seven hours before it was declared extinguished around 15:30. The warehouse building, covering 840 square metres, was destroyed, but the fire did not spread to the adjoining 150,000 square metre paper factory. No injuries were reported. The cause and financial losses were under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The fire occurred in an enclosed warehouse housing around 2,000 lithium-ion battery packs, which produced heavy smoke and heat that hampered firefighting access. The enclosed structure raised concerns about explosion and collapse, requiring specialised remote firefighting equipment to breach the walls and apply water directly to the source. The system was reported as newly installed at the time of the incident, though the source does not state whether it was still in a commissioning phase.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Enclosed lithium-ion battery warehouses produce heavy smoke and heat that block access, so operators must plan for remote-controlled wall-breaching equipment rather than standard hoses. (2) Bulk storage of 2000 loose lithium-ion packs in one warehouse allows rapid thermal runaway spread, so sites should install integrated suppression or divide stock into smaller compartments. (3) Newly installed ESS battery stores need immediate monitoring because early failures can destroy the building before root cause is known.", "source_url": "http://www.joongdo.co.kr/web/view.php?key=20180728010012579", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:22:14.349123+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0677", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0677/", "title": "Battery storage failure at Gochang wind integration BESS, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-08", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 2 August 2017 a lithium ion battery energy storage system, part of the Gochang wind integration BESS installed for wind integration purposes in Gochang, North Jeolla province, South Korea, experienced a failure incident. The system had an energy capacity of approximately 1.5 MWh and was outdoor mounted. According to the EPRI BESS failure incident database, the system was newly installed with an age of zero years at the time of the incident, indicating the failure occurred at or shortly after commissioning. No further details on the nature of the failure, injuries, fire response or damage were available from the source consulted. This entry has been drafted from a database summary only, as the underlying article text could not be retrieved.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) New lithium ion BESS may fail at or shortly after commissioning, so operators should carry out full testing before energisation. (2) BESS used for wind integration need the same safety reviews as standalone storage projects.", "source_url": "http://www.motie.go.kr/motie/ne/presse/press2/bbs/bbsView.do?bbs_cd_n=81&bbs_seq_n=161771", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:22:19.185977+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0678", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0678/", "title": "Lithium battery container fire at Shanxi energy storage power station", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-03", "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 7 March 2017 a fire broke out in a group of lithium battery containers at a lithium-ion battery energy storage power station in Shanxi, China. The source, a Chinese fire-safety industry article citing a list of energy storage fires, does not name the specific site, operator or capacity. The same facility is reported to have experienced a further fire on 21 December of the same year, in which a second container (No. 2) burned. Injuries, evacuation, emergency response and root cause were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the source beyond identifying the equipment involved as lithium battery containers.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium battery containers at energy storage sites need container-level fire detection and suppression because a fire on 7 March 2017 showed the risk of thermal runaway spread. (2) Sites must complete root cause investigation before returning containers to service, as a second container fire occurred on 21 December 2017.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/imcjofqfulicog9sx6s7t6w3ccqi5xn8.pdf", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:22:35.672864+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0679", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0679/", "title": "Battery storage failure reported at solar integration site in Flagstaff, Arizona", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2012, "incident_month": "2012-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 26 November 2012 a failure was recorded at a battery energy storage system integrated with a solar installation in Flagstaff, Arizona, United States. The system, rated at 0.5 MW and 1.5 MWh, was approximately 1.5 years old at the time of the event. The system was integrated by Electrovaya as part of a solar integration application. The source consulted for this entry is a database record listing the location, date, capacity, system age and integrator, but it does not describe the nature of the failure, its cause, any injuries, emergency response, or the extent of damage or downtime. No further detail on the sequence of events is available from the material reviewed.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage systems in solar hybrids can fail in the first two years of service, so operators should increase monitoring and checks during early operation. (2) Integrators of battery storage must keep full public records of failures, because incomplete data blocks shared learning on root causes.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/pq87s90sqqkxa6zoz3nkdlg2d8cng05x.pdf", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-11T12:22:50.58019+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0680", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0680/", "title": "Battery storage thermal runaway linked to overcharging at Pyeongchang wind-integration site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-09", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A battery energy storage system serving a wind integration application in Pyeongchang, South Korea, experienced a thermal runaway event on 24 September 2019. The system was an indoor installation using NMC lithium-ion cells from Samsung SDI, with a capacity of 21 megawatt-hours and about 2.7 years in service at the time. According to the EPRI BESS Failure Incident Database, energy management system log records confirmed that the battery had been subject to repeated overcharging and discharging, described as battery abuse. The database does not report the extent of any fire, the emergency response, injuries or downtime, and no other detailed public account of the event was available at the time of writing.", "contributing_factors": "The database record states that energy management system logs confirmed repeated overcharging and discharging of the battery, described in the source as battery abuse. No further contributing factors are reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Energy management system logs must be checked often for repeated overcharge or discharge that can lead to thermal runaway. (2) Indoor BESS units need charge limits that stop abuse before cells degrade enough to run away. (3) Wind integration duty may need a tighter operating envelope than standard use, reviewed as the asset ages.", "source_url": "https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352152X2301589X#event-2019-09-24", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-12T02:17:57.528313+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0681", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0681/", "title": "Gas leak at Cockenzie battery storage site under construction", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "gas_release", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A gas leak was reported in the afternoon at a battery energy storage system under construction off Edinburgh Road, near Cockenzie. Residents close to the site reported a strong smell of gas and noise. Scottish Gas Networks attended and said the leak followed third-party damage to a gas main at the building site. The repair team had to wait for ScottishPower so work could be co-ordinated near a high-voltage cable. Some residents in the immediate vicinity were advised to close windows and doors. There were also reports of headaches and nausea. Scottish Gas Networks said there was no immediate risk to gas supplies and no cause for concern for local residents, and that it was not yet known how long the repair would take.", "contributing_factors": "Scottish Gas Networks said the leak followed third-party damage to a gas main at the construction site. A nearby high-voltage cable meant the repair had to be co-ordinated with ScottishPower.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Identify buried gas and electricity services before ground works on an energy construction site. (2) Plan how an emergency repair will be co-ordinated where a high-voltage cable is nearby. (3) Give nearby residents clear, limited advice and timely updates when a gas smell is reported.", "source_url": "https://www.eastlothiancourier.com/news/26541131.teams-respond-gas-leak-cockenzie-bess-site-yesterday/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-12T05:06:56.11349+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0682", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0682/", "title": "Fire reignites at solar farm in Prince Edward Island", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at a solar farm in Prince Edward Island, Canada, was reported to be burning again on 10 September 2026, according to a short broadcast report. The report does not name the site or its operator, and does not state the cause of the original or renewed fire. The scale of the blaze, whether anyone was injured, whether any evacuation took place, and the extent of damage to modules, inverters or other equipment are not reported. It is not clear from the available reporting whether this was a fresh ignition or a rekindling of material from an earlier fire at the same location.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar farm sites must monitor for hot spots after any fire, as smouldering material can reignite. (2) Fire suppression procedures should confirm all cabling, insulation and vegetation are fully extinguished. (3) Initial reports of solar farm fires are often incomplete, so operators should seek fuller updates.", "source_url": "https://www.ctvnews.ca/atlantic/video/2026/09/10/fire-burning-again-at-pei-solar-farm/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-12T05:07:26.180493+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0683", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0683/", "title": "Battery storage explosion at Saint-Esprit poultry farm forces evacuation in Martinique", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "Martinique", "country_code": "mq", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 29 September 2023, an explosion occurred in a lithium-ion battery storage container at the SICA Madras poultry farm in the Peter Maillet district of Saint-Esprit, Martinique. The blast was felt by at least 300 nearby households and blew out windows in the closest homes, prompting the evacuation of some residents. A fire then broke out and spread to a storage module containing around 400 additional batteries. Around twenty firefighters from several barracks, supported by utility agents, brought the fire under control after roughly three hours using a water curtain to limit toxic fume exposure followed by powder and foam extinguishing agents. No injuries were reported. The energy storage system, which supported the site's photovoltaic panels, was destroyed, and the poultry farm was left without electricity. Estimated financial losses exceeded one million euros.", "contributing_factors": "The fire followed an explosion attributed in initial reports to a lithium battery within the storage container; a detailed root cause was not published in available sources.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lithium-ion battery explosion at a farm site can damage nearby homes, so operators must install blast containment and maintain resident evacuation zones. (2) Fire in a BESS module holding hundreds of batteries requires utility isolation before suppression, to prevent further module involvement. (3) Toxic fumes from a BESS fire need water curtains before powder or foam use, to protect responders and residents.", "source_url": "https://la1ere.francetvinfo.fr/martinique/incendie-sur-un-site-avicole-du-saint-esprit-en-martinique-plus-d-1-million-d-euros-de-pertes-estimees-1432271.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-12T09:16:10.711953+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0684", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0684/", "title": "Lead-acid battery container explodes at Rio Dell RV park", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A battery storage container at the River's Edge RV park in Rio Dell, California, exploded on 3 August 2022. The park owner said sealed lead batteries, installed about four years earlier, were a reserve energy source if the park's solar system failed. Public safety personnel found the container without its roof. Nobody was hurt, but the blast severely damaged nearby storage sheds and surrounding trees.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A behind-the-meter battery used only as solar backup can still fail violently. (2) Until a cause is known, treat an aged sealed battery container as an explosion hazard and keep people and structures clear of it. (3) Sites with solar-linked battery backup should have a simple plan for alerting responders to a battery event.", "source_url": "https://epri.box.com/shared/static/wftn1n71z070g32q593kfq75c4u31w12.pdf", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-12T09:16:30.325811+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0685", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0685/", "title": "Battery storage fire destroys solar-linked ESS room in Yeongdong, South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-09", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 1 September 2018, a fire broke out at a battery energy storage system (BESS) connected to a solar power installation in Yeongdong, North Chungcheong Province, South Korea. The system used lithium-ion batteries manufactured by LG Chem. The ESS room was burnt down and related equipment was destroyed. This was one of three ESS fires that occurred in South Korea that month, part of a wider series of at least ten ESS fire incidents in the country since the first case in Gochang in August 2017. Investigations by relevant agencies and industry experts were ongoing at the time of reporting, with the exact cause of the Yeongdong fire not confirmed. The incident contributed to national concern about a lack of specific safety regulation for large-scale battery storage systems in South Korea, prompting government review of ESS installations of 10 MWh capacity or greater.", "contributing_factors": "Sources indicate that potential causes under industry-wide investigation for this wave of ESS fires included heat wave conditions, battery cell defects, faults in specific components or assembly processes, and external impacts. Lithium-ion batteries using volatile electrolytes were noted as a general risk factor when internal temperatures exceed around 70 degrees Celsius. Some experts also pointed to potential ignition risks arising during integration of battery management systems, power conversion systems and power control systems, rather than the battery cells themselves. No specific root cause for the Yeongdong incident was confirmed in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium-ion BESS rooms need fire barriers between modules and racks to limit spread when cells overheat. (2) Operators should review integration of battery management systems with power conversion systems to reduce ignition risk.", "source_url": "https://www.dnews.co.kr/uhtml/view.jsp?idxno=201809271442141110809", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-13T15:13:40.385045+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0686", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0686/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at Altona wind park in New York", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine tower was reported to have collapsed at Noble Environmental Power's Altona wind park in Altona, Clinton County, New York, setting off a small fire. There were no reports of injuries from the collapse or the fire. The entire wind park was reported shut down pending further investigation. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the collapse and fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine tower collapse can start a fire, so the failed machine must be isolated and the site made safe before any approach. (2) A tower failure at one turbine can shut the whole park, so operators should plan for total site isolation after structural collapse.", "source_url": "https://www.nny360.com/news/wind-turbine-collapses-in-clinton-county/article_e1b8afe2-75eb-505a-b0cf-a174c78a18ac.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:55:23.082855+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0687", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0687/", "title": "Fire destroys 150MVA transformer at Nigerian grid substation in Benin", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-06", "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 150MVA transformer belonging to the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) exploded and caught fire at the 330/132/33KVA substation on Sapele Road in Benin, Edo State, at about 8am on Sunday, according to an eyewitness and a TCN member of staff quoted anonymously. An eyewitness said the state fire service was not present in the early stages of the fire. Firefighters from the Niger Delta Power Holding Company fire station arrived about three and a half hours after the fire started, and were joined by responders from the Nigerian Army, the Air Force, the University of Benin Teaching Hospital and the Delta State Fire Service to put out the fire. The cause of the fire was not known at the time of reporting, and TCN management could not be reached for comment.", "contributing_factors": "An eyewitness said the substation, which is reported to control supply across more than two states, had no firefighting equipment of its own, and that external firefighting help did not arrive for about three and a half hours. No official cause or findings had been published at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation serving multiple states needs its own firefighting equipment on site. (2) External response to a transformer fire took three and a half hours to arrive. (3) Publish root cause findings from transformer fires so other operators can act.", "source_url": "https://guardian.ng/news/fire-guts-150mva-tcn-transformer-in-edo/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:55:24.528571+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0688", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0688/", "title": "Bird-triggered electrical fault sparks fire and major outage at California solar farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 5 June 2019 a fire broke out at the California Valley Solar Ranch, a 250 megawatt photovoltaic plant owned by Clearway Energy Inc. A California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) official said the fire began when a bird made contact with two overhead conductors simultaneously, completing an electrical circuit and producing a shower of sparks. The resulting fire spread through the surrounding dry grassland, burning approximately 1,127 acres. The blaze damaged power poles and wires at the facility, knocking out 84 percent of its generating capacity. Clearway initially described the cause as an 'avian incident' without providing further detail. The company estimated losses at between 8 and 9 million US dollars. The plant was built by SunPower Corp, completed in 2013, and sells power to Pacific Gas and Electric. Injuries were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "A bird contacted two energised conductors at once, creating an electrical arc; dry grassland conditions in the surrounding area allowed the resulting sparks to ignite a large fire that spread beyond the immediate electrical equipment.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Overhead conductors at solar farms need bird guards where large birds are active, as contact between two phases creates arcs and sparks. (2) Dry grassland around solar sites must have maintained firebreaks, as sparks from electrical faults can ignite large fires.", "source_url": "https://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-bird-fire-solar-farm-20190624-story.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:55:26.901232+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0689", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0689/", "title": "Fire contained at AEP substation in Lewis Center", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 25 May 2019, local reporting said crews contained a fire at an AEP substation in Lewis Center. The full article could not be read. The cause, any injuries and any effect on supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a substation fire as a live electrical incident until the operator confirms isolation. (2) A headline that a fire was contained does not establish cause or customer impact. (3) After a contained substation fire, check nearby equipment for heat damage before restoring service.", "source_url": "https://www.10tv.com/article/news/local/crews-contain-fire-aep-substation-lewis-center-2019-may/530-0d63aa34-ac38-4283-9ff1-3d98b4c7423a", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:55:35.992333+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0690", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0690/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at Chisholm View II wind farm in Oklahoma", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine collapsed at the Chisholm View II wind project near Hunter in Grant County, Oklahoma. Enel Green Power North America, which operates the site, confirmed the incident and said it was working with the turbine manufacturer GE to investigate the cause of the failure. No injuries were reported. A company representative said no one had been within 300 feet of the turbine since it fell, and a drone was used to assess the wreckage while the company awaited arrival of an investigation team. The public was asked to avoid the area while the assessment continued. As of the report, the cause of the collapse had not been determined and the investigation was ongoing.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; the cause of the turbine failure was unknown at the time of reporting and was under investigation by the operator and the turbine manufacturer.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a turbine collapse, operators must keep people outside a set exclusion zone until structural checks finish. (2) Drones let teams inspect collapsed turbine wreckage safely before staff move in. (3) Operators should bring in the turbine maker at once to review possible model-wide risks.", "source_url": "https://okcfox.com/news/local/wind-turbine-collapses-in-hunter-cause-unknown", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:55:50.588058+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0691", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0691/", "title": "Substation fire disrupts power to nearly 5,000 LG&E customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at an electrical substation in Jeffersontown knocked out power to nearly 5,000 LG&E customers. The fire was reported around 5 p.m. on 17 May 2019 near Taylorsville and Ramblin Creek roads and was reportedly caused by a damaged transformer. LG&E estimated that power would be restored around 12:30 p.m. Taylorsville Road was closed briefly during the response.", "contributing_factors": "A damaged transformer was reported as the cause of the fire. No further detail on how the transformer was damaged has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A damaged transformer at a distribution substation can interrupt supply to thousands of customers. (2) Operators should treat published restoration times as estimates until supply is confirmed back. (3) Access near the site may need a short closure while crews investigate.", "source_url": "https://www.wlky.com/article/substation-fire-knocks-out-power-for-nearly-5000-lgande-customers/27511311", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:55:56.334941+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0692", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0692/", "title": "Transformer explosion sparks fires and outages in Georgetown", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-05", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer explosion triggered a power surge in the Georgetown area, sparking fires and knocking out power to some homes. Fire services received 28 calls for service ranging from reports of fire to odour investigations and smells of smoke. Two calls related to fires at homes on Ballantine Drive and Lookout Court, both of which were extinguished. Electricity was later restored, though residents experiencing outages were advised not to reset breakers until an electrician could inspect their electrical panels. A nearby shopping mall was evacuated as a precaution due to reports of smoke, with normal operations resuming afterwards. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Following a power surge or transformer event, residents should not reset circuit breakers until electrical panels have been inspected by qualified personnel. (2) Emergency services should methodically respond to all reports of smoke or odour after grid incidents to confirm no ongoing hazards. (3) Precautionary evacuation of nearby public buildings may be warranted until the extent of smoke or fire spread is confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.ctvnews.ca/toronto/article/transformer-explosion-causes-fires-power-outages-in-georgetown/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:56:14.683617+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0693", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0693/", "title": "Fire at LG&E substation in New Albany forces road closures", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the LG&E Paddy's West Substation along State Road 111 in Floyd County. Firefighters waited until the area was depowered before approaching to fight the blaze. The fire was reported just before 7:30 p.m. on 4 April 2019. Surrounding roads were closed during the incident. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires require the utility to confirm full de-energisation before firefighters approach equipment. (2) Roads around a substation must be closed promptly to allow safe access and exclude traffic.", "source_url": "https://www.wlky.com/article/officials-fight-fire-at-lge-substation-following-explosion/27048741", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:56:33.829706+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0694", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0694/", "title": "Randfontein substation fire disrupts local electricity supply", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-04", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion and fire occurred at a substation in Randfontein on the morning of 6 April 2019. One transformer caught fire and burnt. The cause had not been determined. Power was restored to most affected suburbs after at least eight hours, with electricians from Rand West City Local Municipality and Eskom. One transformer was back in service, and further transformers were due to be installed later that week. Some residents were still without power.", "contributing_factors": "The cause had not been determined. The only reported fact is that a transformer caught fire and burnt.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a distribution substation can cut supply to several suburbs for many hours. (2) Do not treat a partial restoration as proof that the cause is known; here the cause was still unknown after most areas were reconnected. (3) Spare transformers and joint utility crews may be needed before all customers can be restored.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/randfontein-herald/news-headlines/2019/04/08/update-rfontein-substation-fire-power-restored-to-most-areas/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:56:40.286622+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0696", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0696/", "title": "Transformer fire at Krahës substation cuts power to 1500 customers in Albania", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-03", "country": "Albania", "country_code": "al", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Krahës substation in the Memaliaj area near Tepelena, Albania. According to local sources, a short circuit in the network caused the transformer at the substation to catch fire. Firefighters attended the scene to extinguish the flames. As a result of the fire, approximately 1500 subscribers in the surrounding area were left without electricity for around 24 hours. The damaged transformer was expected to be replaced the following afternoon. Specialists from the state electricity distribution operator OSHEE were reported on site to manage the response and repair works. No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.", "contributing_factors": "A short circuit in the electrical network was reported as the immediate cause of the transformer fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A short circuit in the network can ignite a substation transformer, so operators should inspect insulation and protection relays on these units. (2) Firefighters reached the Krahës substation and put out the flames, so response plans must include quick access routes for substation fires. (3) The damaged transformer needed replacement the next day, so sites should hold spares or fast logistics for this equipment.", "source_url": "https://www.balkanweb.com/en/Fire-at-Kraches-substation-leaves-1500-subscribers-without-power/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:57:05.010276+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0697", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0697/", "title": "Lightning strike starts fire at FPL substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A lightning strike was reported to have started a fire at the Sistrunk substation, described as an FPL substation in Fort Lauderdale, United States. Fort Lauderdale Police said the fire led to an outage in an area around Northwest 6th Street. WSVN reported that the outage affected more than 22,000 customers. Crews had power restored by 4 a.m. A witness reported loud explosions and intense heat.", "contributing_factors": "A lightning strike was reported as the cause. No further contributing factors are stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lightning can start a fire at an operating substation and should be treated as a credible ignition source in response planning. (2) A substation fire can cut supply to a large number of customers, so isolation and restoration plans need to be ready. (3) Explosions and radiant heat near a substation fire can endanger people on nearby roads, so access control matters while crews respond.", "source_url": "https://cw34.com/news/local/lightning-strike-starts-fire-at-fpl-substation", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:57:14.541961+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0700", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0700/", "title": "Fire reported at a power grid substation in Keraniganj", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-02", "country": "Bangladesh", "country_code": "bd", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Dhaka Tribune report dated 28 February 2019 said a power grid substation in Keraniganj, Bangladesh, had caught fire. The available source is the headline and feed summary only. Cause, damage, any outage, the response and whether anyone was hurt were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The headline does not say what started the fire or which equipment was involved.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline-only substation fire report as incomplete until the operator or fire service confirms the equipment involved and the outcome. (2) Record whether supply was interrupted, and for how long, before drawing operational lessons. (3) Keep early public notices factual and avoid stating a cause that has not been reported.", "source_url": "https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/dhaka/169968/power-grid-substation-catches-fire-in-keraniganj", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:57:46.829319+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0701", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0701/", "title": "Substation equipment failure sparks fire and evacuation at Singapore hotel", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-02", "country": "Singapore", "country_code": "sg", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electricity flashover, an abnormal electrical discharge, occurred at a substation located on the ground floor of Carlton Hotel in Bras Basah Road, Singapore. The flashover, caused by equipment failure, ignited a fire within the substation's switch room. Witnesses reported hearing loud explosions and smoke was seen coming from a door at the rear of the hotel, with a strong smell of burning plastic. The equipment failure also caused a power outage affecting several parts of central Singapore. The Singapore Civil Defence Force responded and confirmed the fire was contained within the switch room and extinguished using fire extinguishers. About 1,000 people were evacuated from the hotel as a precaution. Power was restored to most affected areas within minutes, though the hotel itself remained without electricity for several hours. No injuries were reported and the hotel stated no part of the building itself was damaged.", "contributing_factors": "Equipment failure at the substation led to an electrical flashover, which caused the fire. No further technical detail on the specific failed component was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Equipment failure in a building substation can ignite a switch room fire, so operators should fit early detection and automatic isolation on all indoor switchgear. (2) A contained substation fire still forces full evacuation of the building, so hotels with ground floor substations must maintain rapid and tested evacuation routes.", "source_url": "https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/equipment-failure-at-substation-caused-fire-power-outage", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:57:49.918408+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0702", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0702/", "title": "Lightning strikes Eskom transformer at substation in Free State, causing fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-02", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer at the Anglo Dankbaarheid Substation, located between Welkom and Virginia in the Free State, was struck by lightning on a Sunday afternoon and caught fire. Eskom stated that the transformer, known as transformer four, contained approximately 15,000 litres of transformer oil and was completely destroyed by the blaze, with an adjacent transformer also sustaining damage. The fire disrupted power supply to nearby mines. The Matjhabeng Fire Department responded shortly after 17:00 but reportedly could not extinguish the fire due to a shortage of water in the fire truck. A private fire company was subsequently called in to assist and managed to extinguish the blaze by around 19:00. Power to the affected mines was restored just after 21:00 that evening. Eskom said it was assessing the extent of the damage.", "contributing_factors": "A lightning strike directly caused the transformer failure and fire. The local fire department was reportedly unable to extinguish the fire initially due to a shortage of water in the fire truck, requiring a private fire company to be called in.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lightning protection must prevent direct strikes on oil filled transformers at substations. (2) Fire trucks at substations need enough water to tackle large volumes of burning oil. (3) Private firefighting contracts should be in place for remote substations with flammable oil assets.", "source_url": "https://www.ofm.co.za/article/141/271642/eskom-transformer-in-fs-catches-fire-from-lightning", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:58:08.043415+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0703", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0703/", "title": "Bluff substation explosion leaves residents without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-02", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local report published on 12 February 2019 says a substation in Yardley Avenue, in the Bluff, exploded moments after electricity returned to Malbourough Park following load-shedding. The report describes billowing smoke and towering flames, and says residents were left without power. Electricians from eThekwini Municipality were reported to have arrived in the morning and begun repairs to the badly damaged substation. The municipality had been asked for comment and none had been received when the report was published. The cause, any injuries, how many customers were affected, and how long the outage lasted were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The explosion was described as happening moments after supply returned following load-shedding. No cause was confirmed, and the municipality had not commented.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A failure that follows the return of supply after load-shedding is a prompt to review switching, protection and equipment condition, without treating the timing as proof of cause. (2) Early, clear information on how long an outage may last matters to residents who depend on electricity, including for medical equipment, even while damage is still being assessed. (3) A single short report cannot fix the failure mode; what is found during repair should be recorded once the work is complete.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/southlands-sun/news-headlines/2019/02/12/video-bluff-substation-explosion-leaves-residents-dark/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:58:12.697438+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0704", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0704/", "title": "Underground transformer fire blows manhole covers off in downtown Albany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An underground electrical transformer fire caused by electrical arcing led to two explosions in downtown Albany, New York, blowing manhole covers off near the intersection of Henry Johnson Boulevard and State Street. The blast concussion shattered windows in nearby buildings and damaged two parked cars. Residents of several buildings, including a 66-unit residential building, were evacuated for approximately two hours due to carbon monoxide and smoke concerns, and had to leave again after the building lost power. National Grid, the utility operator, worked with city fire, police and water departments to manage road closures, canvass evacuated buildings, and inspect underground water infrastructure for damage. Repairs were expected to take up to 24 hours, with some customers facing extended outages while an electrical contractor installed temporary generators at affected homes.", "contributing_factors": "National Grid attributed the fire to electrical arcing in underground equipment.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Underground transformer arcing can cause explosions that eject manhole covers and damage nearby buildings and cars. (2) Utilities must coordinate with fire, police and water departments when underground faults may affect other buried services. (3) Operators need plans for temporary generators when underground repairs will last up to 24 hours.", "source_url": "https://www.wamc.org/capital-region-news/2019-02-01/albany-city-and-national-grid-officials-give-update-after-underground-fire-blows-manhole-covers-off", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:58:14.126498+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0705", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0705/", "title": "Substation explosion reported in Birkirkara with no injuries", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-01", "country": "Malta", "country_code": "mt", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 22 January 2019, a substation was reported to have exploded in Birkirkara, Malta. Police said the incident was in Triq Ċeżalpina, where there was a loud noise and some smoke. Police, an ambulance and a fire engine attended. No one was reported hurt. The cause and the extent of damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The short account confirms a loud noise and some smoke, but does not identify a failure mode.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported substation explosion as a live electrical incident until the site is made safe. (2) Send police, fire and medical crews together when the condition of the equipment and any casualties is not yet known. (3) Record cause and damage promptly, because a short public report may not establish either.", "source_url": "https://newsbook.com.mt/en/substation-explosion-in-birkirkara-no-injuries/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:58:15.946178+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0706", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0706/", "title": "Transformer malfunction reported to have caused an outage at Granby High School", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A news headline reported that a transformer malfunction caused an outage at Granby High School and that students were dismissed. The full article could not be read, so the cause, the size of the outage, any fire, and whether anyone was hurt are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution transformer fault can interrupt supply to a school and force early dismissal, so operators should plan for local supply loss impacts. (2) A headline report of a transformer malfunction should be verified before use, as the full account may not confirm the cause.", "source_url": "https://www.13newsnow.com/article/news/local/mycity/norfolk/fire-official-electric-pole-explosion-causes-fire-near-granby-high-school/291-6734dfa2-9c7f-4dad-bb34-4fe298ccf938", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:58:26.686893+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0707", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0707/", "title": "Transformer explosion at New York grid substation lights sky blue", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded at a Con Edison electrical facility in Astoria, Queens, New York City, on the evening of 27 December 2018. The explosion produced an intense flash of blue light that lit up the sky over parts of the city, visible from Manhattan and other boroughs, and was widely captured on video and shared on social media. The New York Police Department confirmed the incident was a transformer explosion at the Con Edison facility and stated there were no injuries and no fire. The 114th Precinct later said the explosion was determined to be a non-suspicious equipment malfunction. Local residents were asked to avoid the area while the incident was brought under control. No evacuation or wider power outage was reported in the source material.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was described by police as an equipment malfunction; no further technical detail on the failure mechanism was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer explosion at a grid substation can create a visible arc flash over a wide area without starting a fire, so operators should fit remote monitoring to detect early signs of insulation failure. (2) An equipment malfunction at a substation can draw public attention through social media, so operators must issue clear statements on injuries and fire risk within minutes.", "source_url": "https://www.businessinsider.com/videos-new-york-sky-blue-queens-power-station-explosion-2018-12", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T18:59:43.108702+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0708", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0708/", "title": "Transformer explosion in Kenner reported to have affected 10,000 residents", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline reported a transformer explosion in Kenner that was caught on camera and affected 10,000 residents. The article body could not be read, so the site, cause, injuries and how long supply was lost are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer explosion can affect supply to 10,000 residents, so operators must prepare contingency plans for large scale outages. (2) A public video of a transformer explosion does not confirm the cause or extent of damage.", "source_url": "https://www.wwltv.com/article/weather/transformer-explosion-in-kenner-caught-on-camera-affects-10000-residents/289-06388596-a71a-4f25-9bb9-aa3afac06632", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:07:44.466689+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0709", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0709/", "title": "Transformer explosion causes power outages in Penn Hills", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 30 November 2018, a transformer explosion left customers without power in Penn Hills, Pennsylvania. At one point more than 600 customers were without electricity. Many of the outages were reported along Verona Road. Duquesne Light said crews were brought in immediately, and it reported that power had been restored just before 8 p.m. The cause of the explosion, any injuries, and the time the outage began were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer explosion was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should be ready to mobilise crews quickly after a transformer failure so a local outage can be restored the same evening. (2) Noting where outages cluster, such as along one road, helps crews focus restoration. (3) Public updates should stick to customer numbers and restoration status, and should not infer a cause or an injury count when those facts have not been reported.", "source_url": "https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/transformer-explosion-penn-hills-power-outages/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:07:49.537757+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0710", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0710/", "title": "Transformer fire at Rutland substation cuts power to thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2005, "incident_month": "2005-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire and explosion occurred at the Lalor Avenue Substation in Rutland, Vermont, behind a General Electric plant, cutting power to about 3,000 Central Vermont Public Service customers for roughly two and a half hours on a Friday afternoon. Firefighters could not approach the flames for the first 20 minutes due to electrocution risk until power to the substation was shut down. One transformer was destroyed and a building housing equipment and a control centre was damaged. No injuries were reported. The outage disabled traffic signals, requiring police to direct traffic, and forced two residents reliant on electrically powered oxygen tanks to be relocated to hospital until power was restored. The ruptured transformer also spilled a small amount of mineral oil containing low levels of PCBs, which required environmental cleanup.", "contributing_factors": "Utility officials said the cause was under investigation but believed a faulty switch or other equipment failure was responsible.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fire at a substation can delay firefighting for 20 minutes due to electrocution risk, so operators should rehearse rapid de-energisation with local fire services. (2) A ruptured transformer can spill mineral oil containing PCBs, so sites should hold pre-planned spill response procedures and containment kits. (3) Transformer failure can disable traffic signals and medical equipment, so contingency plans must identify and support vulnerable residents in the area.", "source_url": "https://www.rutlandherald.com/news/transformer-fire-knocks-out-city-power-for-hours/article_7b0fb83e-a7e9-5ccc-b933-92af25105484.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:07:59.972486+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0711", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0711/", "title": "Underground cable failure sparks transformer fire and Newark power outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An underground electrical cable failure caused a transformer fire in downtown Newark, New Jersey on a Saturday afternoon. A resident reported hearing a loud explosion and seeing smoke rising from the street. The fire led to a widespread outage affecting approximately 1,500 customers at its height, including a Rutgers University residence hall and the New Jersey Institute of Technology, and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center cancelled a concert scheduled for that evening. Utility crews worked through the weekend to inspect the damaged electrical facilities and restore service. By Sunday morning PSE&G reported all but five larger business customers had been restored, with the Hahne's building and 15 Rector Street still without power as of Sunday evening. The utility said the fire was caused by a cable failure, which was under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "An underground cable failure, cause not further specified, was identified by the utility as the trigger for the transformer fire. The matter was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Underground cable failures can trigger transformer fires and outages for universities and venues, so contingency plans must cover these dependencies. (2) Crews must inspect damaged underground facilities before re-energisation to limit weekend disruption to business customers.", "source_url": "https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/pseg-power-restored-in-newark-after-transformer-fire-some-still-affected/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:08:01.196542+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0712", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0712/", "title": "Transformer failure causes fire at AEP Ohio substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A large fire burned at an AEP Ohio substation after a transformer failed. The fire began around 8:30 pm on the previous night in the 3800 block of Bixby Road. Customers were not affected. Firefighters responded but decided to let the fire burn because up to 30,000 gallons of underground oil was fuelling the flames. Attempts to extinguish it with water risked spreading the oil and creating further problems. The cause of the transformer failure was not immediately known. AEP Ohio workers remained at the substation. It was not clear how long the fire would continue, though a similar incident several years earlier lasted a few days.", "contributing_factors": "Transformer failure, with the precise cause not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Assess risks of oil-filled equipment fires before deciding on suppression tactics. (2) Plan for extended burn times when large volumes of insulating oil are involved. (3) Maintain on-site presence by the operator until the incident is resolved.", "source_url": "https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/fire-burns-at-aep-ohio-substation-following-transformer-failure", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:08:20.730369+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0713", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0713/", "title": "Electrical fire at Bahamas substation cuts power to thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-09", "country": "Bahamas", "country_code": "bs", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical fire broke out at Bahamas Power and Light's Baillou Hills substation, an 11KV facility, on a Saturday night at around 9.45pm. Smoke was detected and staff on duty attempted to extinguish the fire before calling Police Fire Services, who arrived and put out the blaze. The fire caused power outages of up to 12 hours across several southwestern New Providence neighbourhoods, including Fire Trail, Carmichael, Golden Gates, Pride Estates, Bel Air, portions of Harold Road, Yellow Elder, Stapledon and Millennium Gardens. Power was restored to all affected customers by 10am the following morning. The utility stated preliminary investigations suggested the fire was caused by equipment failure, with a full investigation launched and foul play not suspected. This was reported as the fourth fire at a company plant within a week, prompting public criticism of ageing infrastructure and utility management.", "contributing_factors": "The utility's preliminary assessment pointed to equipment failure at the substation. A union representative publicly stated that transmission and distribution equipment at the company was ageing and had exceeded its serviceable life, attributing recurring failures to a lack of investment in replacing old machinery.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Ageing 11KV substation equipment that has exceeded its service life raises the risk of electrical fires and repeated outages, so operators should accelerate replacement rather than rely on reactive repairs. (2) Staff on duty at a substation should attempt to extinguish an electrical fire before fire services arrive, yet a plan must still include rapid isolation to limit outage spread. (3) Four fires at company plants within one week point to systemic asset degradation, so insurers and operators should commission an urgent condition review across the fleet.", "source_url": "https://www.tribune242.com/news/2018/sep/17/sub-station-blaze-hits-power-thousands/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:08:27.693005+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0714", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0714/", "title": "Fire reported at Eikenhof substation causing outages in southern Johannesburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-08", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Eikenhof substation in the south of Johannesburg on Monday 27 August 2018, causing a power outage reported to affect Kibler Park, Naturena, the Rand Water area and the Johannesburg Prison. City Power said technicians had been dispatched to the site to determine the extent of the damage. At the time of reporting the utility's spokesperson said the cause of the fire was not yet known and that residents would be updated once the site had been assessed. Damage extent, any injuries and the restoration timeline were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a substation can cut supply to homes, water works and a prison at once, so impact assessments should map critical customers on each feeder. (2) Technicians must reach a substation fire site quickly to assess damage and support switching decisions.", "source_url": "https://www.jacarandafm.com/news/news/eikenhof-substation-ablaze/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:08:37.907873+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0716", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0716/", "title": "Wind turbine fire in Arlington, Oregon sparks 2,000-acre wildfire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 2 August 2018, a wind turbine on Rattlesnake Road near Arlington, Oregon caught fire. The fire spread from the turbine and grew into a wildfire covering approximately 2,000 acres, according to the North Gilliam Rural Fire Protection District. The blaze jumped Highway 19, forcing a road closure, and burned two railroad bridges before firefighters brought it under control. No evacuations were required and no injuries were reported. The turbine's owner or operator was not named in the report, nor was the specific wind farm identified.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine fire can spread rapidly to dry vegetation, so operators should keep defensible space clear around turbines in arid areas. (2) Turbine fires may reach roads and rail bridges, so emergency plans must include routes that cross infrastructure.", "source_url": "https://katu.com/news/local/wind-turbine-sparks-fire-in-arlington", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:08:43.54569+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0717", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0717/", "title": "Crane operator dies during wind farm construction in Poweshiek County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In July 2018, a spokesperson for Blattner Energy said a crane operator had died in an accident at the North English wind farm construction site in Poweshiek County, Iowa, where the company was building wind turbines for MidAmerican Energy. The specifics of the accident, including the cause, were not reported. Blattner Energy was reported to be co-operating with the Poweshiek County Sheriff's Office and OSHA.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat crane work on a wind construction site as a high-risk lift, with a written plan, exclusion zones and a stop rule if conditions change. (2) After a fatal site accident, preserve the scene and notify the employer and the safety regulator without delay. (3) Do not state a cause until an investigation has reported one.", "source_url": "https://who13.com/news/crane-operator-killed-in-wind-farm-construction-accident/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:09:30.390194+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0718", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0718/", "title": "Wildfire at Ontario wind farm construction site on Henvey Inlet First Nation under investigation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wildfire began in July 2018 at the site of a large wind project under construction on Henvey Inlet First Nation land in Ontario, described in reporting as Ontario's largest wind project. Workers who spoke anonymously to CBC News said crews continued rock blasting and heavy machinery work despite a region-wide fire ban, and that machinery had set off a number of small fires during the preceding week. One of these fires was said to have grown beyond the control of on-site suppression equipment. Pattern Energy Group LP and its affiliate Pattern Development, the developer, temporarily shut down the project and said in a statement that it had seen no direct evidence of a link between the fire and its construction activities, that it was operating within ministry guidelines and protocols, and that its contractors had fire prevention plans. The developer also said the project and its general contractor, Quebec-based C.E.R. Construction, are insured. Ontario's Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry said the cause was not yet known and opened an investigation into whether construction crews were involved. The reported worker accounts are allegations and were not confirmed at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not established. Workers alleged that blasting and heavy machinery use continued during a region-wide fire ban and that earlier small fires had started beside blasting mats, and said schedule pressure included seven-day work weeks with night shifts under consideration. One worker said the 20-litre suppression pack carried on site was not enough once the fire grew. The developer disputed any direct link to its activities and the ministry investigation outcome was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Blasting and heavy machinery work during a fire ban can start small fires that grow beyond on-site suppression, so crews must stop such work when a ban is in force. (2) Small fires started by machinery need formal escalation, as repeated ignitions beside blasting mats show a control failure. (3) A 20-litre suppression pack is not enough for fires in forested terrain, so provision must match the credible worst case.", "source_url": "https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/ca/news/construction/ontario-forest-fire-sparked-by-wind-farm-construction--report-107373.aspx", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:09:37.003633+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0719", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0719/", "title": "Second fire breaks out at Hydro One substation after earlier transformer explosion", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-07", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred overnight at a Hydro One station near Finch Avenue West and Signet Drive in North York, Toronto, leaving about 35,000 customers without power at the peak of the outage. The blast ruptured transformers, which leaked mineral oil, with an unconfirmed amount reaching the Humber River. Three days later, a second two-alarm fire broke out in a hydro vault at the same station. Fourteen fire trucks responded, but crews were able to extinguish the flames quickly because the station had already been de-energised for the ongoing investigation into the first incident. No injuries were reported in either event. Hydro One said two of the station's four transformers were unaffected by the fire, and Toronto Hydro had already rerouted power so customers were not affected by the second blaze.", "contributing_factors": "The second fire appeared to have been caused by an electrical or mechanical malfunction within the hydro vault, occurring while the station remained de-energised during the investigation into the earlier transformer explosion and oil leak.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation explosion can lead to a second fire days later in a hydro vault, so operators should keep monitoring after the first event. (2) De-energising the station before investigation allowed quick suppression of the second fire with fourteen fire trucks. (3) Power rerouting plans prevented customer outages from the second fire at the damaged site.", "source_url": "https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/second-fire-erupts-in-north-york-hydro-station-1.4767947", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:09:38.124575+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0720", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0720/", "title": "Fire at a Paris substation reported to have cut power to homes and a train station", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "France", "country_code": "fr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at a substation in Paris in 2018. Published reports said the fire left thousands of homes and a train station without power. The cause, the damage and how long the outage lasted were not stated in the material available to the register.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can interrupt supply to homes and rail at the same time, so restoration plans should cover both. (2) Where early reports give only a headline, treat the cause and the scale of damage as unknown until a fuller account is available. (3) Operators should be ready to switch load away from a failed substation that also feeds a station.", "source_url": "https://timesofmalta.com/article/fire-at-paris-substation-leaves-thousands-of-homes-train-station.685436", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:09:59.517452+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0721", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0721/", "title": "TECO substation fire reported to have left 4,000 without power in South Hillsborough County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published report said a TECO substation caught fire in South Hillsborough County, United States, and left 4,000 without power. The full article was not available, so the cause, any injuries and how long the outage lasted are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut supply to thousands before the cause is known, so operators should plan for rapid isolation and alternative feeds. (2) Headline reports on substation fires leave key details unknown, so insurers should seek fuller accounts before assessing risk.", "source_url": "https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/4000-without-power-after-teco-substation-catches-fire-in-south-hillsborough-co/67-578100221", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:10:03.897925+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0722", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0722/", "title": "Fire reported at a substation in Northumberland County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A news report dated 23 June 2018 said a fire had occurred at a substation in Northumberland County. Only the headline is available. Cause, damage, injuries and any effect on supply were not stated.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline-only substation fire report as incomplete until cause, damage and supply impact are confirmed. (2) Do not infer injuries, outages or fault from a report that does not state them.", "source_url": "https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/northumberland-county/fire-at-substation-in-northumberland-county/523-420b81d7-c002-4fa5-b9fd-f766284e6d28", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:11:02.105717+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0723", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0723/", "title": "Transformer explosion at Bryant Street substation in Chatham cuts power for four hours", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer at Bryant Street substation in Chatham, Kent, burst open, producing a loud explosion that was heard and reported by residents. The incident caused an immediate power outage affecting three high-rise tower blocks in Bryant Street and homes in nearby Prospect Row, and also disabled traffic lights on New Road. Fire crews from Chatham fire station attended, cordoned off the area, and rescued one person trapped in a lift after the power failure. There was no fire. Kent Fire and Rescue Service called in Red Cross volunteers to distribute water and check on the welfare of elderly and disabled residents due to the heat. Engineers from UK Power Networks redirected power from another source in the town, restoring electricity to affected flats and homes after around four hours. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source states only that the transformer burst open; no underlying technical cause for the transformer failure was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer that bursts open at a substation can disable lifts in nearby tower blocks, so building operators should plan for trapped occupant rescue. (2) A transformer failure at a substation can leave vulnerable residents without water or cooling in heat, so network operators should arrange Red Cross welfare checks.", "source_url": "https://www.kentonline.co.uk/medway/news/substation-explosion-causes-outage-185262/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:11:05.983118+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0725", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0725/", "title": "Circuit breaker failure sparks substation fire in downtown Salt Lake City", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the early hours of a Sunday morning, a fire broke out at an electrical substation in downtown Salt Lake City. A dispatch call reporting smoke from the substation was made at around 4:29am. Fire crews responded and the incident was quickly upgraded to a two-alarm fire, prompting additional crews to be called in. Officials said the fire started when a large circuit breaker broke, setting nearby pallets alight. Flames vented through the roof of the structure, causing what a fire official described as minimal damage to the building itself. The extent of damage to equipment inside the substation was not known at the time of reporting. Authorities said the fire was not considered a suspicious act. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "A large circuit breaker failed, and nearby combustible pallets stored at the substation caught fire as a result.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Circuit breakers in substations must undergo condition monitoring, as failure can ignite stored materials and cause fire. (2) Combustible pallets must not be stored near circuit breakers, as they fuel fires after electrical faults. (3) Early smoke detection and dispatch limit structural damage in substation fires even when upgraded to two alarms.", "source_url": "https://www.abc4.com/news/local-news/substation-explosion-and-fire-caused-by-broken-circuit/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:11:16.46176+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0727", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0727/", "title": "Transformer explosion knocks out power in Ossining, New York", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded in Ossining, New York, at around 6:30 a.m., knocking down power lines onto a local street. The affected road was closed between two intersections while repairs were made. Dozens of Con Edison customers lost power, and it was unclear when service would be restored as of early afternoon. No injuries were reported in the coverage. The incident disrupted local traffic and utility service but details on the cause of the explosion were not provided by police or the utility at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution transformer explosion can drop live lines onto a street, so the operator must close the road at once and isolate the section. (2) After a transformer failure, utilities need to give clear updates on when supply will return, as delays affect many customers.", "source_url": "https://www.lohud.com/story/news/local/westchester/ossining/2018/05/15/ossining-transformer-explosion/610491002/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:11:38.565225+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0728", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0728/", "title": "Fire reported at JEA substation in Orange Park, with outages in the area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 12 May 2018, officials were reported to be responding to a fire at a JEA substation in Orange Park. Outages were reported in the area. The cause, the extent of any damage and how long power was out have not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cause local outages, so the affected area should be confirmed quickly. (2) Early reports of a substation fire may omit cause and damage scale, so record alarm time and restoration for later review.", "source_url": "https://www.firstcoastnews.com/article/news/local/officials-responding-to-fire-at-jea-substation-in-orange-park-outages-reported-in-area/77-551572977", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:11:48.588129+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0729", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0729/", "title": "Arc flash fire destroys wind turbine nacelle at Maine university campus", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 600 kilowatt wind turbine on the campus of the University of Maine at Presque Isle caught fire on the night of 1 April 2018. The fire broke out in the nacelle, which houses the generator and other key mechanical components, and was attributed by Vestas, the company contracted to maintain the turbine, to an arc flash, a type of electrical explosion. The fire burned out on its own. Parts of the campus lost power for several hours that night. No injuries were reported and no other structures were damaged. According to Vestas the turbine was up to date on maintenance, but the root cause of the arc flash remained unknown. Vestas technicians declared the nacelle a total loss, while the tower and foundation were assessed as reusable, and a 300 tonne crane was brought in to remove the nacelle. The turbine was installed in 2009 at a cost of 2 million dollars. The university submitted an insurance claim and began reviewing options including replacing the turbine or moving to other renewable technologies such as solar.", "contributing_factors": "An arc flash in the nacelle led to an electrical fire. The root cause of the arc flash was not established, and the turbine was reported to be up to date on maintenance.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An arc flash in the nacelle can destroy the assembly even when maintenance is current, so operators should fit arc detection and fast isolation on similar units. (2) When the root cause stays unknown, the operator should log the finding and check matching electrical systems across the fleet. (3) A single turbine fire can cut power to site loads for hours, so owners of on-site generation must map which supplies depend on it.", "source_url": "https://thecounty.me/2018/05/10/news/umpi-keeping-options-open-after-wind-turbine-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-14T20:12:04.983239+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0730", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0730/", "title": "Blade failure on Vestas 15MW turbine at He Dreiht offshore wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 22 July 2026 a blade failure was detected on one of the Vestas V236-15 turbines at EnBW's 960MW He Dreiht offshore wind farm in the German North Sea, which is currently under construction. EnBW said the relevant authorities were notified immediately. Vestas said it has initiated a root cause investigation together with the customer and activities to contain environmental impact. Both companies confirmed there were no injuries and that all plant personnel were safe, with the site secured. The impact on the turbine is being assessed jointly by EnBW and Vestas, and the exact cause of the failure and the course of remedial action are under investigation. The wind farm, which achieved first power in November 2025, is intended to feature 64 of the 15MW turbines and EnBW aims to commission the project during summer 2026.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; the exact cause of the blade failure is under investigation by Vestas and EnBW.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A blade failure on a Vestas V236-15 turbine during construction requires joint root cause work by supplier and developer before further installation. (2) Early blade issues on new 15MW platforms during commissioning mean close monitoring is needed before full operation. (3) Environmental containment steps must start at once after a blade failure at sea to limit spread.", "source_url": "https://www.renews.biz/offshore-wind/blade-fails-on-vestas-15mw-turbine-at-he-dreiht/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T02:11:52.36024+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0732", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0732/", "title": "Nordex turbine damaged by suspected lightning strike at UK wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Nordex wind turbine at a site near Manchester in the United Kingdom was reported damaged after a suspected lightning strike. Parts were reported to have come off the turbine. Nordex said it was looking into the incident and that there were no injuries and no impact on the surrounding environment. The report was published on 5 June 2026. The precise location of the wind farm and the extent of the damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "A lightning strike is suspected. The available report does not confirm the cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A suspected lightning strike on a Nordex turbine can throw parts, so operators must inspect from height after any storm. (2) No injuries or environmental impact from thrown parts means early public notice reduces risk to nearby areas.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/accidents-and-casualties/nordex-turbine-damaged-by-suspected-lightning-strike-at-uk-wind-farm/2-1-2000312", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T02:12:45.547147+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0733", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0733/", "title": "Rooftop solar fire prompts evacuation at Niagara Bottling plant in Seguin, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the rooftop solar panel system at the Niagara Bottling plant in Seguin, Texas. Firefighters were called after a report of fire on the roof of the roughly one million square foot building. Employees evacuated the facility as heavy smoke was visible. A drone was used to confirm the fire was isolated to the solar panels, located near the centre of the large roof, which made access difficult for crews. Firefighters from the local department, assisted by a neighbouring fire department, used aerial ladders and around 800 feet of hose to reach and extinguish the blaze, bringing it under control in about 45 minutes. Damage was largely confined to the roof covering and the solar panel system, with some light smoke inside the building but no interior fire damage. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The scale of the building, with the fire located near the centre of a roof spanning approximately one million square feet, significantly hindered firefighter access and required extended hose lines and aerial ladder operations.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar fires on large industrial roofs need aerial ladders and long hose lines because crews cannot reach the centre easily. (2) Drone reconnaissance can confirm the exact location and extent of a rooftop solar fire before crews commit to access routes. (3) Mutual aid from neighbouring departments supplies the extra personnel and equipment needed for fires on very large roofs.", "source_url": "https://seguintoday.com/2026/06/02/fire-damages-solar-panels-at-niagara-bottling-plant-in-seguin/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T02:13:04.336735+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0734", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0734/", "title": "Drilling incident at Horseshoe Solar affects local water supplies", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 3 February 2026, during horizontal directional drilling to install a conduit beneath the Genesee River for the Horseshoe Solar project near Caledonia, New York, groundwater surfaced from two bore holes and briefly spread onto a nearby agricultural field. Work stopped and the New York State Department of Public Service and the Department of Environmental Conservation were notified. After approval, hydrophobic foam grout was applied and finished on 8 March. The company said no water later surfaced from the grouted holes. In the following weeks, four homes in Meadowood and one on East River Road had low water levels. Horseshoe Solar supplied drinking water and temporary potable systems. Some residents also reported cloudy tap water. Neither the company nor the Department of Public Service gave a cause for that cloudiness.", "contributing_factors": "The company said pressurised groundwater came to the surface during horizontal directional drilling, which it described as a known possibility of this construction method. The Department of Public Service called encountering pressurised water during such drilling unusual. A cause for later cloudy or low household water has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Horizontal directional drilling beside rivers can release pressurised groundwater, so operators must plan for surface flows and have sealing methods ready. (2) Regulator approval must be obtained before sealing bore holes after a release during drilling. (3) Nearby homes should receive temporary drinking water promptly if low or cloudy supplies are reported after drilling.", "source_url": "https://13wham.com/news/local/some-rush-residents-relying-on-delivered-water-after-solar-project-drilling-incident", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T02:13:39.839341+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0735", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0735/", "title": "Fault at Gombe substation triggers partial national grid collapse in Nigeria", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) reported that a voltage disturbance originating at the Gombe transmission substation caused a partial collapse of the national grid on a Tuesday in January 2026, the second such disturbance recorded that year. The disturbance propagated beyond Gombe, affecting the Jebba, Kainji and Ayede transmission substations, with some transmission lines and generating units tripping as a result. NISO stated the event was a partial rather than total system collapse, contrary to some media reports. Technical teams undertook immediate corrective actions to stabilise the network, and electricity supply to the affected areas was fully restored within a few hours of the disturbance.", "contributing_factors": "A voltage disturbance at the Gombe transmission substation spread across the network, causing tripping of transmission lines and generating units at multiple substations including Jebba, Kainji and Ayede.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A voltage disturbance at a transmission substation can trip lines and units at remote sites, so operators should review protection settings across connected substations. (2) Prompt corrective actions after a substation fault can prevent total collapse, so operators should maintain rapid response protocols for voltage events.", "source_url": "https://leadership.ng/national-grid-collapse-caused-by-fault-at-gombe-substation-niso/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T02:14:12.198069+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0737", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0737/", "title": "Transformer explosion reported to have cut power to about 30,000 in Tuolumne County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An ABC10 headline reports that a transformer explosion knocked out power to about 30,000 people in Tuolumne County. The article body could not be retrieved, so the site, operator, cause, injuries and how long the outage lasted are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer explosion on the grid can interrupt supply to tens of thousands of customers, so operators should review single point of failure risks in substation design. (2) When only a headline is available, operators must verify the asset, location and restoration time before acting on public reports.", "source_url": "https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/transformer-explosion-tuolumne-county-power-outage/103-6fc86df3-7a3a-49a4-9444-100f8dcc146d", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T02:15:23.460304+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0739", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0739/", "title": "Gunfire damages Duke Energy substations in Moore County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 3 December 2022, two Duke Energy electrical substations in Moore County, North Carolina, were damaged by gunfire. Multiple shots disabled equipment at sites about ten miles apart in West End and Carthage. Authorities said the attacks were targeted and intentional. The same report puts the outage at nearly 45,000 people for five days and, elsewhere, at more than 45,000 people for a week. Duke Energy brought in special equipment and crews for the repairs. The attack was later cited as leading to a North Carolina law that increased penalties for damaging energy facilities.", "contributing_factors": "Investigators said the damage was caused by intentional gunfire at the substations, not by a random equipment fault. No further technical cause is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Gunfire damage to exposed substation equipment requires physical barriers or surveillance that can prevent targeted attack. (2) Repair crews and special equipment must be ready for simultaneous outages at sites ten miles apart. (3) Intentional attacks on grid sites can lead to new laws that raise penalties for damaging energy facilities.", "source_url": "https://abc11.com/post/power-grids-attack-nc-duke-energy-substations-damaged-gunfire-targeted-sabotage-remains-unsolved-3-years-later/18245347/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T02:16:12.221798+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0740", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0740/", "title": "Nordex turbine collapses at Herkentrup wind farm in Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 27 October the upper tower segment of an N149/4.X turbine at the 13.5MW Herkentrup wind farm in Coesfeld, North Rhine-Westphalia, fell to the ground together with the nacelle, hub and blades. The damage was found in the morning. All necessary safety measures were put in place at once. Material damage occurred but no one was injured. Nordex and the customer have started an investigation into the cause.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Upper tower segment failure on an N149/4.X turbine led to total collapse, so operators should inspect tower sections on identical units without delay. (2) Damage discovered in the morning after a tower collapse requires immediate safety measures to protect site access.", "source_url": "https://www.renews.biz/uncategorized/nordex-probes-german-turbine-collapse/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:09:40.23084+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0741", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0741/", "title": "Fire at Panihati distribution sub-station reported by CESC", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "CESC reported a fire at the Panihati Distribution Sub-Station. The report said power supply was restored within hours. The cause, the equipment involved, the incident date and whether anyone was injured were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution substation fire can interrupt supply even when restoration is reported within hours. (2) Public notices should state which equipment was affected and whether anyone was injured. (3) Operators should keep a clear record of isolation, fire response and restoration so a later review is not limited to a headline.", "source_url": "https://www.equitybulls.com/category.php?id=375146", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:09:44.959909+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0742", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0742/", "title": "Substation fire cuts power to hundreds of homes in Clifton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at a substation in Southchurch Drive, Clifton, Nottingham, on 22 September 2025. Two fire crews attended after the incident was reported at about 7.20pm, and one crew remained at the scene with National Grid workers. National Grid reported outages at 673 properties in Clifton and said engineers were working to restore supply, with a website estimate of completion by 9pm. The cause of the fire, any injuries, and whether power was restored by that time were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires can cut supply to hundreds of homes at once, so operators should maintain rapid isolation and customer notification plans. (2) Fire crews and network staff must coordinate on site to isolate equipment safely before restoration work begins.", "source_url": "https://www.nottinghampost.com/news/nottingham-news/nottingham-power-cut-after-substation-10519517", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:10:18.857365+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0743", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0743/", "title": "Sparking transformer fire near Hillsborough substation cuts power to thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer along South Churton Street in Hillsborough, North Carolina began sparking on a Sunday afternoon, with the power line reported to have fallen to the ground and ignited nearby vegetation. The fire occurred near a Duke Energy substation and across from Boone Square. The Orange Rural Fire Department responded and extinguished the blaze within about two hours. Duke Energy's outage map subsequently reported more than 2,700 customers in Hillsborough without power, attributed to equipment going offline. The utility estimated power would be restored later that evening. No injuries were reported in the source material, which described the story as still developing.", "contributing_factors": "Reported sparking from utility equipment on a pole, which led to a downed power line igniting surrounding brush and vegetation. The underlying cause of the sparking was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Sparking from pole mounted equipment can ignite vegetation, so operators should improve vegetation management around distribution poles. (2) Fire services can contain vegetation fires from live lines when response is swift, so pre planned access routes help limit spread.", "source_url": "https://chapelboro.com/news/fire/fire-breaks-out-in-hillsborough-from-transformer-sparks-2700-residents-without-power", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:10:40.945984+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0744", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0744/", "title": "Damaged Vestas turbine to be decommissioned in Washington State", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A utility confirmed that a 19-year-old Vestas wind turbine tower in Washington State was so visibly damaged that the turbine would have to be decommissioned. The available report does not name the site, the date of the damage, or how the tower was damaged.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The turbine was described as 19 years old, but no cause was given.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Visible damage to a 19-year-old turbine tower can force decommissioning rather than repair. (2) Operators should inspect tower condition promptly on older turbines when damage appears.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1926117/damaged-vestas-turbine-set-decommissioning-washington", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:11:10.400872+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0745", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0745/", "title": "Substation failure triggers major blackout across Prague and northern Czechia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-07", "country": "Czech Republic", "country_code": "cz", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A major power outage struck much of Prague shortly after noon local time on 4 July 2025, affecting the city centre and districts including Sporilov and Jizni Mesto. Prague Energy (PRE) confirmed the cause was a failure at the CEPS substation in Chodov. Northern regions including Usti nad Labem, Teplice, Liberec and Jablonec were also affected, with tram services in Liberec halted. The grid operator CEPS reported a loss of voltage across parts of the national grid, and energy analysts noted a sudden 30 percent drop in grid load. In Prague, metro lines A, B and C and tram services stopped, mainly affecting the eastern, right-bank part of the city. Train services to nearby towns including Kolin, Benesov and Kutna Hora were disrupted, shops closed and ATMs went offline. Firefighters responded to numerous calls to free people trapped in lifts and reported smoke from buildings caused by emergency diesel generators. The underlying technical cause of the substation failure was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "A failure at the CEPS substation in Chodov caused a loss of voltage across parts of the national grid, with a reported sudden 30 percent drop in grid load. The specific equipment fault was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation failure at Chodov caused rapid voltage loss and a 30 percent grid load drop, so operators must model single point of failure effects on urban transport and retail. (2) Emergency diesel generators started during the outage produced smoke in buildings, so operators should site and maintain them to limit secondary fire service calls. (3) Lift entrapment followed the urban blackout, so building operators and emergency services need pre agreed release protocols.", "source_url": "https://english.radio.cz/power-outage-hits-parts-prague-and-northern-czechia-due-substation-failure-8855943", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:11:15.905321+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0748", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0748/", "title": "Fatal wind turbine blade failure at Araya Seaside Park, Akita, Japan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "Japan", "country_code": "jp", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An 81-year-old man died after a 40-metre wind turbine blade broke off and fell to the ground at Araya Seaside Park in Akita prefecture, Japan. Police received an emergency call on the Friday morning reporting that a blade had broken off a turbine at the park. A local meteorological observatory had issued a strong wind warning for the city that morning. The man was found lying unconscious with head injuries about a metre from the fallen blade and was later pronounced dead in hospital. Local police opened an investigation into the cause. The turbine involved was an Enercon E-82, which Enercon said was operated and serviced by a local partner. Enercon confirmed it was bringing forward regularly scheduled blade inspections at other wind farms in Japan using the same turbine type while the cause is investigated.", "contributing_factors": "A strong wind warning had been issued for the city on the morning of the incident. The mechanical cause of the blade detachment had not been determined at the time of reporting and is under investigation by local police, with the manufacturer supporting the inquiry.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators of Enercon E-82 turbines should bring forward blade inspections across the fleet after one blade detaches. (2) Public exclusion zones around turbines must be enlarged or access closed during strong wind warnings. (3) Local operating partners must enable rapid manufacturer support to police investigations of blade failures.", "source_url": "https://reneweconomy.com.au/man-dies-in-japan-after-blade-falls-from-wind-turbine/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:12:29.993312+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0749", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0749/", "title": "Fire damages newly commissioned solar noise barrier on Shanghai expressway", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the afternoon of 21 May 2025, a fire broke out on a photovoltaic noise barrier integrated into the elevated Hongmei South Road expressway in Shanghai's Xuhui District. Thick black smoke rose from the structure and debris fell onto the road below, disrupting traffic for more than two hours. The Xuhui District fire department attended and brought the blaze under control using aerial ladder trucks and ground crews. No injuries were reported. Many of the installed lightweight flexible solar modules were damaged. The project, backed by the Shanghai branch of China Huadian Corp and described as China's first PV-powered elevated noise barrier, had been connected to the grid on 30 April 2025, only about three weeks before the fire. The company said it had activated emergency response protocols and was cooperating with the authorities, who were still investigating the cause at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The barrier used lightweight flexible thin-film modules with a load of 5 kg per square metre, chosen to balance power generation with noise reduction; the module type was not specified in the reporting. Industry commentary cited in the report notes that transport-integrated PV systems face harsher operating conditions than conventional ground or roof mounted arrays, including vehicle vibration, exhaust corrosion and extreme weather, and called for stricter fire resistance standards, cable maintenance and lifecycle safety management for this type of installation. The technical cause of the fire had not been confirmed at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lightweight flexible thin-film modules on transport structures must meet stricter fire resistance standards because they sit above live roads where falling debris can disrupt traffic. (2) Newly commissioned PV noise barriers need close monitoring in the first weeks after grid connection as faults can appear soon after energisation. (3) Fire response for elevated PV barriers above roads requires aerial equipment because ground crews cannot reach the modules directly.", "source_url": "https://www.greenbuildingafrica.co.za/solar-powered-noise-barrier-catches-fire-on-expressway-in-shanghai/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:12:37.632863+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0750", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0750/", "title": "Worker killed by falling turbine blade at Golden Plains wind farm in Australia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-11", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 36-year-old worker was killed on 11 November 2024 at the Golden Plains Wind Farm near Rokewood, Victoria. According to published reporting, a wind turbine blade came loose from scaffolding during assembly and crushed him. The worker was engaged as a subcontractor for Professional Wind Services on the project, which is being constructed by Vestas Wind Systems. The project is reported to be valued at over 3 billion Australian dollars and is intended to become Australia's largest wind farm, with more than 215 turbines and a capacity of 1,330 MW. Union representatives said safety complaints had been raised with site management and with the state safety regulator, WorkSafe Victoria, before the fatality. WorkSafe was reported to have conducted 117 site visits to the project since March 2023 and issued 22 compliance notices to a number of duty holders. WorkSafe launched an investigation into the death, with a police inquiry also expected. The cause has not been established by any published official finding.", "contributing_factors": "Not established. Union representatives are reported to have raised longstanding safety concerns with site management and with WorkSafe Victoria before the fatality. Earlier reported events at the project include a turbine blade striking a crane boom in October 2024, after which the subcontractor responsible was removed from crane lifting pending investigation, and blade serrated edges detaching during a storm in September 2024 and landing on nearby properties.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lifting and temporary support for blades during turbine assembly must include engineering review, documented inspection and a clear exclusion zone. (2) Repeated safety reports and compliance notices at a construction site should trigger a site-wide review rather than isolated corrective actions. (3) Earlier near misses at the same site, such as a blade striking a crane boom, should be investigated across all contractors.", "source_url": "https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2024/12/18/kqwd-d18.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:14:07.225297+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0751", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0751/", "title": "Blade failure on Mingyang prototype at Lingao test centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-12", "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Mingyang Smart Energy said that blades fractured on a newly developed wind turbine prototype being tested at its large wind turbine test centre in Lingao, Hainan, China. The company said the turbine was under extreme-condition testing, that the blades met abnormal conditions beyond their design load limit, and that no one at the test site was harmed. It said the product was still in testing and had not been marketed or mass-produced. Reports in China, cited by Offshore Wind, said two blades failed on 6 December 2024 on a MySE18.X-20MW prototype. Mingyang did not specify which prototype was involved.", "contributing_factors": "Mingyang's preliminary conclusion was that extreme, abnormal conditions during the test caused the blades to exceed their design load limit. A final cause has not been published.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Extreme-load testing of prototypes must stop loads before they exceed design limits, as abnormal conditions caused blade fracture. (2) Operators should analyse fracture data from a test before any model enters commercial production. (3) Test sites need a defined emergency response plan even when no one is hurt.", "source_url": "https://www.offshorewind.biz/2024/12/13/20-mw-wind-turbine-prototype-in-china-suffers-blade-failure-reports", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:14:08.649335+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0752", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0752/", "title": "Storm Darragh damages newly commissioned Anglesey solar farm panels", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-12", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Storm Darragh caused significant visible damage to the Porth Wen Solar Farm on the Isle of Anglesey, Wales, which was commissioned in 2024. EDF Renewables, which owns the 49.99MW site, confirmed the solar farm had sustained damage during the storm and said it was assessing the extent while conducting a controlled clean up. The company stated that repair work and the replacement of damaged panels was expected to carry on into early 2025, meaning electricity generation at the site was halted until at least then. A full investigation was planned once initial recovery efforts were complete and the damage fully assessed. The storm also damaged a nearby wind turbine at a neighbouring green energy scheme in Llanbadrig, Anglesey.", "contributing_factors": "Storm Darragh, for which the Met Office issued a red warning covering parts of Wales and south-west England, struck a solar farm that had been commissioned only that year. The specific failure mechanism had not been reported at the time of publication and EDF Renewables said a full investigation would follow.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A solar farm commissioned in 2024 sustained visible damage from Storm Darragh, so operators should verify panel mounting strength against red warning winds before full output. (2) Repair work and panel replacement after storm damage will continue into early 2025, so insurers should plan for extended loss of generation on new solar sites.", "source_url": "https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/newly-commissioned-solar-farm-on-isle-of-anglesey-significantly-damaged-by-storm-darragh-10-12-2024/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:14:12.630239+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0754", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0754/", "title": "Blade damaged on Vestas turbine at Viking wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A blade on a Vestas turbine was damaged at the Viking wind farm in the United Kingdom, one of the UK's largest onshore wind farms. Project operator SSE Renewables confirmed the damage. The available report does not give the date of the damage, the cause, the extent of the damage, or any operational impact.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Confirm blade damage promptly with the operator and record which turbine and blade are affected. (2) Do not infer cause, severity or downtime until those facts are reported.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1894286/blade-damaged-vestas-turbine-uks-viking-wind-farm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:14:45.284715+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0755", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0755/", "title": "Nacelle and rotor fall from Vestas turbine in Canada", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A short published report says a nacelle and rotor fell off a Vestas turbine at a wind farm in Canada. The project developer was reported to have paused operations and remaining construction. The wind farm, the turbine model and the cause were not stated in the accessible text.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) After a nacelle or rotor detachment, remaining construction and operating activity should stop until the cause is understood and similar turbines have been checked.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1896081/wind-farm-construction-halted-vestas-nacelle-collapse", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:14:46.122926+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0757", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0757/", "title": "NSL interconnector trip causes GB grid frequency dip, batteries respond", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "near_miss", "severity": "near_miss", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 8 October 2024 at 8:47am local time, the NSL interconnector, which links the UK and Norway, suddenly stopped exporting power, with imports falling from 1.4GW to zero. Grid frequency on the British network fell as low as 49.59Hz within two seconds, breaching the National Energy System Operator's normal operational limits of 49.8 to 50.2Hz. The system recovered within two minutes as fast-acting frequency response services, particularly battery energy storage systems from several operators, injected power into the grid. Around 1.5GW of batteries across the network responded, including assets optimised by Arenko Group and Kraken, with Kraken-optimised batteries alone delivering over 450MW of response, equivalent to roughly a third of the power lost. No damage, injuries or wider blackout resulted from the event.", "contributing_factors": "Sudden and unexplained loss of 1.4GW of interconnector import capacity from the NSL Link between the UK and Norway.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An interconnector trip can drop 1.4 GW import in seconds and push frequency to 49.59 Hz, so operators must size frequency response to cover full link capacity. (2) Battery fleets can inject 1.5 GW within seconds, so contracts should require fast response from aggregated assets across multiple optimisers. (3) A single interconnector outage can be covered when response is spread across operators, so systems should avoid reliance on one asset type or site.", "source_url": "https://www.energy-storage.news/uk-loses-1-4gw-of-power-in-interconnector-trip-battery-storage-keeps-lights-on/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:15:16.774807+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0758", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0758/", "title": "Service vessel collision damages turbine at Orsted's Hornsea Project One offshore wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Trade press reported that a Siemens Gamesa wind turbine was damaged at Orsted's Hornsea Project One offshore wind farm in the North Sea, United Kingdom, after a service operation vessel collided with it. The report is limited to a headline and summary behind a subscription paywall. The date of the collision, the extent of the damage, whether anyone was injured, and any effect on generation were not reported. The cause of the collision was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. No cause has been published for the collision between the service operation vessel and the turbine.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Collision by a service operation vessel damaged a turbine, so operators should review approach procedures and exclusion zones around offshore turbines. (2) Vessel contact with a turbine caused damage, so operators should require structural inspection of the tower and foundation before return to service. (3) Service vessel collision at an offshore wind farm carries risk of damage, so insurers should check crew training records for close-quarters manoeuvring.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1889467/siemens-gamesa-turbine-damaged-orsteds-hornsea-offshore-wind-farm-vessel-collision", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T05:15:28.231754+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0759", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0759/", "title": "Turbine destroyed by fire at Victorian wind farm near Portland", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the top of a wind turbine at the Cape Nelson South wind farm near Portland, Victoria, owned by Pacific Blue. Fire Rescue Victoria was called just before 8pm on a Friday and found one blade had already fallen from the turbine, with the other two expected to follow. Firefighters allowed the fire to burn out as there was nothing that could be done to extinguish it safely. The turbine, a Senvion MM82 with a hub height of 69 metres, was destroyed. Pacific Blue stated that emergency protocols were activated, the site was secured, power to the affected turbine was isolated and no injuries were sustained. The State Fire Investigation Unit opened an inquiry into the cause, expected to take several weeks given the complexity of the scene and the need to ensure investigator safety. It was reported as the first such fire in the Portland wind farm area in around 20 years of operation.", "contributing_factors": "Cause not yet determined at time of reporting; investigation into the fire's origin was ongoing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire at 69 m hub height cannot be fought from the ground, so the plan must rest on early detection, remote isolation and a debris exclusion zone. (2) After a turbine fire, the State Fire Investigation Unit inquiry can take several weeks because of scene complexity and investigator safety, so operators should plan for extended downtime.", "source_url": "https://reneweconomy.com.au/turbine-fire-at-victoria-wind-farm-under-investigation/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:10:23.523411+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0760", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0760/", "title": "Suzlon wind turbine reported on fire in Jaisalmer", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A news headline dated 28 May 2024 said a Suzlon wind turbine in Jaisalmer was engulfed in flames, and linked the fire to extreme temperature. The article body could not be retrieved, and no further report was found. Injuries, the extent of damage and a confirmed cause were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The headline attributed the fire to extreme temperature. That attribution has not been confirmed by a full report or a second source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline claim that heat started a turbine fire as unconfirmed until an investigation or a second report is available. (2) In hot climates, check that turbine fire detection and shutdown remain effective in extreme heat. (3) A viral clip of a turbine fire should be checked against the operator's own alarms before it is treated as a verified event.", "source_url": "https://www.latestly.com/socially/india/news/suzlon-windmill-caught-fire-in-jaisalmer-video-wind-turbine-engulfed-in-flames-due-to-extreme-temperature-in-rajasthan-clip-goes-viral-5996855.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:10:26.356234+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0761", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0761/", "title": "GE Vernova wind turbine collapse reported at a 75MW wind farm in Lithuania", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Lithuania", "country_code": "lt", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published report says a GE Vernova wind turbine collapsed at a 75MW wind farm in Lithuania, leaving the farm with lost production. The farm is reported to use turbines from GE's 5.X platform. A Lithuanian state-owned renewables developer is reported to be seeking a payout over the collapse. The date of the collapse, the site name, the cause and the extent of damage are not reported in the material available.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine collapse at a wind farm stops output from the whole site, so operators must plan for lost revenue and long lead times on replacement parts. (2) Owners of GE 5.X platform turbines should review inspection needs while the cause remains unknown. (3) Clear warranty and insurance terms for lost production must be agreed before any failure occurs.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/developer-seeks-payout-after-ge-vernova-wind-turbine-collapse/2-1-1642723", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:10:45.761966+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0762", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0762/", "title": "Accidental fire reported at a solar farm in Chesapeake", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline reported that officials described a fire at a solar farm in Chesapeake as accidental. The article text was not available, so the cause, the scale, any injuries and any damage to the plant were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A headline report of a fire at a solar farm must stay unconfirmed until the operator and fire service state what burned and whether the array was involved. (2) Keep the official description of the cause separate from what responders later confirm. (3) Do not treat impact or downtime as known from a headline alone.", "source_url": "https://www.13newsnow.com/article/news/local/mycity/chesapeake/fire-sparks-at-solar-farm-in-chesapeake/291-244fd04e-6397-4ce0-a490-df0939a95f77", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:10:58.693526+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0763", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0763/", "title": "Fatal fall inside a turbine at Windthorst II Wind, Archer County, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 24 April 2024 a person fell inside a wind turbine at the Windthorst II Wind project in Archer County, Texas, and was pronounced dead at the scene. Reporting said the person was climbing into the turbine while working on the project. The project was developed by OwnEnergy, described as a subsidiary of EDF. A spokesperson for EDF Renewables said the company was working with the contractor and the authorities on the investigation. The county sheriff's office described the incident as appearing accidental and said the inquiry was continuing. OSHA was also reported to be investigating from a safety perspective. The cause has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The sheriff's office said the fall appeared accidental and that the investigation was still open. No finding on fall protection, access procedure or equipment has been published.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Climbing into a turbine is work at height: fall protection, a checked climb route and a practised high-rescue plan should be in place before anyone enters the tower. (2) After a fatal fall, preserve the scene and the access equipment for the safety authority rather than returning the turbine to work. (3) Local responders need a current plan for a rescue from height, including how they will reach the site, because a turbine fall may not be survivable if help is delayed.", "source_url": "https://www.insideedition.com/father-of-4-falls-to-death-in-tragic-incident-at-texas-wind-turbine-87156", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:11:04.295002+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0764", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0764/", "title": "Transformer smoking at solar farm in Burton Pedwardine", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 24 February 2024, Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue sent crews from Sleaford to a transformer that was smoking at a solar farm on Asgarby Road, Burton Pedwardine. The fire service said National Grid was also on scene dealing with the incident. Smoke was reported above the solar farm, and people nearby were advised to keep windows and doors closed because of the amount of smoke. Whether the smoking became a fire, and what damage or outage followed, was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Call the network operator early when electrical plant at a solar site is smoking. (2) Give nearby residents clear advice when smoke may affect homes. (3) Record whether the event was contained, and which equipment was involved, so an open attendance report is not left as the only account.", "source_url": "https://www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk/news/lincoln-news/firefighters-called-solar-farm-national-9122945", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:11:33.934351+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0765", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0765/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses and catches fire at Colorado wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at an older NextEra Energy wind farm near Peetz, Logan County, Colorado, collapsed and caught fire. Firefighters from Peetz and Crook responded to the site between 8 and 9 a.m. after reports that the tower had come down. A local emergency manager said the information received at the scene was that the tower collapsed first and then caught fire. NextEra personnel reportedly attended the site but did not provide public information on the cause. This was the second turbine collapse in the county in the 20 years wind turbines have operated there, following a June 2022 collapse near Fleming caused by a cracked blade striking the tower, though that earlier incident did not result in a fire.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The article notes the operator did not release information on the cause of the collapse or fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine tower that collapses can catch fire afterwards, so operators must plan for post-collapse fire risks with local responders. (2) Older wind farms can suffer repeat tower collapses, so operators should review inspection regimes after each event in the same county.", "source_url": "https://www.firerescue1.com/fireground-operations/colo-ffs-respond-to-wind-turbine-fire-collapse", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:11:35.171626+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0766", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0766/", "title": "Nordex turbine collapses at a wind farm in southern Chile", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Chile", "country_code": "cl", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Wind Power Monthly reported on 30 January 2024 that authorities were investigating why a Nordex turbine had collapsed at a Mainstream Renewable Power wind farm in southern Chile earlier that month. The available text does not name the site, give the date of the collapse, or say whether anyone was hurt or what caused it.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The article said only that authorities were investigating the collapse.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a turbine collapse as a structural failure until an investigation says otherwise, and keep people clear of the wreckage. (2) Preserve the turbine, tower and operating records for the inquiry. (3) Say plainly what is known and what is not, including whether anyone was injured.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1859175/video-probe-launched-nordex-wind-turbine-collapses-southern-chile", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:11:36.293702+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0767", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0767/", "title": "Nordex turbine fire prompts investigation at Scottish wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Wind farm operator Renantis launched an investigation after a Nordex wind turbine caught fire at one of its projects in Scotland. The available report does not name the wind farm, give the date of the fire, or describe the extent of damage, injuries or the cause.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A Nordex turbine fire at a Scottish wind farm site led the operator to start an investigation, so insurers should require early isolation of the unit and a site wide check of similar turbines. (2) Reports on turbine fires often omit key details such as the exact site and damage, so operators must record the turbine number and observed signs at once.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1863243/probe-launched-nordex-turbine-fire-scottish-wind-farm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:11:37.888464+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0768", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0768/", "title": "Busbar fault at Insukamini substation triggers nationwide blackout in Zimbabwe", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "Zimbabwe", "country_code": "zw", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 4 January 2024, the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), part of the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), reported a system surge on the national grid at 05:22, triggered by a busbar fault at the Insukamini 330kV substation in Bulawayo. The fault caused a loss of power across the whole country. ZESA stated that technical teams were dispatched to the site and that power was subsequently restored to most parts of the country, with full restoration work continuing. The incident occurred against a backdrop of pre-existing power shortages in Zimbabwe, where peak demand of around 1,850 MW exceeds available generation capacity of below 1,200 MW from major stations, exacerbated by ageing equipment, reduced hydro output and coal supply issues.", "contributing_factors": "The stated cause was a busbar fault at the Insukamini 330kV substation, which triggered a system surge across the national grid. The report also notes broader systemic vulnerabilities in Zimbabwe's electricity supply, including ageing power station equipment and constrained generation capacity, though these were not identified as direct causes of the substation fault itself.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A busbar fault at a 330kV substation can trigger a system surge and total national blackout, so operators must verify protection settings and redundancy at critical nodes. (2) Technical teams must reach high-voltage substations quickly after a fault to limit outage duration on stressed grids.", "source_url": "https://news.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/04/fault-at-insukamini-330kv-substation-leads-to-loss-of-power-on-the-national-grid-zesa/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:11:46.950523+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0769", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0769/", "title": "Cable box failure causes substation explosion and power cuts in Portishead", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-11", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electricity substation on Old Mill Road in Portishead, Somerset, operated by National Grid, suffered a cable box failure just before 10pm on 29 November 2023. The failure caused structural damage to the substation walls, with part of a wall collapsing and bricks strewn around the area. Residents in the town reported power cuts and flickering lights, though National Grid stated only eight people were left without power. Temporary generators were installed at the site to keep the wider network on supply while reconfiguration took place. The substation is to be taken down and rebuilt, including replacement of the switchgear, with the rebuild expected to take around nine months. The cause of the cable box failure remained under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "National Grid stated there had been no previous issues with the substation and that the cause of the cable box failure was still being investigated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A cable box failure can damage substation walls enough to need full demolition and rebuild rather than repair. (2) Temporary generators can keep the wider network live while a damaged substation is reconfigured. (3) Assets with no reported prior faults can still fail, so inspection regimes must not be relaxed on a clean record.", "source_url": "https://www.somersetlive.co.uk/news/somerset-news/power-goes-somerset-town-after-8956811", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:12:03.474642+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0770", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0770/", "title": "Substation equipment failure near Truro causes widespread power flickering in Cornwall", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-12", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Following maintenance work at a National Grid substation located off the B3284 between Truro and Shortlanesend, Cornwall, an incident occurred after the network had been restored to normal working. A piece of plant failed, producing a bright flash that was reported by local residents as explosions and fireballs visible from as far away as Falmouth. The failure caused a dip in voltage across a wide area of Cornwall, resulting in flickering lights and brief power interruptions affecting thousands of properties from Bodmin to Penzance, including Truro city centre where some Christmas lights and shop lighting were briefly affected. No property appears to have lost power for more than a few seconds. National Grid confirmed the substation as the source of the disruption and stated that repair work resumed the following morning.", "contributing_factors": "The failure occurred shortly after maintenance work at the substation had been completed and the network restored to normal working, with a piece of plant subsequently failing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation plant should be monitored immediately after restoration to service, as failures can occur even after maintenance appears complete. (2) Visible flashes or bangs at substations can alarm the public, so operators should issue prompt clear statements. (3) Voltage dips from substation failures can affect wide areas, so operators should check customer resilience to brief disturbances.", "source_url": "https://www.cornwalllive.com/news/cornwall-news/power-cuts-truro-across-cornwall-8974971", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:12:10.516362+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0771", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0771/", "title": "Cohuna solar farm switched off due to fire risk", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "near_miss", "severity": "near_miss", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report in The Weekly Times said the Cohuna solar farm in Victoria had been switched off and had ceased operating because of fire risk. The full article was not available, so it is not known whether a fire occurred, what the risk was, or how the site responded.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A solar farm shut down for fire risk must be treated as a safety event until details are confirmed. (2) Operators must record the precise reason for stopping generation and the checks needed before restart. (3) A report of shutdown alone does not confirm a fire took place at the solar farm.", "source_url": "https://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/news/victoria/cohuna-solar-farm-ceases-operating-due-to-fire-risk/news-story/a286af08387af1b44f02e6fe8976f5b4", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:12:11.656701+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0772", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0772/", "title": "Manufacturing defect in Powin battery units blamed for Warwick storage fires", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Two battery energy storage facilities operated by Convergent Energy and Power in Warwick, New York, on County Route 1A and Church Street, experienced fire-related incidents. Following an investigation involving outside experts, the local school district and insurance representatives, Convergent determined the fires were caused by a manufacturing defect in Powin-branded Centipede battery modules, which allowed water to enter the units and resulted in an electrical fire. A third Warwick site using an older Powin battery system was unaffected. Convergent stated that replacement units for the defective Centipede models would likely not be available until the second half of 2024. The local utility began developing backup power solutions, including a mobile substation, while village trustees raised concerns about emergency response planning and first responder training, which had not yet occurred at the time of the incidents.", "contributing_factors": "A manufacturing defect in Powin-branded Centipede battery storage units allowed water ingress into the enclosures, leading to an electrical fire. Additional training for local first responders on battery storage fire risks had been scheduled but had not taken place before the incidents occurred.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery modules must undergo water ingress testing before deployment, as a manufacturing defect in Powin Centipede units allowed water entry and caused electrical fires. (2) First responder training on battery storage risks must occur before commissioning, since scheduled training had not taken place at the time of the incidents. (3) Operators should plan for long lead times on specialised battery replacements, given that units for defective Centipede models were unavailable until late 2024.", "source_url": "https://www.warwickadvertiser.com/news/local-news/manufacturing-defect-blamed-for-battery-fires-at-convergent-storage-facilities-NG2800384", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:12:46.083637+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0774", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0774/", "title": "Solar panel fire destroys roof of Ealing Council house in Greenford", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 9 August 2023 a fire broke out in the loft of a council house on Ferrymead Avenue in Greenford, west London, owned by Ealing Council. Smoke was reported to have accumulated in the loft during the day before the blaze took hold. A teenage occupant was alone in the house when the smoke alarm sounded and left the property with the help of neighbours. London Fire Brigade attended, confirmed the blaze involved a solar panel and said it was believed to be accidental. Firefighters used a liquid polymer coating called PVStop to de-energise and isolate solar panels on ten neighbouring properties. The roof of the affected house collapsed, leaving it open to the elements, and the building was declared too unstable for the family to return for their possessions. The family, who had lived there for more than 20 years, were placed in temporary bed and breakfast and hotel accommodation. No injuries were reported and a family pet was recovered unharmed.", "contributing_factors": "The solar panels were installed in 2013, removed for roof repairs and reinstalled a couple of years before the fire, according to the occupant. London Fire Brigade described the cause as accidental, and Ealing Council said it had not yet received the formal fire report at the time of reporting. No further technical cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar panels removed and reinstalled after roof repairs must be checked by a qualified installer before reconnection. (2) Smoke in a loft with rooftop solar should prompt checks on the installation rather than dismissal as external. (3) A fire in rooftop solar can require isolation of panels on nearby roofs using specialist coatings.", "source_url": "https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/solar-panel-fire-explosion-council-house-b2405282.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:13:36.409962+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0775", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0775/", "title": "Wind turbine fire scatters fibreglass debris across New York farmland", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at the Eight Point Wind facility in West Union, New York, caught fire and was destroyed, scattering shredded fibreglass blade debris across a wide area including neighbouring hayfields, forests, roads and yards. The site is owned by NextEra Energy. The damaged turbine was later demolished and removed by a contractor. NextEra sent crews to hand-pick debris from affected land and stated it engaged a public health toxicologist who found no long-term health or environmental effects were expected. Farmers, including one family farm growing forage hay, reported that fibreglass contamination persisted into a second hay cutting months after the fire, rendering crops unsellable. No injuries or fatalities were reported. The cleanup contractor reportedly ended its work at the site before the farm's contamination issues were fully resolved.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not state the technical cause of the turbine fire. Contributing factors to the prolonged impact included the wide dispersal of lightweight fibreglass blade debris across agricultural land and reported delays or gaps in follow-up debris removal after the first hay cutting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind turbine fires can scatter lightweight fibreglass blade debris across farmland, so operators must plan for wide exclusion zones and repeated removal. (2) Debris from blade fires can persist after the first cleanup, so operators should schedule follow-up passes after later crop cuttings. (3) Initial cleanup crews may leave before contamination is resolved, so operators should verify completion with affected landowners.", "source_url": "https://wellsvillesun.com/blog/2023/07/17/rexville-farmers-continue-to-pay-price-for-wind-turbine-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:14:10.310699+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0777", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0777/", "title": "Battery storage fire burns for a second day at Warwick energy storage facility, New York", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a battery energy storage facility operated by Convergent Energy and Power on County Route 1 in Warwick, New York, reported to have started during a storm on the Monday night. The lithium-ion batteries, manufactured by Powin, were housed in several storage containers on school grounds rented from the local school district, and stored energy for Orange and Rockland Utilities. The fire was still burning on the Wednesday, a second day, with hazmat crews, police and the fire department on scene, and was expected to continue burning into the night or longer. Authorities said allowing the fire to burn itself out was the safest response. Officials described the fire as one of two back-to-back incidents at Convergent sites, the other nearby in the Village of Warwick on Church Street, but did not say what the second incident involved. Convergent said suppression units within the affected battery containers at both sites had activated and that it was monitoring the sites with the fire department and Powin. County officials advised residents within a quarter-mile radius to stay indoors and keep windows closed as a precaution while air quality was monitored, and said measurements remained within normal parameters.", "contributing_factors": "A storm passed through the area on the night the fire started. A source told the news outlet that both incidents may have been caused by lightning or a power surge, but this was not confirmed by authorities.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lithium-ion battery fire in storage containers may be left to burn out when active suppression risks escalation, so operators should plan for remote monitoring and isolation. (2) Battery containers on school grounds require strict public exclusion zones and air quality checks during multi-day fires. (3) Sites exposed to storms need checks on surge protection and internal suppression units before events.", "source_url": "https://westchester.news12.com/fire-at-battery-storage-facility-burns-off-combustible-material", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T09:14:24.593937+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0778", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0778/", "title": "Fire at Johannesburg central substation linked to suspected cable theft", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on 8 September 2026 at the Central Substation in Johannesburg's CBD, operated by City Power, disrupting electricity supply to parts of Marshalltown, City and Suburban, Johannesburg Central and Selby. It was the second fire at the same substation within two weeks. City Power said investigations into the cause were ongoing but suspected illegal activity in underground cable tunnels, including possible cable theft and vandalism, may have contributed. Separately, video footage was released showing two people allegedly attempting to pull a cable through an open manhole while tied to a minibus taxi, during a period when part of the network was offline due to the fire. City Power's acting chief executive called for increased police patrols and security visibility in the CBD to help protect critical electricity infrastructure.", "contributing_factors": "Suspected illegal activity in underground cable tunnels, including possible cable theft and vandalism, in an area with ongoing concerns about infrastructure theft.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Underground cable tunnels at urban substations need stronger access controls because suspected theft and vandalism can start fires. (2) A second fire at the same substation within two weeks requires immediate root-cause review and extra security, not only repairs.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/soweto-urban/news-headlines/local-municipal-news/2026/09/15/city-power-calls-for-increased-police-patrols-after-substation-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:04:34.161192+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0779", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0779/", "title": "Battery room fire at Long Atip solar hybrid station in Sarawak contained by site staff", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Malaysia", "country_code": "my", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a solar hybrid station in the remote settlement of Long Atip, in the Marudi area of Sarawak, involving a room housing about 480 batteries and inverter equipment. The fire was reported at around 8.50am and was brought under control by workers from Sarawak Energy Berhad using nine ABC dry powder extinguishers and five carbon dioxide extinguishers, before volunteer firefighters arrived. A Volunteer Fire Brigade team from Long Bedian reached the site at about 11am and confirmed the fire had been extinguished, then carried out checks and monitored the area to ensure no sources of fire remained. The station's remote location meant the Marudi Fire and Rescue Department team faced a journey of about four hours via logging roads to reach the site. No casualties or injuries were reported. The cause of the fire and the extent of damage had not been established in the initial report.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire had not been established in the initial report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Remote battery rooms need on-site staff trained and equipped to contain fires with dry powder and carbon dioxide extinguishers. (2) Volunteer fire teams must check and monitor a battery room after the fire is out to confirm no residual ignition sources remain. (3) Remote solar hybrid stations require local response plans because external teams may need four hours to reach the site via logging roads.", "source_url": "https://www.sarawaktribune.com/fire-breaks-out-at-solar-hybrid-station/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:04:40.84944+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0780", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0780/", "title": "Cargo ship collides with turbine at Ørsted's Gode Wind 1 offshore wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 24 April 2023 a general cargo ship, later identified as the Antigua-flagged Petra L, collided with a wind turbine at Ørsted's Gode Wind 1 offshore wind farm in the North Sea, about 33 km off the German islands of Juist and Norderney. The vessel sustained a 5 by 3 metre hole in its starboard hull and reported water ingress before continuing to port in Emden, Germany, where German water police began an investigation. Ørsted confirmed its in-house control centre recorded the collision, though the vessel did not make contact with maritime surveillance beforehand. No injuries were reported. The affected turbine was taken out of operation pending further investigation into the cause of the collision.", "contributing_factors": "The exact cause of the collision had not been determined at the time of reporting; German authorities and other relevant institutions were investigating, including interviewing the cargo ship's crew.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An offshore wind turbine struck by a vessel must be isolated at once to avoid further damage or hazard to shipping. (2) Wind farm control centres must alert maritime authorities when a collision is recorded even if the vessel makes no prior contact.", "source_url": "https://www.offshore-energy.biz/cargo-ship-strikes-orsteds-gode-wind-1-offshore-wind-farm-suffers-massive-damage/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:05:06.073826+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0781", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0781/", "title": "GE Renewable Energy turbine leans then collapses at an RWE wind farm in central Illinois", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Wind Power Monthly reported that a GE Renewable Energy turbine leaned and then collapsed at one of RWE's wind farms in central Illinois, and that RWE had launched an investigation. The available text does not name the wind farm, the date of the collapse, any injuries, or the cause.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The available report says only that the turbine leaned and then collapsed, and that an investigation was opened.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine that leans must be treated as unstable, so the site must be cleared at once. (2) After one turbine collapses, similar machines on the same site need checks before restart.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1814337/video-rwe-probes-ge-wind-turbine-collapse-illinois", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:05:14.912423+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0782", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0782/", "title": "Animal-caused fire at Anderson Township substation cuts power to thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out inside the Anderson Township substation, operated and owned by Duke Energy, at the intersection of Beechmont Avenue and Markley Road in Anderson Township, Ohio, at around 7:30pm on 31 January 2023. The fire produced bright flashing lights visible for miles, including from Cincinnati and as far north as Mason. Duke Energy attributed the incident to animal damage. Anderson Township firefighters responded and said the area was unsafe to be near, and the public was asked to stay clear. More than 2,000 customers lost power, with one report referring to about 2,300 customers affected. Power was restored to affected residents and businesses a short time later, according to Duke Energy's outage map.", "contributing_factors": "Animal damage to substation equipment, as stated by Duke Energy.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Animal intrusion at a substation can damage equipment and start a fire, so operators should inspect and maintain guards on conductors and bushings. (2) A substation fire can produce visible flashing lights for miles, so clear public communication and outage mapping should be ready in advance. (3) Firefighters need clear guidance on safe distances at an energised substation, so utilities should maintain joint response plans.", "source_url": "https://www.wcpo.com/news/local-news/hamilton-county/anderson-township/video-shows-fire-at-substation-in-anderson-township-2-000-without-power", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:05:18.202924+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0784", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0784/", "title": "Substation fault cuts power across Tauranga and the Western Bay", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "New Zealand", "country_code": "nz", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fault at a substation on the national power grid cut supply across Tauranga and the wider Western Bay in October 2022. Powerco said 42,184 properties were affected. The same report also said 35,000 properties were affected by the outage, without explaining the difference. Transpower said the outage resulted from the substation fault. Powerco said all customers were reconnected by 1.20am on Friday. The report also described a separate outage about an hour earlier, affecting more than 10,000 properties, and an outage affecting 74 properties in Whanganui. It does not name the substation or say what failed.", "contributing_factors": "Transpower attributed the main outage to a fault at a substation on the national grid. The report does not describe the failed equipment. Powerco said trees on lines caused one of the outages that night, and a substation fault caused another. Those causes are not tied to a named site.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grid operators must name the substation and the failed equipment so insurers and engineers can assess repeat risks. (2) Distribution and transmission companies must reconcile customer counts when reporting the same outage. (3) Operators must link each outage to its cause when several events occur on the same night.", "source_url": "https://sunlive.co.nz/news/304845-substation-fault-blamed-tauranga-power-outage.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:05:50.467558+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0785", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0785/", "title": "Turbine tower collapses at Walkaway wind farm after steel crack", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In June 2022, turbine 43 at the Alinta Wind Farm in Walkaway, Western Australia, collapsed. The site operator, Iberdrola, launched a root cause analysis investigation, consulting its global technical team and operations and maintenance providers. Although the investigation was not yet finalised at the time of reporting, Iberdrola stated it believed the failure was caused by a crack in the turbine's steel tower. The entire plant, comprising 54 Vestas V82 wind turbines, was inspected internally and externally, including detailed analysis of the steel towers. By early October 2022, around four months after the collapse, the wind farm was reported to be operating at near full capacity. The failed turbine had been dismantled and removed from site, while four other turbines were identified as requiring repairs before they could be returned to service.", "contributing_factors": "A crack in the turbine's steel tower was identified by the operator as the likely cause of the collapse, though the root cause analysis had not been finalised at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Steel cracks in wind turbine towers can cause collapse, so operators should add detailed tower scans to routine inspections. (2) After one tower failure, the whole site needs inspection to find other turbines at risk of the same defect. (3) Early sharing of preliminary findings lets other operators of the same model check their assets without delay.", "source_url": "https://www.geraldtonguardian.com.au/news/geraldton-guardian/walkaway-alinta-wind-farm-company-iberdrola-release-details-on-why-turbine-collapsed-c-8454225", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:05:57.393064+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0786", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0786/", "title": "Fire in switch room at Stafford substation cuts power to 19,000 homes", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-10", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the switch room of an electricity substation on Kamienna Close in Stafford, England. Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service was called at approximately 13:15 BST following reports of an explosion and smoke in the area. On arrival, firefighters found a fire in the switch room of the substation. The incident caused approximately 19,000 homes to lose power. National Grid stated that engineers rerouted electricity supplies, and all but one affected property had power restored by 16:30 the same day. Teams from Western Power Distribution attended the site and were to assess the extent of the damage once it was safe to enter. No injuries were reported as a result of the fire.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A switch room fire at a substation can cut supply to thousands of homes, so operators must maintain rapid rerouting of supplies. (2) Damage assessment after a substation switch room fire must wait until the site is safe to enter.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-stoke-staffordshire-63121876", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:06:07.307437+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0787", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0787/", "title": "Nordex says tower weak points caused a German wind turbine collapse", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Nordex said a wind turbine collapsed in Germany in September 2021. In a statement reported in September 2022, the manufacturer said the collapse was caused by weaknesses in the concrete-steel hybrid tower, and that the cause lay with that structure rather than the N149 machine. The available report does not give the site, capacity, injuries or other consequences.", "contributing_factors": "Nordex attributed the collapse to weak points in the concrete-steel hybrid tower. No independent account of the investigation is in the available report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should check hybrid concrete-steel towers separately from the turbine machine after a collapse. (2) Treat the manufacturer's stated cause as a lead to check until an independent investigation is available.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/tower-weak-points-to-blame-for-german-wind-turbine-collapse-nordex-probe/2-1-1307747?ref=ud-qi20ne.subspace.rocks", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:06:41.74262+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0788", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0788/", "title": "Short circuit at Flevoland substations sparks fires and mass power outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-09", "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Two incidents occurred at electricity substations in the Dutch province of Flevoland, causing widespread power outages. According to an electrical engineering professor quoted by broadcaster NOS, a short circuit occurs when a live component comes into contact with earth, with current rising to five to ten times normal levels and cable temperatures rising sharply so that components begin to smoke, which he said was what was seen in Flevoland that day. Grid operator TenneT eventually managed to switch off the power, but not before power lines began to hang down and several fires started. Railway infrastructure was also affected, with operator ProRail reporting considerable damage. At the time of reporting the cause was still under investigation and the damage was expected to take significant time and money to repair.", "contributing_factors": "Not confirmed. There was speculation about a problem on the same high-voltage line the previous year, when a fall wind blew down four electricity pylons, and about the settings used when a temporary emergency line was connected. The professor quoted stressed it was too early to say whether this was related and that the investigation would establish what went wrong.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High-voltage substation insulation must be inspected often, as live contact with earth caused current to rise sharply and components to smoke. (2) Grid operators should verify protection settings on temporary emergency lines before energisation, as these may have contributed here. (3) Substation contingency plans must cover rail networks, since the same failure caused considerable damage to ProRail infrastructure.", "source_url": "https://transformer-magazine.com/news/short-circuit-at-substations-in-flevoland-causes-power-outage/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:07:41.188513+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0789", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0789/", "title": "Wind turbine catches fire after lightning strike in the US", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine in the United States caught fire after being struck by lightning. Video footage of the burning turbine circulated online. No site name, operator, location within the US, or turbine specifications were reported in the available source material. The extent of damage, any injuries, and the response to the fire were not detailed.", "contributing_factors": "A lightning strike is reported as the trigger for the fire, though no further technical detail on contributing factors was provided.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lightning strike on a wind turbine can start a nacelle or blade fire, so operators should check the state of down conductors and surge protection after every strike. (2) Video of a burning wind turbine can spread quickly, so owners should plan for public statements and site security after any visible fire.", "source_url": "https://www.ndtv.com/video/watch-wind-turbine-in-us-catches-fire-after-lightning-strike-644639", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:07:48.691103+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0790", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0790/", "title": "Nordex attributes a Welsh wind turbine collapse to an overspeed condition", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published headline reports that a wind turbine in Wales collapsed, and that Nordex attributed the collapse to an overspeed condition. The site, the date, any injuries, and further technical detail are not available from the accessible text.", "contributing_factors": "The only reported factor is Nordex's attribution of the collapse to an overspeed condition. Whether that attribution has been independently confirmed is not reported in the accessible text.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported overspeed collapse as a prompt to check rotor-speed protection, braking and related controls on similar turbines. (2) Do not assume a headline cause applies to other sites until the operator or manufacturer publishes the site, date and findings. (3) Record whether anyone was injured and whether nearby turbines were taken offline, once that is known.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1797434/nordex-blames-welsh-wind-turbine-collapse-overspeed-condition", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:07:50.321875+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0791", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0791/", "title": "Fire at Duke Energy substation in Matthews reported to cut power to thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 18 March 2022, WBTV reported a fire at a Duke Energy substation in Matthews that led to thousands of customers losing power. Duke Energy said the fire occurred on a portable piece of equipment being used for maintenance at the substation. The report does not say how the fire started, how much equipment was damaged, how long the power cut lasted, or whether anyone was hurt.", "contributing_factors": "The only account is that the fire was on portable equipment in use for maintenance. No cause, fault or failure mode is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Portable equipment used for substation maintenance can catch fire and must be included in the work plan with clear isolation steps. (2) A fire on temporary site equipment can interrupt supply to many customers, so restoration plans must be in place before work begins.", "source_url": "https://www.wbtv.com/video/2022/03/18/fire-duke-energy-substation-matthews-leads-thousands-losing-power/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:08:11.160682+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0792", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0792/", "title": "Turbine rotor and blades detach and fall into sea at Anholt wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-04", "country": "Denmark", "country_code": "dk", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The rotor and all three blades separated from the nacelle of a Siemens Gamesa 3.6 MW wind turbine at the Anholt offshore wind farm off Denmark and fell into the sea. Following the incident, the operator, Orsted, requested precautionary no-sail zones around wind farms in three European countries that use the same turbine model, while it investigated whether the failure indicated a wider fleet issue. After reviewing fleet performance data and carrying out drone inspections of the affected turbine, Orsted concluded the failure was an isolated event rather than a systemic problem, and subsequently lifted the maritime traffic restrictions at its affected sites.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not report a specific technical cause for the separation of the rotor and blades; Orsted's investigation only concluded that the event was not indicative of a systemic issue across its fleet of Siemens Gamesa 3.6 MW to 4 MW turbines.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rotor detachment on a Siemens Gamesa offshore turbine requires early fleet data review and drone inspections to decide if no-sail zones can be lifted. (2) Precautionary no-sail zones around the same turbine model in multiple countries must be based on confirmed risk, not assumed fleet-wide failure.", "source_url": "https://offshorewind.biz/2022/04/08/orsted-says-recent-wind-turbine-incident-not-due-to-systemic-issue", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:08:13.895892+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0793", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0793/", "title": "Wind turbine collapse reported under investigation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 11 March 2022, WyomingNews.com published a local report headlined that an energy company was investigating a collapsed wind turbine. Only the headline was available. It does not name the site, the town, the company, the cause, or whether anyone was hurt.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported turbine collapse as a structural failure until an investigation says otherwise, and keep people clear of the turbine. (2) Do not name a site, operator or cause from a headline alone. (3) Preserve evidence and tell the network operator if a turbine failure may affect the connection.", "source_url": "https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/local_news/energy-company-investigating-collapsed-wind-turbine/article_ba29bcdd-b5e2-5969-befc-44f6e51134b2.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:08:41.147499+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0794", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0794/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at Pant-y-Wal wind farm near Gilfach Goch", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 337ft (115m) wind turbine at the Pant-y-Wal wind farm near Gilfach Goch, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales, collapsed. Nearby residents reported hearing a noise like thunder as the turbine came down. The tower snapped roughly 60ft (18m) from its base, with the tower breaking in two and the blades crushed in the fall. The turbine manufacturer, Nordex, confirmed no persons were injured and that the only damage was to the turbine itself. Local Nordex specialists and experts from the company's main office, working with the wind farm owner, Pennant Walters, launched an investigation into the cause. Local authorities said they were seeking assurances that appropriate steps had been taken to secure the remote site and reduce risk to the public.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. Nordex stated that as yet no reliable statement could be made as to the underlying cause of the collapse, and investigation was ongoing at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine tower that snaps at 18m height leaves debris that must be contained at once. (2) After a collapse at a remote site, the owner and manufacturer must secure the area quickly to protect the public. (3) A joint investigation by the turbine maker and site owner is needed to decide if the fault is isolated or fleet-wide.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-60390094", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:08:50.504204+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0795", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0795/", "title": "Siemens Gamesa turbine collapses at Arizona wind farm in Brazil", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-01", "country": "Brazil", "country_code": "br", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Sunday 30 January 2022 a Siemens Gamesa wind turbine collapsed at the 49.3MW Arizona onshore wind project in Rio do Fogo, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. The collapse included the turbine's third section. Siemens Gamesa said the customer was notified immediately and that no injuries were incurred. A safety zone was established around the collapsed turbine and the manufacturer launched a full investigation to determine the root cause. No further details on the cause, extent of damage to surrounding infrastructure, or repair timeline were disclosed at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The root cause was under investigation at the time of the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine collapse at an onshore wind farm requires an immediate safety exclusion zone to protect staff and the public during investigation. (2) Structural failure of a turbine section needs prompt manufacturer notification and root cause analysis to prevent repeats. (3) Collapse incidents without injuries still warrant full disclosure to support industry learning on turbine reliability.", "source_url": "https://www.renews.biz/uncategorized/siemens-gamesa-probes-brazil-turbine-collapse/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:09:02.156541+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0796", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0796/", "title": "Satellite outage reported to have knocked out control of thousands of Enercon wind turbines", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "control_system", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-02", "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Reuters headline and feed summary from 28 February 2022 report that a satellite outage knocked out control of thousands of Enercon wind turbines. The full article text was not available, so the size and location of the affected fleet, the duration of the disruption and any operational or safety consequences are not confirmed. No turbine damage, injuries or fatalities are mentioned in the material available.", "contributing_factors": "The source attributes the loss of turbine control to a satellite outage. No further detail on the cause of that outage, or on the communications architecture involved, is available from the headline and summary.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A satellite outage can remove remote control from thousands of wind turbines at once, so operators should map every turbine's dependence on that single channel. (2) Fallback paths are needed because loss of one communications channel left a large fleet without control for an unknown period.", "source_url": "https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/satellite-outage-knocks-out-control-enercon-wind-turbines-2022-02-28/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:09:10.629379+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0797", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0797/", "title": "Drifting bulk carrier damages foundation at Hollandse Kust Zuid wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-01", "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 31 January 2022 the bulk carrier Julietta D became adrift in an anchorage area north of the Hollandse Kust Zuid offshore wind farm in the Netherlands after a hull breach in a collision with another vessel. The engine room took on water and the 18-person crew was evacuated by helicopter. The vessel then drifted rudderless through the construction site for several hours. Vattenfall, the wind farm's majority owner and developer, said an initial aerial inspection indicated damage to one of 34 monopile foundations already installed, and that the vessel also collided with the jacket of a TenneT transformer platform. Further inspections were still required to determine the extent of the damage. The vessel was later towed to Rotterdam. Vattenfall said it had no personnel or vessels in the area at the time. A number of people on a tug and a rescue boat involved in the operation suffered minor injuries.", "contributing_factors": "The vessel became adrift after a hull breach in a collision with another vessel and took on water in the engine room, then drifted rudderless through the site. The cause of that earlier collision is not reported in this source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A drifting vessel in an offshore wind construction site can strike monopile foundations, so operators should review vessel traffic controls and anchoring near active sites. (2) A bulk carrier with engine room flooding requires rapid towing plans to limit time inside a wind farm, as aerial inspection alone cannot confirm full damage.", "source_url": "https://www.offshorewind.biz/2022/02/02/vattenfall-shows-damage-caused-by-cargo-ship-adrift-at-hollandse-kust-zuid-offshore-wind-farm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:09:21.484836+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0798", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0798/", "title": "Worker dies after fall at Potzneusiedl IV-V wind farm, Burgenland", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-01", "country": "Austria", "country_code": "at", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A service provider died after falling approximately 100 metres inside the tower of an Enercon wind turbine being installed at the Potzneusiedl IV-V wind farm in Burgenland, Austria. Enercon had been contracted to repower the site as part of a wider repowering and expansion agreement with utility Energie Burgenland. Emergency services were called immediately after the incident and confirmed the worker had died. Police and authorities launched an investigation into the cause of the fall. Enercon stated it did not yet know why the man fell inside the turbine tower and said it would support the authorities' investigation. No further details on the cause were available at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fall inside the turbine tower had not been determined at the time of reporting and was under investigation by police and authorities.", "lessons_learned": "(1) During wind turbine installation, fall protection inside towers must be verified because workers face height risks before systems are complete. (2) Manufacturers must define clear emergency protocols for installation work inside towers, as response times affect outcomes.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1738310/probe-launched-death-austrian-wind-farm", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:09:28.827828+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0799", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0799/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at Haltern AV9 wind park in Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-09", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 29 September 2021, a Nordex N149/4.0-4.5 wind turbine almost completely collapsed at the Haltern AV9 wind park in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The turbine had been installed on a 164 metre hybrid tower in January 2021 and commissioned on 11 March 2021. No one was injured in the incident. Following the collapse, the site was secured and an interdisciplinary team of experts began a root-cause analysis, working with authorities and insurance companies. As a precaution, Nordex temporarily shut down all turbines of identical configuration, including 22 further units installed or being installed in Germany. Drone footage was used to assess the site before allowing safe access for detailed component analysis, including tower segments and rotor blades. Recovery of the turbine's bottom box was planned to allow analysis of operational data at the time of the incident. At the time of the statement, no cause had been identified and investigations were ongoing in all directions.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported at the time of the statement; investigations were ongoing into all possible causes.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After structural failure, shut down all turbines of identical configuration until the cause is known. (2) Secure the site and use drone footage before allowing access for analysis. (3) Plan early recovery of the bottom box to analyse operational data.", "source_url": "https://www.nordex-online.com/en/2021/10/statement-on-the-collapse-of-a-wind-turbine-in-haltern-av9-wind-park-germany/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:09:35.526352+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0800", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0800/", "title": "Wind turbine fire on Tararua Range prompts investigation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-10", "country": "New Zealand", "country_code": "nz", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at Tararua Wind Farm 3 on the Tararua Range caught fire on a Wednesday afternoon in October 2021. The fire was visible from Palmerston North and Feilding. Owner Mercury was alerted by on-site contractor and operator Vestas, who said nobody was in danger. Fire and Emergency dispatched three trucks, a water tanker and a helicopter. Five connected turbines were taken out of service and could be offline for several weeks. The cause was not established and an incident investigation was started. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) On-site operators must alert owners at once when a turbine fire starts, so that emergency services receive early notice and can respond before the fire spreads. (2) Turbines linked by the same circuit should be isolated quickly after a fire, to limit lost generation while the damaged unit is assessed. (3) A turbine fire visible from towns several kilometres away shows that early remote isolation and a debris zone are essential, as ground crews cannot reach hub height.", "source_url": "https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/126601276/operators-probe-cause-of-wind-turbine-fire-on-tararua-range", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T12:09:54.583758+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0801", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0801/", "title": "Battery fire contained at Invenergy storage facility near Grand Ridge, Illinois", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on 19 July 2021 at Invenergy's Grand Ridge Energy Storage facility on 25th Road, near La Salle Generation Station in La Salle County, Illinois. The La Salle County Emergency Management Agency reported the fire was contained and did not pose an immediate threat to the public. No evacuations were ordered. Firefighters, including crews from Marseilles, responded to the scene and worked to extinguish the fire, with smoke visible into the afternoon. As a precaution, the Illinois EPA conducted air sampling in the area. Officials noted this incident differed in type from a recent battery fire in Morris, Illinois, which had caused evacuations. Access to the facility driveway was closed and media were kept back from the site. The facility is described as one of the largest operating lithium-ion battery storage projects in the world by power rating.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Lithium ion battery fires at grid storage sites can release smoke for hours so operators must provide safe access routes for extended on site firefighting. (2) Battery storage fires require precautionary air sampling by environmental agencies even when no evacuations are ordered. (3) Operators should issue clear public statements on how each battery incident differs from prior events to limit community concern.", "source_url": "https://www.shawlocal.com/mywebtimes/news/local/2021/07/19/no-evacuations-for-battery-fire-at-energy-storage-facility-east-of-grand-ridge/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:08:35.582482+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0803", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0803/", "title": "Damaged wind turbine reported still a danger", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline reported that a wind turbine had been damaged and was still described as a danger. The article text was not available, so the place, the operator, the nature of the damage, any injuries and the response are not known.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators must isolate a damaged wind turbine and keep it under watch when it remains a danger. (2) Public and emergency service warnings must state clearly what is known when the article text is not available. (3) A headline alone does not give a full account of cause or outcome for a damaged turbine.", "source_url": "https://www.barnsleychronicle.com/article/21207/damaged-wind-turbine-still-a-danger", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:09:04.312547+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0804", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0804/", "title": "Vestas pauses about 150 turbines after blade root insert fault", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "Sweden", "country_code": "se", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Vestas took around 150 V150-4.0/4.2/4.3 MW (Mk3E) turbines out of operation globally after finding a bonding failure on certain blade root inserts, which it attributed to contamination of inserts during a manufacturing process step at one supplier. The fault was confirmed in the investigation of a V150-4.2 MW turbine that collapsed at the 72 MW Aldermyrberget project in Sweden in November, after a blade came loose. Vestas said turbines with a different blade root insert configuration were unaffected. It also reported that a blade with the same inserts fell in Finland during de-installation in the week before this January 2021 report, not during operation or idling, and that it did not regard that fall as directly related.", "contributing_factors": "Vestas said the detached blade had a bonding failure on blade root inserts caused by contamination of the inserts during a manufacturing process step at one supplier. The same insert configuration was present on the turbines paused as a precaution. No other contributing factors are reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a root-insert failure, check every turbine that shares the same insert configuration, not only the unit that failed. (2) Treat matching component configurations as higher risk until the manufacturer clears them. (3) A precautionary shutdown can limit further damage while repair or replacement is arranged.", "source_url": "https://www.renews.biz/uncategorized/vestas-shuts-down-150-turbines-over-blade-fault/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:09:27.234911+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0805", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0805/", "title": "Vestas blade fails at Timber Road IV wind farm in Ohio", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A blade on a Vestas V150 4.2MW turbine at the Timber Road IV wind farm in Ohio suffered heavy damage in a failure on 3 September 2020. No one was injured. Vestas and EDP Renewables secured the site and conducted a site wide inspection of blades on the other 30 turbines at the wind farm, finding no additional damage or indication of other failures. The companies stated they could not speculate on the cause and were conducting a root cause analysis. The damaged blade will be replaced at a date to be determined, after which the turbine will return to full service. EDP Renewables said it was working with the Ohio Power Siting Board and local law enforcement on public safety response efforts.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; a root cause investigation was underway at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a blade failure on a Vestas V150 turbine, operators should inspect blades on all turbines at the site to rule out a shared fault. (2) Following a blade failure that may affect public safety, the operator must work with local regulators and law enforcement on response.", "source_url": "https://www.renews.biz/uncategorized/vestas-edpr-probe-blade-failure-at-ohio-wind-farm/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:09:29.937264+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0806", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0806/", "title": "GE turbine fire at Roundhouse wind farm in Wyoming", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A GE turbine caught fire at the 225MW Roundhouse wind farm in Wyoming, United States. The project was commissioned in June 2020 and uses GE2.3-116 and GE2.5-127 turbines. It was not reported which model caught fire. Volunteers from Laramie County Fire District #10 attended on 19 December 2020. Falling debris burnt an area of grass of around 2km2. NextEra Energy said the fire was out quickly and that no one was injured. Developer NextEra Energy and contractor Blattner Energy had previously created gaps in vegetation and widened a track road to help contain possible grass fires. The fire service and the developer were working to establish the cause. GE declined to comment.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported and was under investigation. Vegetation gaps and a wider track had been prepared to help contain possible grass fires. It is not reported whether those measures limited the area burnt.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain vegetation clearance and access tracks around turbines so a turbine fire is less likely to spread through grass. (2) Agree in advance how the site and the local fire service will work together. (3) Investigate turbine fires promptly, including events described as rare, and record which turbine model was involved.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1703314/ge-turbine-catches-fire-newly-completed-us-wind-farm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:09:36.032161+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0807", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0807/", "title": "Vestas investigates fourth blade failure at Iowa wind farm since 2019", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "MidAmerican Energy halted 46 turbines at its Beaver Creek wind farm in Greene County, Iowa, on 15 October 2020 after a turbine blade broke away and fell into a harvested field. This was the fourth blade failure the utility experienced since October 2019, all involving blades manufactured by Vestas. The utility said the broken blades had been exposed to a direct or nearby lightning strike. The idled turbines, mostly rated at 2 MW each, meant more than 90 MW of generation was taken offline temporarily. Following inspection, most turbines were returned to service after confirming no blade damage, while some remained offline for blade repair or replacement. MidAmerican and Vestas said they were working together to determine the root cause and implement corrective measures. Injuries were not reported on in the source.", "contributing_factors": "MidAmerican stated the affected blades had been exposed to a direct or nearby lightning strike. Vestas said it was inspecting turbines within proximity to significant lightning events under its established lightning inspection protocol, noting that while lightning protection systems normally prevent damage, some risk cannot be fully eliminated in severe events. The root cause analysis was still ongoing at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind turbine blades at onshore sites can fail after direct or nearby lightning, so operators should inspect all blades within range of storms before restart. (2) Repeated blade failures at the same wind farm call for a joint root cause study with the blade maker to find and fix the weakness. (3) A blade that detaches can land in fields, so site rules must limit access and trigger checks after lightning or high winds.", "source_url": "https://www.utilitydive.com/news/midamerican-enlists-wind-turbine-maker-vestas-to-find-root-cause-of-4-bla/587868/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:09:41.993297+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0808", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0808/", "title": "Nacelle fire at Rhede wind farm prompts Enercon investigation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-10", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 12 October 2018 a fire broke out in the nacelle of an Enercon E-66 turbine at the 42MW Rhede wind farm in Lower Saxony, Germany. The affected turbine, rated at 1.8MW, had been operational since 2001. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident. Enercon, which services all turbines at the Rhede project, confirmed it was investigating the cause of the fire. At the time of reporting, the cause remained unknown and the investigation was ongoing. No further details were provided regarding the extent of damage to the turbine or the wider wind farm, nor on any operational impact to the remaining turbines at the site.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An E-66 nacelle fire needs early detection and remote isolation because ground access is limited once flames start. (2) Operators should check service records on turbines from 2001 after a fire occurred in a unit of that age. (3) Insurers should expect ongoing manufacturer investigation when the cause of a nacelle fire is still unknown.", "source_url": "https://www.renews.biz/uncategorized/enercon-investigates-nacelle-blaze/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:10:04.18371+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0809", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0809/", "title": "Worker injured as GE wind turbine collapses in Maranhao, Brazil", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-09", "country": "Brazil", "country_code": "br", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A GE 2.72-116 wind turbine collapsed at Omega Energia's Delta VI wind project in Maranhao, north-east Brazil, on 3 September 2019. Three GE employees were on site at the time of the collapse and one worker was injured, receiving medical treatment afterwards. GE Renewable Energy confirmed the incident and said it was working to determine the root cause. The collapse was the fifth involving GE turbines that year, following earlier collapses in New Mexico, Oklahoma, Nebraska and another site in Pernambuco, Brazil. No injuries had been reported in the previous four incidents. GE stated it was too early to speculate on the cause of this latest collapse but said teams were in place to investigate and resolve the issue, drawing on lessons from the earlier failures, to ensure safe and reliable turbine operation across its fleet.", "contributing_factors": "The incident followed a pattern of four earlier GE turbine collapses in 2019, most involving the manufacturer's 2MW platform, though a specific root cause for the Brazil collapse had not been confirmed at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Five GE turbine collapses in one year across sites call for fleet-wide structural checks rather than site-by-site fixes. (2) Teams must draw on prior failure data quickly when a platform shows repeated collapses. (3) Site access rules need review once a turbine model records multiple collapses in a short period.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1595902/worker-injured-ge-turbine-collapse", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:10:06.916184+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0811", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0811/", "title": "Fire breaks out on ageing Vestas turbine in Denmark", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-01", "country": "Denmark", "country_code": "dk", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 1 January 2019 a fire broke out in a Vestas V52-850kW wind turbine located close to the city of Sorvad in Central Jutland, Denmark. Vestas said the site had been secured and the fire fully extinguished, with no injuries to people or animals recorded. Vestas, the turbine manufacturer, said it was at the site and had offered assistance to the owner in conducting a root cause investigation, and that it could not comment on or speculate about the cause until further findings were available. The machine was described by Vestas as a vintage turbine. Regional television station TV Midtvest broadcast images of the fire.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The turbine was described as a vintage V52-850kW model, but no technical cause had been identified at the time of the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Vintage V52-850kW turbines need regular checks on fire detection and suppression to remain effective as they age. (2) Manufacturer presence at site after a fire supports root cause work across similar units.", "source_url": "https://www.renews.biz/uncategorized/vestas-probes-danish-turbine-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:10:15.204965+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0812", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0812/", "title": "Transformer fire at AEP substation in St Joseph County, Indiana", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an American Electric Power (AEP) substation in Liberty Township, St Joseph County, Indiana, after a transformer tripped. The fire started in the early afternoon but crews could not approach immediately due to safety concerns, so AEP allowed the isolated transformer to burn while it prepared to de-energise it. Once power to the transformer was cut, fire crews were able to enter the site that evening and bring the fire under control. A section of the adjacent road was closed to traffic during the incident. Aside from the damaged transformer, the rest of the substation was unaffected. No injuries were reported, and Indiana Michigan Power stated that no customers lost power as a result of the fire.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was caused by a transformer that tripped; the isolated nature of the fault allowed the utility to let it burn safely before extinguishing it once de-energised.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolating a faulted transformer and allowing controlled burn-out can be safer than immediate firefighting when live electrical equipment is involved. (2) Coordination between utility crews and fire services to de-energise equipment before intervention protects responders. (3) Substation design that contains fire to a single unit can prevent wider equipment damage.", "source_url": "https://www.wndu.com/content/news/Crews-responding-to-fire-in-St-Joseph-County-481185891.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:10:30.442142+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0813", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0813/", "title": "Fire reported at Alagbon electricity substation, Ikoyi, Lagos", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-05", "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire broke out at the Alagbon electricity substation in the Dolphin Estate area of Ikoyi, Lagos Island, in the early hours of Thursday 3 May 2018. The Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) said the fire started at around 5:00 a.m. and that a loud bang was heard before the outbreak. Photographs and video circulated showing the blaze, and emergency officials were reported to have been alerted. Reporting at the time did not state the cause, the extent of equipment damage, whether anyone was injured, or how long supply in the surrounding area was affected.", "contributing_factors": "Not established. A loud bang was reported at the time the fire broke out, but no cause was confirmed in the available reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A loud bang at a distribution substation signals a possible electrical fault and requires immediate isolation and inspection to prevent fire. (2) Early alert to emergency services limits fire spread at substations located in dense residential areas.", "source_url": "https://www.tori.ng/amp/95408/phcn-substation-in-dolphin-estate-ikoyi-in-lagos-e.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:10:37.10133+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0814", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0814/", "title": "Faulty blade causes turbine collapse at Chatham-Kent wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In January 2018, a wind turbine at the Raleigh wind facility in Chatham-Kent, Ontario, snapped in half and collapsed. The site operator, TerraForm, said the failure was caused by a single faulty blade. Following the collapse, the company halted operation of all 70 turbines at the facility for nearly two months to carry out safety inspections across the fleet. TerraForm's first quarter results stated the incident cost the company about $6 million in cash that would otherwise have been distributed to shareholders. The company said its subsequent investigation found no similar issues with the remaining turbines before returning the wind farm to service.", "contributing_factors": "A single faulty blade was identified by the operator as the cause of the turbine failure, prompting a precautionary fleet-wide inspection of all 70 turbines at the site.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A faulty blade on a wind turbine can cause collapse, so operators should check all blades at the site after one failure. (2) One turbine collapse at a wind farm can force inspection of the full fleet, so owners should plan for two months of lost output. (3) A single blade fault at a wind farm can cost millions in lost revenue, so insurers should model full site shutdowns in risk plans.", "source_url": "https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/faulty-blade-that-caused-wind-turbine-collapse-cost-company-6m-1.4647617", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:10:40.952028+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0815", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0815/", "title": "Vegetation fire at mini substation damages transformer in Dalview", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-04", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A mini substation on the corner of Craigholm and Paul Kruger streets in Dalview, Brakpan, caught fire at around 4pm after long grass and weeds in the vicinity ignited, according to a local ward councillor quoted by the Brakpan Herald. An inspection confirmed that one of the transformers at the site was damaged and required repair. City of Ekurhuleni officials attempted overnight to connect all affected houses to the transformer that remained functional, but it could not handle the load. Load shedding was therefore applied to parts of Dalview until the damaged transformer could be repaired. No restoration time was given at the time of reporting and no injuries were mentioned.", "contributing_factors": "The councillor attributed the fire to long grass and weeds growing close to the substation equipment. No official utility investigation findings were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Long grass near a mini substation can ignite and damage a transformer. Operators should clear vegetation around such sites. (2) A remaining transformer may not carry the full load if one fails. Operators should check redundant capacity at mini substations.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/brakpan-herald/news-headlines/2018/04/25/substation-fire-plunges-dalview-darkness/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:10:50.579029+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0816", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0816/", "title": "Transformer fire at WAPA substation on St. John delays power restoration", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-04", "country": "United States Virgin Islands", "country_code": "vi", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A power transformer at the Water and Power Authority's (WAPA) electrical substation on St. John caught fire and became engulfed in flames during an electrical service interruption. The outage affected St. Thomas, St. John, Water Island and Hassel Island for more than two and a half hours. The transformer, one of two units at the facility, was destroyed. Restoration of power to St. John was further delayed because the substation grounds had to be confirmed safe before personnel could enter, assess smoke damage to the building, inspect switchgear and bus bars, and carry out repairs before reenergising the facility, which receives power via an underwater cable from St. Thomas.", "contributing_factors": "The fire began during an electrical service interruption; the utility stated a root cause analysis of the burned transformer would be needed to determine the cause, and given the size of the unit this could take several weeks.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A power transformer fire at a substation can destroy the unit and force weeks of root cause analysis before repairs begin. (2) After a transformer fire, operators must confirm substation grounds are safe and inspect switchgear and bus bars before re energising.", "source_url": "https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/transformer-fire-delays-restoration-of-power-to-st-john/article_a7c02b01-bb0d-5796-90dc-c8b0510ec6f8.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:11:06.847463+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0819", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0819/", "title": "Wind turbine fire sparks grass fire near Weatherford, Oklahoma", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine two miles south of Weatherford in western Oklahoma caught fire on 28 March 2018. The fire threw sparks to the ground, igniting a grass fire. Oklahoma Forestry Services reported that the grass fire grew to approximately five acres before being contained. Eight fire engines responded and brought the fire under control. No site name or operator was identified in reports, and injuries or damage beyond the turbine and grass area were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Turbine fires can readily ignite dry vegetation beneath and around the structure. (2) Pre-planned access for multiple fire appliances improves containment of secondary fires. (3) Early notification to forestry services supports rapid scaling of response resources.", "source_url": "https://ktul.com/news/local/photos-wind-turbine-catches-fire-sparks-grass-fire-in-western-oklahoma", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:11:34.68935+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0820", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0820/", "title": "Fire at Upton Warren substation cuts power to 5,000 homes", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at Upton Warren substation on Worcester Road in Upton Warren, Worcestershire, at around 13:00 GMT. The blaze knocked out power to approximately 5,000 homes, mostly in Upton Warren and Wychbold. Firefighters spent most of the afternoon tackling the fire. One man was taken to hospital and remained there as of the report. Power was restored to affected properties shortly before midnight the same day. The cause of the fire had not been established at the time of reporting, with fire service investigators looking into it.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire was still under investigation by fire service at the time of the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a substation can cut power to thousands of homes, so operators should check backup supply routes and restoration plans. (2) Fire at live electrical infrastructure needs special protocols, so fire services should maintain safe fighting procedures.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hereford-worcester-43016090", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:11:42.273769+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0821", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0821/", "title": "Explosion and fire at Klaarwater substation cut power across Durban", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-03", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred at the 275kV Klaarwater major substation in Durban, South Africa, causing a widespread power outage affecting around 50 percent of the city, including areas in the Northern, Western and Southern regions. The eThekwini Municipality confirmed the explosion was followed by a small fire, which was extinguished. Technicians were sent to the site to assess the damage and determine the cause. Power was restored to some areas relatively quickly while restoration continued elsewhere. The municipality also had to address hoax images that circulated on social media falsely purporting to show the explosion, and it urged residents to reduce electricity usage to avoid overloading alternate circuits used to feed affected areas during restoration.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion was not stated in the source; the municipality said technicians were still investigating at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A 275kV substation explosion can cut supply to half a city, so operators should verify redundant feed paths to all major load centres. (2) False images spread fast after a substation fire, so the operator must issue clear updates within the first hour. (3) Alternate circuits used during restoration can overload, so operators should request reduced demand from users until full capacity returns.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/highway-mail/news-headlines/2018/03/14/majorpoweroutage-explosion-klaarwater-substation-causes-durban-power-outage/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:11:49.165695+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0823", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0823/", "title": "Airport blackout reported as pinpointed to substation switchgear", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A news headline dated 18 December 2017 said an airport blackout had been pinpointed to switchgear at a substation. The available report does not name the airport, the town, the operator or the failed equipment, and it does not say how long the outage lasted or whether anyone was hurt.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The headline attributes the blackout to substation switchgear but gives no cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault in substation switchgear can cut supply to a critical site such as an airport. (2) Operators of critical loads should know which substation equipment their supply depends on.", "source_url": "https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/airport-blackout-pinpointed-to-substation-switchgear/85-500450654", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:12:22.782836+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0827", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0827/", "title": "Wind turbine head collapses at Mawson research station, Antarctica", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-11", "country": "Antarctica", "country_code": "aq", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Part of a wind turbine at Mawson research station in Antarctica, operated by the Australian Antarctic Division, collapsed overnight. The head of the turbine, an Enercon E30 unit measuring 30 metres in height, fell to the ground at approximately 9pm local station time. No one was injured, as all expeditioners were safely inside living quarters at the time. Wind conditions in the preceding days were described as moderate for the location, with gusts up to 40 knots. As a precaution, the station's second wind turbine, which had operated alongside the failed unit since 2003, was deactivated, and diesel generators were used to maintain power supply. The cause of the collapse was unknown at the time of reporting and was to be investigated. Enercon, the turbine manufacturer, was notified of the incident.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the collapse was unknown and under investigation at the time of reporting. Moderate wind gusts up to 40 knots were noted as the prevailing conditions, though described as within the normal range for the location.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An Enercon E30 turbine head can detach and fall even in moderate winds up to 40 knots, so operators should inspect hub and tower connections on similar units after any sign of movement. (2) When one turbine of a pair fails, deactivating the second unit prevents a repeat collapse while the cause is found, so insurers should require paired turbines to have independent shutdown procedures. (3) A nacelle failure at a remote site leaves the station reliant on diesel generators, so operators should keep fuel stocks and generator capacity sized for full load after any turbine loss.", "source_url": "https://www.antarctica.gov.au/news/2017/antarctic-research-station-wind-turbine-collapse/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:12:41.297958+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0828", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0828/", "title": "Substation fire reported, with work under way to restore power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A news headline reported a fire at a substation and a team working to restore power afterwards. The article text was not available, so the site, the cause, the extent of damage, how many customers were affected and whether anyone was injured were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire report from a headline only should prompt checks on outage extent and asset condition before any conclusions. (2) Restoration plans for a substation must be ready to return supply once the site is safe.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/boksburg-advertiser/news-headlines/2017/10/10/dedicated-team-working-restoring-power-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:12:57.74919+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0829", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0829/", "title": "Fire reported at Thebarton substation in South Australia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-10", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Local reporting on 25 October 2017 said firefighters responded to a fire at a substation in Thebarton, a suburb of Adelaide, South Australia, described as a large fire. Only the headline of the report was available to the register, so the cause, the extent of damage, the duration of the response, any injuries and any loss of supply to the surrounding area are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A large fire at a substation requires fast response from fire services. Operators must share site access and hazard details in advance. (2) Initial media reports on substation fires often lack detail on damage or supply loss. Operators should gather their own data before using reports for risk checks.", "source_url": "https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/firefighters-respond-to-large-substation-fire-in-thebarton/news-story/af3daa8b04092a1fa79d531cf33e5ae3", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:12:58.934776+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0831", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0831/", "title": "Unauthorised access to El Paso substation causes explosion and outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An unauthorised individual entered an El Paso Electric substation at the northern corner of Montana and Trowbridge in El Paso, Texas, early in the morning. Police were called at around 6:40 a.m. to a report of a disturbance involving an intoxicated person. Before officers arrived, an explosion occurred inside the substation and the individual was thrown to the ground. He was taken by ambulance to a local hospital and later airlifted to a specialist burn centre for treatment. The outage was reported at around 6:45 a.m. and affected about 2,100 customers, with power restored at around 8 a.m. El Paso Electric confirmed the person was not authorised to be in the substation. Police opened an investigation and were working to identify the man involved. The technical cause of the explosion was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Unauthorised entry into a live electrical substation by an individual reported to be intoxicated. The specific equipment or mechanism involved in the explosion was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Live substations require strong fencing, locks and intrusion monitoring to stop unauthorised entry that can trigger faults. (2) Rapid fault detection and isolation limits outage scale after an intrusion or internal fault. (3) Pre-agreed plans with emergency services enable safe site access and fast medical response after electrical injury.", "source_url": "https://www.ktsm.com/news/epe-power-outage-caused-by-unauthorized-access-to-substation/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T15:13:15.681819+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0832", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0832/", "title": "Transformer explosion at Entergy substation cuts power to Shell Convent Refinery, Louisiana", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer owned by Shell exploded at an Entergy substation near the Shell Convent Refinery (Motiva plant) in St. James Parish, Louisiana, causing an electrical fire on the evening of 26 September 2017. The substation was the main electrical feed for the refinery, and the explosion caused the plant to lose power, triggering an uncontrolled shutdown. Crews responded and the fire was quickly brought under control. Shell said it had activated its emergency response plan and deployed personnel to the site, that all site personnel were accounted for and that there were no injuries. The parish sheriff's office reported no injuries and no off-site impact. Shell's statement said the community would notice elevated flaring during the process. Entergy and Shell said they were investigating the cause of the transformer failure. Residents in the surrounding area reported seeing a bright greenish light in the sky at the time of the explosion.", "contributing_factors": "The specific technical cause of the transformer failure was not reported. An investigation by Entergy and Shell was announced but no findings were disclosed in this report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer explosion at a substation can cut the main feed to a refinery and force an uncontrolled shutdown, so critical sites need resilient or redundant grid connections. (2) Crews brought an electrical fire from a transformer failure under control quickly when an emergency response plan was activated at once.", "source_url": "https://www.wafb.com/story/36460139/transformer-explosion-fire-at-substation-causes-shell-convent-plant-to-lose-power/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:07:57.138443+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0833", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0833/", "title": "Fire breaks out at Zeewolde wind farm in the Netherlands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at the Zeewolde wind farm in the Netherlands, described as one of the country's largest. An explosion was heard before the fire. Two technicians were on site when the incident occurred. The available report does not say whether anyone was hurt, how badly the turbine was damaged, or what caused the fire.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind turbine fire preceded by explosion should be treated as live hazard until the machine and on-site staff are confirmed safe. (2) Technicians already present at a wind turbine fire require immediate welfare checks before any further site work. (3) Unknown cause of wind turbine fire means other turbines on the same farm cannot be assumed safe.", "source_url": "https://energywatch.com/EnergyNews/Renewables/article9908107.ece", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:07:59.738405+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0834", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0834/", "title": "Substation fire causes citywide power outage in Plymouth, Michigan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A DTE Energy substation near Farmer and Theodore streets in Plymouth, Michigan caught fire, with explosions reported, on a Wednesday night, cutting power to the entire city. About 4,000 homes and businesses lost electricity. The utility said a failure inside a transformer sent large amounts of energy into the transformer oil, which led to the explosions and fire. No injuries were reported. Power was restored to all affected customers by the Friday morning. At the time of reporting, DTE Energy had not determined the cause of the failure, and possible causes mentioned included an equipment problem or an animal, such as a squirrel, gnawing at lines.", "contributing_factors": "The exact cause of the transformer failure was not confirmed at the time of reporting; DTE Energy said it may have been an equipment problem or an animal contacting the lines.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer failure that drives energy into the oil can cause explosions and fire, so operators should inspect oil-filled units for internal faults and fit pressure relief devices. (2) A substation fault can remove supply from an entire city, so operators should review backup feeds and switching plans for single-point failures.", "source_url": "https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/2017/08/17/plymouth-power-outage-restored-after-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:08:01.636948+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0835", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0835/", "title": "Fire reported to have destroyed MHI Vestas' largest turbine", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "EnergyWatch reported on 7 August 2017 that a fire had destroyed MHI Vestas' largest turbine earlier that week. Vestas was reported to be working to find the source of the fire. The same report said customers would still receive this turbine model on time. The location, whether the turbine was onshore or offshore, any injuries, and the cause were not reported in the available text.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The available report says only that Vestas was working to find the source of the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire that destroys a flagship turbine model needs full investigation before further units are supplied to customers. (2) Delivery schedules for a new turbine model should wait on the outcome of any fire investigation.", "source_url": "https://energywatch.com/EnergyNews/Renewables/article9769046.ece", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:08:13.151184+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0836", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0836/", "title": "Gamesa turbine destroyed by fire at JFE Engineering wind farm in Chinzei", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-08", "country": "Japan", "country_code": "jp", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 13-year-old Gamesa G80 2MW wind turbine at the JFE Engineering wind project near Chinzei, in Saga prefecture on the Japanese island of Kyushu, caught fire at around 3pm on 21 August 2017. The fire burned for roughly 16 hours before it was extinguished. Local news footage showed debris falling from the 30-metre tower during the blaze. The turbine, located about 800 metres across a body of water from the Genkai nuclear power plant, was destroyed. No injuries were reported. At the time of reporting no cause had been given, with police and fire crews investigating and Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy supporting JFE Engineering, the wind farm owner and operator, in the investigation. It was reported to be the second time a turbine in the area had been damaged by fire, following one during commissioning in August 2004.", "contributing_factors": "No cause had been confirmed at the time of reporting; the fire was under investigation by police and fire crews with support from Siemens Gamesa, the turbine manufacturer. A prior incident in the same area in 2004 was attributed to sparks from a brake applied during a typhoon, which ignited a nacelle fire, though this is not stated as a factor in the 2017 event.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire on a 30-metre tower can drop debris, so operators must set exclusion zones and avoid ground-based firefighting. (2) Fires at sites 800 metres from nuclear plant raise site risk, so emergency plans must account for proximity. (3) Repeat fire damage at the same wind farm shows value in reviewing prior incidents for patterns.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1442624/gamesa-turbine-catches-fire-japan", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:08:25.985896+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0837", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0837/", "title": "Fire alert involving Meralco substation in Makati reported on second alarm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-08", "country": "Philippines", "country_code": "ph", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 4 August 2017 a fire alert reported a fire involving the Meralco substation in Ayala SB, Urdaneta Village, Makati City. The alert said the incident was on second alarm, with an MMDA enforcer and local firefighters on site. The cause, the extent of damage, any injuries and whether power was affected were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A second-alarm fire alert at a substation needs quick checks on whether the asset is involved and supply is affected. (2) Early substation fire alerts should be logged even from short public notices and checked against utility reports.", "source_url": "https://www.facebook.com/MMDAPH/posts/admin-14-fire-alert-as-of-237-pm-at-urdaneta-village-makati-city-involving-meral/1571430016228988/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:08:31.379759+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0838", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0838/", "title": "Transformer fire at Piti substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-08", "country": "Guam", "country_code": "gu", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the afternoon of 4 August 2017, a transformer at Guam Power Authority's Piti substation caught fire. Crews isolated the area. The authority said there was no harm or danger to life or property and that it did not think any customers were affected. A feeder line also tripped in Yigo the same afternoon. That problem was isolated and crews addressed it.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a substation needs fast isolation of the affected area so the rest of the network stays in service. (2) A feeder line trip on the same day must be treated as a separate event and confirmed isolated before the incident is closed.", "source_url": "https://www.guampdn.com/news/local/gpa-transformer-fire-in-piti-feeder-line-trouble-in-yigo/article_ef464ebe-0288-5c78-81b8-b67d817dd227.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:08:33.795569+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0839", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0839/", "title": "Transformer fire at LADWP substation causes major Los Angeles area outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 8 July 2017, an explosion was reported at Receiving Station J, a Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) energy transmission site in the 18900 block of Parthenia Street, Northridge, California. Firefighters arriving found heavy flames and a thick column of dark smoke from a vat containing as much as 60,000 gallons of mineral oil, reportedly used as a coolant for high-voltage equipment, which was believed to be fully energised. Seventy-four Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) personnel worked with LADWP experts to electrically isolate the fire before extinguishing it with large volumes of water and firefighting foam within two hours. There were no injuries. The resulting power outage, during intense summer heat, affected Northridge, Winnetka, Reseda, Lake Balboa, Tarzana, North Hills, Granada Hills, Chatsworth, West Hills, Canoga Park and Woodland Hills, leading to scores of LAFD service calls including many elevator rescues. Fire damage to the facility and any effect on utility service were to be determined by LADWP.", "contributing_factors": "Utility officials attributed the blaze to a mechanical malfunction and considered the cause accidental. The large volume of mineral oil coolant involved contributed to the intensity of the fire and the complexity of the response.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Oil-filled high-voltage equipment at substations can burn intensely, so operators must arrange for electrical isolation before firefighters start work. (2) A large volume of mineral oil coolant increases fire intensity and response complexity at substations. (3) Substation outages during summer heat can trigger many secondary calls such as elevator rescues.", "source_url": "https://www.fireengineering.com/firefighting/lafd-transformer-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:08:41.985534+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0840", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0840/", "title": "Underground transformer explosion damages street in Wilmington", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An underground transformer exploded at the intersection of 3rd and Monroe streets in Wilmington, next to the Adams Four Shopping Center, at about 12:30 p.m. on 29 June 2017. The blast lifted and broke up a section of the street around a manhole cover, while the cover itself stayed in place. Delmarva Power reported that the blast tripped at least one other transformer in the Southbridge section and caused a brief power disruption from Pennsylvania Avenue and Rodney Street southwest to Lobdell and Bradford streets. Police and fire services cordoned off the area until crews could assess the vault, and officers directed traffic where signals were dark.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer explosion was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An underground transformer fault can lift and break the street even when the manhole cover stays in place, so the surrounding pavement should be treated as unstable. (2) A fault can trip other transformers and darken signals beyond the blast site, so traffic control should follow the reported outage area. (3) Isolation of the vault and restoration of supply should proceed while the damaged street remains cordoned.", "source_url": "https://www.wdel.com/news/underground-transformer-explosion-rocks-street-in-wilmington/article_f7e6cc70-5cee-11e7-888f-570bf2aadcc5.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:09:03.509585+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0841", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0841/", "title": "Substation explosion and fire cuts power to 100,000 in San Jose suburb", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "Costa Rica", "country_code": "cr", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion at around 7:00pm on a Wednesday evening at the Porvenir de Desamparados electrical substation on the south side of San Jose, Costa Rica, triggered a fire inside the facility. The event knocked out power to an estimated 100,000 people for more than six hours across Desamparados, Aserri and several San Jose neighbourhoods. The substation is shared by the Compania Nacional de Fuerza y Luz (CNFL), which provides connections to homes and businesses, and its parent company ICE, which is responsible for high voltage in the country. The fire department deployed ten units and 35 firefighters to bring the blaze under control, while around 50 CNFL employees worked on restoration. CNFL restored power to 85% of homes by 1:30am and to 95% by 7:00am the following morning. Nearby homes, electrical lines and one light post were damaged. No injuries or fatalities were reported. Additional police officers were sent into Desamparados during the blackout.", "contributing_factors": "Preliminary assessment pointed to a failure in protective equipment at the substation, with a fuller analysis said to be due the following day.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Protective equipment at shared transmission and distribution substations must undergo regular inspection and testing. (2) Fire services and utility crews must mobilise together to limit outage length after a substation fire. (3) A substation explosion can damage nearby homes and lines, so damage checks must extend past the site boundary.", "source_url": "https://qcostarica.com/explosion-fire-in-substation-leaves-some-100000-without-electricity-on-south-side-of-san-jose/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:09:07.368503+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0843", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0843/", "title": "Underground transformer explosion causes widespread power outage in Halifax", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer located in an underground vault on Barrington Street in downtown Halifax exploded and caught fire, igniting other materials in the vault. The explosion caused a power outage affecting more than 8,500 Nova Scotia Power customers at its peak. Smoke travelled through underground conduits and sewer pipes into nearby buildings, triggering fire alarms and prompting fire crews to evacuate people from buildings on Barrington Street. Part of the street was closed between Sackville and Prince streets. Firefighters had to wait for confirmation that the vault was de-energised and grounded before they could enter and extinguish the fire. The fire was brought under control by around 9:30pm. Power was progressively restored to customers, with the final connections completed by around 5:30am the following morning.", "contributing_factors": "The fire occurred within an underground electrical vault, and smoke spread through electrical conduits and sewer pipes into surrounding buildings before the fire was contained.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Underground vault fires require verification that the vault is de-energised and grounded before crews can enter safely. (2) Smoke from underground electrical fires can spread through conduits and sewer pipes into nearby buildings. (3) Utilities need rapid feeder switching plans to limit outage size during vault fires.", "source_url": "https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/halifax-power-outage-barrington-street-smoke-shut-down-1.4174172", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:09:35.340427+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0844", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0844/", "title": "Explosion at Beverley substation cuts power to about 160 properties", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A loud explosion was reported at a Northern Powergrid substation on Toll Gavel in Beverley, East Yorkshire, on a Saturday evening. Witnesses described a huge bang that set off shop alarms, caused cinema screens at a nearby shopping centre to switch off, and led residents to leave nearby buildings. Northern Powergrid confirmed a report of an explosion at the substation and said engineers were sent to investigate. Approximately 159 properties lost their electricity supply as a result. The company said power was expected to be restored by around 11.30pm the same evening. No damage beyond the loss of supply was visible to witnesses, and the exact cause of the explosion had not been confirmed at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An explosion at an urban substation can trigger shop alarms and cinema shutdowns without visible external damage, so operators should fit acoustic sensors and clear public communication plans. (2) A single substation fault cut supply to 159 properties, so urban networks need fast isolation and built-in redundancy to limit outage size.", "source_url": "https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/news/hull-east-yorkshire-news/huge-explosion-toll-gavel-substation-118651", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:09:36.592478+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0845", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0845/", "title": "Vehicle rollover injures three at White Rock Wind Farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Three workers were injured when their utility vehicle rolled 30 metres down an embankment at White Rock Wind Farm on a Monday night in June 2017. Two were taken to hospital. A third was flown to Tamworth Base Hospital with spinal injuries and internal bleeding. The CFMEU said it had previously told Goldwind Australia that hard barriers were needed along service roads at embankments, and that those concerns had not been addressed. The newspaper reported this as the second accident at the wind farm in two months to which a rescue helicopter was tasked.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not independently established. The CFMEU said hard barriers were absent along service-road embankments and that earlier warnings to Goldwind Australia had not been acted on. Goldwind Australia had not responded when the article was published.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Utility vehicles on wind farm service roads need hard barriers at embankments to prevent rollovers. (2) Record and close out safety concerns from workers before further vehicle use on site roads. (3) After a vehicle rollover, review road design and barriers before similar work resumes.", "source_url": "https://www.gleninnesexaminer.com.au/story/4756920/wind-farm-accident-shows-goldwinds-lack-of-respect-for-safety-union-says/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:09:41.446509+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0846", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0846/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at wind farm near Windthorst, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine collapsed at a wind farm just outside Windthorst, Texas, coming down near Oliver Wells Road. No people and no livestock were harmed. Alterra Power, whose staff were investigating the failure, said this type of failure was extremely rare and said each turbine had been checked. Reporting noted the structure measured over 400 feet from the base to the blade tip. The wind farm was shut down during the investigation and was back in operation at the time of reporting, with the cause of the collapse still not determined.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; the cause of the structural failure was still under investigation at the time of the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine collapse near a public road requires operators to set wide debris exclusion zones before any return to service. (2) After an unexplained turbine collapse each sister turbine must be checked before the wind farm restarts. (3) A full site shutdown after a structural failure allows safe checks and restores output only when risks are known.", "source_url": "https://www.newschannel6now.com/story/35711695/wind-turbine-collapses-in-windthorst/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:09:44.31114+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0848", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0848/", "title": "Nacelle fire and blade loss at Endeavor I wind farm, Osceola County, Iowa", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine caught fire in the early hours of a Monday in June 2017 at the Endeavor I Wind Energy Center in Osceola County, Iowa. The fire began in the nacelle, where the generator and associated equipment are housed. Blades detached and fell to the ground over several hours, with the first reported to have fallen around 7:30am, a second around 8:00am and the third around 9:20am. The initial call was made at about 4:30am and the local fire department attended, with reporting indicating the decision was taken to let the fire burn itself out rather than fight it directly. No injuries were reported. The owner, NextEra Energy, said it saw the turbine go offline immediately through round-the-clock monitoring and that only this one turbine out of 60 on the site was affected, with the rest of the wind farm continuing to generate.", "contributing_factors": "A local report said the cause was believed to be a mechanical malfunction, but the owner said the exact cause remained under investigation and that it would work with the turbine manufacturer to identify the cause and replacement parts. The turbine was described as a 2.5 MW Clipper unit at a site that began operation in 2008.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Round the clock remote monitoring of a wind turbine fleet detects nacelle fires at once and limits response delays. (2) A nacelle fire at hub height on a Clipper unit may have to be left to burn out, so an exclusion zone for falling blades must be set early. (3) Root cause work with the turbine manufacturer after a mechanical malfunction helps decide if the fault is isolated or fleet wide.", "source_url": "https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/money/agriculture/2017/06/08/wind-turbine-fire-iowa-video-nextera-energy-resources/376780001/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:10:28.125686+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0849", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0849/", "title": "Fire at Leicester substation cuts power to 45,000 properties", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a high voltage electrical substation on Ravensbridge Drive in Leicester at about 10:45 GMT. Power was lost to 45,000 properties in the LE3, LE4 and LE7 areas and nearby places including Groby, Glenfield and Birstall. Businesses were evacuated and roads were closed. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service attended, the site was later dampened down, and about 8,800 litres of oil had to be allowed to burn off. Police said power had been restored and most road closures had been lifted. No cause was reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a high voltage substation can cut power to tens of thousands of properties, so operators should plan restoration across wide areas. (2) Where insulating oil is involved, the fire service may have to let a large volume burn off under control before dampening down. (3) Operators should plan coordination with fire service, police and local authorities when a substation fire affects businesses and roads.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-39341030", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:10:47.899875+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0851", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0851/", "title": "Circuit breaker failure sparks fire at San Francisco substation, cutting power for hours", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 21 April 2017, a fire broke out at a Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E) substation at Larkin and Eddy Streets in the Tenderloin neighbourhood of San Francisco. PG&E said the blaze was caused by the massive failure of a circuit breaker. The fire knocked out power for about seven hours to much of downtown and northern parts of the city, stranding people in elevators. The San Francisco Fire Department responded and the fire reportedly smouldered for about 90 minutes while crews worked to contain it, ultimately using their own CO2 truck to extinguish it. A subsequent City Hall hearing raised concerns about the delay in notifying city officials, the availability of firefighting agents on site, and firefighter familiarity with the substation. PG&E said it was conducting a root cause investigation expected to take six to eight weeks and would share findings with the city. The substation was already undergoing a planned $100 million overhaul at the time.", "contributing_factors": "PG&E stated the fire was caused by the failure of a circuit breaker. City officials noted a lack of regular fire department inspections or drills at substations, insufficient chemical firefighting agents on hand, and delayed notification to city emergency officials after the fire started.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A circuit breaker failure at a substation can ignite a fire that requires on-site CO2 equipment, so operators must stock suitable agents and train crews in advance. (2) Delayed notification to city officials after a substation fire extends outages and risks, so utilities must set up immediate alert protocols. (3) Lack of regular fire department inspections at substations leaves crews unprepared, so joint drills should occur before any incident.", "source_url": "https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/Fires-at-PG-E-s-SF-substations-a-recurring-11119604.php", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:10:55.422899+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0852", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0852/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at Point Tupper Wind Farm after hub bearing fault, Nova Scotia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": "2016-08", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An 80-metre wind turbine at the Point Tupper Wind Farm in Point Tupper, Nova Scotia, operated by Renewable Energy Services, collapsed on 17 August 2016 after its blades struck the tower, bending it before it buckled at the midpoint and fell to the ground. The turbine's hub had suffered a bearing failure months earlier and had recently been repaired, with the hub replaced and blades reattached. During a lightning-protection system test, a technician heard an unusual noise, suspected to be a forgotten washer inside the hub, and on inspection found the blades were incorrectly pitched and the electromechanical brake had not engaged. Workers were instructed to leave the turbine and move to a safe distance. Around four hours later, with no one present, the tower collapsed. No injuries, fires or explosions occurred, and the wider power grid was unaffected. A provincial stop-work order was issued and lifted four months later once the manufacturer, Enercon Canada, had responded to regulatory queries.", "contributing_factors": "A prior bearing failure in the hub required replacement and blade reattachment; technical challenges were encountered during this repair; the electromechanical brake was not applied and the blades were left pitched incorrectly (about 2 degrees instead of 90 degrees) during a lightning-protection test, which appears to have led to the structural failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After hub bearing repair and blade reattachment, operators must verify correct blade pitch and brake engagement before any test run. (2) An unusual noise during a lightning protection test on a repaired hub should trigger immediate shutdown and inspection rather than continued operation. (3) Evacuation to a safe distance after detecting incorrect blade pitch prevents injury when tower collapse follows.", "source_url": "https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/forgotten-washer-heard-in-hub-before-wind-turbine-collapsed-in-cape-breton-1.4112090", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:11:00.071723+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0853", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0853/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at Narragansett beach in storm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at Salty Brine State Beach in Narragansett collapsed during a nor'easter. Winds were reported at more than 50 miles an hour. The 100-foot lattice tower buckled and the blades came to rest in the snow. The turbine supplied electricity to the beach bathhouse. Nobody was reported hurt.", "contributing_factors": "The report attributes the collapse to dangerous gusts in the winter storm. No engineering assessment of the tower was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Coastal lattice towers must be assessed for gusts above 50 mph in nor'easters, so operators should review design limits for winter storms. (2) After a storm, inspect lattice towers before anyone approaches a buckled structure to avoid secondary hazards. (3) Public turbines need a pre-set plan to isolate the asset and restore supply to served buildings such as bathhouses.", "source_url": "https://turnto10.com/news/local/beachs-wind-turbine-collapses-in-storm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:11:06.329961+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0854", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0854/", "title": "Fire at PECO substation cuts power to over 30,000 Philadelphia customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a PECO electrical substation located on the 2600 block of West Westmoreland Street, near the intersection of Fox Street and Hunting Park Avenue, in the Tioga section of North Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Fire Department responded to battle the blaze. The fire caused power outages affecting more than 30,000 PECO customers in the area. Numerous traffic lights in the surrounding area lost power, prompting city officials to urge caution among drivers, and the city's Streets Department installed generators at major intersections until power could be restored. Several SEPTA bus routes were detoured and delayed as a result of the incident. Temple University reported power outages in portions of Temple University Hospital. The article was published as the incident was still developing.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut supply to traffic lights and hospitals, so operators must map backup power routes for these assets in advance. (2) Substation fires disrupt bus routes and city services over wide areas, so contingency plans should include portable generators at key junctions.", "source_url": "https://www.phillyvoice.com/fire-peco-substation-causes-power-outages-more-35000-customers-philly/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:11:13.570075+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0855", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0855/", "title": "Tower bolt failure reported to have caused Vestas turbine collapse in Sweden", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": null, "country": "Sweden", "country_code": "se", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Vestas wind turbine in Sweden was reported to have collapsed in 2015 after failure of the tower bolts. The only available source is a headline, so the site, the capacity, any injuries and the wider consequences are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The headline attributes the collapse to failure of the tower bolts. No further technical detail is available from the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Tower bolt condition must form part of inspection programmes for onshore turbines. (2) A reported bolt failure on one unit should prompt checks on similar turbines until more detail is known.", "source_url": "https://renewablesnow.com/news/tower-bolts-failure-led-to-2015-collapse-of-vestas-turbine-in-sweden-559782/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:11:35.380531+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0856", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0856/", "title": "Substation explosion and fireball reported in Washington state", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Video broadcast by a US news outlet showed a large fireball and thick black smoke rising from a substation in Washington state on a Wednesday night in mid-February 2017. The report attributes the event to equipment failure at the substation and says about 10,000 residents were left without power. No one was injured. The substation, its operator, the specific equipment involved and the duration of the outage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Reported as equipment failure at the substation. No further detail on the failed component or the underlying cause has been published.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation equipment failure can escalate within seconds to an explosion and fireball, so operators should inspect and monitor high-voltage plant condition. (2) A single substation failure can cut power to thousands of customers, so networks need redundancy and rapid switching. (3) Early reports rarely name the failed component, so operators must treat the cause as unconfirmed until findings are published.", "source_url": "https://www.today.com/video/caught-on-video-substation-explosion-sends-huge-fireball-into-the-sky-878609987630", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:11:44.547443+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0857", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0857/", "title": "Substation explosion reported to have cut power to thousands in Grant County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A KING5.com report dated 15 February 2017 said thousands of customers lost power in Grant County because of a substation 'explosion'. The available source is the headline and feed summary only. The exact site, the date of the event as distinct from the report, the cause, any injuries and how supply was restored are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source does not say what failed or why.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation explosion can interrupt supply to thousands of customers, so operators should have rapid isolation and restoration plans ready. (2) Headline-only reports leave the exact site, event date and cause unknown, so insurers and lenders should seek full confirmation before assessing exposure.", "source_url": "https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/thousands-lose-power-in-grant-co-due-to-substation-explosion/281-408828670", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:11:50.586623+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0858", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0858/", "title": "DTE Energy substation fire cuts power to 7,000 customers in Detroit", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Friday 27 January 2017, a fire at a DTE Energy substation at East Warren and Conner, on Detroit's east side, was reported to have been put out. DTE said about 7,000 customers lost power and that no injuries were reported at the substation. DTE expected about half of those customers to have power restored by midnight and all power restored by 6 a.m. on Saturday. Whether that timetable was met, and what started the fire, was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a distribution substation can cut supply to thousands of customers even when no injuries occur at the site. (2) Restoration after a substation fire may need staging, so operators should give expected times and note what remains unconfirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/detroit/2017/01/27/dte-energy-substation-fire-detroit/97172680/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:11:58.611898+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0859", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0859/", "title": "Nationwide power cut in Malta reported to have been blamed on the interconnector", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "Malta", "country_code": "mt", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report dated 7 February 2017 said Malta had been hit by a second nationwide blackout, described in the report address as a four-hour power cut. The outage was blamed on the interconnector, and a minister was reported to have apologised. The article text was not available, so the duration, the precise fault, any injuries and the restoration steps are not confirmed here.", "contributing_factors": "The available headline blames the interconnector. No failed component or other contributing condition is stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An island grid that relies on one interconnector must treat its loss as a credible nationwide event and hold backup generation and restoration plans ready. (2) Early public statements must separate a reported blame on an interconnector from a confirmed technical cause. (3) A repeat nationwide cut requires review of supply and restoration arrangements before a full technical report is available.", "source_url": "https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/environment/energy/74192/malta_hit_by_a_fourhour_nationwide_power_cut_again", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:12:08.195947+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0860", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0860/", "title": "Fire reported at a Zesa power station", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "Zimbabwe", "country_code": "zw", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Herald headline of 8 February 2017 reported that a Zesa power station had caught fire. The article text was not available. Cause, which station, injuries, damage and any effect on generation were not reported in the material reviewed.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A headline-only report leaves the site, equipment and any effect on generation unknown, so the operator must confirm these facts before the entry is treated as complete. (2) When a fire is reported at a power station, operators should isolate the affected plant and check neighbouring units until the scope is known.", "source_url": "https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/zesa-power-station-catches-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:12:13.895349+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0863", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0863/", "title": "Fire destroys single turbine at Knabs Ridge wind farm near Harrogate", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-01", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 6 January 2017, emergency services were called to Knabs Ridge wind farm near Harrogate after a fire broke out at one of the site's eight turbines. The wind farm has a total capacity of 16 megawatts. On-site personnel alerted the fire service, which attended and dealt with the blaze. The turbine was reported as destroyed, with debris in the fields below that staff were cleaning the following day. The remaining turbines remained operational. A spokesperson for Innogy Renewables UK Ltd said there were no injuries and that an investigation had been launched to establish the cause.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. An investigation was launched to establish the cause, but no findings were disclosed in this report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine fire at Knabs Ridge scattered debris into fields, so operators must plan for ground-level clean-up after any nacelle or tower fire. (2) On-site staff at Knabs Ridge detected the fire and alerted the fire service, limiting damage to one turbine and keeping the rest of the array online.", "source_url": "https://www.harrogate-news.co.uk/2017/01/07/fire-destroys-wind-turbine-near-harrogate/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:12:30.139707+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0864", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0864/", "title": "Wind turbine nacelle destroyed by fire in Hamina, Finland", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-01", "country": "Finland", "country_code": "fi", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the early hours of 6 January 2017, a fire broke out in the nacelle of a wind turbine at Paksuniemi in Hamina, southern Finland, part of a six-turbine wind park owned by the municipal utility Haminan Energia. Rescue services were alerted at 01:35. Because the fire was burning roughly 100 metres above ground, firefighters could not reach or fight it directly. They cordoned off the surrounding area due to the risk of falling debris, and the fire largely burned itself out by around 06:30. The turbine was completely destroyed. The operator said it was too early to estimate the financial loss and confirmed the wider wind park would be shut down temporarily as a precaution, though it stated the incident would not affect regional electricity supply.", "contributing_factors": "The exact cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting. The incident occurred during a period of extreme cold, with temperatures around minus 20 degrees Celsius, though no direct causal link to the cold was stated by sources.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire at 100 metres height cannot be fought from the ground, so response plans must rest on area cordoning and controlled burnout. (2) Falling debris from a burning nacelle at hub height requires an exclusion zone around the turbine base. (3) A turbine fire in a six-turbine park requires temporary shutdown of co-located turbines for inspection.", "source_url": "https://yle.fi/a/3-9391170", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:12:39.539443+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0865", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0865/", "title": "Wind turbine reported to have collapsed in Nova Scotia, described as a Canadian first", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine in Nova Scotia, Canada, was reported to have collapsed, in an event described by CTV News in August 2016 as believed to be the first turbine collapse of its kind in Canada. The report available to the register is a headline and summary only. The site, owner, operator and turbine manufacturer are not reported, and no information is available on the cause of the structural failure, on any injuries, or on any regulatory follow-up. The date of the collapse itself is not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine structural failure needs a full report so that operators can check similar towers and foundations. (2) Wind turbine collapses must record the date so that weather and load records can be matched to the event.", "source_url": "https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/article/collapse-of-wind-turbine-in-ns-believed-to-be-a-canadian-first/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:13:07.657029+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0866", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0866/", "title": "Xi’an substation explosion causes local blackout", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": "2016-06", "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A substation in Xi’an City, Shaanxi Province, China, was reported to have exploded at about 00:25 on 18 June 2016 after a breakdown, and to have caught fire. The fire was reported extinguished in about one hour. A sudden blackout was reported to have affected local semiconductor manufacturers. LONGi and its subsidiary Lerri Solar, both sited in Xi’an, said they were not damaged or affected because their plants were far from the explosion. The extent of damage to the substation, any injuries, and when supply was restored are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The report attributes the explosion to a breakdown. No further cause is given.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation breakdown can escalate to explosion and fire in minutes, so operators must fit early fault detection on transformers and switchgear. (2) Even when a substation fire is out in one hour, supply loss can still hit industrial loads, so contingency plans must cover rapid restoration. (3) Operators must verify which sites lost supply rather than assume distance protects them, to avoid incorrect impact assessments.", "source_url": "https://www.energytrend.com/news/20160620-10661.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:13:22.173445+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0867", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0867/", "title": "Turbine fire shuts down Midtfjellet wind farm in Norway", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-10", "country": "Norway", "country_code": "no", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Nordex Gamma generation wind turbine caught fire at the 110MW Midtfjellet wind farm in mid-west Norway on 31 October 2015. The fire caused no injuries but triggered a shutdown of the entire plant, which consists of 44 turbines of the N90 and N100 types. Nordex, the turbine manufacturer, confirmed the incident and said the wind farm would remain shut down until an inspection could be carried out to ensure the site was safe to resume operation. Nordex stated it was investigating the cause of the fire.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in one Nordex Gamma turbine forced shutdown of all 44 turbines at Midtfjellet until inspection confirmed safety. (2) After a turbine fire, the manufacturer must inspect the full site before restart to rule out shared faults across N90 and N100 units.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/nordex-probes-turbine-fire-at-110mw-norway-wind-farm/1-1-868523", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:13:33.932257+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0868", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0868/", "title": "Wind turbine catches fire at Iberdrola wind farm in Emington, Illinois", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 24 May 2015 a wind turbine caught fire at the Iberdrola Renewables Streator Cayuga Ridge South Wind Power Project near Emington in Livingston County, Illinois. Local residents reported seeing the turbine burning and travelled to the site to observe. Fire crews attended but reportedly acted only in a traffic control capacity; the reason for this is not reported. The blades continued to turn freely while burning. Trucks from Iberdrola arrived after the fire crews had left the scene, with the turbine still alight, before departing again. The incident occurred amid a tornado watch and rising winds in the area, and came ten days after a similar turbine fire at Iberdrola's Locust Ridge II wind farm in Iowa.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A burning turbine with blades turning freely cannot be approached safely from the ground, so operators must plan for remote isolation and a debris exclusion zone. (2) When fire crews leave a turbine still alight, operators must maintain an on-site presence and give clear updates rather than depart. (3) Repeat turbine fires at sites in the same fleet within days should prompt a review of common causes such as component design or maintenance.", "source_url": "https://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2015/05/breaking-livingston-co-emington-il-wind-turbine-fire-pics/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:13:51.080834+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0869", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0869/", "title": "Nordex turbine collapses at Screggagh wind farm after blade control fault", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-01", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 100 metre high wind turbine at Screggagh wind farm in Co Tyrone, Northern Ireland, collapsed on 2 January 2015 after almost four years of uninterrupted operation. The turbine, one of eight Nordex N80 2500kW machines, buckled and hit the ground, scattering debris across the mountainside site. Wind speeds at the time were described as medium, around 10 to 12 metres per second. No personnel were on site and no injuries occurred. Debris, including parts that became embedded in the ground, fell within the site boundary, with the furthest piece landing 264 metres from the turbine; none reached public roads or neighbouring land. Emergency services attended within minutes. The site was shut down while turbine supplier Nordex UK investigated. An interim investigation concluded the collapse was caused by a unique fault in the blade control system not previously seen in the Nordex fleet, applicable only to turbines of a similar generation. The operator said Nordex had implemented an additional protective measure to prevent a recurrence.", "contributing_factors": "A fault in the wind turbine blade control system, described by the supplier in its interim investigation as unique and applicable only to turbines of a similar generation to those installed at the site.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A blade control fault on a Nordex N80 turbine can cause collapse after four years of normal operation, so operators should add extra protection even on turbines with clean service records. (2) Debris from a collapsed 100 metre turbine can travel 264 metres, so operators must set exclusion zones and confirm they cover the full fall radius. (3) Emergency services reached the site within minutes with no one present, showing that rapid notification procedures limit the consequences of a turbine collapse.", "source_url": "https://www.imeche.org/news/news-article/'unique'-fault-caused-co-tyrone-turbine-collapse-13021502", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:13:56.639009+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0870", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0870/", "title": "Suzlon turbine destroyed and two damaged at Amayo II wind farm, Rivas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2014, "incident_month": "2014-12", "country": "Nicaragua", "country_code": "ni", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Three Suzlon S88 2.1MW turbines at the Amayo II plant, part of the 63MW Amayo wind complex owned by AEI Energy in Rivas municipality, Nicaragua, malfunctioned in high winds in the early hours of a Sunday morning, about an hour after a power blackout hit the surrounding municipality. Local press, citing ground staff and firefighters, reported that the emergency braking systems on all three machines failed, leaving them unable to control rotor speed in strong gusts. One turbine's nacelle caught fire and later collapsed to the ground. A second turbine lost all three blades, which were flung off, and a third suffered a broken blade. No injuries were reported and the site was secured afterwards. The turbine manufacturer confirmed the incident but declined to comment on the cause pending investigation. No other turbines at the wider complex were affected.", "contributing_factors": "Local press reports, citing ground staff and firefighters, attributed the failures to a malfunction of the emergency braking systems on the affected turbines during high wind gusts, occurring shortly after a local power blackout. The turbine manufacturer had not confirmed a cause at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Emergency braking systems on Suzlon S88 turbines must remain effective after a grid blackout, as loss of control in high winds can destroy the machine. (2) A nacelle fire at hub height on a Suzlon turbine cannot be fought from the ground, so plans must rely on early detection and remote isolation. (3) Multi-turbine overspeed events at the same site require immediate securing to protect nearby assets and allow root cause work.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1325609/one-suzlon-turbine-destroyed-two-badly-damaged", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:14:00.878323+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0871", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0871/", "title": "Worker dies in accident at Carmel substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2014, "incident_month": "2014-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 25 March 2014, a Duke Energy employee died after an accident at a Carmel substation near the intersection of 141st Street and Towne Road. Emergency medical technicians from the Carmel Fire Department took the employee to St Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis, where the employee was pronounced dead later that evening. Duke Energy confirmed a fatal injury in Hamilton County and said an investigation was under way. The nature of the accident was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. Duke Energy said it was still investigating.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation work needs fast on-site medical access and direct hospital handover after any injury. (2) Operators must complete a full investigation after any fatal substation incident before resuming similar tasks.", "source_url": "https://www.youarecurrent.com/2014/03/26/duke-energy-worker-dies-in-accident-at-carmel-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-15T20:14:02.947477+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0872", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0872/", "title": "RWE investigates incident during turbine component loading for Thor wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "RWE says it is investigating an incident on 10 June involving turbine components during loading onto a jack-up installation vessel. The components were being handled for offshore wind deployment at the Thor offshore wind farm, as part of transport and installation. The vessel was operated by Fred. Olsen Windcarrier. RWE says it is examining the cause and assessing any potential damage. It has informed relevant authorities and project partners. The company has not reported the extent of the incident or whether anyone was injured.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. RWE says the cause is still being examined.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat component loading onto an installation vessel as a controlled lifting operation, with a clear stop if handling does not go as planned. (2) Tell authorities and project partners promptly while cause and damage are still being assessed. (3) Do not treat an unresolved loading incident as minor until damage and any injuries are reported.", "source_url": "https://www.windtech-international.com/projects-and-contracts/rwe-investigates-cause-of-offshore-wind-turbine-component-incident", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T02:12:20.361418+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0874", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0874/", "title": "Turbine blade detaches at RWE's Brechfa Forest West wind farm in Wales", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 25 February 2026 a blade detached from one of the 28 Senvion MM92 turbines at the 57.4MW Brechfa Forest West wind farm in Carmarthenshire, Wales. RWE said its team attended the site after discovering the detachment. The area was empty when the incident occurred and no injuries were reported. As a precaution a 50 metre safety zone was established around the turbine and the fallen blade was removed from site for investigation. Natural Resources Wales temporarily closed off the area as a precautionary safety measure while the incident is investigated. RWE said a full assessment of the cause and impact of the incident was ongoing and that it was working closely with Natural Resources Wales to ensure safety in the forest area.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the blade detachment is under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After blade detachment on an Senvion MM92 turbine, operators must establish a 50 metre exclusion zone at once because public access areas like forests require immediate isolation. (2) Blade failure events need rapid removal of the component for investigation, as retention supports root cause analysis and fleet checks on similar models. (3) Coordination with environmental bodies is essential where turbines stand in shared forest land, to manage temporary closures during investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.renews.biz/uncategorized/rwe-investigates-turbine-blade-incident-in-wales/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T02:13:44.942576+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0875", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0875/", "title": "Man electrocuted after break-in at Spanish wind turbine, arrests reported", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Spain", "country_code": "es", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Reporting states that three men broke into a GE Vernova wind turbine in Spain and that one of them was fatally electrocuted. The Spanish Civil Guard inspected the turbine where the incident took place. Arrests have been reported in connection with the death. The available report is brief: the site name, the location within Spain, the turbine model and capacity, the date of the incident and the motive for the break-in are not stated, and the circumstances of the electrocution have not been described.", "contributing_factors": "Unauthorised entry into a wind turbine containing energised electrical equipment. No further contributing factors have been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Unauthorised entry into a wind turbine with energised equipment proved fatal, so operators should strengthen physical security at remote unmanned sites. (2) Three men broke into the turbine, so door locks and intrusion detection are needed to deter and record trespass at isolated assets.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/accidents-and-casualties/arrests-over-death-of-man-electrocuted-inside-wind-turbine-after-break-in/2-1-1945616", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T02:14:09.360237+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0877", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0877/", "title": "Clamp failure and coolant leak found during Moss Landing battery restart testing", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "near_miss", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "PG&E began returning its Elkhorn Battery Energy Storage System at Moss Landing, California to service on 1 June 2025, following an automatic shutdown on 16 January 2025 when the system's infrared fire detection picked up flames from a fire at the neighbouring Vistra Energy battery facility. During testing, PG&E identified a clamp failure and a subsequent coolant leak in one of the 256 Tesla Megapacks on site. PG&E said there were no injuries, power outages, smoke or fire associated with the clamp failure and coolant leak. Tesla, which maintains the Elkhorn system for PG&E, has evaluated the failed clamp and is developing an inspection and repair plan. PG&E's best estimate for a return to service is now 30 June 2026. The system will remain electrically disconnected from the grid in a safe, idle state, apart from connecting to maintain at or near minimum state of charge, until repairs are completed.", "contributing_factors": "A clamp failure in one Megapack led to a coolant leak during the planned, staged restart and testing process that PG&E began after the extended shutdown caused by the neighbouring facility fire. The underlying cause of the clamp failure is not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A clamp failure in a Tesla Megapack led to a coolant leak, so operators should inspect clamps on identical units before full reactivation after shutdown. (2) Phased restart testing after an extended shutdown can reveal latent mechanical faults before they cause fire or outage. (3) A single Megapack clamp failure warrants fleet-wide checks on the thermal management system to prevent repeats.", "source_url": "https://www.ksbw.com/article/pge-restart-date-battery-storage-vistra-fire/65875941", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T02:17:29.928097+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0878", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0878/", "title": "Report says five Australian solar farms shut down over fire risk", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "near_miss", "severity": "near_miss", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report headlined by The Australian on 18 March 2025 said five solar farms in Australia had been shut down over fire risk. The full article was not accessible, so the sites, their locations, owners and operators, their capacities and the nature of the fire risk are not known from the available text. It is not reported whether any fire occurred, whether anyone was hurt, or how long the shutdowns lasted. This entry is provisional and will be updated if fuller reporting appears.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire risk at one solar asset can affect several sites at once where equipment or design is shared across a fleet. (2) Operators benefit from knowing quickly which sites use the same equipment type so checks can be targeted. (3) Where public reporting is limited, operators should seek confirmation of the cause directly from suppliers or regulators.", "source_url": "https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/five-victorian-solar-farms-shut-down-over-bushfire-risk/news-story/b29836188f88f0161f582840cdfc2ea5", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T05:11:04.486082+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0879", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0879/", "title": "E3/DC home battery storage system with LG module catches fire in Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A volunteer fire brigade was called to a fire described as suspicious in the basement of a house in Werne, Germany, involving a home battery storage system. Nobody was present at the scene. The unit was identified as an E3/DC S10E 6.5 home power plant, commissioned in 2019, containing a battery module made by LG Energy Solution. Firefighters found the enclosed 6 kWh battery difficult to extinguish because flames repeatedly re-ignited behind a sheet metal panel. Thermal imaging showed the battery self-igniting whenever cooling was interrupted and the internal temperature rose again. In consultation with the installer, firefighters separated the DC connection, dismantled the wall-mounted battery, took it outside and cooled it further in a portable 600 litre container. The basement suffered fire damage and power lines were damaged, so technicians switched the house to the main security box, and the smoke damaged apartment and basement were ventilated after inspection. As a precaution, E3/DC said it would replace battery modules for 77 potentially affected customers while supporting LG Energy Solution in identifying possible causes.", "contributing_factors": "The fire brigade reported that the battery repeatedly self-ignited when cooling was interrupted and internal temperature rose again. Reports attributed the fire to an electrical fault with the home storage system, but authorities were still establishing the cause at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Enclosed 6 kWh residential battery modules can self-ignite when cooling stops, so crews must maintain continuous cooling until the unit is removed. (2) Traceability of battery module batches lets manufacturers replace units quickly for 77 customers when a fault is suspected. (3) Contact with the installer during the incident allowed firefighters to separate the DC connection and move the unit safely.", "source_url": "https://www.ess-news.com/2024/11/26/e3-dc-storage-system-with-lg-battery-module-catches-fire-in-germany/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T05:13:30.336486+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0880", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0880/", "title": "Contractor struck by electricity in AES Ohio substation explosion", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "WHIO TV reported on 14 November 2024 that a contractor was hit with 12,000 volts of electricity in an explosion at an AES Ohio substation. The report does not give the town, the date of the incident, the sequence of events, the extent of any injury, or the response.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation equipment must be proved isolated before work, since a contractor was struck by 12,000 volts in an explosion. (2) Permits and isolation must be confirmed before contractors enter high-voltage areas to prevent live contact.", "source_url": "https://www.whio.com/news/contractor-hit-with-12000-volts-electricity-explosion-aes-ohio-substation/a22abe88-9587-433a-ab87-278f09711788/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T05:13:38.287702+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0882", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0882/", "title": "Substation fire cuts power to thousands in Eustis, Florida", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a Duke Energy electrical substation near County Road 44 and Apiary Road in the Grand Island area of Eustis, Florida, on a Sunday evening. The fire ignited around 6:45 pm, producing large flames and thick black smoke visible from nearby neighbourhoods. County Road 44 was shut down in the area as crews responded. The blaze knocked out power to thousands of customers, with Duke Energy reporting between 7,600 and 9,700 customers affected at various points. Fire rescue and other first responders attended the scene. Duke Energy restored power to all affected homes by 5 am the following morning after repair crews worked through the night. The Lake County Sheriff's Office suggested the fire may have been caused by lightning, though Duke Energy stated the cause had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Local law enforcement suggested lightning may have sparked the fire, though the utility said the cause was not confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can affect thousands of customers, so operators should check rapid response repair plans and pre arranged restoration steps. (2) Suggested lightning strike at a substation shows the need to review surge protection in storm prone areas.", "source_url": "https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2024/07/22/thousands-in-eustis-without-power-after-substation-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T09:07:37.517095+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0883", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0883/", "title": "Two workers suffer burns after reported turbine explosion at a wind farm in Navarre, Spain", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Spain", "country_code": "es", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Two workers at a wind farm in Navarre, Spain, were rushed to hospital by Navarre emergency services after a reported turbine explosion. One person was reported to have suffered second-degree burns. The published account says details of the circumstances are lacking. The site, operator and turbine have not been named, and the precise sequence has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source says details of the circumstances are lacking.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported turbine explosion with burns to workers requires the scene to be preserved for investigation. (2) Onshore wind sites need emergency plans for rapid medical response to burn injuries from turbine events.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/two-workers-suffer-burns-following-turbine-explosion-at-spanish-wind-farm/2-1-1643017", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T09:08:41.560135+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0886", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0886/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at Butler Ridge Wind Farm in Wisconsin", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at the Butler Ridge Wind Farm near the Town of Herman in Dodge County, Wisconsin, collapsed on a Wednesday night, with the tower and blades falling and scattering debris across a field. Nobody on the ground was injured. The turbine is owned by NextEra Energy. In a statement, the company said it believed the event was an isolated incident, noting that turbine malfunctions are rare, and confirmed it was working to determine the cause of the failure while assessing other turbines at the site as a quality-control measure.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the turbine failure had not been determined at the time of reporting; NextEra Energy stated it was investigating.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine tower collapse can scatter debris across a wide area, so operators should review ground exclusion zones and site buffers. (2) After one turbine structural failure, operators should inspect other units at the site to check for shared design or maintenance issues.", "source_url": "https://foxsanantonio.com/news/nation-world/wind-turbine-blades-collapse-onto-southern-wisconsin-field-01-22-2023", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T09:12:41.996803+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0887", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0887/", "title": "Wind turbine reported to have collapsed at Vattenfall site in the Netherlands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-01", "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine is reported to have collapsed in the Netherlands at a site operated by Vattenfall, with the incident reported to have happened at the Eemmeerdijk project. Emergency services attended, and the Flevoland fire brigade said it was lucky that nobody was passing when the turbine fell. The fire brigade said the utility placed other turbines in a safe mode after the incident. Reporting available is brief: the structural cause, the extent of damage, any injuries and the remediation timeline are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a wind turbine collapse, operators must place other turbines at the site into safe mode quickly while the cause is found. (2) A wind turbine collapse can occur with little warning and debris can reach public routes, so exclusion zones must be set.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/wind-turbine-down-emergency-services-race-to-vattenfall-collapse-in-netherlands/2-1-1384386", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T09:12:54.437153+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0888", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0888/", "title": "Battery fire at SK C&C Pangyo data centre causes major service outage in South Korea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-10", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at 15:19 on 15 October 2022 in the battery room on the third basement floor of the SK C&C Pangyo data centre in South Korea, and was extinguished at 23:45. A joint investigation by the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Korea Communications Commission and the National Fire Agency, announced on 6 December 2022, found the fire started from a battery but could not identify the exact cause of ignition. The Battery Management System, which monitors battery temperature and other factors, showed no abnormal signs until just before the fire. Because the lithium-ion batteries were in a space not completely physically separated from some uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), heat from the fire caused the UPS to malfunction, leading to partial loss of power supply. To prevent electric leakage before water was sprayed to extinguish the fire, the entire power supply was cut off, and servers that no longer received power from the stopped UPS shut down. The event disrupted value-added communication services including Kakao and Naver. Casualties were not reported in the source. The batteries were supplied by SK On.", "contributing_factors": "Lack of complete physical separation between the lithium-ion battery space and some UPS equipment; no abnormal indications from the Battery Management System before ignition; full power shutdown required for safe firefighting, which cascaded into service loss. The precise ignition mechanism was not identified by investigators.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Physically separate lithium-ion battery rooms from UPS equipment. Heat from the fire caused UPS malfunction and loss of power supply. (2) Add thermal imaging or off-gas sensing. The Battery Management System showed no abnormal signs until just before the fire. (3) Plan for full power shutdown before water is used on battery fires. The shutdown caused servers to stop and services to fail.", "source_url": "https://www.asiae.co.kr/en/article/2022120709582094597", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T09:13:18.684429+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0889", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0889/", "title": "Animal contact with transformer reported to have sparked fire at Celina solar farm substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At about 6:30am on 9 May 2019, an animal is reported to have entered a substation at a solar field west of Celina, Ohio, on Meyer Road near State Route 29, and come into contact with a transformer. A local news report says this caused a fire and a very short city-wide power outage, with a momentary disturbance also registered on the DP&L system that supplies Celina's electricity feed. Video of the fire was shared locally. The Celina Fire Department and Celina Utilities were on the scene for about an hour and a half. No injuries were reported. The damage was described by the report as quite substantial, and no cost estimate was available at the time. No official investigation findings have been published.", "contributing_factors": "The single local report attributes the fault and fire to an animal gaining access to the substation and contacting a transformer. It does not say how the animal entered or whether animal deterrents were in place, and no official cause determination has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Animal exclusion at solar substation transformer enclosures must be effective, as contact can cause fire and grid disturbance. (2) Substation barriers and enclosures at solar sites need regular checks to prevent wildlife entry and faults. (3) Coordination between solar site operators, local utility and fire service aids quick response to equipment faults affecting the grid.", "source_url": "https://mercercountyoutlook.net/2019/05/09/watch-the-video-solar-farm-fire-in-celina/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T09:14:44.609123+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0890", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0890/", "title": "Explosion reported at Con Edison substation closes Commerce Street in Thornwood", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 17 October 2018, Mount Pleasant police said an explosion was reported at about 1 p.m. at the Consolidated Edison substation in Thornwood, and that Commerce Street was closed. No injuries were reported. The same afternoon, a Metro-North Railroad alert told Harlem Line customers to expect delays of up to 15 minutes because of a Con Edison oil spill in the vicinity of Hawthorne. The report does not say whether that spill was at the substation, or what caused the explosion.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation explosion can close nearby roads, so operators should alert road and rail authorities at once. (2) An oil spill alert near a substation needs site and time checks before linking the events. (3) Treat any substation explosion as a live electrical and oil hazard until isolation is confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.lohud.com/story/news/local/westchester/thornwood/2018/10/17/thornwood-explosion-con-ed-substation-closes-commerce-street/1671538002/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T09:16:37.061835+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0891", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0891/", "title": "Suspected sabotage causes transformer fire at Eikenhof substation, Johannesburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-08", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Eikenhof substation south of Johannesburg, cutting electricity to surrounding residential and business areas and disrupting water supply, since the substation powers a Rand Water facility that pumps water to about 40% of Johannesburg and parts of the West Rand and Rustenburg. City Power officials said video footage showed the fire originating outside the transformer and that the transformer appeared to have been deliberately damaged so that it would leak oil onto the fire, which the Johannesburg mayor said was inconsistent with an electrical fault. The mayor described the incident as possible sabotage and referred the matter to the city's forensic investigation unit and police. Engineers worked overnight to install a replacement transformer, with power expected to be restored to residential areas and Rand Water pumps within about 24 hours.", "contributing_factors": "City Power officials suspected deliberate damage to the transformer, based on video evidence showing the fire starting outside the unit and oil leaking onto the flames, which the mayor said was inconsistent with a normal electrical fault; the matter was referred for criminal investigation as possible sabotage.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation transformer fire started by external damage can leak oil and spread quickly, so operators should fit external impact sensors and automatic oil shut off valves. (2) A substation outage that stops water pumps for 40 percent of a city needs physical barriers and 24 hour camera review, because video can show if damage was deliberate. (3) A substation transformer fire can be replaced overnight if spare units are kept ready, so operators should store matched spares near sites that feed critical water pumps.", "source_url": "https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2018-08-28-eikenhof-substation-fire-possibly-the-work-of-saboteurs-says-joburg-mayor/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T09:17:00.300275+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0894", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0894/", "title": "Fire at Minden Hills substation cuts power to over 23,000 customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-07", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out around 4pm at a hydro substation on County Road 21 near Minden, Ontario, during a severe thunderstorm. The site was referred to by local fire services as the Minden Transfer Station, and Hydro One staff attended. The fire knocked out power to more than 23,000 customers across Minden Hills, Haliburton Highlands and northern sections of the City of Kawartha Lakes. Provincial police closed the road and some nearby residents were made to leave their homes because of excess smoke. Fire crews from Minden, Dysart et al and Algonquin township battled the blaze for hours. Power was restored to most customers by just before 10pm the same day, though pockets of customers remained without power the following morning, when crews were still on scene. The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The fire occurred during a severe thunderstorm, but no link between the weather and the cause of the fire was reported. The cause was not determined at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire during a thunderstorm can cut power to over 23,000 customers across multiple communities, so operators should keep spare capacity and rapid switching plans ready. (2) Smoke from a substation fire can force nearby residents to leave their homes, so operators must prepare evacuation zones and public alerts in advance. (3) Rural substation fires may need mutual aid from several fire departments for hours-long responses, so pre-agreed aid arrangements should be in place.", "source_url": "https://globalnews.ca/news/4356575/minden-hills-hydro-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T09:18:35.899877+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0895", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0895/", "title": "Wind turbine catches fire at Doddington wind farm after storms", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An 89 metre wind turbine at Ransonmoor Wind Farm in Doddington, Cambridgeshire, caught fire at the top of the turbine following overnight storms during which residents reported thunder and lightning. Firefighters were called at about 07:50 BST. Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service attended and placed crews on standby, but the fire was allowed to burn out safely and required no action from them. Parts of the turbine broke off during the fire, with debris scattered in the area, though the fire service said there was no danger to the public. Siemens Gamesa, which oversees operation and maintenance of the turbines at the site, confirmed there were no injuries to any member of the public or to any employees. The company said its engineers were investigating the incident. The cause of the fire was not known at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Storms with lightning activity were reported across the Fens shortly before the fire was discovered, but no cause had been confirmed and the incident was under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lightning protection systems and down-conductor paths on wind turbines should be inspected on a defined schedule after storms. (2) Fire services may allow a nacelle fire at height to burn out safely, so site plans must set out this approach in advance. (3) Burning turbines can shed components, so exclusion zones must be set promptly even when public risk is low.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-44301113", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T09:18:54.831921+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0897", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0897/", "title": "Transformer fire reported at CenterPoint substation in Texas City", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer caught fire at a CenterPoint substation in Texas City, Texas, on the afternoon of Tuesday 8 May 2018, according to a photo gallery published by a local broadcaster. Thick black smoke and heavy flames were reported to be visible for miles. The available coverage consists of images with brief captions only. The cause of the fire, the extent of damage, any loss of supply to customers, the fire service response and any injuries were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a substation can produce thick black smoke visible for miles, so operators should prepare public communication lines for nearby communities. (2) Substation transformer fires often receive only image based coverage, so operators should plan for prompt factual updates to insurers and lenders.", "source_url": "https://www.khou.com/gallery/news/photos-large-fire-at-centerpoint-substation-in-texas-city/285-550072021", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T09:19:28.226572+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0898", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0898/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at Happy Jack wind site near Cheyenne, Wyoming", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine collapsed on 23 February 2022 at the Happy Jack wind site west of Cheyenne, Wyoming, which is run by Duke Energy. The site has 14 turbines and has operated since 2008, supplying power to Cheyenne Light, Fuel and Power, a division of Black Hills Energy. No injuries were reported. At the time of reporting, roughly two weeks after the collapse, Duke Energy said the cause of the failure remained unknown and under investigation. The company said it had notified the appropriate agencies and was working with its engineering team and a third-party engineering firm on clean-up. Debris, consisting mainly of steel and fibreglass, was being cleared methodically in line with state and other regulatory requirements, with the aim of restoring the area to its original condition.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; the cause of the turbine failure was still under investigation at the time of the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A collapsed wind turbine leaves steel and fibreglass debris that must be cleared methodically to meet regulatory requirements. (2) After a turbine collapse at an onshore wind site, operators should activate a pre-planned debris removal process to restore the area. (3) Prompt notification of agencies after a structural failure at a wind farm supports compliance while the cause is investigated.", "source_url": "https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/local_news/energy-company-investigating-collapsed-wind-turbine/article_ba29bcdd-b5e2-5969-befc-44f6e51134b2.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T12:08:03.93681+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0899", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0899/", "title": "Offshore wind turbine catches fire at Ørsted Dutch farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": null, "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Less than two months after the official inauguration of a Dutch offshore wind farm, an 8 MW Siemens Gamesa turbine caught fire and was pulled down, according to a report headed as a fire at an Ørsted farm. The available report does not name the farm, the date of the fire, the cause, any injuries, or the response.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An offshore wind turbine fire less than two months after inauguration led to the turbine being pulled down, so operators must keep a tested isolation and removal plan ready for early-life events. (2) When the cause of a Siemens Gamesa turbine fire remains unknown, operators and the supplier must preserve and share site evidence before further work. (3) An early-life fire on an 8 MW offshore turbine prompts a full review of commissioning and fire-detection checks on the same machines.", "source_url": "https://energywatch.com/EnergyNews/Renewables/article13411509.ece", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T12:08:21.668804+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0900", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0900/", "title": "Turbine components fall into sea at Ormonde offshore wind farm, Irish Sea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-10", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 15 October 2021, during a planned major component exchange at the Ormonde offshore wind farm in the Irish Sea, about 10 km off Barrow-in-Furness, United Kingdom, a turbine hub, blades and a clamping tool fell into the sea. The work was being carried out from Van Oord's jack-up vessel MPI Adventure. The vessel suffered only superficial damage and remained jacked-up at the site. No one was injured. Vattenfall, the operator of the wind farm, alerted the relevant authorities immediately and launched a full investigation into how the incident occurred. A seabed survey to determine what debris remained was delayed by bad weather. Vattenfall also began a clean-up operation for any debris in the sea or washed up onshore, and asked members of the public who found debris on beaches to report it rather than remove it.", "contributing_factors": "The exact cause of the components falling had not been confirmed at the time of reporting and was subject to investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Major component exchange on offshore turbines needs rigorous lifting equipment checks and procedures, as a dropped hub and blades can fall into the sea. (2) Operators must hold environmental contingency plans for offshore maintenance, ready for debris in the sea or on shorelines. (3) Prompt authority alerts after offshore incidents limit environmental and reputational harm.", "source_url": "https://www.rivieramm.com/news-content-hub/news-content-hub/vattenfall-confirms-incident-on-ormonde-offshore-windfarm-68116", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T12:08:42.455218+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0903", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0903/", "title": "Suspected mechanical incident damages two turbines at Skeleton Creek, Oklahoma", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 2 September 2021, Recharge News reported that two GE Renewable Energy turbines had been damaged at the Skeleton Creek wind project in Oklahoma, United States, after a suspected mechanical incident. The plant owner and the manufacturer were reported to be investigating. A photograph caption referred to turbine wreckage at the site. The cause, the extent of the damage, any injuries and any effect on operation were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source described only a suspected mechanical incident, with an investigation said to be under way.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Two turbines damaged at once at a wind site calls for checks on common mode failure in GE turbines until the investigation rules it out. (2) Turbine wreckage at a wind site must be secured and access restricted before any recovery work starts. (3) A wind turbine owner and manufacturer must both complete their investigation before any cause is stated.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/probe-underway-after-mechanical-incident-damages-two-ge-wind-turbines-in-us/2-1-1061943", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T12:09:52.354608+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0904", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0904/", "title": "Transformer fire causes damage at National Grid substation in Buffalo", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer caught fire at a National Grid substation on Elm Street in Buffalo, New York, near Michigan Avenue and East Eagle Street. The fire started around 6:45pm and produced a plume of black smoke visible across the city. Fire crews responded and were able to keep the fire contained, monitoring it until it burned itself out rather than actively extinguishing it. The incident did not lead to any major power outages and no one was injured. The fire caused an estimated 25,000 US dollars in damage. Fire investigators were looking into the cause of the transformer fire following the incident.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fire at substation can create a black smoke plume visible across the city even when damage stays limited. (2) Fire crews may monitor a contained transformer fire until it burns out rather than suppress it with water. (3) Substation layout can stop a single transformer fire from causing major power outages to customers.", "source_url": "https://www.wkbw.com/news/local-news/transformer-fire-does-25-000-in-damage-to-national-grid-substation", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T12:10:07.710174+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0905", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0905/", "title": "Floating solar unit severely damaged at Banja floating solar plant, Albania", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-06", "country": "Albania", "country_code": "al", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 9 June 2021, shortly after starting commercial operations, the first floating solar unit at the Banja floating solar plant on the Banja reservoir in Albania, developed and operated by Statkraft, was severely damaged. The floating ring with its membrane and two connected barges was damaged and has since been partly submerged. The unit, built using floating solar technology supplied by Ocean Sun, comprised 1,536 solar panels with an installed capacity of 0.5MWp covering almost 4,000 square metres. Salvage of the assets, including the solar panels, was launched immediately and work was under way to bring the damaged unit fully ashore. Statkraft and Ocean Sun said health, safety, security and environment aspects were the top priority throughout the operation, and that work to identify the root causes was proceeding in parallel with securing the collapsed ring. The developers did not disclose what the incident meant for the planned second phase, which envisaged three further floating units totalling 1.5MWp. No injuries were reported in the source.", "contributing_factors": "The source describes the event only as an undisclosed incident. No root cause had been released at the time of reporting and an investigation by the developers was ongoing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Floating solar ring and membrane units can fail soon after service begins, so operators should inspect connections, moorings and seals in the first months. (2) A partly submerged floating solar unit needs pre-planned salvage and containment steps to recover assets safely and limit reservoir pollution. (3) Root cause work must run alongside immediate securing of the structure so lessons reach other sites using the same technology.", "source_url": "https://www.offshore-energy.biz/incident-severely-damages-floating-solar-plant-in-albania/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T12:10:29.891986+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0906", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0906/", "title": "Wind turbine fire damages blades and nacelle at Pubnico Point Wind Energy Center", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-03", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine caught fire at the Pubnico Point Wind Energy Center in West Pubnico, Nova Scotia, operated and owned by NextEra Energy. The fire broke out in the afternoon and burned for about two hours, scattering flaming debris around the site. A landowner alerted the site manager, who contacted the local fire department, but firefighters could do little to fight the blaze because the turbine tips were more than 100 metres above ground. Two of the turbine's blades were completely burned and the nacelle was seriously damaged. No injuries were reported and the site was secured safely. The company began an investigation into the cause. Repairs requiring a crane were delayed until spring due to ground conditions. The other 16 turbines at the site continued operating normally.", "contributing_factors": "Not formally reported, though the article notes wind turbines can be prone to fire because their design places flammable materials such as hydraulic oil and plastics close to machinery and electrical wiring.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire at hub height cannot be fought from the ground, so the plan must rest on early detection, remote isolation and a debris exclusion zone. (2) Crane repairs for elevated turbine damage must allow for seasonal ground conditions that can delay access until spring. (3) Flaming debris from a turbine fire at height requires prompt site securement to protect people nearby.", "source_url": "https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/nextera-energy-wind-turbine-west-pubnico-fire-1.5061628", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T12:11:15.112078+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0907", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0907/", "title": "Transformer explosion at Cleveland substation cuts power to 40,000 residents", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded at the West 41st Street substation in Cleveland, Ohio, at about 5:30pm on a Tuesday evening, triggering a widespread outage that left about 40,000 Cleveland residents without electricity during extremely cold temperatures. The substation is described as a main power hub serving most of the city's West Side. The transformer erupted in flames and spewed oil. Repair crews arrived within minutes. Cleveland Public Power said between 30,000 and 35,000 of its customers had power back by about 9pm, and crews worked on smaller pockets of localised outages until full restoration at 2:30am the following morning. Officials said the cause was not yet known and could take about a week to determine, with equipment failure or an energy spike from the grid cited as possibilities. An interim fix was completed on the equipment.", "contributing_factors": "Cause not confirmed at the time of reporting; officials cited possible equipment failure or an energy spike originating from the wider power grid.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation transformer that erupts in flames and oil needs early detection systems and a debris exclusion zone around the site. (2) An energy spike from the wider grid can damage substation equipment, so operators should fit surge protection on main hubs. (3) An interim fix on a failed transformer must be followed by root cause checks before return to service.", "source_url": "https://www.cleveland.com/metro/2017/12/transformer_explosion_blamed_i.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T12:11:18.304604+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0908", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0908/", "title": "Substation fire knocks out power in Medway", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2014, "incident_month": "2014-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 8 January 2014, a fire broke out at an electrical substation in Medway after a piece of electrical equipment failed. Power was knocked out to hundreds of residents. A live report said 6,000 customers had lost power and were on backup, and that supply had been restored while the fire was still burning.", "contributing_factors": "A piece of electrical equipment failed and started the fire. The source does not say why it failed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A failed piece of electrical equipment in a substation can start a fire and cut power to thousands of customers, so operators should inspect all similar units for early signs of failure. (2) Backup supply can restore power while a substation fire is still burning, so operators must keep the site isolated until the fire is out and the cause is known.", "source_url": "https://www.wcvb.com/article/substation-fire-knocks-out-power-in-medway/8031465", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T12:11:28.441933+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0909", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0909/", "title": "Crane boom collapses while lifting turbine nacelle at Swedish wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-08", "country": "Sweden", "country_code": "se", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The boom of a 750 tonne Liebherr LG1750 mobile crane, reportedly owned by Polish company Viatron, collapsed while lifting the nacelle of a Vestas wind turbine at the Solberg wind farm near Åsele, in Västerbotten, Sweden. The nacelle had only been raised a short distance off the ground when the boom went over the rear of the crane, reportedly after a loud noise and a sudden recoil. The crane operator jumped clear of the cab and suffered minor leg injuries. Two other workers on the ground also sustained minor injuries; one was taken to hospital for a precautionary X-ray. The crane base itself remained stable after the collapse. The incident occurred around 10:00 am. The wind farm, which will comprise 22 turbines, is being developed with funding from Skelleftea Kraft and Fortum, with Vestas and Arise providing project management services during construction.", "contributing_factors": "Not officially reported. The crane was working with main boom, regular counterweight and a suspended counterweight, but no confirmed cause such as wind speed, load weight, ballast configuration or lift radius has been published.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A mobile crane boom can recoil over the rear during a nacelle lift, so the operator must have a clear escape path from the cab. (2) Boom failure can occur even with main boom, regular counterweight and suspended counterweight fitted, so each configuration needs independent verification. (3) Ground workers can be hit by a falling boom, so exclusion zones must extend beyond the load drop area to the full boom reach.", "source_url": "https://vertikal.net/en/news/story/28651/boom-collapse-at-swedish-windfarm", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:07:16.933359+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0910", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0910/", "title": "PSE&G transformer catches fire and falls in Bayonne, New Jersey", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A utility transformer owned and operated by PSE&G failed and caught fire on Avenue C in Bayonne, New Jersey, at around 11:45am. The burning transformer fell from its position and landed on two parked cars, which then caught fire. No injuries were reported, though a child had been taken out of one of the vehicles shortly before it ignited. A third vehicle parked nearby was not caught in the fire. Bayonne fire department units, Engine 2 and Ladder Tower 2, responded along with utility PSE&G, and firefighters used foam to extinguish the vehicle fires. Approximately 53 customers lost power. PSE&G began repair work on the lines immediately afterwards to restore supply. The cause of the transformer failure was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The technical cause of the transformer failure was not reported and was stated to be under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A pole-mounted distribution transformer fire can spread to parked cars below, so operators should inspect mounting integrity and consider debris shields above vehicle areas. (2) Fire crews need foam for vehicle fires started by electrical equipment, so joint training with the network operator should cover electrical transformer incidents.", "source_url": "https://abc7ny.com/post/transformer-sparks-fire-damages-cars-in-bayonne/2059090/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:08:55.347237+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0911", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0911/", "title": "Worker dies after fall from turbine at Whitelee windfarm near Glasgow", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 32 year old man fell to his death from a turbine at Whitelee Windfarm near Eaglesham, East Renfrewshire, Scotland. The incident occurred on a Wednesday in late March 2017 while the turbine involved was reportedly undergoing maintenance, although the maintenance activity was not said to be connected to the fall. Emergency services attended and the man was pronounced dead at the scene. Police Scotland confirmed the death was not being treated as suspicious and a report would be sent to the Procurator Fiscal. The site owner, ScottishPower, confirmed an incident had occurred and offered condolences. The incident followed a separate fatal accident at ScottishPower's Kilgallioch Windfarm in South Ayrshire two weeks earlier, in which a contractor working for a turbine manufacturer died after falling inside an under construction turbine.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in detail; the source states the turbine was undergoing maintenance at the time but that this was not connected to the fall.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Fall protection on wind turbines must be enforced at all times, not only during active maintenance tasks. (2) Operators must prepare for rapid police and regulator notification after any height incident at an operational site. (3) Repeat fatal falls at sites owned by the same operator require immediate review of access and contractor controls.", "source_url": "https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/windfarm-worker-plunges-death-turbine-10134003", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:09:42.454647+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0912", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0912/", "title": "Transformer explosion cuts power to Osprey Run community in Florida", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Sunday afternoon at around 5:30 p.m., an electrical box transformer exploded and caught fire in the Osprey Run community, cutting power to nearby homes. The fire was put out and Tampa Electric Company replaced the damaged transformer box. A homeowners association also arranged for an electrician to repair associated wiring. Several days later, residents remained without power because Hillsborough County had not yet given final approval to energise the homes. Affected households reported spoiled food and disruption, including one resident whose husband was staying in a hotel because he relied on a breathing machine overnight. Engineers were reported to be still on site reviewing the failure and expected to determine the cause within two to three weeks.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer explosion had not been determined at the time of reporting and an engineering review was under way. The prolonged outage was reported to stem from the wait for a county inspection and sign-off before power could be restored, rather than from the technical repair itself.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Distribution transformer explosions require rapid replacement but restoration depends on local authority sign-off, so utilities should pre-agree inspection triggers to shorten outages. (2) Where residents rely on power for medical equipment, operators must flag such cases early and arrange interim supply during any county approval delay.", "source_url": "https://www.tampabay28.com/news/region-hillsborough/exploding-electrical-box-transformer-leaves-residents-in-the-dark-for-3rd-straight-night", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:09:51.882259+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0913", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0913/", "title": "High voltage transformer explodes and catches fire in Winnersh", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-01", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the afternoon of 8 January 2017, a high voltage transformer at an elevated substation in Arbor Lane, Winnersh, Berkshire, exploded and caught fire. A member of the public alerted emergency services after the electrical box exploded. Two fire crews from Wokingham and Wokingham Road fire stations attended the scene at around 3.10pm and remained for approximately one hour and fifteen minutes to extinguish the fire and make the area safe. Arbor Lane was closed to traffic for around an hour while the incident was dealt with. The substation supplied electricity to homes in the surrounding area. The cause of the explosion was not known at the time and the network operator, SSE, was notified and began investigating.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High voltage transformers in elevated substations can explode without warning, so operators should check insulation condition during routine inspections to reduce risk of sudden failure. (2) Public alerts can start the response to substation fires, so operators should keep emergency services informed of site locations and hazards. (3) Roads near substations may need short closures after a transformer fire, so plans should include traffic management to protect the public.", "source_url": "https://www.getreading.co.uk/news/reading-berkshire-news/road-closed-winnersh-after-transformer-12423573", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:10:40.782461+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0914", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0914/", "title": "Wind turbine blade snaps off during storm at Goshen Wind Project in Ontario", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-08", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During severe thunderstorms on the evening of 2 August 2015, one of 63 wind turbines at NextEra Energy's Goshen Wind Project on Kirkton Road in the Grand Bend area of Ontario had a blade snap off. Environment Canada recorded a wind gust of 110 km/h at Grand Bend around 8pm that evening, and the storms were reported to have produced intense lightning. A NextEra spokesperson said the turbines are fitted with wind speed and lightning sensors that typically guard against damage by automatically shutting down the spinning blades. The company said it was trying to determine why the turbine failed. Agencies including the electricity system operator were notified, and the company said all other turbines at the site remained operational. No injuries were reported in the source, and the cause was not established at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Severe thunderstorm conditions, including a recorded wind gust of 110 km/h and reported intense lightning. The operator described automatic wind speed and lightning protection intended to shut down turbines in such conditions, but the reason for this failure was still being investigated and no cause has been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind speed and lightning sensors on turbines must be tested to confirm they trigger shutdown in 110 km/h gusts. (2) Operators should inspect every turbine on site after a severe storm, not only the failed unit. (3) Agencies including the electricity system operator must be notified promptly after any component failure.", "source_url": "https://sarnianewstoday.ca/chatham/news/2015/08/04/nextera-investigating-storm-related-turbine-failure", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:11:10.50315+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0915", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0915/", "title": "Transformer explosion at Fayetteville substation cuts power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2014, "incident_month": "2014-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the night of 8 March 2014, a transformer explosion at an electric substation along Owen Drive near Cumberland Road in Fayetteville cut power to Public Works Commission customers. Early reporting put the figure at about 31,500 customers for about an hour. A later statement from the commission put the peak at between 25,000 and 30,000. How many Duke Energy Progress customers in Fayetteville were affected was not clear. A social media report, repeated by the commission, said Duke was reporting more than 180,000 customers out across parts of the Cape Fear region. That wider figure was not confirmed in the newspaper account. Police radio reports said there was an explosion and sparks, the fire was quickly contained, and no one was injured. Power was reported out for about an hour in the Cross Creek Mall area, and the outage also reached Haymount and streets toward Skibo Road. The commission uses the substation, which is also a delivery point for Duke Energy Progress, and public access is restricted.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion was not known that night. A commission spokeswoman said a fire in a line or equipment owned by Duke Energy at the substation caused the blackout.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where more than one utility uses a substation, equipment ownership must be clear so the right party can isolate a fault quickly. (2) Early customer counts from different utilities and social media can conflict, so public updates should separate confirmed data from unconfirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.fayobserver.com/story/news/2014/03/08/fayetteville-substation-sparks-causes-widespread/22196164007/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:11:13.20496+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0916", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0916/", "title": "Turbine explodes and sparks brush fire in Campo", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2013, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published headline reported that a wind turbine exploded and sparked a brush fire in Campo. The article text was not available, and no further details were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine explosion can ignite vegetation, so sites must plan for both asset and ground fire response. (2) Early headlines give no cause, so operators must await full investigation before any diagnosis.", "source_url": "https://eastcountymagazine.org/wind-fire-turbine-explodes-sparks-brush-fire-campo/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:11:23.447804+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0917", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0917/", "title": "Enercon E126 blade break in Germany prompts fleet-wide turbine monitoring", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2013, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A blade snapped on an Enercon E126 7.5MW turbine at the Schneebergerhof wind farm in Rhineland-Palatinate, south-west Germany, in December, reported by Wind Power Monthly in May 2014 as having occurred the previous December. The broken blade was found approximately 40 metres from the turbine. Juwi, which operates the wind farm, said that following intensive investigations Enercon could not determine the cause because the remnant of the blade was too badly damaged. At the time of the break Enercon said it had checked all similar machines as a precaution and no irregularities had been detected. Enercon subsequently fitted a new sensor system to all 56 installed E126 turbines, described as detecting incipient damage and sending a notification to Enercon and, for Juwi-owned turbines, to the control centre in Woerrstadt, so operators can take evasive action. The repaired turbine was reported to be operating again and was to be re-inspected after a certain period.", "contributing_factors": "The root cause of the blade break could not be established because the remnant of the blade was too badly damaged for analysis. The E126 uses segmented steel-composite hybrid blades.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A blade snap on an E126 turbine sends debris 40 metres, so operators must fit sensors that detect early damage and allow remote isolation. (2) When root cause analysis fails due to damage, check every similar turbine in the fleet as a precaution. (3) Segmented steel-composite blades on E126 turbines need structural monitoring that alerts the control centre before failure.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1296348/enercon-monitors-e126-turbines-following-fault", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:11:27.655036+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0918", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0918/", "title": "Rotor and blades fall from turbine at Rugby wind farm, North Dakota", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2011, "incident_month": "2011-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 14 March 2011, the rotor and three large blades detached from one turbine tower at the Rugby wind farm, near Rugby, North Dakota, and fell to the ground. The site, operated by Iberdrola Renewables Inc., has 71 turbines and a capacity of up to 149 megawatts. No one was injured. Iberdrola described the failure as a rotor assembly failure in a letter to North Dakota's Public Service Commission. The wind farm was inspected following the incident and judged safe, resuming operation about a week later, on 21 March 2011. An investigation into the cause had not been completed at the time the farm resumed generating. The turbine manufacturer, Suzlon Wind Energy Corp., called the event an isolated incident and stated confidence in the safe operation of its global turbine fleet.", "contributing_factors": "Iberdrola stated the cause was a rotor assembly failure, though the full investigation had not concluded by the time reporting occurred.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rotor assembly failure on a wind turbine can cause the full rotor and blades to detach without warning, so operators should add detailed checks of hub and bearing bolts to routine inspections. (2) After a rotor assembly failure at one turbine, the operator must inspect all turbines of the same design before resuming output. (3) A nacelle or hub fault that drops blades requires early detection systems and exclusion zones, as ground crews cannot prevent the fall.", "source_url": "https://www.deseret.com/2011/3/21/20180399/rugby-wind-farm-resumes-operation-after-accident/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:11:53.109021+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0919", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0919/", "title": "Vestas turbine collapses in high winds at Loughderryduff wind farm, Donegal", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2013, "incident_month": "2013-03", "country": "Ireland", "country_code": "ie", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Vestas V52-850kW wind turbine at the Loughderryduff wind farm, near Ardara and Glenties in County Donegal, collapsed at approximately 17:00 on 21 March 2013 during what Vestas described as very high winds, reported at around 25 m/s (56mph). Wreckage was strewn over a wide area. No one was injured. Vestas, the turbine manufacturer, confirmed the collapse and said the remaining eight V52-850kW turbines at the site were shut down as a precaution while its technicians attended, and that the situation was under control. Vestas said a thorough investigation would be conducted with an independent third party to establish the root cause, and that it could not speculate on the cause until that was complete. The site is owned by North West Wind Limited. Local people noted that the collapsed turbine stood on a flat plain about 50m above sea level, lower than other turbines proposed nearby.", "contributing_factors": "Wind speeds of approximately 25 m/s (56mph) were reported at the time of the collapse. The root cause had not been established at the time of reporting and was the subject of a pending investigation by Vestas with an independent third party.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A Vestas V52 turbine collapse in winds of 25 m/s requires operators to review structural and wind loading assumptions for the same model across their fleet. (2) After one V52 turbine fails in high winds, shut down other V52 units at the same site until checks are complete. (3) Structural failure of a V52 turbine needs an independent third-party root cause study to inform other owners of the model.", "source_url": "https://www.donegaldaily.com/uncategorized/weve-shut-down-wind-farm-after-turbine-collapse-says-vestas-76709", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:11:54.53011+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0920", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0920/", "title": "Fire reported to have destroyed a 15MW wind-linked battery bank in Hawaii", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2012, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A single trade-press report said that a fire last week, relative to publication on 8 August 2012, destroyed a 15MW battery bank in Hawaii. The report described it as the largest operating wind energy storage system in North America. The available text does not name the site, the operator or the cause, and does not report injuries or the exact date.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire that destroyed an entire 15MW battery bank shows operators must plan for total loss of the installation, not only one module. (2) Where battery storage supports wind generation, loss of the bank can also remove grid services, so contingency plans must cover that. (3) A report that gives only capacity and state is not enough for equipment conclusions; wait for a named site and stated cause.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/technology/fire-destroys-15mw-wind-energy-storage-system-in-hawaii/1-1-840598", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:11:55.901269+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0921", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0921/", "title": "Pitch system failure caused Vestas turbine collapse at Irish wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2013, "incident_month": null, "country": "Ireland", "country_code": "ie", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Vestas V52-850kW turbine at the Loughderryduff wind farm in County Donegal, Ireland, collapsed in March 2013 during high winds. An investigation by Vestas found that an error in the turbine's pitch system meant at least one blade failed to pitch out of the wind, causing an over-speed condition. The over-speeding blade struck the tower, causing structural damage that led to the turbine's collapse. Debris from the collapse reportedly scattered over a large area, raising local safety concerns. The eight-turbine site was closed for five days following the incident before being reopened after an inspection by the operator, North West Wind. Vestas released details of the cause seven months after the event, prompting criticism from local residents and a county councillor over the delay and the refusal to publish the full technical report.", "contributing_factors": "A malfunction in the turbine's pitch control system meant a blade did not pitch out of the wind as required, leading to an over-speed event in which the blade struck the tower and caused structural failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A pitch system fault on a Vestas V52 turbine allowed blade over-speed that struck the tower, so operators should test pitch fault detection and automatic shutdown logic at regular intervals. (2) Debris from a collapsed onshore turbine scattered over a large area, so operators must map realistic debris exclusion zones after any tower or blade failure.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1216078/pitch-failure-downed-vestas-ireland-turbine", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:11:57.214135+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0922", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0922/", "title": "Vestas turbine nacelle fire at Ardrossan wind farm during storm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2011, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Vestas 2MW wind turbine at the 30MW Ardrossan wind farm in Ayrshire, Scotland, caught fire in its nacelle during a severe storm that brought winds of up to 165mph to the northern half of the UK. The owner, Infinis Energy, confirmed the nacelle had caught fire but was unable to give further details on the cause. No one was present when the incident happened, as staff are always evacuated from the site in winds above 55mph as a precautionary measure. ScottishPower, which operates the local network, disconnected the wind farm from the grid. Infinis had acquired the project a year earlier from Scottish and Southern Energy. The project was commissioned in 2004 and received a 6MW extension in 2009. An image of the burning turbine, sent in to the BBC by a member of the public, was reproduced in the UK press to illustrate the weather conditions.", "contributing_factors": "Extreme wind speeds of up to 165mph during a severe storm. The mechanical or electrical cause of the nacelle fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A Vestas nacelle fire during high winds needs early remote detection and isolation, because staff are evacuated above 55mph and cannot reach the site. (2) Network operators must be ready to disconnect a wind farm quickly when a turbine catches fire, to limit damage to the grid. (3) Turbines left unmanned in storms still face nacelle fire risk, so owners need robust remote monitoring and shutdown systems.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1108585/vestas-turbine-catches-fire-high-winds", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:12:08.795592+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0923", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0923/", "title": "Wind turbine blade detaches at Conisholme wind farm in Lincolnshire after bolt failure", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2009, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 65 ft blade detached from a wind turbine at the Conisholme wind farm, operated by Ecotricity, in Lincolnshire after bolts attaching it to the hub failed. The incident initially attracted public attention because local residents reported seeing glowing orange-yellow spheres in the sky on the night it occurred, prompting speculation about a collision with an unidentified flying object. Following weeks of analysis, the turbine manufacturer Enercon released an interim report identifying material fatigue as the cause, with the bolt failure described as an effect rather than the root cause. Further tests were being carried out to determine what caused the bolts to come loose, focusing on the blade and hub components. The damaged turbine was repaired within days at the manufacturer's expense. Injuries are not reported in the source.", "contributing_factors": "Material fatigue in the blade or hub components is understood to have placed the attaching bolts under excessive stress, leading to their failure and the blade detaching. Bolt fatigue and design problems were reported to have been ruled out. The full manufacturer's report had not been published at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check blade and hub components when bolts at the rotor hub fail, as fatigue there can stress fasteners. (2) Inspect highly loaded rotating parts on a schedule, since fatigue can lead to sudden detachment.", "source_url": "https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/4578998/UFO-wind-turbine-broke-due-to-mechanical-failure-not-collision-with-flying-object.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:12:30.97125+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0924", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0924/", "title": "Fire in Vestas turbine prompts wind farm retrofit", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2000, "incident_month": null, "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In early July 2000, a fire broke out in one of the Vestas V-66 turbines at the Muiderhoek wind farm near Almere, owned by NUON. The fire burnt out the nacelle, the rotor and the uppermost section of the three-part, 67 metre tower. Firefighters arriving on the scene could not tackle the blaze directly because their ladders were too short. Vestas replaced the low-wind speed start-up system in all ten of the plant's turbines. The wind station was reported to be fully operational again.", "contributing_factors": "The fire is thought to have been caused by a short circuit in the low-wind cut-in system. That cause has not been confirmed in the published report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Short circuits in low-wind cut-in systems of Vestas V-66 turbines can start nacelle fires, so operators should inspect wiring and fit upgraded systems. (2) Nacelle fires at hub height cannot be fought from the ground, so site plans must allow for remote isolation and a debris exclusion zone. (3) A single confirmed failure in a start-up system can affect a whole fleet, so owners should replace the component across all units of that model.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/950973/fire-vestas-turbine-prompts-wind-farm-retrofit", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T15:12:39.686505+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0925", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0925/", "title": "Fire at a solar farm in the Landes spreads into forest", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "France", "country_code": "fr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on 16 September 2026 at a solar farm in the Landes department of France and spread into surrounding forest, having already destroyed more than 100 hectares. The fire service described the situation as very serious because of nearby high-voltage power lines, the A63 motorway and a railway line. One hundred and fifty firefighters and six aircraft, including two Canadair, were deployed in the communes of Lüe and Labouheyre. Train services on a section of the Bordeaux–Dax line were suspended because of the flames. Two firefighters sustained minor injuries, and a house under threat was secured. High temperatures were reported as a factor that could complicate efforts to tackle the blaze.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports high temperatures that could complicate firefighting. It does not state a cause of the fire or any equipment failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A solar farm fire near high-voltage lines, a motorway and a railway requires early coordination with grid and transport operators to manage access and shutdowns. (2) When a solar site fire can spread into forest, operators must plan for a large multi-agency response that includes aerial resources from the start.", "source_url": "https://feuxdeforet.fr/en/alerte-info/incendie-dans-un-parc-photovoltaique-des-landes-100-hectares-brules-150-pompiers-mobilises-16-09-2026-7254/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T20:09:10.439841+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0926", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0926/", "title": "One person killed and two injured while working near a substation in Seminole, Florida", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report dated 13 August 2025 said that one person was killed and two others injured while working close to an electrical substation. It was reported to have happened on the Tuesday afternoon in the 8600 block of Park Boulevard in Seminole, Pinellas County, Florida. The two injured people were taken to a hospital burn unit. Some nearby residents lost power, and supply was later restored. A person at a nearby animal hospital said they heard a loud sound they thought was a transformer, saw the power flicker, and then saw smoke across the street. The cause, and whether substation equipment failed, has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The only account of the sound and smoke is from a nearby witness, who said they thought it was a transformer.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Work near live substation equipment can cause fatal and burn injuries, so exclusion zones and supervision must be confirmed before starting. (2) A loud sound followed by smoke and power flicker near a substation may indicate asset failure, so treat as such until confirmed.", "source_url": "https://baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2025/08/12/1-killed--2-hurt-near-pinellas-county-substation--thousands-without-power", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-16T20:10:23.82235+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0928", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0928/", "title": "Enercon technician seriously injured after arm trapped in generator, Belgium", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Belgium", "country_code": "be", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An Enercon wind turbine technician was seriously injured at a wind farm in Belgium after his arm became trapped in a generator, according to a short published report. The site, the date of the incident and how the arm became trapped are not stated in the text available to the register.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The available text does not say what the technician was doing, or whether isolation, guarding or a permit to work was involved.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat access to a generator as work on moving or energised plant, and confirm isolation before anyone reaches into it. (2) Where a hand or arm can enter a machine, guarding and a clear stop procedure should be in place before the task starts. (3) After a trapping injury, record the task, the isolation state and the machine position so the same exposure can be checked on similar turbines.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1930685/enercon-worker-seriously-injured-arm-gets-stuck-wind-turbine", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:08:39.204775+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0930", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0930/", "title": "Owner alleges defects, inverter failures and arc flashes at Diablo battery project", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Energy-Storage.News reports a California court filing in which the owner of the Diablo battery storage project, a 200 MW system in Pittsburg, California, alleges technical failures after it took control following completion in April 2022. The filing alleges slow or inaccurate control responses to CAISO signals and removal from the ancillary service market for several weeks, an inoperable human-machine interface, frequent auxiliary-control and inverter failures, including an alleged 27 inverter failures between 13 June and 14 July 2022, two arc flash events, overheating and maintenance downtime. Fluence, the engineering, procurement and construction contractor, denies the allegations. Injury, damage and an independently confirmed cause have not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The owner attributes the alleged failures to workmanship and other shortcomings under the EPC contract. Fluence denies that account. No independent finding of cause has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Inverter failures at a BESS must be logged against dispatch records, as slow responses led to removal from ancillary service markets for several weeks. (2) Repeated inverter failures and arc flash events at battery sites require prompt investigation and a safe operating plan while the cause remains unconfirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.energy-storage.news/fluence-customer-seeking-refund-for-diablo-bess-epc-contract-citing-defects-and-chronic-failures/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:09:59.063839+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0931", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0931/", "title": "Substation transformer fire causes island-wide blackout in Puerto Rico", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-06", "country": "Puerto Rico", "country_code": "pr", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire, described by the island's governor as an explosion, broke out in a transformer at the Monacillos substation in Río Piedras, San Juan, Puerto Rico. The incident caused major blackouts across the island, with utility operator LUMA Energy reporting that about 400,000 customers remained without power late on the day of the incident, after a peak of 800,000 customers affected. Police, fire department and medical emergency personnel responded to the scene. No injuries were reported. Both state and federal law enforcement authorities, including the FBI, opened investigations into the cause. The incident occurred just over a week after LUMA Energy took over operation of Puerto Rico's power grid from the previous public utility, PREPA, on 1 June 2021. LUMA also reported that its website had been hit by a separate distributed denial of service cyberattack earlier the same day, though no connection to the substation fire was confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "The specific technical cause of the transformer fire had not been determined at the time of reporting and was under investigation by state and federal authorities. The incident occurred shortly after a change of grid operator, though no causal link to the transition was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A single transformer failure at a key substation can cause island-wide blackouts when grid redundancy is limited. (2) Operator transition requires early review of legacy equipment condition to limit risk of sudden failures.", "source_url": "https://www.cnn.com/2021/06/10/us/puerto-rico-substation-fire-power-outage", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:11:08.169185+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0932", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0932/", "title": "Fire spreads to West End Road substation in Southampton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at outbuildings, including a garage, an unused cattery, two sheds and a summerhouse, on West End Road in Southampton shortly before 10:30 BST. The fire spread to the neighbouring electricity substation on West End Road, operated by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN), causing a power cut affecting around 2,000 properties. Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service attended and extinguished the blaze using breathing apparatus by shortly after midday. SSEN restored power quickly to most customers, with the remaining 130 properties closest to the fire reconnected early in the afternoon. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The fire originated in nearby residential outbuildings and spread to the adjacent substation on West End Road; the precise ignition cause was not confirmed in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations next to residential outbuildings need fire breaks or detection on the boundary to stop spread from external fires. (2) Network operators should maintain direct links with local fire services to allow fast isolation and quicker restoration after external fires.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-hampshire-56555632", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:11:40.767141+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0933", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0933/", "title": "Fire at Northampton substations cuts power to thousands and prompts evacuations", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at around 21:15 BST at two electricity substations on Semilong Road in Northampton, England, on the Thursday evening. The fire service said the cause was an electrical accident. Twelve people were evacuated from nearby homes. Residents in the area reported a smell of burning plastic and were asked to keep windows and doors closed. Western Power Distribution said power was interrupted to 4,831 homes, with supply restored to 3,500 of these after about two and a half minutes. A low voltage cable fault left around 339 homes still without power at breakfast time the following morning, with the company working to restore supply. Fire crews from across Northampton attended alongside police and sprayed water on nearby buildings to protect them. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Northamptonshire Fire Service attributed the cause to an electrical accident. Continued outages after the fire were linked to a low voltage cable fault.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires can interrupt supply to thousands of homes, so operators should plan rapid network switching to restore most customers within minutes. (2) Electrical fires at substations produce smoke that affects nearby homes, so operators and fire services must issue clear advice to keep doors and windows closed. (3) A low voltage cable fault after the initial fire can leave hundreds of homes off supply for many hours, so restoration teams must treat the cable fault as a separate workstream.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-northamptonshire-56769940", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:11:48.100341+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0934", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0934/", "title": "Lightning strike destroys wind turbine at rural wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at a wind farm near Mill Creek was struck by lightning during overnight storms and caught fire. The turbine was located more than two miles from the nearest road, so the fire posed no danger to the public. Emergency responders were called after the strike occurred just after midnight and took nearly three hours to extinguish the blaze. The turbine was reported to be completely destroyed as a result of the fire. Officials estimated the cost of replacing the turbine at between two and five million dollars. No injuries were reported. The report noted that the region is among the areas of the United States with the highest rates of lightning strikes per square kilometre, which was cited as a contributing environmental factor.", "contributing_factors": "A direct lightning strike during a storm ignited the turbine, in a region with a high frequency of lightning activity.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lightning strike on a wind turbine can destroy the whole machine, so operators in high strike regions should fit and test enhanced blade and nacelle protection. (2) A remote turbine fire more than two miles from the nearest road needs a plan for delayed access, so responders must rely on early detection and remote isolation. (3) A nacelle fire after a direct strike took three hours to put out, so insurers should check that remote turbines have adequate detection and suppression.", "source_url": "https://www.kxii.com/2021/04/25/wind-turbine-struck-by-lighting-catches-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:11:50.230037+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0935", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0935/", "title": "Wind turbine fire reported at Ohio Northern University, turbine found down next morning", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine on the Ohio Northern University campus in Ada, Ohio, caught fire in the early hours of Friday 26 March 2021. The local fire department was called after the blaze was reported at around 4:31am. The turbine, one of three on the university campus, is located at the junction of Klingler Road and County Road 50. Nearby roads and a pedestrian path were temporarily closed while emergency crews worked to control the fire. Seven vehicles, including a patrol car and an ambulance, responded. Photographs taken the following morning showed the turbine lying on the ground; it is not reported whether it collapsed during the fire or was brought down afterwards. Injuries are not reported in the source.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine fire can lead to tower collapse, so operators must plan area cordons even at small campus sites. (2) Single turbine fires still need coordinated response from fire, police and EMS services.", "source_url": "https://www.blufftonicon.com/news/2021/03/28/onu-wind-turbine-blaze", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:11:51.260145+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0937", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0937/", "title": "Wind turbine catches fire at Locust Ridge Wind Farm near Mahanoy City", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report published on 12 March 2021 said smoke and flames billowed from a wind turbine in the Locust Ridge Wind Farm near Mahanoy City and could be seen for miles. The turbine was reported to have caught fire around 8:30 a.m. on a Saturday morning. Mahanoy City firefighters were called. The burning turbine was next to another that the report said had caught fire on 28 December, without giving the year. The report does not say how the fire started, whether it was put out, how badly the turbine was damaged, or whether anyone was hurt. The published date and the reference to Saturday morning do not line up clearly, so the exact day is not certain.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine fire at height needs early detection and remote isolation because ground crews cannot reach it. (2) A turbine fire next to one that burned weeks earlier calls for checks on shared systems and neighbours.", "source_url": "https://www.republicanherald.com/2021/03/12/wind-turbine-catches-fire-near-mahanoy-city/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:12:19.130171+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0938", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0938/", "title": "Nacelle fire reported to prompt US wind fleet suppression order", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Wind Power Monthly reported on 9 March 2021 that a nacelle fire had led a renewable energy firm, which owns and operates 2GW of wind power, to order fire suppression technology across its American fleet. The available report does not name the site, the turbine, the date of the fire, or any damage, injury or outage.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire on a wind turbine can prompt an operator to fit suppression systems across its fleet, so insurers should check if similar turbines have adequate detection and isolation. (2) Public reports of nacelle fires may omit the turbine model and site details, so operators must verify asset records before assuming the cause is isolated.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1709480/nacelle-fire-triggers-major-us-roll-out-suppression-tech", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:12:27.39222+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0939", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0939/", "title": "Worker's hand amputated in machinery accident at Bango Wind Farm near Yass", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-02", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A worker at the Bango Wind Farm construction site on Lachlan Valley Way near Yass, New South Wales, suffered a severed hand while working on machinery. The incident occurred on 4 February 2021 and the injured worker was airlifted to Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney for treatment. SafeWork NSW, the state workplace safety regulator, attended the site and opened an investigation into the accident, stating the inquiry could take several months to complete. The wind farm, comprising 45 turbines, was under construction at the time, having been approved in 2018 with construction beginning in 2019. CWP Renewables, the site's owner, declined to comment on the incident when approached by media.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The specific machinery involved and the circumstances leading to the amputation were not detailed in available reporting, and the regulatory investigation was ongoing at time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Machinery guarding and isolation must be verified on every item of equipment during wind farm construction when multiple contractors work on site. (2) Remote wind farm sites need pre-planned air ambulance access so an injured worker can reach specialist care quickly.", "source_url": "https://aboutregional.com.au/wind-farm-worker-loses-hand-in-workplace-accident/368760/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:12:32.504484+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0940", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0940/", "title": "Interconnector failure on Sicily side reported to have caused electricity outage in Malta", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-11", "country": "Malta", "country_code": "mt", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Enemalta reported that an electricity outage in Malta was caused by a failure of the interconnector on the Sicily side. The Malta grid is linked to the European grid through Sicily. The extent of the outage, its duration, the number of customers affected and the technical nature of the failure were not reported in the material available. This entry is based on a headline and feed summary only and may be updated as fuller reporting appears.", "contributing_factors": "A failure on the Sicily side of the interconnector, as reported by Enemalta. No further detail on the fault has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Cross border interconnectors create dependency on assets outside local control, so fault response plans should cover faults on the far side. (2) Island grids that rely on a single external link need contingency generation for interconnector loss.", "source_url": "https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/106189/interconnector_failure_on_sicily_side_caused_electricity_outage_enemalta_says", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:13:05.255968+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0941", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0941/", "title": "Three rooftop solar fires reported at homes in New South Wales", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire and Rescue New South Wales attended three home incidents involving solar power systems in late December 2020 and early January 2021. At a home in Woongarrah on the Central Coast, firefighters extinguished a roof fire that had not spread further. The cause was still under investigation and was believed to have started in the isolation switch. On 30 December, rooftop solar panels were reported smouldering at a home in Bar Beach, Newcastle, and the fire was put out before major structural damage. A potential cause was not reported. On 28 December, firefighters attended a house fire in Lake Cathie, south of Port Macquarie, and the cause noted was a rooftop isolation switch. The article does not report the extent of damage at Lake Cathie. FRNSW has previously said isolator switches accounted for around half of solar power system fires in the state, without giving numbers for these incidents.", "contributing_factors": "A confirmed cause is not reported for all three fires. For the Woongarrah incident, the pictured isolation switch did not appear to have a protective shroud, though the article says the installation may have pre-dated that requirement. Rooftop DC isolators are mandatory in Australia and sit in harsh weather for many years. Suggestions that sea spray raised the risk are comment, not a finding for these fires.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Do not treat an isolator as the cause until the fire investigation says so. One of these fires had no reported cause. (2) Where a rooftop DC isolator is required, use a suitable switch, install it correctly and fit the required shroud. (3) Inspect and test rooftop solar equipment every few years, because components age in harsh conditions.", "source_url": "https://www.solarquotes.com.au/blog/solar-fires-nsw-mb1829/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:13:17.12315+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0943", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0943/", "title": "Fire breaks out in central inverters at Ullum solar park in Argentina", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-10", "country": "Argentina", "country_code": "ar", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Municipal firefighters in Ullum, San Juan province, Argentina, were called on a Sunday morning by police headquarters to attend a fire at the Ullum photovoltaic park, owned by Argentinian energy company Genneia SA. On arrival, firefighters found that a number of central inverters had caught fire, with flames consuming the interior of the cabinets housing the inverters and the thick interconnecting wiring. It took firefighters about ninety minutes to bring the blaze under control, with the incident declared controlled at 1:50 p.m. The Ullum development comprises three solar plants, Ullum I (25 MW), Ullum II (25 MW) and Ullum III (32 MW), developed by state-owned power supplier Energía Provincial Sociedad del Estado and acquired by Genneia in April 2018. At the time of reporting it remained unclear which of the three plants was affected. Injuries, damage extent and downtime were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not state a specific technical cause of the inverter fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Central inverters with dense wiring and power electronics caught fire at the Ullum park, so operators should arrange thermal inspection and clear isolation for inverter cabinets. (2) Fire at the Ullum multi-plant site left it unclear which plant was affected, so owners must label units clearly for responders.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine.com/2020/10/21/fire-accident-at-argentinian-solar-parks-central-inverters/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:13:45.321342+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0944", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0944/", "title": "Contractor rescued after medical emergency atop Indiana wind turbine", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 54 year old contractor working inside the hub of a wind turbine near Monticello, Indiana suffered a medical emergency while performing work on equipment. The turbine, roughly 340 to 350 feet tall, is owned by EDP Renewables, and the contractor worked for Kiewit Power Constructors. Emergency services were called and Monticello Fire Department personnel, supported by Wolcott Ambulance Service and Wolcott Fire Department, climbed the turbine's interior ladder and reached the hub after about an hour. Firefighter paramedics began advanced life support treatment at height, working alongside a Kiewit superintendent who was also present, before lowering the man to the ground using a mechanical advantage system. He was then transported to a hospital. His condition afterwards was not disclosed. The rescue required close coordination between the fire department, EDP Renewables and Kiewit staff, who provided technical information about the turbine's systems.", "contributing_factors": "The source attributes the incident to a medical episode suffered by the contractor while working at height inside the turbine hub; no equipment failure or mechanical fault was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind turbine operators and contractors should maintain clear emergency response protocols and rescue equipment for medical emergencies occurring at height. (2) Coordination between site owners, contractors and local emergency services in advance of work at height can speed up rescue response times. (3) On-site personnel familiar with turbine systems should be available to assist emergency responders unfamiliar with the specific equipment.", "source_url": "https://www.newsbug.info/rensselaer_republican/news/agriculture/monticello-firefighters-rescue-man-from-top-of-wind-turbine/article_934bf4bd-aeea-522d-bd47-f0b8c9dac990.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:13:59.508521+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0945", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0945/", "title": "Residents report sparks from a power line before the Holiday Farm fire in Oregon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 7 September 2020, residents near milepost 47 on Oregon 126 reported a power outage, a loud blast and blue sparks from an overhead electric line. State officials had pinpointed that area as the start of the Holiday Farm fire, later described as about 170,000 acres, but had not identified the cause. Lane Electric Cooperative, which serves customers east of Vida including Blue River, said it received multiple outage calls as winds rose and did not shut down its distribution system until early the next morning. The cooperative said it did not know the cause. Bonneville Power Administration said it had no evidence that its equipment started any fires. The cause remained under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "Strong east winds and dry conditions were reported that evening. Whether the overhead line, falling trees or another source started the fire was not established in the report. A preemptive public-safety shut-off had not been started before the outage calls; that timing alone does not show that utility equipment ignited the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Reports of sparks or a blast on an overhead line in extreme fire weather should be logged against the reported fire-start time until investigators rule a link in or out. (2) Outage-call times, observed arcing and the time of any de-energisation should be recorded so they can be compared with the official origin. (3) Criteria for preemptive shut-offs in forecast high wind and dry conditions should be set in advance, and the decision and its timing documented.", "source_url": "https://www.oregonlive.com/wildfires/2020/09/explosion-sparks-from-power-line-preceded-oregons-holiday-farm-fire-area-residents-say.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:14:00.674959+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0946", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0946/", "title": "Worker injured after ladder fall and electrical shock at Cuyahoga Falls substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A subcontractor performing annual maintenance and painting work at an electric substation in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, fell about 15 feet from a ladder and, according to the city fire department, grabbed an electrical service line and was shocked. The substation is at the northeast corner of State Road and Sacket Avenue and is operated by Cuyahoga Falls Electric System and American Municipal Power. The accident caused a power outage affecting businesses and residences along State Road and stretching more than a mile toward Front Street, including a supermarket and an elementary school. The worker was talking with emergency personnel before being taken by city emergency medical services to a hospital in Akron; his condition afterwards was not reported. The outage lasted less than half an hour, with some customers restored within minutes and all customers back on supply by 11:45 a.m.", "contributing_factors": "The worker was on a ladder painting at the substation when he fell and, per the fire marshal's initial account, grabbed an electrical service line, causing an electric shock in addition to the fall. No formal investigation findings were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Ladder work near live lines at substations requires strict fall protection, as a 15-foot fall led to contact with a service line. (2) Painting tasks at energised substations need confirmed clearances, since the fall caused unintended contact with live conductors.", "source_url": "https://www.mytownneo.com/story/news/2020/09/11/man-injured-fall-ladder-cuyahoga-falls-power-substation/3472406001/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:14:14.050704+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0947", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0947/", "title": "Fire reported at power substation in Noida causing local blackout", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-08", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at a power substation in Noida, India, on 19 August 2020, causing a blackout in the surrounding sector. The report indicates that several fire engines attended the site and that the fire occurred during rain. The source is a headline and summary only. The substation name and operator, the cause, the extent of damage, the duration of the outage and whether anyone was hurt are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The report refers to rain at the time, but no cause has been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire during rain can still spread, so operators should check weather seals on all outdoor switchgear and cable terminations. (2) Loss of one substation can black out a whole sector, so operators should test switching plans for rapid supply restoration from alternate feeds. (3) Fire engines need quick site access during an incident, so operators should keep gates, roads and water points ready for emergency crews.", "source_url": "https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/huge-fire-at-power-substation-in-noida-amid-rain-several-fire-engines-at-site-2281690", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:14:25.228247+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0948", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0948/", "title": "Fire damages floating solar array on London reservoir", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 26 May 2020 an electrical fault occurred at the 6.4MW floating solar array on the Queen Elizabeth II Reservoir near Heathrow Airport, on the edge of London. The plant is operated by Lightsource BP and supplies power to Thames Water. Lightsource BP said a small fire ensued and damaged some components. Reporting said the blaze affected an area where two floating platforms met and appeared to cause some modules to sink. The operator implemented its health, safety, security and environment protocols, investigated the incident and, after approvals from Thames Water, planned repairs to start the following week. Thames Water said the stored water was at the pre-treatment stage and that tests were carried out to check for quality issues. Lightsource BP has not commented on any findings about the cause.", "contributing_factors": "The operator confirmed an electrical fault but has not published findings on why it occurred. The source does not establish that the fault was at the platform junction, or that water movement damaged cabling or connectors in this incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An electrical fault at the junction of two floating platforms can damage modules and cause sinking, so operators must inspect all platform joints and connections after any fault. (2) A small fire from an electrical fault on a floating array requires immediate isolation and checks with the water utility before repairs start. (3) Water quality tests after a fire on a reservoir array protect supply integrity, so the operator must coordinate with the utility at once.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/transition/fire-hits-bp-ventures-flagship-floating-solar-plant-in-uk/2-1-877293", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:14:27.135852+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0949", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0949/", "title": "Blade breaks off Siemens Gamesa turbine at a Norwegian wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Norway", "country_code": "no", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind farm in Norway was shut down after a blade broke off a Siemens Gamesa 4.X turbine at the project, according to a report dated 12 April 2024. The headline says the farm was shut down again, but the available text does not name the site, the operator or any earlier incident. Injuries, fire and further damage were not reported in the available text.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available text.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A blade detachment on a Siemens Gamesa 4.X turbine requires immediate shutdown and an exclusion zone while the turbine and nearby machines are checked. (2) A second shutdown at the same farm should prompt review of the turbine model and blade history even before the cause is known.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1868618/wind-farm-shut-down-again-blade-breaks-off-siemens-gamesa-4x-turbine", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:16:39.910313+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0950", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0950/", "title": "Explosion and fire at TECO East Bay substation cuts power to thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at Tampa Electric Company's (TECO) East Bay substation in southern Hillsborough County, Florida. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue confirmed that an explosion caused the fire. The incident knocked out power to approximately 4,000 homes. TECO crews attended the scene and rerouted power to restore supply to affected customers. Firefighters allowed the fire to burn out rather than actively extinguishing it, a common approach for electrical substation fires due to the risks of using water near energised equipment. Power to all affected customers was restored by early the following morning. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident.", "contributing_factors": "The specific technical cause of the explosion was not reported in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires after an internal explosion should be allowed to burn out under supervision rather than extinguished with water near energised equipment. (2) Utility crews should reroute supply quickly after a substation fault to limit outage length for customers. (3) Fire services and utility teams must coordinate at substation incidents to keep responders safe while power is restored.", "source_url": "https://www.wfla.com/news/hillsborough-county/power-restored-after-teco-substation-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T02:18:19.0041+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0951", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0951/", "title": "Squirrel-caused equipment failures knock out power at Colorado substation twice in two days", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A substation operated by CORE Electric Cooperative near Ridge Road in Castle Rock, Colorado, experienced two separate wildlife-related outages on consecutive days. On the first day, a squirrel caused an explosion at the substation that knocked out power to more than 4,000 customers. The following day, another squirrel damaged distribution equipment at the same substation, causing a further 40-minute outage affecting about 1,300 customers. In both cases, utility personnel quickly identified and repaired the faults to restore service. The cooperative stated that wildlife, mainly birds and rodents, causes an estimated 5 to 10 percent of outages on its system each year. The utility said its system is designed to allow switching of load to other areas to speed restoration while repairs are made.", "contributing_factors": "Wildlife intrusion by squirrels causing equipment damage and short circuits at an exposed substation location; the cooperative noted it cannot fully enclose every piece of substation equipment.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Squirrels at an exposed substation can cause repeated short circuits in quick succession, so operators should check all accessible bushings and insulators after the first event. (2) Distribution networks with load-switching allow faster restoration during faults, so insurers should verify this feature at similar substations. (3) Wildlife causes 5 to 10 percent of outages each year, so utilities must balance full enclosure with targeted hardening at high-risk sites.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/general/another-squirrel-causes-power-outage-at-same-colorado-substation-second-day-in-a-row/ar-AA2cn5Nf", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:09:10.758185+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0952", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0952/", "title": "Squirrel intrusion sparks small fire and outage at Manhattan Kansas substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A small fire broke out at an Evergy substation near Walters Morgan Construction in the Northview area of Manhattan, Kansas, after a squirrel entered the equipment around 8:30 a.m. The fire caused a power outage affecting more than 7,200 residents, mainly north of Kimball Avenue, for about two hours. Evergy crews rerouted customers to other substations while repairs were carried out. The outage did not affect polling sites in Riley County, which have battery backup for voting machines and paper ballots as a further contingency. An Evergy official on site attributed the incident to the animal intrusion. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "A squirrel gained access to substation equipment, triggering an electrical fault and small fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Squirrel entry to substation equipment can trigger an electrical fault and small fire, so operators should fit barriers or deterrents around live parts. (2) A substation fault can cause a two-hour outage for thousands of customers, so utilities should maintain reroute paths to adjacent substations.", "source_url": "https://1350kman.com/2020/08/rodent-in-evergy-substation-causes-manhattan-power-outage-tuesday/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:09:15.520635+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0953", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0953/", "title": "Accident on Heerema vessel Aegir halts jacket installation off Taiwan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Upstream Online reported on 19 June 2020 that work installing 21 jacket foundations for an offshore wind farm for Taiwan Power Company had been suspended after an accident on the Heerema vessel Aegir off Taiwan. The report does not say what failed, whether anyone was hurt, or when installation would restart.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After an accident on an installation vessel, foundation work should stay stopped until the vessel and any partly installed jackets are confirmed safe. (2) Campaign records should state what failed and whether anyone was hurt, not only that work was suspended. (3) Restart should wait on a clear account of the accident, which this report does not give.", "source_url": "https://www.upstreamonline.com/rigs-and-vessels/video-accident-on-heerema-vessel-off-taiwan-halts-wind-farm-installation-work/2-1-829625", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:10:36.686506+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0954", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0954/", "title": "Fire at electricity substation in Warsash", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 24 June 2020, fire crews from Fareham, Hightown, Cosham and Portchester were called at 8.27am to a blaze at an electricity substation in Chilling Lane, Warsash. Crews reported large volumes of black smoke and said the cause involved an electrical cable. Most crews later left, while one appliance from Fareham remained. Damage, injuries and any effect on supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Fire crews said the cause involved an electrical cable. No further cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire involving an electrical cable at a substation can produce large volumes of black smoke and draw crews from several stations. (2) One appliance may need to remain after the first response until the scene is safe.", "source_url": "https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/people/hampshire-fire-crews-tackle-blaze-at-warsash-electricity-substation-2893962", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:10:38.819537+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0955", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0955/", "title": "Arson fire at Paisley substation cuts power to homes and a care home", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the early hours of 15 June 2020, a fire broke out at the Montrose Road electricity substation in Paisley, Scotland, after a wheelie bin was deliberately set alight and placed next to the substation. The fire caused an estimated £50,000 of damage to the substation. Around 1,800 homes lost power for up to an hour, while 85 properties, including a care home, were without electricity for nearly nine hours. A generator was brought in to provide an alternative power supply to the care home until mains power was restored. The network operator, SP Energy Networks, later offered a £10,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible, describing the act as deliberate and dangerous. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was reported to have been started deliberately by placing a burning wheelie bin next to the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire from an external bin can spread to live equipment, so operators should clear combustible items from perimeters and fit early detection. (2) A care home on single substation supply lost power for nine hours, so vulnerable sites need pre-planned generator connections. (3) Arson at an unmanned substation caused long outages, so insurers should check perimeter security and bin storage rules.", "source_url": "https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/18530039.sp-energy-offer-huge-reward-information-paisley-substation-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:10:49.700905+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0956", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0956/", "title": "Mini-substation on 16th Avenue, Joe Nhlanhla, Alexandra explodes amid overload", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-06", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A mini-substation on 16th Avenue, Joe Nhlanhla, in Alexandra, Johannesburg, exploded and caught fire early on 16 June 2020, cutting power to the area. The utility, City Power, said the failure was caused by network overloading linked to illegal electricity connections in the neighbourhood. Restoration of supply was expected to take more than 24 hours, partly dependent on the availability of a replacement transformer. The utility said this was the fourth substation to fail from overload since the start of June, and identified other areas at similar risk due to illegal connections, backyard dwellings and rising appliance use in winter. No injuries or fatalities were reported.", "contributing_factors": "City Power attributed the failure to overloading of the local network caused by illegal electricity connections, backyard rooms, vandalism of infrastructure, and high simultaneous use of power-hungry appliances such as stoves, geysers and heaters during winter.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Distribution networks in areas with high rates of illegal connections should be monitored for cumulative load growth beyond design capacity. (2) Utilities should maintain adequate spare transformer stock to reduce restoration times after overload failures. (3) Community engagement and enforcement against illegal connections can reduce repeat equipment failures in vulnerable network areas.", "source_url": "https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2020-06-16-mini-substation-in-alexandra-blows-up-leading-to-electricity-outage/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:10:53.042946+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0957", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0957/", "title": "Trench collapse at Skookumchuck wind project near Olympia kills rescuer, injures colleague", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During construction of the 136MW Skookumchuck wind project near Olympia, Washington, a 15-foot trench partially collapsed while a worker was inside positioning a bore pipe, trapping him. A colleague jumped in to help but was then trapped by a second, larger collapse. A third worker raised the alarm and a rescue effort involving up to nine people followed, but the rescuer, who worked for a third-party labour agency, was pronounced dead at the scene. The worker involved in the original collapse was taken to hospital with serious injuries. The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries investigated and said the trenching had been carried out at that depth in winter after days of rain, in unstable soil and with no trench box. In July 2020 it issued fines totalling more than $500,000 against developer RES, its affiliate RES System 3 and a medical services contractor, citing willful violations. RES said it was heartbroken by the circumstances, that it had fully cooperated with the investigation, and that it strongly disagreed with the alleged violations and would contest the citations, so the penalties were not final at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The regulator found that trenching at this depth was carried out in unstable, rain-saturated soil during winter without a trench box, and said RES System 3 had regularly disregarded its internal safety policies and procedures and given inadequate direction to a crew doing inherently dangerous work. These are the regulator's findings and were being contested by RES.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Trench boxes or shoring are required at 15-foot depth in rain-saturated soil to prevent collapse. (2) Untrained entry into a collapsed trench can cause a second collapse and further casualties. (3) Principal contractors must verify that crews follow written safety rules on site.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/recipe-for-disaster-heavy-fines-as-us-wind-farm-worker-dies-helping-buried-colleague/2-1-844703", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:10:58.151108+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0958", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0958/", "title": "Transformer fire on utility pole during heat wave in Boulder City", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer on a utility pole caught fire in an alley between Avenues I and K in Boulder City during unseasonably hot weather at the end of May and early June. The Boulder City Fire, Police and city utilities departments responded. Power to seven homes was interrupted but restored after a few hours. No injuries or surrounding damage occurred.", "contributing_factors": "High residential electricity demand during a heat wave may have contributed to overload. Older transmission lines are more susceptible to failure or fire under such conditions.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Schedule use of high-load appliances such as dryers and dishwashers for night-time during heat waves to lower stress on the grid. (2) Maintain older transmission equipment to reduce failure risk under peak demand. (3) Coordinated emergency response limits disruption to residents.", "source_url": "https://bouldercityreview.com/community/transformer-fire-sparks-power-usage-questions-61319/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:11:22.803764+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0959", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0959/", "title": "Fire at Cornwall electricity substation cuts power to hundreds of homes", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an electricity substation operated by Western Power Distribution in Bugle, near St Austell, Cornwall, on the afternoon of 20 May 2020. Fire engines from St Austell and St Dennis fire stations attended, with crews monitoring the site while awaiting the network operator. The fire, described as a high voltage incident, caused approximately 692 properties to lose power at around 4:08pm. Supply was restored to 570 properties by 4:39pm, with the remaining 122 properties expected to be reconnected by around 10pm the same evening. Photographs showed a large plume of dark smoke rising from the site. No injuries or evacuations were reported. The cause of the fire was not confirmed in the available reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires need fire crews to stand by and monitor until the operator isolates the site. (2) High voltage substation fires can cut supply to hundreds of homes for several hours. (3) Visible smoke from substation fires needs quick public advice on local air quality.", "source_url": "https://www.cornwalllive.com/news/cornwall-news/fire-electricity-substation-knocks-out-4150781", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:11:29.042692+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0960", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0960/", "title": "Probe into TTEC substation fires reported still ongoing", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "Trinidad and Tobago", "country_code": "tt", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Trinidad and Tobago Newsday report dated 21 May 2020 said an investigation into fires at TTEC substations was still ongoing. The material available to the register does not say when the fires occurred, which substations were involved, or what damage or outage followed.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline that a substation-fire investigation remains open as incomplete until site, date and outcome are confirmed. (2) Match later updates to the original event before treating them as a new incident. (3) Do not infer cause or severity from a notice that only says a probe is ongoing.", "source_url": "https://newsday.co.tt/2020/05/21/ttec-substation-fires-probe-still-ongoing/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:11:30.690228+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0961", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0961/", "title": "Snake causes fire and blackout at South Carolina electricity substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A snake entered the Cowpens substation operated by Broad River Electric Cooperative in Upstate South Carolina and came into contact with high-voltage electrical equipment. According to the cooperative, this caused a flash that started a fire in the substation's zone B controls, destroying them. The cooperative posted photographs showing the electrocuted snake and the damaged equipment. About 680 people lost power, according to a local broadcaster cited in the report. The cooperative suggested the snake had most likely entered the substation while hunting for bird nests and eggs, and may also have been seeking warmth. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "A snake gained access to high-voltage equipment inside the substation, most likely while searching for bird nests or seeking warmth, leading to an electrical flash and a fire in the control equipment. No further investigation findings were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Snakes can reach high-voltage equipment in substations and cause flash fires in control cabinets, so operators should fit mesh or barriers around zone B controls and similar cabinets. (2) Wildlife seeking nests or warmth can trigger outages, so operators should remove bird nests from substation structures and check for gaps that allow snakes inside.", "source_url": "https://www.thestate.com/news/state/south-carolina/article243199396.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:12:00.999282+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0962", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0962/", "title": "Five workers injured in installation vessel accident at Triton Knoll wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Five people were injured overnight on 8 May 2020 while working aboard the Seaway Strashnov, an installation vessel operated by Seaway Heavy Lifting, at the Triton Knoll offshore wind farm construction site about 32 kilometres off the Lincolnshire coast, UK. All five were airlifted to hospital for assessment and treatment. Three were discharged the following day, a fourth was discharged a few days later, and one remained in hospital recovering at the time of reporting. The vessel and its remaining crew returned to port on 10 May while an investigation into the cause was launched. Innogy, the wind farm operator, and Subsea 7, the parent company of Seaway Heavy Lifting, both confirmed the incident and said they were cooperating with the relevant authorities. Neither company disclosed how the workers were injured, citing the ongoing investigation. The 857MW project was under construction and is jointly owned by innogy, J-Power and Kansai Electric Power, with innogy managing construction and long-term operation.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the accident was under investigation at the time of reporting and was not disclosed by either company.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An installation vessel at night needs tested plans for multiple casualties and helicopter evacuation from a working deck. (2) A multi-casualty event on an installation vessel should trigger an immediate return to port to preserve evidence. (3) Vessel operator, project operator and regulator should agree investigation duties before mobilisation.", "source_url": "https://www.oedigital.com/news/478600-five-injured-at-triton-knoll-offshore-wind-farm", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:12:04.803262+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0963", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0963/", "title": "Underground ComEd transformer fire cuts power in Chicago's South Loop", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Thursday in May 2020, Chicago firefighters responded to an underground electrical fire involving a ComEd transformer near LaSalle Street and Harrison Street in the South Loop. Southbound Metra traffic was stopped and several buildings lost power. The fire was reported out at about 6 p.m. ComEd said a fire in a manhole damaged equipment and cut power to 3,500 customers. About 3,000 had supply restored using generators, and the remaining 500 were expected to be restored that night by 11 p.m. No injuries were reported. The cause was under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. The utility said a fire in a manhole damaged equipment. An investigation was said to be under way.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An underground manhole fire can damage equipment and cut supply to thousands of customers even when contained quickly, so operators should review isolation plans for city centre plant. (2) Temporary generators can restore most customers fast after an underground fire, yet a smaller group may stay off supply into the evening.", "source_url": "https://abc7chicago.com/post/power-outages-in-south-loop-caused-by-electrical-fire/6183277/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:12:07.529457+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0966", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0966/", "title": "Substation fire in Blackpool cuts power to thousands of customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service was called at 11.10am on 7 April 2020 to a fire at an electrical substation near a retail park in South Shore, Blackpool, at the junction of Squires Gate Lane and St Annes Road. Two fire engines from South Shore and St Annes attended, with crews using breathing apparatus, a hose reel, dry powder extinguishers and a ventilation unit to tackle the fire. No injuries were reported. The fire caused a significant power outage across South Shore, with Electricity North West reporting around 14,000 customers initially without power, later reduced to around 7,208 as engineers worked to restore supply. Electricity North West attended the site to address the fault and restore power to affected properties and businesses.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire at a grid connection point can cut supply to thousands of customers at once, so operators should fit early fault detection on transformers and switchgear. (2) Fire crews need clear access and isolation plans for electrical substations, so operators should maintain marked entry points and remote switching.", "source_url": "https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/news/people/fire-crews-battle-electrical-substation-fire-in-blackpool-2531737", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:13:01.19222+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0967", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0967/", "title": "Faulty transformer causes power outage in Ross-shire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Hundreds of people in Ross-shire lost electricity after a faulty transformer was reported to have knocked out power on the high-voltage network at 6:23 a.m. on 1 April 2020. Some homes in Marybank, Muir of Ord, Fairburn, Fern and Muirton Mains were affected. Most of those affected had power restored by 9:30 a.m. At the time of the report, 19 properties were still without supply. Engineers hoped to restore them by 2 p.m. and were sending generators in the interim. Whether that later restoration was completed was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The operator described the cause as a faulty transformer on the high-voltage network. No further technical detail was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault on a high-voltage transformer can cut supply across several communities, so operators should be ready to isolate the failed unit and restore unaffected sections quickly. (2) Where a small number of properties remain off after the main restoration, temporary generation can bridge the gap while repairs continue. (3) Customers should be told the time of the fault, which areas are affected, and when supply is expected back.", "source_url": "https://transformer-magazine.com/news/faulty-transformer-causes-power-outage/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:13:02.729119+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0968", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0968/", "title": "Substation explosion reported to have caused a major outage in the Wellington region", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "New Zealand", "country_code": "nz", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Stuff headline reported that power had returned after a major outage across the Wellington region following a substation explosion. The article text was not available. The web address refers to train delays, but that detail is not in the headline, and the site, cause and scale of the outage are not reported here.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The available headline does not give a cause beyond a substation explosion.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation failure can disrupt supply across a wide area and affect other services. (2) Restoration should be confirmed before the scale of an outage is treated as known. (3) Headline-only reports should stay hedged until the site and outcome are confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/120208359/major-power-outage-causing-wellington-train-delays", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:13:13.914825+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0969", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0969/", "title": "High-voltage flash and fire at Patuli substation in Kolkata", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-03", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 27 March 2020, a high-voltage flash and fire occurred at the Patuli substation, an 11 kV distribution substation operated by Calcutta Electric Supply in south Kolkata. The substation shut down at around 6 p.m. with an arc flash and a loud bang. Thick black smoke prompted residents to alert the fire brigade. Seven fire tenders attended and the fire was doused by 7:10 p.m. Several thousand households in the affected area lost supply, with power switched off in some areas as a safety measure while supply was rerouted from other feeders. Calcutta Electric Supply said power to the affected zone would be restored before midnight. Parts of the substation were left waterlogged from firefighting, and the utility said the equipment would need to dry before the cause could be investigated and rectified. Injuries are not reported in the available source. The event was described as the first major emergency in Kolkata after a lockdown was imposed on 23 March 2020.", "contributing_factors": "A Calcutta Electric Supply official said a fault had occurred in the substation switch, leading to a high-voltage flash and the supply breakdown. The full cause was not established at the time of reporting because the equipment was waterlogged and had to dry before inspection.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault in a substation switch can cause an arc flash and immediate shutdown, so operators should inspect switches on a fixed schedule. (2) Water from firefighting leaves substation equipment waterlogged, so operators must plan drying time before inspection. (3) Alternative feeders allow quick rerouting of supply after a substation outage, so operators should keep this option ready.", "source_url": "https://transformer-magazine.com/news/substation-fire-hits-power-in-kolkata/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:13:16.02773+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0970", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0970/", "title": "Fire reported at New Era substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A headline published by the Springs Advertiser on 16 February 2020 reported that the New Era substation was on fire. The article text was not available. No cause, damage, injuries, fatalities or power cuts were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported fire at a grid substation needs prompt checks on what equipment is involved and any public risk. (2) Record only what the source states and do not infer cause or impact from a headline alone.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/springs-advertiser/news-headlines/2020/02/16/new-era-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:13:57.836807+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0971", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0971/", "title": "Fire guts 150 MVA transformer at TCN Ayede substation in Ibadan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported to have started at about 6:15 am at the Ayede sub-station in Ibadan and to have been put out at about 10:30 am. Firefighters from the Oyo State Fire Service, the Federal Fire Service and some corporate organisations attended, with other emergency services on site. Three people were reported to have sustained minor injuries, and no deaths were reported. An engineer at the station, not named in the report, said an electric surge caused a spark that was worsened by oil in the transformer. The station was said to supply Ibadan, Iseyin, Iwo, Saki and Sagamu, which might be without power until the transformer was replaced.", "contributing_factors": "The only account of cause is an unnamed engineer's report of an electric surge and spark, with transformer oil said to have made the fire harder to put out. Staff were reported to have tried to fight the fire before calling the fire service. No independent investigation is described.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check surge protection on large transformers to reduce the chance a fault leads to fire. (2) Plan in advance for fires involving large volumes of insulating oil which slow extinguishment. (3) Call the fire service early if on-site efforts fail to control an oil-fed transformer fire.", "source_url": "https://www.majorwavesenergyreport.com/150-mva-transformer-gutted-by-fire-at-tcn-sub-station-in-ibadan/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:14:03.65522+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0972", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0972/", "title": "Wind turbine destroyed by fire at Vietnamese wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-01", "country": "Vietnam", "country_code": "vn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at the Phong Dien 1 Wind Farm in Tuy Phong District, Binh Thuan Province, caught fire. Witnesses reported black smoke billowing from the turbine, followed by explosive sounds before a blade fell to the ground. Due to the turbine's height of about 80 metres, wind farm staff and the local fire protection force were unable to extinguish the fire, which completely destroyed the unit. No injuries were reported. The wind farm, operated by Vietnam Renewable Energy One Member Company, Ltd, is Vietnam's first wind power facility and comprises 20 turbines with a combined capacity of 30 MW, commissioned in 2009. At the time of reporting, technicians were investigating the cause of the fire and assessing the extent of the damage.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting. The turbine's significant height (approximately 80 metres) prevented ground-based firefighting efforts from being effective.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire at 80 metres height cannot be fought from the ground, so the plan must rest on early detection and remote isolation. (2) Explosive sounds followed by a blade falling indicate structural failure after fire starts, so operators should fit blade fire suppression.", "source_url": "https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/fire-destroys-wind-farm-turbine-in-central-vietnam-4037754.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:14:28.675873+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0973", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0973/", "title": "Explosion at East Grand Forks substation causes outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Shortly before 21:00 on 2 January 2020, an equipment malfunction at a substation in East Grand Forks led to an explosion and a fire. EGF Water and Light said the blast caused power outages across many parts of the town. Supply was fully restored shortly after 23:00 the same night, and no one was hurt. The utility said the precise cause was still unclear. It noted that it had been raining. Crews spent the next day assessing damage, with Minnkota Power attending to discuss the fault, and hoped to identify the cause by the end of the weekend.", "contributing_factors": "The operator described an equipment malfunction. Rain was mentioned at the time, but it had not been established as a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation equipment fault can produce an explosion, fire and widespread local outages even when the initiating cause is not immediately known. (2) Early mutual assistance from a neighbouring utility can help operators assess damage and plan repairs while the cause is still open. (3) Weather at the time of a fault should be recorded, but it should not be treated as the cause until investigation confirms it.", "source_url": "https://www.valleynewslive.com/content/news/Cause-of-explosion-at-East-Grand-Forks-substation-still-unclear-566699261.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:14:33.177244+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0974", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0974/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at Bronx commercial building", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A newly installed wind turbine collapsed at 500 Baychester Avenue, a single-storey commercial building in the Bronx, on a Monday reported on 30 December 2019. It fell at a busy intersection, striking an electronic billboard and a parked car. The FDNY reported no injuries, and the cause remained under investigation. The turbine had been installed between 11 and 13 December. Department of Buildings inspectors attended, issued two violations to the property owner, a full stop-work order and a vacate order, and required the owner to engage an engineer to remove the damaged billboard.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. The turbine had been installed only weeks earlier, but no installation or structural finding was given.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine installed beside a public street needs a completed structural and installation check before it is left in service. (2) A collapse can damage nearby structures and vehicles even when nobody is hurt, so exclusion and stop-work arrangements should be ready. (3) While the cause is unknown, operators should preserve the turbine, its foundation and the installation records for the investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.fox5ny.com/news/recently-installed-wind-turbine-collapses-in-the-bronx", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:14:40.017822+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0975", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0975/", "title": "Lightning strike causes fire at Balfour substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A substation in Balfour, Mpumalanga, containing three transformers caught fire after being struck by lightning. Two transformers were shut down for protection but may have been affected. The incident disrupted electricity supply to Dipaleseng Municipality and more than 5,000 customers. Technicians were to assess the damage to determine restoration times.", "contributing_factors": "Lightning strike and an error in the system.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure lightning protection systems are regularly tested and maintained at substations. (2) Review automatic protection settings to minimise unnecessary shutdowns during storms. (3) Prepare contingency plans for rapid assessment and restoration after weather-related faults.", "source_url": "https://ofm.co.za/article/sa/282932/eskom-yet-to-assess-damage-caused-by-fire-at-balfour-substation", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:14:47.184646+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0976", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0976/", "title": "Feederboard explosion at Brynorth substation cuts power across Johannesburg suburbs", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-12", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred at the Brynorth substation in Johannesburg, South Africa, when a feederboard blew up, according to City Power. The incident affected power supply to Bryanston, Morningside, Khanyisa, River Club, Douglasdale and surrounding areas, compounding existing power cuts caused by load shedding from national utility Eskom. City Power said operators were on site and that traffic along parts of William Nicol Drive through Bryanston was affected as a result of the outage. Photographs released by the utility showed serious damage that appeared to be undergoing repair. City Power said an update would follow once technicians had determined the extent of the damage. No information on injuries was reported.", "contributing_factors": "No specific contributing cause was given in the source beyond the feederboard failure. The outage occurred against a backdrop of concurrent national load shedding by Eskom.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A feederboard failure at a substation can trigger an explosion and cut supply to multiple suburbs, so operators should inspect feederboards and switchgear for early signs of wear. (2) Substation damage that affects main roads needs quick traffic plans, so City Power should keep diversion routes ready for feederboard events.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/southern-courier/lnn/article/joburg-northern-suburbs-plunged-darkness-substation-explodes/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:15:07.911134+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0977", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0977/", "title": "Firefighters respond to reports of smoke at Tigné substation in Malta", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "Malta", "country_code": "mt", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters were reported to have been called to a substation in Tigné, Malta, after reports of smoke at the site. Only a headline level report is available. The cause, the extent of any damage, whether power supplies were affected, and whether there were any injuries or evacuations have not been reported. The outcome of the response and any subsequent investigation were not available at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Smoke at a substation can signal an electrical fault, so operators should inspect switchgear and cables after any smoke report. (2) A substation smoke event needs full follow-up reporting so operators can learn from the outcome and any damage.", "source_url": "https://timesofmalta.com/article/firefighters-at-tigne-following-reports-of-smoke-at-substation.746745", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:15:09.740964+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0978", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0978/", "title": "Substation transformer fire cuts power to about 15,000 people near Brea mall", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire at a substation near Imperial Highway and Associated Road in Brea, California, caused a power outage affecting approximately 15,000 people across Placentia, Fullerton and Brea, including the Brea Mall and the Brea Civic Center. Brea Fire Department responded to the fire, which was reported at around 5.15pm. Shoppers inside the darkened mall used phone flashlights and were reported to have been escorted out calmly. Power was restored to most areas by around 6.30pm. Traffic signals in the affected area lost power, and motorists were advised to treat intersections as four way stops while signal maintenance continued. A spokesperson for Southern California Edison said crews were still working to determine what triggered the fire, which the utility said occurred at one substation.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. Southern California Edison stated crews were still working to determine what triggered the fire at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation transformer fire can cut supply to commercial sites and traffic signals, so operators should map these dependencies for quick restoration. (2) Traffic signals without power increase road risk, so utilities must issue clear public advice on four-way stops during outages.", "source_url": "https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/brea-power-outage/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:15:12.129909+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0979", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0979/", "title": "Transformer fire at Entergy substation causes major outage in Louisiana", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire occurred at an Entergy substation in Amite, Louisiana, causing a major power outage affecting about 8,000 customers, mostly in Tangipahoa and St Helena parishes, with some residents in Livingston Parish also affected. The fire broke out on a Wednesday afternoon. Entergy crews responded and the fire was fully extinguished, after which crews assessed the damage and carried out repairs. Power was restored to affected customers by 7:30pm the same day. The outage only affected Entergy customers in the area; residents served by another utility, Demco, were not affected.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation transformer fire can cut supply to thousands of customers across several parishes, so operators must keep spare transformers and fast repair crews ready. (2) Once a substation fire is out, quick damage checks and repairs can restore power the same evening. (3) An outage at one utility's substation leaves customers of other local utilities unaffected, so clear maps reduce confusion.", "source_url": "https://www.wafb.com/story/38043083/major-power-outage-caused-by-transformer-fire-at-entergy-substation-in-amite/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T05:16:08.818826+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0980", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0980/", "title": "Wind turbine fire sparks grass blaze in Mojave", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 30 October 2019, Kern County Fire said a wind turbine on the west side of Highway 14 in Mojave caught fire around 2 p.m. and that flames falling from the turbine started a grass fire. Crews worked to put the turbine fire out. Officials said the vegetation fire was contained. The report was described as developing. The cause, the extent of damage to the turbine, any injuries and any effect on nearby turbines were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine fire can drop burning material and start a grass fire, so operators must plan ground response with an exclusion zone from the start. (2) Early reports on a turbine fire may confirm only that crews contained the blaze, so insurers should expect later updates on damage and outages.", "source_url": "https://www.turnto23.com/news/local-news/kern-county-fire-working-to-put-out-windmill-fire-in-mojave", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:06:51.348817+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0981", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0981/", "title": "Electricity substation catches fire in Lamosanghu", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-10", "country": "Nepal", "country_code": "np", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 27 October 2019, an electricity substation in Lamosanghu, Sindupalchok district, Nepal, was reported to have caught fire. Nepal Army, Armed Police and local people from Chautara Municipality were trying to control it, with a fire engine from Chautara Municipality at the site. Police said fuel kept at the substation had also caught fire and was making the blaze hard to control. The cause was not known, and the report did not say whether the fire was later brought under control, what was damaged, or whether supply was affected.", "contributing_factors": "Police said fuel stored at the substation had caught fire and made control more difficult. No cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Fuel stored at a substation can catch fire and make control harder, so operators should review fuel storage and isolation plans. (2) Early reports may miss cause, damage and supply effects, so insurers should seek later confirmation.", "source_url": "https://english.onlinekhabar.com/electrical-substation-in-lamosanghu-catches-fire.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:07:00.249349+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0982", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0982/", "title": "Lightning strike damages distribution panel at Mabaruma Solar Farm, Guyana", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "Guyana", "country_code": "gy", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The 400kW Mabaruma Solar Farm at Khan's Hill, Mabaruma, Guyana, operated by Hinterland Electrification and owned by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, was struck by lightning before completion of commissioning, damaging a distribution panel that carried electricity from the solar farm to the power house. An engineer inspecting the site found that the plant had not been properly earthed, meaning a repeat lightning strike could cause further damage. The Government Electrical Inspectorate later tested the grounding of the lightning protection systems and found they did not meet specifications. The EPC contractor, Meeco, and Hinterland Electrification disputed responsibility for rectifying the fault, delaying commissioning beyond its original 2018 target. The contract was eventually terminated and the transformer and other damaged equipment were scheduled for replacement through a new tender process.", "contributing_factors": "Inadequate earthing and lightning protection at the solar farm, which failed to meet required specifications; a contractual dispute between Meeco and Hinterland Electrification over responsibility for remedial works delayed repairs.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lightning protection and earthing at solar farms must be tested to meet specifications before energisation, or a strike may damage the distribution panel. (2) Grounding systems at solar sites should pass independent electrical inspectorate checks before commissioning to avoid later replacement. (3) Contracts for solar projects must assign clear responsibility for earthing performance to prevent disputes that delay repairs.", "source_url": "https://guyanachronicle.com/2019/10/17/damage-to-distribution-panel-stalls-mabaruma-solar-farm-commissioning/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:07:06.074862+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0985", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0985/", "title": "Grass fire threatens under-construction Brigalow solar farm in Queensland", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-09", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A grass fire broke out at the under-construction 35MW Brigalow Solar Farm near Yarranlea, Pittsworth, Queensland, on the morning of 9 September 2019, during a wider outbreak of more than 60 bushfires across the state. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services said the fire started just after 9am as the result of a rubbish fire at the solar farm site. Authorities were quoted as saying infrastructure including conduits and solar panel boxes had been caught up in the blaze. The project owner, Impact Investment Group, said the fire was contained to the laydown area, where construction materials are stored, and that it did not start in an operational or under-construction part of the solar farm. The owner could not confirm the extent of any damage or the cause. No one was hurt, the fire was contained, and the owner said ongoing development of the solar farm would not be affected.", "contributing_factors": "Queensland Fire and Emergency Services attributed the start of the grass fire to a rubbish fire at the site. The owner said the ignition point was within the laydown area where construction materials are stored. The fire occurred during what authorities described as an unprecedented early start to the Queensland bushfire season, with around 65 separate fires burning across the state that morning. The underlying cause was not confirmed at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rubbish fires at solar construction sites can ignite conduits and solar panel boxes, so operators should ban open burning and secure waste during high fire danger. (2) Fires that start in laydown areas can be contained before reaching active works, so owners should keep material storage zones separate from construction zones. (3) Grass fires during early bushfire seasons can threaten multiple sites, so owners should agree firefighting plans with local services before peak risk periods.", "source_url": "https://reneweconomy.com.au/brigalow-solar-farm-caught-up-in-queensland-bush-fires-50604/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:07:31.136522+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0986", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0986/", "title": "Typhoon damages floating solar plant at Yamakura Dam in Ichihara", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-09", "country": "Japan", "country_code": "jp", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 9 September 2019, Typhoon Faxai struck the coastal city of Chiba and damaged Japan's largest floating PV plant, inaugurated by Kyocera in March 2018 at the Yamakura Dam in Ichihara City. Reporting said the wind tore several modules from the array and stacked them. Firefighters were reported to have said that contact between loose panels and modules that remained moored overheated the modules and created the conditions for a fire involving around 50 panels. The plant covers around 44 acres of water and has 50,904 solar modules supplied by Kyocera. A Kyocera spokesperson said the fire was extinguished at around 5.20pm local time and that the extent of the damage was still under investigation. Power from the project is sold to TEPCO Energy Partner Incorporated.", "contributing_factors": "Strong winds from Typhoon Faxai were reported to have torn modules loose. A later secondary account of a Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry investigation identified failure of anchors on the central southern side as the main cause, with uneven loads and sequential failure of resin bolts ripping the floating array into sections. That account also cited the size and shape of the floating island and the safety factors used in construction. Those investigation findings are not in the original news report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Typhoon winds can tear modules from floating arrays and cause contact with moored panels. Operators should verify mooring systems resist extreme uplift and movement. (2) Contact between loose and moored modules can overheat panels. Insurers should check separation and retention features on large floating arrays.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine.com/2019/09/09/japans-largest-floating-pv-plant-catches-fire-after-typhoon-faxai-impact/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:07:34.494712+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0987", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0987/", "title": "Newly built Currituck solar farm damaged by Hurricane Dorian", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A news headline reports that a newly built solar farm in Currituck was damaged by Hurricane Dorian. The full article could not be read, and no further details of the damage were available.", "contributing_factors": "The available report attributes the damage to Hurricane Dorian. No other contributing factors were stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar panels at a new site suffered wind damage in a hurricane, so operators should verify mounting and cabling strength after any named storm. (2) Early public reports on solar farm damage gave no detail on extent or outages, so insurers must demand site inspection records before assessing risk.", "source_url": "https://www.13newsnow.com/article/news/local/north-carolina/outer-banks/solar-farm-damaged-hurricane-dorian-currituck-grandy-nc/291-72435246-416c-42bc-ac7e-81c95100a769", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:07:36.412817+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0988", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0988/", "title": "Wind turbine motor fire blamed for wildfire near Merkel, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A motor on a wind turbine caught fire in Mulberry Canyon, southwest Taylor County, Texas, on 26 August 2019 and was blamed by the Texas A&M Forest Service for sparking a wildfire later named the Rhodes Ranch 3 Fire. The blaze burned about 250 acres of rough canyon and ridge terrain near the turbine. The forest service was called at about 6.30pm to assist several volunteer fire departments. Firefighting was hampered by record heat of 109F in Abilene and by terrain that bulldozers could not reach in places. The response included a heavy air tanker, a single-engine airplane dropping retardant, a helicopter dropping water on hot spots, and dozers and graders building containment lines. By the following afternoon the fire was 60 percent contained. No structures were burned. Injuries were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Record high temperatures of 109F on the day of the fire and rough canyon terrain that limited firefighting access were cited as complicating factors. The turbine motor fire was reported as the suspected ignition source; no formal investigation findings were published in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind turbine motors in hot conditions need regular checks for overheating, as this motor fire started a wildfire. (2) Remote canyon sites need pre agreed access routes with fire services, since bulldozers could not reach parts of the terrain.", "source_url": "https://www.reporternews.com/story/news/2019/08/27/wildfire-breaks-out-mulberry-canyon-near-wind-turbines-abilene-merkel-rhodes-ranch-3-fire/2128393001/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:07:49.959534+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0989", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0989/", "title": "Fire at AEP substation cuts power to thousands in Corpus Christi", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Rodd Field AEP substation on the south side of Corpus Christi, Texas, on a Wednesday afternoon. The blaze knocked out power to more than 14,000 AEP Texas customers. Crews worked to extinguish the fire while AEP assessed damage and restoration needs. Local school district campuses in the affected area were closed for the day and were set to reopen once power was restored. A city public library was also temporarily closed due to the outage, with residents directed to alternative branches. AEP initially estimated restoration by 7 p.m. but later revised this to midnight, noting the timeline could change pending further assessment of the damage.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut supply to more than 14,000 customers, so operators should check the speed of isolation and backup feed arrangements. (2) Restoration estimates for substation damage can shift during assessment, so insurers should plan for revised outage times.", "source_url": "https://www.kztv10.com/news/local-news/massive-fire-at-south-side-electric-substation-leaving-thousands-without-power", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:07:52.410538+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0990", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0990/", "title": "Fire damages Cabrillo substation in Irvine, cutting power to thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on a Friday evening at Southern California Edison's substation near Jamboree and Michelson in Irvine, California, referred to in the utility's account as both the Irvine substation and the Cabrillo substation. The fire temporarily cut power to about 28,000 customers in Irvine and part of Newport Beach. SCE equipment de-energised the site quickly and the local fire department extinguished the blaze soon after it started. All power was restored within two days using temporary fixes, after which crews worked around the clock to complete full repairs. The substation is a complex site with four subtransmission lines of about 66,000 volts each, three power transformers rated between 12,000 and 66,000 volts, and 27 distribution circuits feeding field transformers. Fire damage was described by SCE as significant in portions of the substation. Environmental services teams cleaned soot and fire extinguisher residue and removed damaged equipment before damage assessment, construction, maintenance and test crews carried out repairs, with additional crews drawn from Palm Springs and the Hemet area.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was still under investigation at the time of reporting, and no further contributing factors were disclosed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Quick de-energisation by SCE equipment limited fire spread at the 66 kV substation. (2) Local fire crews can extinguish substation fires if de-energised early. (3) Temporary fixes allow supply restoration in two days before full repairs.", "source_url": "https://energized.edison.com/stories/sce-crews-continue-repairs-at-damaged-substation", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:07:57.043703+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0991", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0991/", "title": "Fire breaks out at electricity substation near Plaistow primary school", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an electricity substation adjacent to New City Primary School on Tunmarsh Lane in Plaistow, east London. Crews from Plaistow, Stratford, East Ham and Poplar fire stations responded, with more than 20 firefighters and four fire engines attending after being called at around 10pm. The blaze was brought under control approximately three hours later. The school building itself was largely unaffected, with only minor brickwork damage reported. Dramatic images and video of the fire circulated on social media as the incident unfolded overnight. The school, run by a trust, had already broken up for the summer holidays the previous week, so teaching was not disrupted. The cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of reporting, and no injuries were mentioned in connection with the incident.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire was stated to be under investigation at the time of the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires near schools can spread to adjacent buildings, so operators should map nearby sites and agree joint response plans. (2) A substation fire needs crews from several stations to contain it within three hours, so insurers should check local response capacity.", "source_url": "https://www.newhamrecorder.co.uk/news/21425684.firefighters-put-substation-blaze-plaistow-primary-school/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:08:08.545382+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0993", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0993/", "title": "Blade failure triggers turbine collapse at Brazilian wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "Brazil", "country_code": "br", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A GE 1.7-103 wind turbine collapsed at the 216MW Ventos de São Clemente wind complex in Pernambuco state, northeastern Brazil. According to a local journalist, a blade detached from the turbine during extreme winds, causing the machine to lose stability before crashing to the ground. Wind speeds at the time reportedly reached around 100km/h, far above the typical 8 to 12 metres per second seen in the region. GE confirmed the incident and said it had sent a team of experts to work with the project developer, Echoenergia, which is owned by British venture capital fund Actis, to determine the root cause. The collapse was the fourth reported failure of a GE turbine in the Americas within five months, following three earlier incidents in the United States, though the manufacturer said those were unrelated.", "contributing_factors": "Extreme wind speeds of approximately 100km/h, well above the typical 8 to 12 metres per second range for the site, are reported to have contributed to blade detachment and subsequent structural collapse.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A blade detachment on a GE 1.7-103 turbine in winds of 100km/h led to total collapse, so operators should verify extreme-wind shutdown thresholds and blade retention systems for this model. (2) Four GE turbine failures in the Americas in five months require fleet-wide inspection of blade attachment points on similar machines.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/brazil-wind-turbine-collapse-is-ges-fourth-in-americas-this-year/2-1-643014", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:08:57.426446+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0994", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0994/", "title": "Fire at Con Edison substation cuts power to Staten Island customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a Con Edison electrical substation on Railroad Avenue on Staten Island in the early evening. The fire caused power outages affecting approximately 2,000 Con Edison customers in the New Dorp, Grant City and Oakwood neighbourhoods. The outages were scattered across roughly a five mile radius around the substation. Con Edison deployed two generators to reinforce the system while repairs were made, with the utility estimating restoration by around 2am. The cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of reporting, though a spokesperson said it was not believed to be related to hot weather conditions. The incident occurred just days after a separate power cable fire at a different Con Edison facility, West 65th Street station, caused a much larger outage affecting 72,000 customers on the west side of Manhattan.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; the cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of the article, with the utility spokesperson stating it was not believed to be heat related.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can scatter outages across a five mile radius, so operators should check mobile generator readiness to limit customer impact. (2) Substation equipment failures need early isolation and repair plans because clustered incidents at the same utility raise fleet wide concerns.", "source_url": "https://nypost.com/2019/07/16/power-outages-hit-staten-island-after-fire-at-con-ed-substation/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:09:32.493524+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0995", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0995/", "title": "Mini substation reported to have caught fire and exploded in Riverlea Extension, Johannesburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A mini substation in Riverlea Extension, Johannesburg, was reported to have caught fire and exploded on the evening of 10 July 2019. Eyewitnesses said flames later died down but the unit continued to burn internally. Electricity was reported off across the whole of Riverlea, with Riverlea Extension still without supply after power was restored in other parts. Residents said City Power officials had been working on the unit earlier that day, and that officials later opened the substation to look inside and then left. Residents said emergency services had not arrived some hours after a ward councillor reported contacting them and being told a fire engine was on its way. Residents said the mini substation stands in a school yard. Injuries, damage and the final cause were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Residents said City Power had told them an overload on the local grid was behind outages affecting the area since the preceding Sunday, and that officials had been working on the mini substation earlier the same day. This account is from residents only and has not been confirmed by the utility or an investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Overload on a distribution asset can lead to fire and explosion, so operators should inspect and manage load after repeated outages. (2) A burning mini substation next to a school needs prompt attendance, so utilities should confirm fire service response times. (3) Internal burning after flames die down requires remote isolation, so crews must verify asset status before leaving site.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/soweto-urban/news-headlines/2019/07/10/breaking-substation-riverlea-extension-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:10:19.511919+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0996", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0996/", "title": "Vandalised BC Hydro transformers cause oil spill and days of outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Between April and July 2019, at least four BC Hydro pad-mounted transformers in the Mt Seymour-Parkgate area of North Vancouver were deliberately damaged, apparently using some kind of saw and drill. In each case the transformers tripped, cutting power to nearby neighbourhoods, restaurants and grocery stores, in one case for three days. In one incident roughly 1,000 litres of mineral oil leaked from a damaged unit, but the gravel base beneath it stopped the oil seeping into the grass. BC Hydro said the tampering posed serious safety risks, including the possibility of a fire or an explosion, and put repair costs at roughly 150,000 Canadian dollars, not including lost business or spoiled food at affected premises. The utility said the incidents, which it dated to 2 and 24 April, 1 May and 2 July 2019, were suspected to be connected, and police were investigating.", "contributing_factors": "Deliberate damage to pad-mounted transformer enclosures with what BC Hydro described as some kind of saw and drill. Pad-mounted units serving underground distribution are sited in publicly accessible locations such as pathways and lawns, and rely on mineral oil for cooling.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Pad-mounted transformers in public places need tamper-resistant enclosures, as forced entry with a saw or drill trips the unit and risks fire or explosion. (2) Gravel bases under pad-mounted units limit ground contamination when mineral oil leaks, so operators should check them in routine inspections. (3) Repeated interference with the same type of distribution equipment should be linked early and reported to police with added surveillance considered.", "source_url": "https://theprogress.com/2019/07/10/vandalized-bc-hydro-transformers-cause-power-outages-oil-spill-and-hefty-damage/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:10:20.917712+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0997", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0997/", "title": "Suspected arson fire destroys Cambuslang substation, cutting power to 2,500 homes", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an electricity substation on Burns Terrace in Cambuslang, South Lanarkshire, at about 18:30 on a Monday evening in July 2019. Scottish Power said it believed vandals deliberately set the electrical unit ablaze, and the fire is thought to have been started using flammable material inside a wheelie bin. The fire engulfed the substation, which was completely destroyed, and about 2,500 homes and businesses lost power for a number of hours. Damage was put at £50,000. The substation is in a residential area close to a number of homes. Fire crews attended. Scottish Power described the act as extremely dangerous given its proximity to homes and the possibility that children could have been playing nearby. Police said they were making inquiries to establish the cause, and the operator offered a £5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.", "contributing_factors": "Scottish Power believes the fire was set deliberately, with flammable material inside a wheelie bin reported as the ignition source. Police inquiries into the cause were continuing at the time of reporting, so the cause is not formally confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations near homes need better fencing and removal of wheelie bins to cut arson risk. (2) Loss of one distribution substation can leave thousands without power for hours. (3) Reward schemes with police can help deter attacks on network assets.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-48923579", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:10:22.313721+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0998", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0998/", "title": "Transformer explosion triggers small fires near Palo Alto golf course", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 8 July 2019, an electrical transformer between a baseball field and the Palo Alto Municipal Golf Course in Palo Alto exploded. Fire officials said this started a fire on the utility pole and along a path near a creek, and that five small fires broke out in Palo Alto and East Palo Alto. At about the same time, the Menlo Park Fire Protection District responded to three small fires near the Gardens neighbourhood and along the creek, on the other side of the creek from the transformer. Officials said the fires were small and that no structures were damaged. Power to some 350 East Palo Alto residents was disrupted. Apps had shown an aeroplane crash at the golf course; officials said there was no crash. The cause of the explosion was still under investigation the following day.", "contributing_factors": "The cause had not been reported. Officials said the investigation was still open.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A failed pole-mounted transformer can ignite fires on the pole and on vegetation across a creek, so operators should clear vegetation and check pole insulation near watercourses. (2) Public apps may report false events such as an aeroplane crash, so operators should wait for confirmed reports before acting.", "source_url": "https://padailypost.com/2019/07/09/transformer-explosion-triggers-five-small-fires/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:10:27.138498+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-0999", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-0999/", "title": "Mechanical failure causes major substation fire and explosions in Edinburgh", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A substation at Slater's Steps, off Holyrood Road in Edinburgh, suffered what ScottishPower described as its first ever mechanical failure at an Edinburgh substation, causing a major fire and a series of loud explosions. Thick, acrid smoke was produced as the plastic enclosure around the equipment burned. Thousands of people were evacuated from nearby offices and flats, and some eyewitnesses initially feared a terrorist attack due to the noise and smoke. More than 400 homes and businesses, including a nearby visitor attraction, lost power. The area was cordoned off for about four hours while police and fire services responded. A car parked beside the substation also caught fire. No injuries were reported. A new substation was installed at the site the following day, and a joint investigation by police and the fire service was launched to determine the cause.", "contributing_factors": "ScottishPower stated the incident stemmed from a mechanical failure, described as highly unusual and the first of its kind at an Edinburgh substation; the cause of the failure itself was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Plastic enclosures on substation equipment can burn and release thick smoke, so operators should review material choice and add early detection systems. (2) Loud explosions at substations can alarm the public, so operators should prepare rapid public messages during incidents. (3) A failed substation unit can be replaced within a day, so operators should maintain spare units and rapid installation plans.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-48884366", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:10:48.874058+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1002", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1002/", "title": "Explosion at Glen Marais substation leaves areas of Kempton Park without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-06", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion was reported at a substation in Glen Marais. Large parts of Kempton Park were without power from 4 am on Saturday. Just before 10 am, smoke inside the substation was still too thick for technicians to enter and assess the damage. Areas reported without electricity included Van Riebeeck Park, Norkem Park, parts of Birchleigh, Glen Marais, Aston Manor, Nimrod Park, Kempton Park extensions 2 and 3, and parts of Bredell and Pomona. Technicians were reported to be planning to try to restore power to Van Riebeeck Park, Birchleigh and Norkem Park first once they could get inside. The cause, the extent of damage, and whether power was later restored were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. Technicians had not entered the substation by just before 10 am because of smoke, so the damage had not been established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Smoke after a substation explosion can block entry, so restoration plans must allow for delayed internal inspection. (2) When access is delayed, operators should prepare to restore supply to priority areas from outside the building. (3) Public updates should list areas still without power and the order of planned restoration without naming an unconfirmed cause.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/rekord/lnn/article/smoke-keeps-technicians-from-entering-substation-after-an-explosion-in-kempton-park/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:11:33.228807+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1003", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1003/", "title": "Wind turbine blade shatters and falls at Sumac Ridge wind farm in Ontario", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-04", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Saturday morning in April 2019, residents near Pontypool in the City of Kawartha Lakes, Ontario, reported hearing a loud screeching noise from a wind turbine. One of the turbine's blades, reported to weigh about 5,400 kilograms and measure 45 metres long, was found bent and had partially shattered, with sections of the blade falling to the ground. The turbine is one of five on the Sumac Ridge site west of Bethany, which had been operating for about three years at the time. The site owner, WPD Wind, said such damage was rare and confirmed it would investigate the cause. No cause had been determined at the time of reporting, and officials were still investigating the extent of the damage.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The operator stated it had no comment on a possible cause and would launch an investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A 45 metre blade weighing 5,400 kilograms can shed large sections, so operators must maintain exclusion zones and inspect blades on all turbines of the same model. (2) A loud screeching noise reported by residents can indicate imminent blade failure, so operators should investigate such reports at once.", "source_url": "https://globalnews.ca/news/5189971/wind-turbine-heavily-damaged-in-city-of-kawartha-lakes/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:11:39.121279+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1004", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1004/", "title": "Storm reported to have damaged panels at Bhadla Solar Park in Rajasthan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-04", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 17 April 2019 a storm was reported to have struck Bhadla Solar Park in Bhadla, Jodhpur district, Rajasthan. Saur Energy reported that wind speeds as high as 130 km per hour were recorded at the site and that a large number of solar panels were damaged. At the time the park was reported to have an existing installed capacity of more than 1500 MW. The same storm was reported to have caused wider damage across several states. Developers named at the park include Acme, SB Energy, Azure Energy, Adani Energy and Renew Power. Which of those companies' assets were damaged was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Wind speeds as high as 130 km per hour were reported at the site. An unnamed EPC contractor told the source that local sandstorms were allowed for in design, and suggested that undulating terrain or small construction variances can be amplified in extreme winds. That view has not been independently confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Mounting and foundation designs at solar parks must be checked against recorded extreme wind events of 130 km per hour rather than only typical local conditions. (2) Large solar parks should assess how undulating terrain or small construction variances can increase wind loads on panels.", "source_url": "https://www.saurenergy.com/solar-energy-news/april-17-killer-storm-hits-bhadla-solar-park-too-as-developers-count-damages", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:11:50.576369+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1006", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1006/", "title": "Klaarwater substation explosion in Pinetown cuts power to four suburbs", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-03", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded and caught fire at Klaarwater substation on Wilshire Road in Pinetown, west of Durban, South Africa on 13 March 2019. The fire produced large plumes of black smoke and fire and electricity department crews attended the scene. Power was cut to at least four suburbs, with reporting naming Chatsworth, Northdene, Mariannhill, Pinetown and greater Queensburgh. No injuries were reported. The eThekwini Municipality confirmed that a transformer at one of its major substations in Klaarwater had been gutted by fire, leaving the affected areas without power while crews worked to isolate the supply and restore it. The municipality apologised to residents for the disruption. Reporting noted that almost exactly a year earlier the same site had a similar incident that caused a citywide blackout.", "contributing_factors": "No cause was confirmed for this event at the time of reporting. Reporting stated that an earlier, similar fire at the same site about a year before had been linked to maintenance issues.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a substation can cut power to multiple suburbs, so operators should check isolation procedures and backup supply routes. (2) Repeat fires at the same substation within a year point to maintenance or asset condition problems that need full review. (3) An earlier fire at this site was linked to maintenance issues, so operators should verify that past findings led to lasting fixes.", "source_url": "https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2019-03-13-no-power-in-four-durban-suburbs-after-substation-explodes/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:12:09.866133+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1007", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1007/", "title": "Substation explosion cuts power to large parts of Vanderbijlpark", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A municipal substation in Vanderbijlpark exploded and caught fire, cutting electricity to several areas including Vanderbijlpark CW areas 1 to 6, Muvhango, Bophelong Ext 1 to 18, Bonanne and Stephanopark. The Emfuleni municipality said the fire appeared to have been caused by a faulty feeder cable, which blew up the circuit breaker and the transformer. Investigations were reported to have found the isolator, breakers and high voltage cables damaged beyond repair. The municipality said the Ferranti and Reservoir substations were also affected, raising the possibility of water shortages and reduced water pressure in some areas, and it asked residents to use water sparingly. It warned that restoration could take until the Friday afternoon or Saturday morning while technicians repaired the damage.", "contributing_factors": "The municipality reported a faulty feeder cable as the initial cause, which blew up the circuit breaker and the transformer. The account is provisional and no formal investigation findings were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A faulty feeder cable in a substation can destroy the circuit breaker and transformer, so operators should monitor cable condition and review protection settings. (2) A substation failure can affect water supply through linked pumping stations, so operators should map utility interdependencies.", "source_url": "https://www.jacarandafm.com/news/news/watch-vanderbijlpark-dumped-darkness-after-substation-explodes/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:12:11.263516+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1009", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1009/", "title": "Substation transformer explosion sparks fire and outages in Chattanooga", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded on a Saturday morning near P.S.C. Metals on West 19th Street in Chattanooga, Tennessee, igniting a fire. Flames from the explosion spread up the exterior wall of the P.S.C. Metals building and extended inside the structure. Firefighters extinguished the fire before it could cause significant interior damage. The explosion caused a power outage in the surrounding area, which resulted in people becoming stranded in elevators at two separate locations. Firefighters rescued occupants from one elevator, while occupants of the other elevator were freed once power was restored. The local utility, EPB, and a subcontractor responded to repair the damaged substation. No injuries were reported as a result of the fire or the outage.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation transformer explosion can spread fire to an adjacent building wall, so operators should check clearances and fire barriers around substation equipment. (2) A substation transformer fault can cause local outages that strand people in elevators, so utilities should map critical loads and plan for rapid isolation.", "source_url": "https://newschannel9.com/news/local/transformer-explosion-causes-fire-power-outages-in-chattanooga", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:12:30.227009+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1010", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1010/", "title": "Wind turbine nacelle catches fire at Windy Hill wind farm in Ravenshoe", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-11", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine nacelle caught fire at the Windy Hill wind farm near Ravenshoe, Queensland. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services crews attended from around 3pm and worked to contain the blaze, remaining on site to prevent it spreading into surrounding grassland. The fire was confined to the nacelle, the housing that contains the turbine's generating components, and was extinguished. A Ratch spokesperson said there were no injuries to Ratch or TWPS personnel or the public, and that the company was not aware of any property damage or interruption to local electricity supply. Emergency services established an exclusion zone around the affected turbine as a precaution. It was reported as the first fire at the 20-turbine wind farm since it began operating in 2000. The cause was not known at the time of reporting, with the operator stating that technicians would carry out an investigation.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The operator stated the cause would not be known until an investigation by technicians was completed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire at a wind turbine must be fought from inside or by remote means, so operators should fit early detection and automatic isolation. (2) A nacelle fire can spread to dry grassland, so an exclusion zone and rapid liaison with fire services must be in the emergency plan. (3) A fire at a 20-turbine site with no prior incidents since 2000 still requires full investigation before restarting the turbine.", "source_url": "https://www.qmeb.com.au/ravenshoe-windy-hill-turbine-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:12:40.553374+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1011", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1011/", "title": "Vestas V150 turbine collapses at Aldermyrberget wind farm in Sweden", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "Sweden", "country_code": "se", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Vestas V150 4.2MW wind turbine collapsed in November 2020 at the Aldermyrberget wind farm in Sweden, owned by Wpd, while the site was ramping up towards full commissioning. Nobody was hurt in the incident. A subsequent investigation identified a bonding failure on the turbine's blade-root inserts, caused by a manufacturing issue at a single supplier, which allowed a blade to become loose and destabilise the turbine before it fell. As a precaution, Vestas then took around 150 V150 turbines that could potentially be exposed to the same fault out of service while it worked on a repair or replacement solution with affected customers. The company said no other operational turbines had been affected and that the fault was unrelated to two earlier V150 blade incidents reported in the United States and Australia.", "contributing_factors": "A bonding failure on blade-root inserts, attributed by Vestas to a manufacturing issue at a single component supplier, allowed a blade to loosen and destabilise the turbine.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A manufacturing defect in blade-root inserts can loosen a blade and destabilise the turbine, so operators must verify supplier quality controls on critical structural parts. (2) A fault found in one turbine of a new platform requires checks on the whole batch before commissioning, so owners should apply structural integrity tests to units still in ramp-up. (3) A single supplier fault can affect many turbines, so owners and insurers should demand batch-level traceability for blade inserts and similar components.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/wind-turbine-maker-vestas-halts-batch-of-v150s-after-sweden-collapse-probe/2-1-945232", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:13:26.520116+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1012", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1012/", "title": "Wind turbine catches fire at Salt Fork Wind Facility, Donley County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at the Salt Fork Wind Facility in Donley County, Texas, caught fire on the afternoon of 7 June 2017, around 5:30 p.m. Officials with Southern Company, which owns the turbine, said employees at the plant called first responders, who contained the fire. No injuries were reported. A small area of the plant was taken offline as a pre-emptive safety measure while the cause was investigated. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Site staff should be able to alert emergency services promptly when a turbine fire starts. (2) Taking a small part of a plant offline while the cause is investigated can limit further risk. (3) Operators should record the outcome of the investigation so similar turbines can be checked.", "source_url": "https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/wind-turbine-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:14:34.574374+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1013", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1013/", "title": "Vestas wind turbine reported to have caught fire in Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Vestas wind turbine in Texas was reported to have caught fire. The site, the date of the fire, the cause, the extent of damage and whether anyone was hurt were not stated in the material available to the register.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported turbine fire as a live emergency until the fire service confirms it is out. (2) Be ready to identify the turbine and isolate it quickly when a fire is reported.", "source_url": "https://renewablesnow.com/news/vestas-turbine-in-texas-catches-fire-report-571794/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T09:14:39.123225+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1014", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1014/", "title": "East substation in La Montagne, Pretoria, catches fire after two cable theft attempts", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The East substation, a distribution substation in Albertus Street, La Montagne, in the east of Pretoria, caught fire on a Saturday morning after two separate attempts by suspected cable thieves to tamper with cables at the site within the same night. Residents reported smoke from the substation. A local ward councillor said the fire was allegedly the result of a short circuit caused when the two would-be thieves tampered with the cables. Emergency services attended and brought the fire under control quickly. Two would-be thieves were reportedly arrested within hours of each other, the first after a security guard at a nearby business raised the alarm and a private security company and the police were called, and the second after further suspicious activity was reported at the same substation. A municipal cable theft unit attended to investigate. The extent of fire damage was not known at the time of publication.", "contributing_factors": "Repeated attempts by suspected cable thieves to break into the East substation and tamper with electrical cables, which the ward councillor said caused a short circuit and the subsequent fire. No formal investigation findings were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Distribution substations need stronger physical security such as fencing and alarms where cable theft is common, to stop repeated tampering that leads to short circuits. (2) After any intrusion at a substation, owners should inspect the cables and connections at once rather than wait for visible damage or fire. (3) Quick calls from site security to private response teams and police can stop tampering before it causes an electrical fault.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/rekord/news-headlines/2018/09/08/newsflash-east-substation-caught-fire-two-cable-theft-attempts/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:05:04.222536+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1016", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1016/", "title": "Electrical fault causes bang and flash at Leighton Buzzard substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At about 22:17 on Saturday 22 September 2018, residents near the Woodman Close UK Power Networks substation site in Leighton Buzzard heard a loud bang, and one eyewitness said on social media that there had been flames and explosions. A resident called Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue, which sent two pumps from Leighton Buzzard Community Fire Station. Crews carried out a 360 degree inspection using a thermal imaging camera but found no heat sources indicating fire. The fire service said some electrical insulation had failed and had tripped the site into its fail safe mode. Crews put a cordon in place to protect the public, accessed site risk information, and contacted UK Power Networks, which attended and took over the scene for repair. UK Power Networks said engineers replaced a piece of equipment on overhead power lines that had developed a fault shortly before 23:00, that the repair was completed by 04:17 the following morning and that no power supplies were affected. Injuries are not mentioned in the report.", "contributing_factors": "Reported failure of electrical insulation, with UK Power Networks attributing the fault to a piece of equipment on overhead power lines, which caused a flash and bang and tripped the site into its fail safe mode.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Overhead line equipment insulation failure at a substation can produce a loud bang and flash, so operators should ensure fail-safe tripping isolates the fault before it spreads. (2) A precautionary cordon and thermal imaging check by fire crews protect the public until the network operator confirms the site is safe. (3) Pre-prepared site risk information allows fire crews to hand over promptly to the operator for quick repair without wider supply loss.", "source_url": "https://www.leightonbuzzardonline.co.uk/news/electrical-fault-which-caused-explosion-saw-fire-crews-cordon-off-leighton-buzzard-substation-250950", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:05:23.238123+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1019", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1019/", "title": "Fire at Wapadrand substation knocks out power to several suburbs", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Wapadrand substation, operated by the City of Tshwane, cutting electricity to the suburbs of Wapadrand, Faerie Glen, Equestria, Silver Lakes, Lombardy, Zwavelpoort and Olympus. City engineers and electricians worked continuously for several days to rebuild the damaged substation, with power expected to be restored roughly four days after the fire. The city estimated that rebuilding costs could run to between 60 and 80 million South African rand, based on comparison with a similar substation failure at Mooikloof. No cause of the fire was disclosed in the report, and no injuries were mentioned. Local residents supported the repair crews by providing food during the extended restoration effort.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can destroy switchgear and force round the clock rebuild work that lasts several days. (2) Substation fire damage can cost 60 to 80 million rand to repair, so insurers should verify asset condition data.", "source_url": "https://www.jacarandafm.com/news/news/wapadrand-substation-damage-run-millions/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:06:26.072149+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1022", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1022/", "title": "Wind turbine fire at Beaver Creek Wind Farm in Iowa", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at about 9:30pm on a Thursday night in a wind turbine at the Beaver Creek Wind Farm, north of Beaver in Boone County, Iowa. The fire was reported by a nearby homeowner. Volunteer fire departments responded but could not fight the fire directly, as ladder trucks and hoses cannot reach the height of a turbine nacelle, which sat atop a tower reported as 312 feet (95 metres). The fire was confined to one tower. The wind farm, rated at 170MW, comprises 85 turbines across Greene and Boone counties that were put into operation in autumn 2017. No injuries were reported. MidAmerican Energy Co., the operator, said on the following morning that its team was investigating the cause, and the Boone County Sheriff's Office made a preliminary investigation before handing the scene to the utility. The operator said it was uncertain whether the generator atop the tower would need to be removed and replaced.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting. The operator said it did not want to speculate before reviewing all the facts, and the sheriff's office said no foul play had been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire at hub height cannot be fought from the ground, so the plan has to rest on early detection, remote isolation and a debris exclusion zone. (2) Nearby residents can provide early warning at remote sites, so local contact routes should be kept clear and tested. (3) Handover protocols between police, fire and the operator help scenes pass safely to technical investigation.", "source_url": "https://theperrynews.com/update-investigation-of-beaver-turbine-fire-underway-friday/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:06:52.073633+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1023", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1023/", "title": "Transformer fire at Hawaii utility substation cuts power to thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) substation on Kalele Road near the University of Hawaii at Manoa's lower campus, adjacent to Les Murakami Stadium. Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion before thick black smoke, visible for miles, rose from the site. The Honolulu Fire Department responded with eight units and 31 personnel and, working with HECO crews, determined the affected transformer held up to 3,000 gallons of oil. Firefighters obtained class-B foam from state Department of Transportation aircraft rescue firefighting units and used it to help the fire burn itself out, containing the blaze to one of two side-by-side transformers and preventing it spreading to nearby structures. More than 3,300 customers across several Honolulu neighbourhoods lost power. Supply was restored to most areas within about two hours, though parts of the university campus, including student housing, remained without power overnight. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "A loud explosion was reported by witnesses immediately before the fire, but the cause of the explosion or fire was not stated in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Oil-filled transformers can hold up to 3000 gallons, so operators must stock or quickly source class-B foam for suppression. (2) Side-by-side transformers need physical separation to stop fire spreading from one unit to the next. (3) Substations near universities need pre-planned backup power for student housing after an overnight outage.", "source_url": "https://www.staradvertiser.com/2018/04/19/breaking-news/fire-at-uh-manoa-sends-huge-cloud-of-smoke-over-area/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:07:13.957101+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1025", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1025/", "title": "Worker dies after becoming stranded at Afton wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-01", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 21 January 2018, two men were reported stranded at the Afton wind farm in east Ayrshire. Police Scotland’s Mountain Rescue Team was called at about 8.50pm. A 74-year-old man was airlifted to hospital in Edinburgh and later died. The site was still under construction. Police Scotland and the Health and Safety Executive opened a joint investigation, and the site owner said it was cooperating and had started its own investigation.", "contributing_factors": "Heavy snow had caused problems across Scotland, and the Met Office had issued a weather warning. Reporting said the man had become stranded without heat or power. Later reporting said firms admitted breaking health and safety laws. The cause was still under investigation at the time of the first report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Remote sites need workable emergency communications and rescue arrangements in severe weather. (2) People on site, including subcontractors, need a plan for shelter, heat and power if they become stranded. (3) Weather-related access and evacuation arrangements should be reviewed with all site users.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1455353/stranded-worker-dies-wind-farm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:07:59.428063+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1026", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1026/", "title": "PSEG worker injured in transformer explosion in East Islip", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 18 December 2017, a PSEG worker was called to Wyandanch Avenue in East Islip, New York, to respond to a power outage. While the worker was near the transformer it exploded, and the worker was injured and taken to a local hospital. A PSEG spokesperson said the worker was in stable condition.", "contributing_factors": "The source says the transformer failed or exploded while the worker was nearby. It does not report why the transformer failed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution transformer can fail without warning during an outage response, so crews must keep clear of the unit where the task allows. (2) Operators should review job briefings after any injury before sending crews to similar call-outs.", "source_url": "https://patch.com/new-york/east-islip/pseg-worker-injured-transformer-explosion", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:08:13.310999+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1027", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1027/", "title": "Raccoon intrusion causes transformer explosion and mass power outage in Rio Rancho", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer at a substation on Libra and Iris Roads in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, exploded after a raccoon climbed into it, according to the local utility PNM. The explosion caused a power outage affecting 9,638 customers in an area bounded by Enchanted Hills to the north, Uva Road to the south, the Rio Grande to the east and 30th to the west. Nearby residents reported a loud explosion with sparking and flashing lights. PNM crews rerouted the power grid and restored electricity to all affected customers by around 12:45am the following morning. The utility said it did not yet know how long repairs to the damaged transformer would take or what they would cost, but said customers would not be affected during the repair work because the grid had been rerouted.", "contributing_factors": "PNM attributed the explosion to wildlife intrusion, with a raccoon entering the transformer.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation and transformer enclosures should incorporate animal-proof barriers or guards to prevent wildlife intrusion. (2) The ability to reroute supply around failed equipment limits customer impact while repairs are planned. (3) Regular inspection of transformer housings for gaps or access points can reduce the risk of animal-related electrical faults.", "source_url": "https://www.koat.com/article/transformer-explodes-after-large-raccoon-climbs-into-it/14430607", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:08:24.790995+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1029", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1029/", "title": "Worker fatally electrocuted atop turbine at Invenergy wind farm, Camp Springs, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A worker was fatally electrocuted while working at the top of a wind turbine at an Invenergy wind farm in Camp Springs, Scurry County, Texas. Emergency responders from Scurry County EMS, the Snyder Fire Department and the Scurry County Sheriff's Office were required to retrieve the worker from the turbine. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital. Invenergy confirmed the incident and stated it was working with authorities to determine the cause and was conducting a thorough internal review. No further details on the specific electrical fault or work being carried out at the time were disclosed in public reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the electrical incident had not been determined publicly at the time of reporting, pending investigation by Invenergy and authorities.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Work at height on wind turbines requires strict lockout tagout before electrical tasks, as live faults can prove fatal. (2) Turbine sites need retrieval plans that cover the time and equipment to lower an injured worker from nacelle height.", "source_url": "https://ktxs.com/archive/colorado-city-man-electrocuted-on-top-of-scurry-county-wind-turbine", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:08:46.117604+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1030", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1030/", "title": "Wind turbine collapse at Ravne 1 wind farm near Pag, Croatia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-10", "country": "Croatia", "country_code": "hr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "One of seven wind turbines at the Ravne 1 wind farm on the island of Pag, near the town of Pag, Croatia, collapsed after high north-easterly winds, known locally as the bura and reported at around 100 kilometres per hour, hit the island. The wind farm is operated by Vjetroelektrane Pag and owned by Adria Wind Power. It was built in 2004, with WindConsult-Energieprojektberatung acting as the EPC contractor, as Croatia's first commercial wind farm. The exact cause was not established at the time of reporting, but it was assumed that one blade broke first, unbalancing the structure. Reporting indicated the roughly 25 metre blade was thrown some hundred metres away by centrifugal force while the other two blades kept rotating, further destabilising the 50 metre, 35 tonne turbine, which then collapsed. The other turbines at the site were reported undamaged. The source does not report any injuries. Damage was estimated at EUR 600,000. The wind farm has a capacity of 5.95 MW and uses seven Vestas 850 kW turbines.", "contributing_factors": "Extreme wind loading from the bura, reportedly reaching around 100 kilometres per hour, together with an assumed initial blade failure that unbalanced the rotor and led to structural collapse. The operator, Vjetroelektrane Pag, stated that the exact cause was still to be determined.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Blade integrity checks should be more frequent at sites that face extreme local winds, as one blade break can unbalance the rotor. (2) Imbalance detection and automatic shutdown must be tested often, since a single blade failure can lead to full collapse.", "source_url": "https://balkangreenenergynews.com/wind-turbine-collapsed-amid-high-winds-on-island-of-pag/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:08:55.584165+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1031", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1031/", "title": "Substation fire in Plymouth Michigan cuts power to thousands of DTE customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A DTE Energy substation in Plymouth, Michigan caught fire on the evening of 16 August 2017. The substation is near Farmer and Theodore streets. Neighbours reported hearing a loud bang before smoke was seen rising over the area. Fire and police departments attended the scene. No injuries were reported. Thousands of DTE Energy customers lost power, and the utility said it was unclear at the time exactly how many customers were affected. DTE expected 40 to 50 percent of affected customers to be restored by late the following morning, with the remainder later in the day. The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of publication.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire near residential streets can affect thousands of customers, so operators must map and plan for the load each site carries. (2) Neighbours heard a loud bang before smoke appeared, so utilities should consider acoustic sensors for early detection at substations. (3) Fire and police attended a live substation fire with no injuries, so joint training with emergency services supports safe response near energised gear.", "source_url": "https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/2017/08/17/dte-substation-in-plymouth-catches-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:09:01.425905+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1032", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1032/", "title": "Flooding reaches electrical substation in Colchester", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "near_miss", "severity": "near_miss", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Heavy rainfall on 9 August 2017 caused a lake to burst its banks in Colchester. Flooding affected Haven Road and homes in Distillery Lane. Water had reached an electrical substation by 10.30 pm, and a nearby block of flats was evacuated. Fire crews pumped water to a nearby quay, used aqua vacs to clear flooded homes, and worked through the night with highways staff and the network company to make the scene safe. The source does not say whether the substation was damaged or whether supply was lost.", "contributing_factors": "Heavy rain and high tides were reported, and a nearby pond or lake overflowed. Haven Road was said to flood often when the River Colne is at high tide.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations in low lying tidal zones need monitoring for combined rain and tide events that can cause lakes to overflow. (2) Operators should pre plan safe access routes and evacuation zones around grid sites when flood warnings are issued.", "source_url": "https://www.eadt.co.uk/news/business/21532680.homes-evacuated-flooding-threatens-reach-electrical-substation-colchester/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:09:05.894613+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1033", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1033/", "title": "Electrical substation fire in Cardiff city centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 26 June 2017 a fire broke out at an electrical substation on Crockherbton Lane in Cardiff city centre, United Kingdom. South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said the fire involved an external power substation and industrial bins. Crews were called at 12.35 pm and the first crews were on scene within five minutes. About 50 firefighters and officers attended with eight fire engines, three water bowsers and two aerial bladders. The adjacent three-storey building was heavily smoke-logged. Police closed Greyfriars Road and buses were diverted. Some nearby businesses reported power cuts. This report did not confirm that the fire had been extinguished.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. The call was initially described as a refuse fire before the fire service said the incident involved an external power substation and industrial bins.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at an urban substation next to bins can smoke-log a nearby building within minutes, so early attendance and checks for spread matter. (2) The first description of a fire may not match the asset involved, so responders should confirm what is burning before treating it only as a waste fire. (3) A local substation fire can close roads and cut power to nearby businesses while the wider outcome is still unconfirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/huge-fire-middle-cardiff-city-10690680", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:09:42.349053+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1034", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1034/", "title": "Ageing transformer explodes at Belmont substation on hottest day of the year, causing blackout", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 12 June 2017, on what was reported as the hottest day of the year with temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit and electrical demand at a peak with town schools in session, a transformer at the Hittinger substation in Belmont, Massachusetts exploded. The municipal utility, Belmont Light, said the failure was caused by a combination of heat and the age of the equipment. Safety systems acting as a circuit breaker cut the electricity entering the substation, and no fire started. The outage affected between a quarter and a third of the town's residents, with some neighbourhoods without power for nearly 10 hours. Three rented generator trucks were used to supplement the substation until repairs were completed. The high school ended classes early and pupils at two other schools were kept in their buildings for safety and logistical reasons. A 400 amp transfer switch on one school's backup generator malfunctioned during the event despite passing inspection two weeks earlier, and was scheduled for replacement.", "contributing_factors": "The utility attributed the failure to the combined effect of high ambient temperature and the age of the transformer, occurring during a period of peak electrical demand. Officials noted that an oil fire, had one started, would have stretched fire resources and caused months of disruption.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer at a substation failed under peak load on the hottest day. Operators should assess and replace aged units before summer peaks. (2) Safety systems isolated the fault at once and stopped any fire. Substations need fast acting breakers to limit damage and outage length. (3) Three mobile generators restored supply until repairs ended. Pre arranged rental contracts can cut outage time after substation faults.", "source_url": "https://belmontonian.com/news/heat-age-caused-transformer-explosion-that-blacked-out-belmont/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:09:43.538703+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1035", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1035/", "title": "Man critically injured after copper theft attempt at Dunn Avenue substation, Nashville", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Early on the morning of 23 May 2017, a man forced his way through a fence surrounding a Nashville Electric Service (NES) substation in Nashville, Tennessee. Police said he cut ground wiring in an apparent attempt to steal copper, which caused an explosion and severe electrical burns. A neighbour was woken by a loud explosion at about 5am, walked to the substation and saw the injured man; an eyewitness told the broadcaster he had seen the man on top of one of the transformers before he caught fire and began screaming. Emergency services were called and the man was taken to hospital in critical but stable condition. The damage caused widespread outages from the substation, leaving more than 4,000 people in South Nashville without power. NES said security is of the utmost importance, that it has protocols in place to deter such activity as well as built-in redundancies within its system, and that it was cooperating with the police investigation. The man was not an NES employee. Reports referred to the site both as the Dunn Avenue substation and as a substation along Craighead Street.", "contributing_factors": "Unauthorised entry into a substation compound; cutting of ground wiring, reportedly in an attempt to steal copper, which police said triggered an explosion. Police said the same substation had been burgled previously.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations attract metal theft and need reinforced fencing plus intrusion detection to stop unauthorised entry. (2) Sites with prior burglaries require security reassessment instead of repeated repairs after each intrusion. (3) System redundancy and rapid isolation limit outage scale and reduce risk to intruders from electrical faults.", "source_url": "https://fox17.com/news/local/man-critical-after-suffering-electric-shock-at-nes-substation", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:10:08.679578+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1038", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1038/", "title": "Wind turbine reported to have collapsed in Northern Ireland during severe storm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine is reported to have collapsed in Northern Ireland during a period of high winds and wintry weather that affected much of the region. The available reporting consists of a headline and a photograph caption describing the collapsed turbine, and no further operational details were published. The site name, operator, owner and turbine type are not reported, and it is not clear whether the turbine was part of a commercial wind farm or a smaller standalone installation. No information was published on injuries, evacuation or the cause of the structural failure.", "contributing_factors": "High winds and severe wintry weather were reported across Northern Ireland at the time. No engineering cause has been confirmed and no investigation findings have been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine collapse in high winds requires operators to review structural design for sites exposed to severe winter weather. (2) After a turbine collapse with no published cause, operators should confirm investigation findings before returning similar units to service.", "source_url": "https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/wind-turbine-collapses-as-storms-batter-northern-ireland/a/116857174.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-17T12:10:29.028762+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1039", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1039/", "title": "Fire at Lambert Street substation cuts power to Pietermaritzburg CBD", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out inside the Lambert Street 417 electricity substation in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, cutting power to parts of the upper CBD. Firefighters had to force open the substation, reportedly using the jaws of life, before they could tackle heavy electrical cables burning inside. Msunduzi Electricity officials attended the scene alongside emergency services. During the response, unauthorised individuals were found occupying a compartment next to the substation. A neighbouring facilities manager said this was the third incident involving fire or explosion at the site, including a transformer explosion previously and an incident in August where a man was reportedly injured while attempting to steal cable. The cause of the latest fire had not been determined at the time of reporting. Efforts were under way to restore electricity to affected residents and businesses.", "contributing_factors": "Reported concerns about missing security doors at the substation, unauthorised access and occupation of areas around the electrical infrastructure, and a history of prior fire or explosion incidents at the same site that had not been resolved despite complaints to the municipality.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Missing security doors at substations allow unauthorised access next to live cables, so operators must check and replace all enclosure doors after each complaint. (2) Repeated fire or explosion events at one substation require a full condition review, because reactive repairs have not stopped recurrence. (3) Unauthorised occupation of a compartment next to a substation creates direct fire risk, so any such report must trigger immediate removal and access sealing.", "source_url": "https://witness.co.za/news/2026/09/17/watch-fire-at-lambert-street-substation-cuts-power-to-parts-of-cbd/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-17T20:06:59.315775+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1041", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1041/", "title": "Transformer fire at electric substation in Termez City, Uzbekistan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-06", "country": "Uzbekistan", "country_code": "uz", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 28 June 2021, at about 12:03, a fire broke out at the electric substation in Termez City, in the Surkhandarya region of Uzbekistan. According to experts cited in reporting, the fire began in one of the transformers at the site. Two fire and rescue brigades responded and extinguished the blaze by 12:18, around fifteen minutes after it started. The press service of the Ministry of Emergencies reported that no deaths or injuries had been reported. At the time of reporting, the cause of the fire and the amount of damage had yet to be established.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fires at substations can spread quickly, so operators should install early detection systems and maintain direct links to local fire services. (2) Rapid response by two brigades limited a transformer fire to fifteen minutes, so operators should pre-agree response plans with emergency services. (3) Root cause of a substation transformer fire remains unknown, so operators should complete and share a full post-incident investigation.", "source_url": "https://kun.uz/en/news/2021/06/29/major-fire-breaks-out-at-surkhandarya-electric-substation", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:08:03.910401+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1042", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1042/", "title": "Fire at electrical sub-station in Kothagudem", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-06", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 15 June 2021 a fire broke out at an electrical sub-station at Sitarampatnam in Paloncha mandal, Kothagudem district, India. An electrical short-circuit was suspected. Fire engines and firefighters from KTPS were engaged to put the fire out, and senior officials visited the sub-station. Officials said no one was injured. The report does not say whether the fire was put out, what was damaged, or whether power supply was affected.", "contributing_factors": "An electrical short-circuit was suspected. The report does not confirm a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A suspected short-circuit at a sub-station must stay unconfirmed until the failed item is found and examined. (2) Local fire cover, including plant crews, should be called early to electrical sub-station fires.", "source_url": "https://telanganatoday.com/fire-broke-out-at-electrical-sub-station-in-kothagudem", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:08:14.133381+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1043", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1043/", "title": "Transformer explosion at Shawnee substation cuts power to 22,000 customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer explosion and fire occurred at an Evergy substation near Shawnee Mission Parkway and Lackman Road in Shawnee, Kansas, at approximately 8:30pm. Emergency dispatchers were flooded with 911 calls reporting an explosion and fire. Firefighters arrived to find a small fire on equipment inside the substation, with pieces of porcelain from the transformer scattered in the surrounding neighbourhood. Evergy workers arrived shortly before 9pm to begin containment work. An Evergy worker indicated the oil fire would need to burn itself out before full repairs could be made. The explosion knocked out power to just over 12,000 Evergy customers in northern Johnson County and almost 10,000 customers of the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) in Wyandotte County, also affecting BPU's Nearman Power Plant and three BPU substations. Power was restored to BPU customers by around 9:30pm and to most Evergy customers by 10pm. No injuries were reported and there was no property damage reported outside the substation.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not state a specific technical cause for the transformer explosion.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Oil filled transformer fires may need to burn themselves out before repairs can start, extending restoration time. (2) A substation transformer failure can affect power supply to customers of other utilities and their generation assets.", "source_url": "https://johnsoncountypost.com/2021/06/11/shawnee-explosion-power-outage-evergy-124410/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:08:17.215481+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1044", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1044/", "title": "Cable failure causes explosion at T&TEC substation in Reform, Trinidad", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-06", "country": "Trinidad and Tobago", "country_code": "tt", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred at the Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC) substation in Reform at around 1am. The incident was caused by the failure of a 12 kV medium voltage cable. Video footage circulating on social media showed plumes of smoke, fire and rumbling noises from the plant. The fault caused a disruption to electricity supply for customers in Bonne Aventure and other areas of Gasparillo. According to T&TEC's Area Manager, the system's built-in safety mechanism de-energised the circuit once the fault occurred, isolating the affected section. Repair crews transferred customers to alternative supply and carried out repairs to the damaged cable. Power was restored to affected customers within approximately two hours. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident.", "contributing_factors": "The explosion was attributed to the failure of a 12 kV medium voltage cable at the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A 12 kV cable failure at a substation can produce smoke and noise, so operators should rely on automatic isolation rather than immediate on-site entry. (2) Medium voltage cable faults at substations require pre-planned transfer routes to limit customer outage time to two hours or less. (3) Visible plumes of smoke and fire after a cable fault do not always mean major damage if the protection system isolates the section quickly.", "source_url": "http://www.guardian.co.tt/news/explosion-at-ttec-substation-in-reform-6.2.1339279.f17cb566b5", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:08:38.208381+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1045", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1045/", "title": "Substation fire suspected to be caused by cable theft cuts power in Alberton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-04", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a substation located at the intersection of Ring Road East and Du Plessis Road in Alberton, South Africa, on a Thursday afternoon. Business owners in the area reported hearing a loud explosion followed by smoke. Emergency services received a call at around 12.20pm and on arrival found the substation ablaze, with one of the cables burning. Emergency services personnel suspected that cable theft may have led to the fire, though the exact cause remained unknown at the time of reporting. No injuries were reported. The incident left most parts of Alberton without electricity, with a local ward councillor stating that power was expected to be restored by 3pm the same day.", "contributing_factors": "Emergency services suspected cable theft may have contributed to the fire, though this was not confirmed and the cause remained officially unknown.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations in theft-prone areas need stronger cable protection, as theft attempts can ignite fires that spread quickly. (2) Early call to emergency services at the first sign of smoke limits outage length and fire damage at substations.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/alberton-record/news-headlines/2021/04/29/watch-substation-fire-leaves-alberton-residents-without-power/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:08:41.815026+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1046", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1046/", "title": "Substation equipment fire cuts power to thousands in Springfield, Oregon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at about 5am in a small equipment facility at a Springfield Utility Board substation near the intersection of 17th and South A streets in Springfield, Oregon. The facility housed breakers, relays and cable terminations. Responders de-energised the substation while dealing with the fire. About 3,600 people lost power for several hours. The Eugene Springfield Fire Department reported that the fire took roughly half an hour to extinguish. No one was injured. At the time of reporting, the utility said the cause remained unknown and it was looking into it.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The utility stated the cause of the fire was unknown at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires involving breakers, relays and cable terminations require rapid de-energisation to limit spread and protect responders. (2) Coordination with fire services allows quick containment of substation fires and limits outage duration for thousands of customers.", "source_url": "https://www.registerguard.com/story/news/2021/05/20/springfield-sub-station-catches-fire-leaves-4-000-without-power-thursday-sub/5182087001/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:08:43.137509+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1047", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1047/", "title": "Fire at ComEd substation in Norridge causes power outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on 4 April 2021 at a ComEd substation at 8275 W. Montrose Ave in Norridge, Illinois. First responders said a transformer at the substation blew up and sparked the fire. Fire departments from several jurisdictions, including Park Ridge and Elmwood Park, attended. The substation is unmanned and no one was injured. ComEd confirmed the fire caused some power outages. It said there was no exact count of households affected. Its website showed 160 customers without power in Norridge at 5:30 p.m., fewer than 5 per cent of customers in the suburb. Power had been restored to all customers by 6 p.m.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Unmanned substations need detection and a clear call-out path so a fire can be reached quickly. (2) Utilities should state what is known about outage numbers during an incident. (3) Neighbouring fire services need a shared plan for access and isolation at a substation fire.", "source_url": "https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/norridge-com-ed-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:09:14.403244+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1048", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1048/", "title": "Fire reported to have damaged a power substation in Ogden", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire in Ogden, reported by a Utah broadcaster, is said to have threatened nearby structures and damaged a power substation. The available source material is a headline and photo gallery caption only. The cause of the fire, the extent of damage to the substation, whether customers lost supply, and any injuries or evacuations are not reported. The substation owner or operator is not identified in the available material.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire outside the site boundary can damage substation plant, so operators should check what combustible material and structures sit close to their assets. (2) Early public reporting of cause and outage impact helps other operators judge whether the same exposure exists on their own sites.", "source_url": "https://kutv.com/news/local/gallery/ogden-fire-threatens-structures-damages-power-substation?photo=3", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:09:16.669736+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1049", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1049/", "title": "Fire at Ubungo substation in Dar es Salaam cuts power across parts of the city", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2013, "incident_month": "2013-08", "country": "Tanzania", "country_code": "tz", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at around 3.30am at the Ubungo substation operated by the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco) in Dar es Salaam. The blaze was extinguished through a joint operation between the city fire brigade and a private security firm. Control cables and the T5 breaker of the 33kV substation were affected, and some major power cables were damaged, although the utility said no serious damage was caused. Technicians were still assessing whether other sections of the substation had been damaged. Numerous areas of the city were affected, including residential neighbourhoods, universities and commercial sites, with Kinondoni District reported as worst affected. Tanesco estimated it would take up to two weeks for supply to stabilise, with intermittent cuts rather than a full blackout while technicians carried out repairs and procured replacement cables through government procurement procedures. Some affected areas were to be reconnected from neighbouring substations in the meantime.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire could not be immediately established and was under investigation at the time of reporting. The utility said the loss incurred was not yet known.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A 33kV substation fire can damage control cables and breakers, so operators should check cable routes and breaker enclosures for fire spread paths. (2) Joint response by city fire brigade and on-site security can limit damage in a substation fire, so plans should include rapid access for external teams. (3) Replacement of high-voltage cables under government procurement can extend outages by weeks, so utilities should hold critical spares or pre-agreed emergency contracts.", "source_url": "https://www.thecitizen.co.tz/tanzania/news/substation-blaze-sparks-fresh-power-crisis-in-dar-2495848", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:09:32.679897+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1050", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1050/", "title": "Substation fire in Miami Beach knocks out power to over 1,000 customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at Florida Power and Light's Indian Creek Substation in Miami Beach at around 10:30pm on Saturday 20 March 2021. Miami Beach Fire Rescue crews responded to the blaze in the area of 54th Street and Collins Avenue. FPL shut off power along Collins Avenue so crews could use foam to extinguish the flames. The outage spanned from 50th to 70th streets, leaving several buildings without electricity. FPL initially expected to restore power overnight, but an equipment issue meant 1,044 customers remained without power as of the Sunday night. No one was hurt. FPL said it was working closely with local police and fire rescue officials to restore power as quickly as possible. The cause of the fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source states an equipment issue delayed full restoration of power beyond the initial overnight repair window, but gives no cause for the fire itself.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires can force wide distribution shutoffs to let crews use foam safely on site. (2) Secondary equipment faults after a substation fire can extend outages well past initial estimates.", "source_url": "https://wsvn.com/news/local/miami-dade/fpl-over-1000-without-power-in-miami-beach-day-after-indian-creek-substation-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:09:44.065678+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1051", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1051/", "title": "Fire at Mellieħa substation prompts hotel evacuation in Malta", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-02", "country": "Malta", "country_code": "mt", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Enemalta substation in Mellieħa, Malta. Because the substation is located directly behind the Solana Hotel & Spa, staff and residents of the hotel were evacuated as a precaution. The fire damaged the low voltage panel, though the transformer, switchgear and other essential apparatus were not badly damaged. No injuries resulted from the incident. Parts of Mellieħa experienced a power outage for a short period, but supply was restored within an hour. Enemalta stated the cause was still being investigated, though it believed the fire broke out incidentally and was not deliberate. Repairs were reported almost complete the following day.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was still under investigation at the time of reporting; Enemalta indicated it believed the fire was incidental rather than deliberate, but no specific technical cause was disclosed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in a substation low voltage panel next to a hotel can force evacuation, so operators should keep clear access routes and pre-agreed hotel alert plans. (2) Damage limited to the low voltage panel with transformer and switchgear intact shows the value of rapid isolation to protect core substation equipment.", "source_url": "https://tvmnews.mt/en/news/kwazi-tlestew-it-repairs-on-mellieha-substation-after-fire-broke-out-almost-completed-enemalta-fis-substation-tal-mellieha-li-hadet-in-nar-enemalta/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:10:15.557698+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1052", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1052/", "title": "Transformer explosion causes power outage in Hoboken", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer explosion in Hoboken, New Jersey, led to power outages for residents on the evening of 15 February 2021. PSE&G said the incident started around 7:30 p.m. and was weather-related. The Hoboken Fire Department and PSE&G responded to outages and electrical emergencies across the city. According to PSE&G, more than 500 customers were affected. Power was reported fully restored just before 11 p.m.", "contributing_factors": "PSE&G said the incident was weather-related. No further cause is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Weather-related faults in grid transformers can cut supply to hundreds of customers at once, so operators should check weather protection on all exposed units. (2) Joint utility and fire service teams are needed for city-wide electrical emergencies after a transformer fault.", "source_url": "https://abc7ny.com/post/hoboken-power-outage-transformer-explosion-pseg-ravi-bhalla/10342876/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:10:37.928295+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1053", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1053/", "title": "Fire destroys Mulago power sub-station in Kampala", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2013, "incident_month": null, "country": "Uganda", "country_code": "ug", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at the Mulago power sub-station in Kampala, Uganda, destroyed the facility and cut power to the central business district, upscale residential areas, parts of Entebbe, Bombo and some areas of western Uganda. Witnesses said the fire started at about 9am and lasted about 20 minutes before the fire brigade arrived. Police were reported to have arrived almost 45 minutes after the facilities had burnt. Umeme said the sub-station was one of its most important and that it was trying to reconnect some areas as quickly as possible. Unnamed sources said power could be rerouted from other city sub-stations. How long the blackout would last was not stated.", "contributing_factors": "A Umeme manager hinted that the fire could have come from electricity wire interruptions. No confirmed cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A key sub-station needs fast local fire response. Delays let the fire destroy the whole facility. (2) Major sub-stations need ready reroutes. Loss of one site cut power across many districts.", "source_url": "https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/fire-guts-major-power-sub-station-1557400", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:10:53.523496+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1054", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1054/", "title": "Transformer fire at Noida Power substation causes area blackouts", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-08", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a Noida Power Company Limited (NPCL) substation in Sector 148, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, on the morning of 19 August 2020, starting around 8.30am. Transformers at the substation were reported damaged in the blaze. Fire tenders were dispatched and firefighting operations were underway to bring the fire under control. No injuries were reported. The fire caused blackouts in areas near Sector 148, and the substation reportedly supplies electricity to the Noida Metro. The cause of the fire had not been established at the time of reporting, and further details were awaited.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fire at a substation can disrupt supply to critical infrastructure such as metro systems, so operators should verify backup feeds. (2) Transformer fire at a substation spreads fast enough to damage multiple units, so insurers should check fire suppression and separation.", "source_url": "https://scroll.in/latest/970766/greater-noida-fire-breaks-out-at-power-substation-no-injuries-reported-so-far", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:11:40.224599+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1055", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1055/", "title": "Con Edison substation fire at West 64th Street triggers Manhattan blackout", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire and equipment failure at a Con Edison substation caused a widespread power outage across parts of Manhattan on the evening of 13 July 2019. The blackout affected around 73,000 customers from 71st Street south to 42nd Street and from the West Side Highway to Fifth Avenue. Traffic lights failed, subway signals and several stations lost power, people were trapped in stalled lifts and subway trains, and Madison Square Garden was evacuated during a concert. Multiple Broadway theatres also lost power and cancelled performances. Fire crews responded to a fire reported near West 64th Street and West End Avenue, although the fire service did not say whether this was the source of the outage. City officials said police confirmed there was no foul play and described it as a mechanical issue. Power was fully restored to all affected customers by around midnight. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Con Edison described the cause as equipment failure at one of its substations, with the specific location not confirmed at the time. A city council speaker said Con Edison had reported a major disturbance at a substation on West 49th Street. The utility's chief executive stated the outage was not caused by excessive electricity demand, as the day was warm but not unusually hot for July.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation equipment failure on a non-peak day can trigger urban blackouts that strand people in lifts and trains, so operators must maintain backup power for traffic and transit signals. (2) Fire at a city substation can affect multiple venues and stations within hours, so contingency plans should cover rapid evacuation of theatres and concert halls. (3) Equipment failure at one substation can cut supply to 73,000 customers until midnight, so spare capacity and fast isolation procedures are essential in dense urban grids.", "source_url": "https://www.foxnews.com/us/nyc-power-outage-manhattan", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T02:14:37.705614+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1056", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1056/", "title": "Smoke reported at substation attached to Mall of Qatar, said to be under control", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-09", "country": "Qatar", "country_code": "qa", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Qatar's Ministry of Interior is reported to have said that slight smoke was detected at a substation attached to the Mall of Qatar, and that the situation was brought under control. Only a headline and short summary are available, so the cause, any injuries, any evacuation and the duration of the response are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations next to busy public sites need early smoke detection and a pre-agreed response plan because many people are nearby. (2) Small smoke events must be checked for root cause as they may show developing insulation or connection faults.", "source_url": "https://www.qatar-tribune.com/article/69/TopNews/Slight-smoke-detected-at-substation-attached-to-Mall-of-Qatar-situation-under-control-MoI", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T05:09:40.7706+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1057", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1057/", "title": "Wind turbine reported to have caught fire at Apex Clean Energy site in Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A news report published in March 2020 stated that a wind turbine owned by Apex Clean Energy caught fire in Texas. The report as available did not identify the wind farm, the turbine model, the date of the fire or the cause. Nothing is reported on injuries, evacuation, fire service response or the extent of damage. This entry is based only on a headline and a brief feed summary, so it is published as provisional pending further reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine fire at a Texas site yields little data when the report omits the wind farm and model, so operators should press for prompt site disclosure to spot patterns. (2) A fire in an onshore turbine leaves damage unknown when extent is unreported, so insurers should require post-event asset status updates.", "source_url": "https://www.americanexperiment.org/wind-turbine-owned-by-apex-clean-energy-catches-fire-in-texas/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T05:15:38.347383+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1058", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1058/", "title": "Transformer fire at Piti substation under investigation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "Guam", "country_code": "gu", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Guam Power Authority said a pad mount transformer at its Piti substation, which supplied the substation building, caught fire at 10:41 a.m. on Wednesday 5 February 2020. The fire was extinguished at about 11:04 a.m. GPA reported no injuries and no other interruption to its operations. An alternate supply was used at the site and operations continued as normal while the cause was investigated. Damage was reported as limited to that single transformer.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. GPA said it was investigating why the pad mount transformer caught fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Pad mount transformer fires can be contained quickly if detected and fought before spread to other gear. (2) An alternate supply can keep substation operations running after a single transformer is isolated.", "source_url": "https://www.postguam.com/news/local/transformer-fire-at-piti-substation-being-investigated/article_f87765e4-47f3-11ea-b05d-6f0073ba5868.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T05:17:15.635259+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1060", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1060/", "title": "Fire reported at Kwagga substation in Tshwane, South Africa", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-12", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at the Kwagga substation in Tshwane, South Africa, in December 2019. The only available source is a headline and short feed summary from a South African news outlet. The cause, the extent of any damage, whether anyone was injured, and any effect on electricity supply to surrounding areas are not reported. It is not known how long the fire burned or how it was brought under control.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire with no public cause requires operators to prepare holding statements for early media questions. (2) Operators should log every reported substation fire even when detail is thin, to reveal repeat events at the same site. (3) Early statements on supply impact and restoration times reduce speculation after a substation fire.", "source_url": "https://www.sowetan.co.za/news/south-africa/2019-12-10-watch-fire-breaks-out-at-kwagga-substation-in-tshwane/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T05:20:06.810626+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1061", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1061/", "title": "Wind turbine reported destroyed by fire near a major road in north east England", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A regional news outlet covering the Teesside area of north east England reported in September 2019 that a large wind turbine had been destroyed by fire close to a major road. Only the headline and feed summary were available, so the site name, operator, turbine model, exact location, date of the fire, cause, emergency response and any road closures are not reported. There is no information on injuries.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine fire near a road requires plans that address debris and smoke reaching the road, because the turbine stood close to a major road. (2) Limited press reports leave gaps in site name, model and cause, so operators and insurers should obtain the direct incident record.", "source_url": "https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/giant-wind-turbine-destroyed-blaze-16989804", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T05:23:08.40462+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1062", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1062/", "title": "SCE crews reported repairing damaged substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A brief news item from the utility's own news channel reported that crews from Southern California Edison (SCE) were continuing repair work at a substation that had been damaged. Only a headline and short feed summary are available. The source does not state the substation's name or location, the cause or date of the damage, whether anyone was injured, or whether customers lost supply. The utility serves Southern California, but the source does not confirm where the affected substation is.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Utility crews can take several days to finish substation repairs after damage, so operators should hold critical spares to speed restoration. (2) Brief internal news items on substation damage limit shared learning, so operators should publish cause and duration once work ends.", "source_url": "https://energized.edison.com/stories/sce-crews-continue-repairs-at-damaged-substation", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T05:23:59.208104+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1063", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1063/", "title": "Substation fire reported to have damaged building at New City Primary School", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire involving a substation was reported to have damaged a building at New City Primary School in the United Kingdom. Only a headline and feed summary are available, so the cause, the extent of damage, the emergency response and any injuries are not reported. The date shown is the date of reporting rather than a confirmed incident date.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations close to occupied buildings such as schools need fire separation and containment suited to the use next door. (2) Emergency plans for these sites must cover evacuation of the adjacent building and isolation of the electrical asset. (3) Where early reports are limited, operators should confirm cause and damage before drawing conclusions.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-49106976", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T05:25:18.538384+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1065", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1065/", "title": "Transformer explosion causes outage in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer explosion caused a power outage in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, on 28 February 2019. Firefighters responded just after 8 p.m. on 86th Street and 10th Avenue. A power line gave way from a pole and fell to the pavement. The report's voltage figure for that line is unclear as written. Over 1,200 customers in the immediate area lost power, which was later restored. The outage boundaries were reported as 80th to 86th Streets between 7th Avenue and 12th Avenue. Con Edison was investigating the cause. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. Con Edison was investigating.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a transformer explosion an overhead line can detach and fall, so operators must check pole attachments and mechanical fixings during maintenance. (2) Fire crews attend transformer events at street level, therefore operators should supply clear isolation points and voltage data on arrival.", "source_url": "https://abc7ny.com/post/transformer-explosion-causes-power-outage-in-dyker-heights/5162089/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T09:09:12.30282+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1066", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1066/", "title": "Inquiry links series of South Korean ESS fires to protection, installation and operating gaps", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In June 2019 the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy published findings on 23 energy storage system fires reported nationwide over about a year and 10 months, beginning with a fire in Gochang, North Jeolla Province, in August 2017. A public-private committee investigated 23 accident sites and carried out 76 verification tests. Fourteen fires occurred while systems were on standby after being fully charged, six during charging or discharging, and three during installation and construction. The committee identified inadequate battery protection against electrical shock, poor management of the operating environment, careless installation including poor storage and miswiring, and a lack of integrated control and protection. Some cell manufacturing defects were found, but fires did not occur when those defects were simulated. The committee said a defective battery could still become a risk if used for a long time in harsh conditions.", "contributing_factors": "The inquiry cited inadequate battery protection against electrical shock, poor management of the operating environment, careless installation, and the lack of an integrated control and protection system. It did not attribute the fires to a single site or a named product.", "lessons_learned": "(1) BESS racks need electrical protection and an emergency stop that stops a shock or short from cascading through cells. (2) Operators must control moisture, dust and temperature in the operating environment to protect insulation. (3) Treat the whole BESS as one protected system at design, installation and operation rather than separate parts.", "source_url": "https://www.dongascience.com/en/news/29281", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T09:09:19.338237+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1068", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1068/", "title": "Fire breaks out at Ausgrid's Mason Park substation in Homebush, Sydney", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An early-morning fire broke out at Ausgrid's Mason Park substation in Homebush, Sydney, just after 2.15am. Fire and Rescue NSW initially sent eight fire trucks and 26 firefighters to the Homebush Bay Drive facility, where a coil tower was found well alight. Because of the high-voltage equipment involved, Ausgrid said that in consultation with emergency services the fire was allowed to burn out under controlled conditions. Firefighters' access was restricted because of the critical nature of the facility, and the blaze was contained to a section of the substation. Ausgrid said there was no impact to customer electricity supply, and NSW Ambulance said no patients were transported to hospital. Fire crews were expected to remain on site throughout the day. Photographs after the fire showed significant damage to part of the substation. Ausgrid said the cause was not yet known and would be investigated once it was safe to access the site.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire had not been established at the time of reporting. Ausgrid said it would investigate once safe access to the site was possible.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A coil tower fire at a substation was allowed to burn out under controlled conditions after consultation with emergency services. (2) Firefighter access was restricted at the high-voltage site to protect responders while equipment remained live. (3) The fire was contained to one section of the substation with no loss of customer supply.", "source_url": "https://www.news24.com.au/news/local/firefighters-called-to-blaze-at-electrical-substation-in-sydneys-inner-west/news-story/7a1d8cef146208f2ed574fb9ccc29a88", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T12:04:25.576537+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1069", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1069/", "title": "Transformer explosion reported as apparent cause of outage in Johnston area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer explosion was reported as the apparent cause of a power outage in parts of Johnston, Cranston, North Providence and Providence. Power went out at about 10:30 p.m. on Sunday. National Grid reported no active power outages early the following morning. Damage, injuries and the exact asset were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer explosion can trigger a sudden outage across several areas, so the operator should inspect the asset as soon as the fault is reported. (2) Restoration after a transformer fault must be confirmed directly with the network operator rather than assumed from local supply returning.", "source_url": "https://turnto10.com/news/local/transformer-explosion-knocks-out-power-to-johnston", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T12:04:36.648956+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1073", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1073/", "title": "Explosion and fire at Linden substation cuts power to Johannesburg suburbs", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-08", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred at a substation in Linden, a suburb of Johannesburg, South Africa, on the evening of 23 August 2017. The explosion triggered a large fire, with residents sharing images on social media. Power was lost across Linden, Victory Park, Roosevelt Park and parts of Emmarentia by around 6.30pm, roughly 30 minutes after the fire began. A resident stated that theft of equipment and cabling from a standby backup unit at the substation caused a short circuit that led to the fire, rather than a fault with an active feeder unit. No injuries were reported. The article did not name the substation operator or provide details on the scale of damage, repair timeline or number of customers affected beyond the listed suburbs.", "contributing_factors": "A resident attributed the incident to theft of equipment and cables from a standby unit at the substation, which caused a short circuit.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Standby backup units at substations require physical security checks, as theft of equipment and cabling can create short circuits. (2) Substation explosions can cut supply to multiple suburbs within thirty minutes, so operators should review isolation and backup supply plans.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/northcliff-melville-times/news-headlines/2017/08/23/substation-explosion-causes-power-outage-linden/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T12:05:15.880766+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1074", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1074/", "title": "Transformer fire at Newark substation cuts power to thousands of AEP customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire was reported at a substation in Newark, United States, operated by American Electric Power (AEP), causing a power outage affecting more than 4,200 AEP customers. Reporting indicates power was later restored. The cause of the fire, the emergency response and any injuries were not reported in the available material, which is a headline and short summary only.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a substation interrupted supply to over 4,200 customers, so operators must keep restoration and switching plans current. (2) Early reports on a substation transformer fire gave only outage numbers, so operators should expect limited public detail at first.", "source_url": "https://www.10tv.com/article/news/local/power-back-more-4200-aep-customers-newark-after-transformer-fire/530-b8ddb4f4-a992-4dc1-a7f4-d04606758b9c", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T12:05:37.88229+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1075", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1075/", "title": "Wind turbine tower collapses at Steele Flats Wind Farm in Nebraska", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at the Steele Flats Wind Farm south of Diller, Nebraska collapsed early in the morning, with the 426 foot structure including the blades coming down. The turbine went offline at around 5am. Weather did not appear to be a factor: the county emergency management director said top gusts the previous day were 35 mph and had diminished to under 20 mph by Tuesday morning, and that the towers had stood in much stronger wind. From photographs, the tower appeared to have crumpled into its own footprint, which is how such structures are designed to fail. The county required turbines to be sited more than 1,300 feet from an occupied structure. No injuries were reported. NextEra Energy, the operator and owner of the wind farm, said it would work with the property owner and the turbine manufacturer on a thorough investigation into the cause of the failure and would restore the turbine at the same location at the appropriate time. The wind farm cost around 138 million US dollars to build and started up in October 2013.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the collapse was not known at the time of reporting and was under investigation. Weather did not appear to be a factor, with recorded wind speeds well within normal operating conditions.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind turbine towers are designed to crumple into their own footprint, so local setback rules of more than 1,300 feet from occupied structures limit harm during unexpected collapses. (2) Tower failures can occur without extreme weather, so operators should inspect tower and foundation integrity at regular intervals throughout the turbine life.", "source_url": "https://www.ketv.com/article/wind-turbine-collapses-near-diller/10025628", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T12:05:44.175126+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1076", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1076/", "title": "Utility substation fire with power outages reported", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report dated 7 March 2017 said fire crews were fighting a fire at a utility substation and that power outages had been reported. The place, the operator, the cause, any injuries and the scale of the outages were not stated in the available headline.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can interrupt supply while crews are still on site, so operators should be ready to confirm the outage extent quickly. (2) Until a full report is available, do not treat cause, injuries or damage as known. (3) Record the fire service response and restoration times once they are reported.", "source_url": "https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/mar/7/outages-reported-as-fire-crews-fight-utility-subst/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T12:06:11.646611+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1077", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1077/", "title": "Worker dies after fall at Kilgallioch wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A worker died after a fall while working at Kilgallioch wind farm, which straddles Dumfries and Galloway and South Ayrshire in Scotland. Ambulance, air ambulance and coastguard resources were sent. Police said a man was pronounced dead at the scene and that the site was closed. How far he fell was not reported. The 96-turbine development was under construction at the time.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fall was not reported. Police said enquiries were at an early stage, and the Health and Safety Executive had been informed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Work at height on a turbine under construction needs a fall-protection and rescue plan that can be used before emergency services arrive. (2) Calls to a remote wind farm should make clear whether the casualty is still at height, so air, ambulance and specialist teams are tasked correctly. (3) Early notice to the safety regulator, and securing the site, helps an investigation while the circumstances are still fresh.", "source_url": "https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/732023/man-falls-from-wind-turbine-kilgallioch-wind-farm/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-18T12:06:28.182938+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1078", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1078/", "title": "Explosion at Blue Mountains substation cuts power to thousands twice in a week", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-01", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion at the Blaxland Zone Substation in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales, produced smoke but no fire and left more than 5,500 residents without power during heat of about 40 degrees Celsius. It was the second incident at the same substation within a week, following a fire there three days earlier that left 7,514 people without power and required crews to repair damaged cables. The operator, Endeavour Energy, said a faulty cable was to blame for the second outage, apologised to affected customers and said it was investigating the cause of both incidents. NSW Fire and Rescue attended. Power had been restored to 1,300 residents within hours of the second event. After the first outage the company had asked customers in the lower Blue Mountains to limit electricity use, including turning off pool pumps and limiting air conditioning, while repairs were carried out.", "contributing_factors": "Endeavour Energy attributed the second outage to a faulty cable. The incidents occurred during very high temperatures, with 39.5 degrees Celsius recorded in Blaxland, which increases demand on the network. The cause of the first fire was still being investigated at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A faulty cable at a zone substation can cause repeat outages within days, so operators should inspect all associated cables before returning the site to full service. (2) High demand from heat of about 40 degrees Celsius can overload a damaged substation, so operators should hold contingency plans for peak periods after the first fault. (3) Early public requests to limit use after the first outage can reduce impact from a second failure, so clear communication on restoration times should be issued at once.", "source_url": "https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/blue-mountains-residents-left-without-power-after-second-incident-in-a-week-at-blaxland-substation-20170113-gtrc0c.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T12:06:32.601446+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1083", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1083/", "title": "Transformer fire cuts power to hundreds in Albemarle County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on a utility pole in the White Hall substation service area of western Albemarle County, Virginia, cutting power to more than 400 members of the Central Virginia Electric Cooperative. The outage, located between the communities of Ivy and Crozet, was first reported around 12:30pm on a Friday. Crews responded and initially believed the transformer itself would need replacing. Later inspection found that only the top of the pole had been burned and the transformer was intact. The pole was repaired and electricity supply was restored to affected customers the same afternoon, a few hours after the outage began.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in detail; the fire was confined to the top of the utility pole rather than the transformer unit itself.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A pole-top fire on distribution equipment may leave the transformer intact, so operators should inspect before ordering replacement parts to limit downtime. (2) A localised pole-top fire can interrupt supply to hundreds of customers, so utilities should keep spare poles and crews ready for rapid repair.", "source_url": "https://www.cbs19news.com/news/hundreds-without-power-due-to-transformer-fire/article_67660a0d-1b88-409a-a244-6ccf1d18bb44.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T20:08:31.832866+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1084", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1084/", "title": "Dropfall incident during foundation installation at Changhua offshore wind project", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-06", "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 15 June 2020 at approximately 16:42 local time, the heavy lift vessel Aegir, operated by Heerema Marine Contractors, experienced a dropfall incident while installing jacket foundations at the 109.2 MW Changhua offshore wind project, located around 8km off the coast of Taiwan. The piling frame and a pin pile suffered minimal damage as a result. No injuries were reported and no environmental impact was identified. Work had only just begun on the foundation installation phase when the incident occurred. Heerema Marine Contractors stated that the exact cause was not yet known and would be subject to a formal investigation. As a precaution, foundation installation activities were temporarily paused pending the outcome of that investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The exact cause of the dropfall was not known at the time of reporting and was to be determined through an investigation; no specific contributing factors were disclosed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A dropfall on a heavy lift vessel during jacket foundation installation caused minimal damage to the piling frame and pin pile, so operators should review load monitoring systems before resuming piling work. (2) Foundation installation activities were paused after the dropfall on the Aegir until investigation completes, so insurers should check that pause protocols cover early phase work.", "source_url": "https://www.offshorewind.biz/2020/06/18/aegir-suffers-dropfall-incident-offshore-taiwan/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T20:09:22.745811+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1086", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1086/", "title": "Flashover at Haywards substation cuts power to 94,000 Wellington homes", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-03", "country": "New Zealand", "country_code": "nz", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During routine maintenance switching at the Haywards substation in Lower Hutt, incorrect earthing was applied, causing an electrical arc flashover reported initially as an explosion, with a loud bang and smoke. Transpower stated no equipment caught fire and nothing physically exploded, while a Fire and Emergency spokeswoman said there had been a small explosion in the switchyard. Protection systems automatically cut supply. The fault caused a widespread outage across the Hutt Valley, Wairarapa and parts of Wellington, affecting about 94,000 properties. Train services on the Hutt line were suspended, traffic signals failed on State Highway 2, and water and wastewater utilities activated backup generators while asking residents to conserve water. Power was restored within roughly two hours, with restoration work completed by mid-morning. No injuries were reported. Transpower said the cause was believed to be human error during the switching procedure.", "contributing_factors": "Incorrect earthing applied during routine maintenance switching at the substation, attributed by the operator to human error.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Incorrect earthing during substation switching can trigger an arc flashover, so operators must add independent verification of earth connections before energising. (2) A substation fault can cut power to 94,000 properties and disrupt trains, traffic signals and water utilities, so critical infrastructure needs tested backup supplies.", "source_url": "https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/wellington-power-outage-haywards-substation-explosion-cuts-electricity-to-94000-homes/PZAN5GOCLEH5MNZAWOAY5HO6IE/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-18T20:13:59.474427+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1087", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1087/", "title": "Three fatalities at wind farm construction site in China", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "gas_release", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A single trade report, published in November 2025, says three workers died in June 2025 at a wind farm construction site in China. One worker is reported to have entered a wind turbine foundation pit where carbon monoxide had accumulated and to have suffocated. Two colleagues are reported to have died during attempts to rescue that worker. The site, the companies involved and the full findings of the underlying report are not given in the source available to the register.", "contributing_factors": "The summary states that carbon monoxide had accumulated in the foundation pit. How the gas accumulated, and why entry and the rescue attempts went ahead, are not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Turbine foundation pits can hold carbon monoxide so test the air before entry. (2) Rescue attempts in a pit without breathing protection can cause further deaths. (3) Control access to open foundation pits during construction to stop unsafe entry.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/two-died-in-tragic-effort-to-save-colleague-at-wind-farm-report-finds/2-1-1904623", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-19T02:06:59.131333+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1091", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1091/", "title": "Explosion and fire at Evergy substation in Shawnee, Kansas causes mass outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion and fire occurred at the Evergy substation at Shawnee Mission Parkway and Lackman Road in Shawnee, Kansas, in the Kansas City metro area, on a Thursday night in June 2021. The source gives this location in the article text, and gives 65th Street and Lackman Road in a photo caption. The incident caused widespread power outages, with Evergy initially reporting more than 11,600 customers without power and the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) reporting more than 9,000 affected customers. The explosion also knocked out the Nearman Power Plant and three additional substations in Kansas City, Kansas, affecting the Rosedale and Central City areas. The BPU spokesperson said those substations were back online by 9.25pm. Outages were reduced to about 6,500 customers by 10pm and to 3,311 by 11pm. By 5.30am the following morning, Evergy reported 116 customers still without power and BPU reported six. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source does not state what caused the explosion or fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation explosion can knock out connected plant and other substations, so operators must model knock-on loss of supply points in contingency plans. (2) Staged public updates during substation failures show most customers can be restored within hours when switching options exist.", "source_url": "https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/thousands-without-power-in-kc-metro-thursday-night", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-19T02:08:15.841851+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1094", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1094/", "title": "Solar farm fire in North Carolina reported as under investigation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news outlet reported in March 2021 that a fire had occurred at a solar farm in North Carolina, United States, and that the cause was under investigation at the time of publication. Only the headline was retrievable, as the article itself could not be accessed. The specific site name, the scale of the fire, extent of damage, whether anyone was hurt and the cause are all not reported in the material available. The date of the fire itself is not given; only the date of publication is known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a solar farm requires prompt investigation to identify the cause before further events occur. (2) Operators should publish the cause and outcome of solar farm fires once investigations close.", "source_url": "https://www.wilsontimes.com/news/solar-farm-fire-under-investigation-94327", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-19T02:09:04.644516+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1096", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1096/", "title": "Wind turbine destroyed by fire, later demolished in Portland, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine in Portland, Texas caught fire on 23 February 2020. Local officials said at the time that they had no choice but to let the fire burn itself out. No injuries were reported and officials were unsure how the fire started. The turbine was left damaged and, in October 2020, demolition crews brought it down using controlled blasts. A video shared by the local county sheriff showed that the first blast was unsuccessful and that a second blast brought the structure down. The turbine's operator, manufacturer and capacity were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not determined by officials at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind turbine fires at height are often left to burn out because firefighting at elevation is difficult. (2) Fire damage to a turbine may lead to full structural demolition with explosives rather than repair. (3) A first controlled blast may fail, so plans for turbine demolition must allow for repeats.", "source_url": "https://www.kristv.com/news/local-news/demolition-crews-knock-down-damaged-wind-turbine", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-19T02:09:31.022182+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1097", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1097/", "title": "Explosion and fire at Burbank Water and Power substation near Empire Center", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A powerful explosion occurred at a Burbank Water and Power substation near the Empire Center and the 5 Freeway in Burbank, California. The blast sent a fireball and thick column of smoke over the surrounding neighbourhood and was strong enough to be felt in the area. Firefighters responded and extinguished a fire that was contained within the substation fencing. Brief power outages affected nearby homes and businesses as a result of the incident. No other structures were reported to be threatened, and there were no immediate reports of injuries. The cause of the explosion was not known at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation explosions can send a fireball and smoke plume beyond the site even when contained inside fencing, so operators should review public notification plans. (2) Brief power outages can follow a substation explosion, so nearby customers need contingency supplies or rapid restoration plans. (3) Fire contained within substation fencing still requires immediate investigation to prevent repeat electrical failures at similar sites.", "source_url": "https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/burbank-california-explosion-fire-power-substation-empire-center/2344128/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-19T02:09:42.743685+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1098", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1098/", "title": "Crew transfer vessel collides with turbine at Borkum Riffgrund 1, injuring three", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-04", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A crew transfer vessel, the Njord Forseti, allided with a wind turbine at the Borkum Riffgrund 1 offshore wind farm, operated and owned by Orsted, in the German North Sea, approximately 45 kilometres north of the island of Borkum. Three people on board were injured, one seriously. The vessel also sustained a half-metre crack in its bow and began taking on water. Nearby vessels, including the multi-purpose offshore vessel Siem Baracuda, responded to provide initial medical care. A rescue helicopter airlifted the seriously injured person to a hospital in the Netherlands, while the other two injured were taken to medical facilities by helicopter and vessel. The crew of the damaged CTV managed to control the water ingress using onboard equipment and the vessel was escorted to port in the Netherlands by a sea rescue cruiser.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not state the cause of the collision between the crew transfer vessel and the wind turbine.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Crew transfer vessels near turbines must have collision avoidance protocols, as the Njord Forseti struck a turbine at Borkum Riffgrund 1. (2) Damaged vessels need onboard means to control water ingress until escorted to port, as the CTV did after the half-metre crack. (3) Remote offshore sites require rapid coordination with nearby vessels and helicopters for medical response, as shown by the Siem Baracuda and airlifts.", "source_url": "https://www.offshorewind.biz/2020/04/24/three-injured-after-ctv-hits-wind-turbine-at-german-offshore-wind-farm", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-19T02:09:45.187882+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1100", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1100/", "title": "Fire at PSEG Long Island substation in Bridgehampton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a PSEG Long Island substation in Bridgehampton on a Friday morning. The blaze started in a transformer vault at 1235 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike at 10:50 a.m. Firefighters arrived but could not immediately attack the fire because the transformer remained energized. Utility staff on site worked to isolate the power supply, a process that took at least fifteen minutes. Heavy black smoke was visible during this period. Once power was isolated, firefighters extinguished the flames quickly. The road was closed while the incident was dealt with. No customers lost supply as a result of the fire. The company stated that the cause was under investigation.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain clear procedures for rapid de-energisation when emergency services attend live electrical assets. (2) Ensure on-site utility staff can confirm isolation status without delay. (3) Plan traffic management for incidents at roadside substations.", "source_url": "https://www.easthamptonstar.com/police-courts/2020124/fire-broke-out-pseg-long-island-substation", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-19T02:10:10.00214+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1103", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1103/", "title": "Reported oil leak sparks fire at Kwagga substation in Pretoria West", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-12", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Kwagga substation in Pretoria West, in the Tshwane area of South Africa, in the early hours of 10 December 2019. An emergency services spokesperson was reported as attributing the fire to an oil leak. Firefighters were dispatched at about 3.30am and were fighting the blaze with foam. Surrounding areas including Rosslyn, Atteridgeville, Soshanguve and Pretoria North were affected by the resulting outage, and the city said telephone lines were down because of the outage. The source gives no information on injuries, fatalities, the extent of damage or how long restoration took.", "contributing_factors": "An oil leak at the substation was reported as the cause. No investigation findings have been published, so the cause should be treated as provisional.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Oil-filled substation equipment needs routine leak checks, as escaping oil supplies fuel near live plant. (2) Substation fires can disrupt services beyond power supply, such as telephone lines in several districts. (3) Oil-fed electrical fires require foam and agreed access plans with local fire services in advance.", "source_url": "https://www.sowetan.co.za/news/south-africa/2019-12-10-watch-fire-breaks-out-at-kwagga-substation-in-tshwane/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-19T02:10:42.705713+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1104", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1104/", "title": "Wind turbine destroyed by fire at wind farm near Wynyard, England", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at a wind farm at High Swainston Farm, close to the A689 between Wynyard and Sedgefield, caught fire before 6pm on 26 September 2019. Reporting said the fire started at the point where the blade is attached to the tower. Smoke was visible from the A19 flyover. Two fire crews from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue were at the scene at 7pm. A blade later fell from the tower to the ground, and grass at the base of the tower then caught alight. The turbine was reported destroyed. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Fires at the blade to tower connection can lead to blade detachment and falling debris, so site exclusion zones must account for this hazard. (2) Fires at height on turbines are hard for ground crews to fight directly, so emergency plans must assume total loss of the unit. (3) Burning debris from a turbine can ignite ground vegetation, so vegetation management and containment around the base matter.", "source_url": "https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/giant-wind-turbine-destroyed-blaze-16989804", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-19T02:10:44.620972+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1105", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1105/", "title": "Substation fire reported to have sent smoke above Hillsboro", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline dated 7 October 2018 reported a fire at a substation that sent a plume of smoke high above Hillsboro. The article text was not available, so damage, any outage, injuries and the cause were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline-only report of a substation fire as unconfirmed until the operator or fire service states what burned and whether supply was affected. (2) Keep smoke, heat and access observations separate from any assumed equipment failure. (3) Recheck local reporting before using the event in asset risk reviews.", "source_url": "https://kval.com/news/local/gallery/substation-fire-sends-plume-of-smoke-high-above-hillsboro", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-19T02:11:48.600327+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1107", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1107/", "title": "SP Power Grid fined for Carlton Hotel and Bright Hill substation fires", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-02", "country": "Singapore", "country_code": "sg", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Singapore's grid operator SP Power Grid (SPPG) was fined a total of $1.75 million by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) for two separate substation fire incidents earlier in 2019. On 14 February, a fire at a substation near Carlton Hotel caused a power disruption in parts of central Singapore, attributed to a short circuit in switchgear after insulation failed due to heat stress from foreign contaminants. On 26 January, a fire at a substation in Bright Hill caused a power outage lasting about ninety minutes, affecting roughly 27,000 residents. Investigations found the Bright Hill fire was started by a faulty voltage transformer that had been used beyond its manufacturer-recommended lifespan. EMA determined the Carlton Hotel incident could have been prevented had SPPG followed its own monitoring procedures during maintenance work.", "contributing_factors": "Foreign contaminants introduced during maintenance work led to insulation failure in switchgear at the Carlton Hotel substation, with SPPG found not to have complied with its own standard operating procedure for monitoring such work. At Bright Hill, a voltage transformer had remained in service beyond the manufacturer's recommended lifespan before it failed and caused a fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Switchgear in substations must be kept free of foreign contaminants during maintenance to avoid insulation failure and short circuits. (2) Voltage transformers must be replaced before the end of their manufacturer recommended lifespan to prevent fire. (3) Substation operators must follow their own monitoring procedures during maintenance to stop insulation failure.", "source_url": "https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/parliament-sp-power-grid-fined-175-million-for-carlton-hotel-and-bright-hill-power-failures", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-19T02:15:21.420044+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1108", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1108/", "title": "Wind turbine project reported as possible cause of large Parry Sound forest fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Local media in Ontario, Canada reported in July 2018 that a report suggested a wind turbine project may have been to blame for a large forest fire in the Parry Sound area. Only the headline and summary were available to the register, so the size and duration of the fire, the identity of the wind project, the ignition mechanism, any evacuations or damage, and the findings of any investigation are not reported. The link between the project and the fire is reported as possible and has not been confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available source material.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind projects in forest areas carry a wildfire ignition risk that must be assessed for construction and operation. (2) When a project is linked to a wildfire, publish investigation findings so other operators can address the ignition source.", "source_url": "https://www.timminstoday.com/around-ontario/ontario-wind-turbine-project-may-be-to-blame-for-large-parry-sound-forest-fire-says-report-994509", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-19T02:17:00.817396+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1110", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1110/", "title": "Electrical fire at substation causes partial blackout in Port of Spain", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-05", "country": "Trinidad and Tobago", "country_code": "tt", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical fire at the Master Sub-Station on Park Avenue, near PowerGen in Port of Spain, left parts of the city without power between 11:15 am and 1:15 pm. The outage reached as far north as Ariapita Avenue and Park Street, as far south as Independence Avenue, as far east as Woodford Square and as far west as Wrightson Road. The Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service attended after a report from T&TEC, with appliances on site within a minute, and the fire was put out in about 20 minutes. The cause had not been determined. The fire involved an electrical panel reported to be worth about $250,000, and damage was estimated at $100,000, in the currency stated by the source. PowerGen in Port of Spain had been decommissioned by T&TEC on 14 January 2016, but that location was still reported to house a 12,000-volt supply and a 132,000-volt substation.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) An electrical panel fire at a substation can cut supply across a wide urban area, so operators must plan isolation and restoration routes in advance. (2) A decommissioned site that still holds live high-voltage equipment needs the same inspection and emergency access as an operating site. (3) Until a cause is confirmed, treat every panel fire as an open inquiry rather than a known failure mode.", "source_url": "http://www.guardian.co.tt/news/update-electrical-fire-at-ttec-substation-caused-partial-blackout-in-pos-6.2.1119527.6c9b94a317", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-19T09:09:14.253047+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1112", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1112/", "title": "Lightning strike damages already faulty blade at Vineyard Wind offshore turbine", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 27 February 2025, a GE Vernova Haliade-X 13 MW turbine (AW-38) at the Vineyard Wind 1 offshore wind farm off Massachusetts was struck by lightning. The turbine had previously suffered a blade failure in July 2024, when a blade detached and debris washed up on Nantucket Island beaches. Vineyard Wind said a preliminary investigation indicated the already damaged blade may have been impacted by the lightning strike. The developer stated the event was contained to the blade, with no apparent impact to the nacelle or turbine structure, and no debris was observed following aerial and maritime surveys. The US Coast Guard reported the strike and worked with Vineyard Wind to confirm the area remained free of navigational hazards. GE Vernova said no injuries occurred. GE Vernova had already planned to remove and replace the damaged blade in May 2025 as part of an ongoing action plan following the 2024 failure.", "contributing_factors": "The affected blade was already damaged following the July 2024 failure, which the manufacturer attributed to a manufacturing deviation. The source does not state whether the prior damage influenced the outcome of the lightning strike, and the assessment was still under way at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An offshore blade with prior damage needs closer monitoring before storms, as lightning can worsen existing faults. (2) Aerial and maritime surveys after a blade strike confirm the absence of debris and navigational hazards. (3) Early coordination with coast guard authorities keeps sea lanes clear after offshore turbine damage.", "source_url": "https://offshorewind.biz/2025/03/04/lightning-strike-zaps-damaged-vineyard-wind-1-turbine", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:07:11.2587+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1114", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1114/", "title": "Transformer fires in south Everett cause a brief power outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 3 September 2020, two transformers caught fire in the area of Scenic and Grant Drive, next to a PUD substation in south Everett, Washington. A grass fire was also reported just north of Scenic Drive on Beverly Boulevard, and downed lines were reported to have burned grass at a house at Scenic and Grant. Everett Fire crews dealt with the grass fire and residual hot spots. PUD crews rerouted power and put out the transformers. As of 4.15 pm, 39 customers were still without power. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. A PUD representative said crews were looking into what caused the equipment to fail.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Distribution transformers can fail and ignite nearby vegetation, so operators must keep vegetation clearance and rapid isolation in place. (2) Downed lines can start a separate grass fire, so fire crews and utility crews need a clear split of roles. (3) Outage figures should be updated as power is rerouted, because early customer counts can fall quickly.", "source_url": "https://myeverettnews.com/2020/09/03/transformer-fires-in-south-everett-cause-brief-power-outage/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:08:22.129199+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1115", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1115/", "title": "Fire breaks out at CESC electricity substation in Kolkata", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-03", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a Calcutta Electric Supply Corporation (CESC) substation in the Patuli area of the Baghajatin locality in Kolkata at around 5:30pm. The blaze caused a power outage across the surrounding area. Six fire tenders were deployed and brought the fire under control after some difficulty. Local residents reportedly experienced panic and, amid a lockdown period, some left their homes in the dark before being told by police to stay indoors. Power was reported to still be out in several areas by 7:30pm, with CESC working to restore supply. Police said an investigation would be carried out to determine the cause of the fire.", "contributing_factors": "Cause of the fire was not stated; police said an investigation would be held to establish it.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires can require six or more fire tenders when access or electrical isolation is difficult, so operators should pre-plan tender access routes and isolation points. (2) Substation fires can leave local power unrestored more than two hours after the blaze starts, so contingency plans must cover extended outages.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkata-fire-breaks-out-at-cesc-substation-at-patuli/articleshow/74851794.cms", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:09:07.457628+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1116", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1116/", "title": "Fire and transformer explosions at Rampura grid substation in Dhaka", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-04", "country": "Bangladesh", "country_code": "bd", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 11 April 2020, a fire broke out at around 1:55pm at a substation belonging to the Dhaka Power Distribution Company (DPDC) in the Rampura area of Dhaka. The Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) confirmed the incident. Seven fire service units from Khilgaon Fire Station responded and brought the fire under control by around 4:40pm, roughly two hours and forty five minutes after ignition. The fire damaged a power distribution line in the Mohanagar area of Hatirjheel and caused several distribution transformers in the Rampura and Hatirjheel areas to explode. As a result, residents of the Mohanagar Housing Society lost electricity supply. No injuries were reported. At the time of reporting, the cause of the fire had not been determined.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires can cause nearby distribution transformers to explode, so operators must verify fast fault isolation on connected lines. (2) A substation fire can damage a power distribution line and cut supply to residents, so operators need clear outage communication plans.", "source_url": "https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/fire-breaks-out-dhaka-power-house-67828", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:09:15.491278+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1117", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1117/", "title": "Transformer explosion leaves thousands without power in Manlius", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded shortly before noon on 4 March 2020 at Hoag Lane and Muirfield Drive in Manlius, New York. National Grid reported 3,575 customers without power in and south of the town of Manlius. Power was restored to all but a few customers by 2 p.m. Fayetteville-Manlius High School dismissed students early because of the outage. The Manlius Police Department said the transformer failure caused the outage.", "contributing_factors": "The source did not report why the transformer failed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A single transformer failure can cut power to several thousand customers in a town and nearby areas. (2) Schools and other sites need timely outage information so they can decide whether to send people home. (3) Matching utility outage reports with emergency dispatch records helps confirm where and when a transformer failure occurred.", "source_url": "https://www.syracuse.com/news/2020/03/over-3500-without-power-near-manlius-transformer-exploded-in-the-area.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:09:37.130597+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1118", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1118/", "title": "Transformer fire at Spartan substation cuts power near Kempton Park airport", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-01", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 12 January 2020, transformers caught fire at a substation on Plane Road in Spartan, Kempton Park, at the Len Futcher building, described in reporting as the electricity department building and also referred to as an Eskom substation. The substation supplies the City's 66kV and 132kV networks. Emergency services attended the scene and nearby roads were closed, with residents advised to stay clear. The fire caused power outages affecting OR Tambo International Airport, Isando, Spartan, Kempton Park central business district, Aston Manor and Bonaero Park. According to the City of Ekurhuleni, the cause of the fire could only be determined once it was safe to investigate. Power was reported restored later the same afternoon by the city's executive mayor. No information on injuries or the eventual cause was given in the initial reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported at the time of the article; the City of Ekurhuleni stated the cause would only be established once the site was safe to investigate.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fire at a substation can cut supply from 66kV and 132kV networks to an airport, so operators should review redundancy for critical loads. (2) Emergency services must close nearby roads and advise residents to stay clear when high voltage equipment burns. (3) Public updates on restoration can be issued before the cause is known, reducing impact on businesses and residents.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/kempton-express/news-headlines/2020/01/12/transformers-len-futcher-building-spartan-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:10:01.857986+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1119", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1119/", "title": "Wind turbine fire at Butterwick Wind Farm near Sedgefield", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine caught fire at Butterwick Wind Farm near Sedgefield. Witnesses said smoke and flames could be seen on the turbine blades. The incident is believed to have happened around 6pm on a Thursday evening. Fire crews from Newton Aycliffe and Peterlee attended, and a flexi duty officer informed Northern PowerGrid. EDF Energy, described as the supplier, was dealing with the incident. The cause was not known and no one was injured. The extent of damage was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Smoke and flames visible on turbine blades allow early remote isolation by the operator before fire crews arrive. (2) Fire crews attending a turbine fire must agree site control with the supplier before approach.", "source_url": "https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/17931416.wind-turbine-fire-butterwick-wind-farm-near-sedgefield/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:10:05.708651+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1121", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1121/", "title": "Substation fire interrupts supply in Arkansas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at the Southland Substation on Pebblecreek Drive off the Sheid-Hopper Bypass caused an outage affecting 1,153 members served by North Arkansas Electric Cooperative. Power was restored around 12:45 a.m. on Saturday using a mobile substation unit supplied by Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation. The outage had begun in the early morning hours on Friday. The cooperative will rebuild the substation over several months while the mobile unit remains in service.", "contributing_factors": "The suspected cause is lightning.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lightning can start a fire in a substation, so operators should inspect and upgrade lightning protection on all exposed equipment. (2) A substation fire can leave members without power for hours, so maintain access to mobile substation units for quick restoration. (3) Major substation damage requires months of rebuild work, so plan for prolonged use of temporary supply equipment.", "source_url": "https://www.ky3.com/content/news/Power-restored-overnight-for-Arkansas-customers-511015722.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:10:44.941641+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1122", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1122/", "title": "Circuit breaker explosion and oil fire disable Vining Substation in Powell, Wyoming", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 29 June 2019 the Vining Substation on North Ingalls Street in Powell, Wyoming lost power at around 5am. On-call electricians from the City of Powell attended and, following standard procedure, switched a circuit breaker back on from a separate control building. The breaker exploded, damaging nearby oil-filled regulators used for cooling. The oil ignited, sending flames from the equipment. Workers called emergency services immediately. No one was hurt, and a City of Powell official noted that staff were kept at a safe distance because the breaker is operated from a building on the property rather than in front of the energised equipment. The fault caused prolonged power outages across the city. Technicians examining power flow data found a fault across all three phases but could not pinpoint a cause. The substation equipment was reported to be about 30 years old and at the end of its design life. Power was restored using temporary, cobbled together repairs while parts for lasting repairs, with lead times of up to 46 weeks, were sourced. Initial repairs were expected to cost the City of Powell about 150,000 US dollars, and the City of Powell council approved emergency procurement and a contract for a mobile substation if needed.", "contributing_factors": "Ageing substation equipment reported to be around 30 years old and at the end of its design life. The root cause of the initial outage and of the breaker failure could not be determined, although data showed a fault across all three phases.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Circuit breakers switched back on from a separate control building keep staff clear of violent failure. Operators should check that all re energisation controls are remote from the equipment. (2) Oil filled regulators near circuit breakers can ignite if the breaker fails. Insurers should require separation or fire barriers around such equipment. (3) Substation equipment at the end of its design life needs prioritised replacement. Operators should review condition of all 30 year old plant.", "source_url": "https://www.powelltribune.com/stories/substation-explosion,19800", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:10:59.811765+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1123", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1123/", "title": "Wind turbine reported to have collapsed in Clinton County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2009, "incident_month": "2009-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline reported that a wind turbine collapsed in Clinton County. The available report is the headline and dateline only. The article body was not available, so the exact site, operator, cause, injuries and extent of damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported turbine collapse as a structural failure until the operator confirms which turbine was involved and whether debris left the site. (2) Keep records that can identify the asset, the date and the exclusion zone even when public reporting is only a headline. (3) Do not assign a cause from a headline that does not state one.", "source_url": "https://www.nny360.com/news/wind-turbine-collapses-in-clinton-county/article_e1b8afe2-75eb-505a-b0cf-a174c78a18ac.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:11:22.318541+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1124", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1124/", "title": "Transformer fire breaks out at Thetford substation, Genesee Township, Michigan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 1 November 2018, a fire broke out at a substation in the 10000 block of Genesee Road, Genesee Township, Michigan. A Consumers Energy spokesperson said the substation is owned by ITC Holdings. ITC Holdings confirmed that the Thetford 345/138kV transformer was on fire, that personnel were in the station at the time but no injuries were reported, and that emergency response plans had been activated. Multiple fire departments were called to the scene to investigate and respond. The source of the fire was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A high voltage transformer fire at a substation needs response from multiple fire departments, so owners should agree joint plans in advance. (2) Personnel may be present when a transformer fire starts for unknown reasons, so owners must activate emergency plans at once.", "source_url": "https://midmichigannow.com/news/local/multiple-departments-called-to-investigate-fire-at-consumers-energy-substation", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:11:49.136193+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1125", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1125/", "title": "Transformer explosion and fire at K R Thoppur substation, Tamil Nadu", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-06", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer at a 400/230kV substation operated by Tamil Nadu Transmission Corporation Limited (TANTRANSCO) at K R Thoppur, near Tharamangalam, exploded around 8.30am. Within minutes a major fire broke out, fuelled by the transformer oil. Substation staff alerted fire and rescue services, and five fire tenders from the Salem Steel Plant and Tharamangalam were deployed. It took more than three hours to bring the fire under control. No casualties were reported. The explosion and subsequent power cut affected areas in the district as well as the neighbouring Dharmapuri and Namakkal districts. Workers removed the damaged transformer and installed a replacement within hours, with power restored to all affected areas by 5pm the same day.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was fuelled and prolonged by the oil contained within the transformer, a known characteristic of oil-filled transformer failures.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Oil-filled transformers can sustain fires for hours once ignited, so operators should arrange access to specialist fire tenders and plan for long response times. (2) Spare units kept ready allow fast replacement of failed transformers and limit outage length.", "source_url": "https://energy.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/power/power-transformer-explodes-at-k-r-thoppur-none-hurt/64515849", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:11:55.932393+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1128", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1128/", "title": "Wind turbine blade breaks and dangles at Michigan wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 160-foot wind turbine blade broke at the Tuscola Bay wind farm in Blumfield Township, Saginaw County, Michigan, leaving it dangling above a field. Workers were alerted to the problem when the turbine went offline on the Monday. No injuries were reported. A spokesman for NextEra Energy Resources said investigators believed the break was an isolated equipment issue and was not weather-related, adding that such breaks are rare. The turbine is one of 75 at the site. Plans called for the damaged blade to be taken down and replaced.", "contributing_factors": "The company stated that the cause was believed to be an isolated equipment issue and not related to weather conditions. No formal investigation report is cited in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Blade breaks on onshore turbines can occur from equipment faults alone, so operators should inspect blades on schedule even in calm weather. (2) An automatic offline alarm can be the first sign of blade damage, so response procedures must trigger a site inspection. (3) A pre-planned method to remove and replace a damaged blade reduces risk while the cause is checked.", "source_url": "https://www.wlns.com/news/wind-turbine-blade-breaks-in-rural-mid-michigan-no-injuries/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:12:36.790648+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1129", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1129/", "title": "Component failure causes loud bang at Western Link substation near Hunterston", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "near_miss", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 21 September 2017 at around 3.20pm, a loud bang was heard following a component failure at a substation forming part of the Western Link electrical facility in West Kilbride, North Ayrshire, close to the Hunterston B nuclear power station. The incident occurred during test works. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted at 3.19pm and mobilised three fire appliances, but their assistance was not required and crews left after ensuring the area was made safe. ScottishPower said there were no injuries, no disruption to the electricity network and no risk to the nuclear power station. SP Energy Networks, National Grid and contractors were reported to be investigating. The Western Link is a joint venture between ScottishPower Transmission and National Grid, using subsea and underground cables linked to converter stations to bring renewable energy from Scotland to Wales and England.", "contributing_factors": "A component failure occurred within the Western Link electrical facility during test works. The specific component and the underlying cause were not reported, and an investigation was under way at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Test works on grid infrastructure need exclusion zones and emergency plans ready before energisation in case a component fails audibly or with force. (2) Sites next to nuclear stations or housing should notify emergency services and neighbours before tests to avoid unneeded callouts. (3) A quick statement on injuries, network impact and risk to nearby assets reduces public alarm after loud events reported on social media.", "source_url": "https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/1596288/hunterston-explosion-ayrshire-fire-crews-scrambled/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:12:39.092627+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1130", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1130/", "title": "Substation transformer fire cuts power to Centerville neighbourhood", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Sunday morning, an electrical substation on Old Stage Road in Centerville, Massachusetts, operated by Eversource, experienced a transformer fire that knocked out power to nearby residents. The local fire department received multiple calls at around 9:25am and arrived to find a small amount of smoke. Within minutes the two transformers were fully alight, with flames reaching approximately 25 feet into the air and black smoke visible from the control tower at a nearby airport. A second fire engine and a rescue vehicle from a neighbouring fire department responded. Nearby residents reported hearing loud explosions and feeling their houses shake. Eversource brought in a temporary generator later that day to restore power while replacement of the damaged transformers was carried out.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation transformers can escalate from small smoke to full fire in minutes, so operators must plan for rapid multi-agency response and early isolation. (2) Explosions at substations can alarm nearby residents, so utilities should issue prompt public updates during incidents. (3) Temporary generators allow quick power restoration after substation transformer damage while repairs proceed.", "source_url": "https://www.capecodtimes.com/story/news/accident/2017/02/05/transformer-fire-kills-power-to/22535401007/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T02:12:53.793558+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1132", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1132/", "title": "Cable strike and overload fire on a Stanley substation feed disrupt power in Chennai", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In September 2026, power disruptions in parts of Chennai were reported after BSNL repair work in the RK Nagar Stand area damaged a main power line. Supply was restored through an alternative line from the Stanley substation. The added load was reported to have caused equipment there to overheat and catch fire, leading to further disruption. The outages were said not to be due to a shortage of electricity. Officials were reported to have been asked to lodge a police complaint against BSNL. The extent of damage, any injuries and how long supply was lost were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "A main power line was damaged during BSNL repair work. Load was then transferred to an alternative line from the Stanley substation, and that equipment was reported to have overheated. Coordination between the excavating agency and the power utility before the work was reported as lacking.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A cable strike on a main power line forces load onto an alternative substation feed, so operators must check the rating of that equipment before transfer. (2) Excavation near underground cables can damage a main power line, so the utility and excavating agency must agree cable locations in advance. (3) Cable strikes by other agencies should be logged and followed up so repeat damage at the same site can be tracked.", "source_url": "https://www.dtnext.in/amp/story/news/tamilnadu/cable-damage-transformer-overload-behind-power-disruptions-electricity-minister-r-nirmalkumar", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-20T05:09:18.212441+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1133", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1133/", "title": "Poor installation blamed for two inverter fires at UK care home solar array", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Electricians who inspected a UK care home's solar installation reported that one wall-mounted inverter had caught fire twice. The array is described as 228 panels rated at 445 watts each, about 101 kilowatts peak, feeding three 30-kilowatt inverters. The inspecting firm, Artisan Electrics, said it found several installation defects, including loose MC4 connectors, missing DC isolators on two of the three inverters and poor cable labelling. It also said the burned inverter had been swapped out before proper DC isolation was available, so workers reportedly had to cut live cables while arcing was visible, and that the replacement unit was never fully commissioned, leaving the site unable to monitor system performance effectively. The care home, which has high round-the-clock electricity demand, was said to be still facing steep monthly power bills despite the size of the array. The date of the fires, the site name, the original installer and any fire service attendance are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Reported by the inspecting electricians and not independently confirmed: loose MC4 connectors, missing DC isolators on two of three inverters, poor cable labelling, inadequate isolation arrangements during inverter replacement leading to live cables being cut with visible arcing, and incomplete commissioning of the replacement inverter.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Loose MC4 connectors on a solar PV array can cause arcing and fire, so operators should check all DC connections during routine inspections. (2) Missing DC isolators on inverters force live cable cutting during replacement, so isolation equipment must be fitted before work starts. (3) An uncommissioned replacement inverter leaves the array unmonitored, so full commissioning and monitoring must follow any swap.", "source_url": "https://www.thecooldown.com/green-tech/uk-care-home-solar-installation-failures/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-20T05:09:23.604357+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1134", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1134/", "title": "Wind turbine tower collapses at Kilgallioch Wind Farm, Ayrshire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-01", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 480-foot wind turbine at the Kilgallioch wind farm near Barrhill, Ayrshire, collapsed in the early hours of 13 January 2017 during a storm with 55mph gusts and snow squalls. The 160-tonne turbine, valued at around £2 million, had not yet been commissioned and was not generating electricity. According to a source cited by a local newspaper, the 328-foot tower creased at the access door near ground level before falling, scattering debris including three blades and switchgear over roughly half a kilometre. No one was in the vicinity at the time and no injuries were reported. The operator, ScottishPower Renewables, did not publicly disclose the incident for seven days, prompting criticism from the local community. A joint investigation was launched by the operator and the turbine manufacturer, Gamesa, and the incident was reported to statutory authorities.", "contributing_factors": "High winds of around 55mph combined with snow squalls at the time of the collapse; the turbine had not yet been commissioned or connected to the grid, and the cause of the structural failure at the tower's access door was under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An uncommissioned wind turbine tower can still collapse in high winds, so operators must keep remote monitoring and weather response plans active before grid connection. (2) Tower creasing at the access door shows that door cut-outs need extra reinforcement checks during fabrication and quality assurance.", "source_url": "https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/safety-probe-launched-after-collapse-9716684", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T05:09:40.251403+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1135", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1135/", "title": "Electric arc fire in Vestas turbine at Casa del Aire wind farm, El Bonillo", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2012, "incident_month": null, "country": "Spain", "country_code": "es", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During servicing of a V90-2 MW turbine at the Casa del Aire wind farm in El Bonillo, Spain, an electric arc occurred in the control cabinet and led to a fire. Vestas said a fire-fighting team extinguished the flames within hours and that the fire was stopped from spreading. Local sources said the fire had reached surrounding scrub. Vestas said the other 24 turbines on the farm continued to operate during the response. One worker suffered burns to the face and hands, was taken to hospital, and was later reported to be recovering at home.", "contributing_factors": "Vestas said the arc came from the control cabinet and that the cause was under investigation. The company described the event as isolated and said it had no information linking it to a design flaw in the V90-2.0 series or to a separate electric-arc fire at a V112 turbine in Germany.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat an arc in a control cabinet during servicing as a live fire and injury risk until the cause is established. (2) Keep a fire response that can contain a nacelle fire quickly, including where scrub or forest is nearby. (3) Confirm, rather than assume, that neighbouring turbines can keep running safely while one machine is on fire.", "source_url": "https://www.renewableenergymagazine.com/wind/vestas-experiences-second-turbine-fire-in-weeks", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-20T05:10:06.377854+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1136", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1136/", "title": "New fire smoulders at Vistra Moss Landing battery site during cleanup", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "end_of_life", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at Vistra's 300-megawatt battery energy storage facility in Moss Landing, California, during ongoing cleanup and demolition work following a major fire at the site in January 2025. By noon on the day of the incident, officials said there was no active fire, only smouldering, and no indication that hazardous materials posed a danger to nearby residents. Dolan Road at Highway 1 was closed while crews monitored the site. The batteries involved were charged but not connected to the state grid, which has been offline since the January 2025 fire. The incident occurred as crews were demolishing fire-damaged portions of the battery building under EPA oversight to access severely damaged battery modules that had previously been inaccessible.", "contributing_factors": "Damaged lithium-ion batteries from the January 2025 fire remained on site and were reported as charged, despite not being connected to the grid. The EPA noted that damaged lithium-ion batteries pose an ongoing fire risk and can release hydrogen fluoride and other flammable or toxic gases when they burn, a risk heightened during demolition and battery removal work.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Charged lithium-ion batteries left on site after a fire can reignite during demolition, so operators must isolate and cool modules before removal. (2) Demolition of fire-damaged battery buildings needs continuous temperature and gas monitoring to detect smouldering before it spreads.", "source_url": "https://pajaronian.com/battery-fire-no-longer-a-threat-officials-say/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-20T09:07:51.136427+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1138", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1138/", "title": "Explosion and fire at Eskom's Parys substation cuts power to town", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-05", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred at Eskom's Parys substation in Parys, South Africa, on a Tuesday evening, causing a fire that damaged technical equipment and cut power to the town. The power outage also disrupted the local water supply, as water distribution infrastructure depends on electricity. The Ngwathe Local Municipality deployed water tankers to maintain water supply to residents while repairs were carried out. Technical teams from both Eskom and the municipality attended the site but were initially unable to assess the extent of the damage or determine repair requirements due to the ongoing fire and smoke. No confirmed timeline for reconnection was given at the time of reporting, and the exact time of the explosion and its cause had not been established.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion had not been determined at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires block teams from assessing damage, so operators must plan for delayed repairs and extended outages until smoke clears. (2) Power loss at a substation stops water pumps, so municipalities should keep water tankers on standby for immediate deployment.", "source_url": "https://www.ofm.co.za/article/141/289867/parys-water-supply-affected-by-substation-explosion", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:07:35.420496+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1139", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1139/", "title": "Transformer fire disrupts power to Bengaluru's central business district", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-02", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Ltd (KPTCL) 66 kV power station at Anand Rao Circle in Bengaluru. A 20 MVA transformer developed a fault and caught fire after its breaker system failed to trip, and the blaze spread to an adjacent transformer. Fire and Emergency Services took over half an hour to bring the fire under control. Power supply to several areas of the Central Business District, including Vidhana Soudha and Vikasa Soudha government buildings, was affected during an ongoing legislative session. Supply to Vidhana Soudha was quickly switched to another substation. The two affected transformers, which together carried around 60 MW, were taken out of service for repair or scrapping, with load temporarily redistributed from other stations and short periods of load-shedding expected until a replacement transformer was installed.", "contributing_factors": "A protection breaker system reportedly failed to trip when the fault occurred, allowing the fire to develop and spread to a neighbouring transformer. The failed transformer was around 24 years old.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Protection breaker systems on transformers must be tested regularly so they trip under fault conditions and stop fire from starting. (2) Transformers approaching 24 years old should be checked for replacement before faults lead to fire and spread. (3) Substations serving critical loads need ready backup routes so supply can be switched quickly during failures.", "source_url": "https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/power-supply-to-cbd-hit-as-transformers-catch-fire/article30846366.ece", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:08:09.420686+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1140", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1140/", "title": "Substation fire in North Staffordshire cuts power to over 120 properties", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the early hours of the morning, a fire broke out at a Western Power substation on Longbridge Hayes Road near Longport, North Staffordshire. Five fire crews from Sandyford, Newcastle, Hanley and Burslem attended, using an aerial ladder platform to remove materials from the roof of the substation and dampen down the area. The fire was extinguished using two main jets, with crews leaving the scene around three hours after being called. The road was closed for several hours while the fire service dealt with the blaze but has since reopened. More than 120 nearby properties lost electricity supply as a result of the fire, though power is understood to have been restored to them all afterwards.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire at roof level needs an aerial ladder platform for safe access and damping down. (2) A substation fire can cut supply to over 120 properties even when contained in three hours. (3) Substation fires require road closures near the site for several hours during response.", "source_url": "https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/stoke-on-trent-news/substation-fire-longbridge-hayes-longport-3871787", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:08:16.214547+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1141", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1141/", "title": "Transformer explosion on a hydro pole disrupts a Manitoba business", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local report says a transformer on a hydro pole exploded early in the morning and a fire broke out on the pole, cutting all power to a nearby business building. The business owner said Manitoba Hydro arrived within about fifteen minutes and got the situation under control. The same account says outages there were not uncommon and usually lasted only a few minutes. Staff were sent home and the business closed for the day. The cause of the failure, any injuries, and a more precise location are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A pole-mounted transformer failure can cut supply to a whole building at once, even where outages are usually brief. (2) A prompt utility response can bring a pole fire under control, but operators should still find why the transformer failed.", "source_url": "https://steinbachonline.com/articles/transformer-explosion-disrupts-business", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:09:13.433891+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1142", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1142/", "title": "Transformer fire causes power outage in Pitcairn", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire knocked out power to the entire Borough of Pitcairn, according to police. The fire happened before 10 p.m. on Wednesday near Haymaker Village in Monroeville. A viewer video showed a utility pole on fire before an explosion. A Duquesne Light crew was seen making repairs in the area early the following morning. It appeared that service to most of Pitcairn had been restored.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire on a utility pole can cut supply to a whole community, so operators should map single points that serve an entire area. (2) A pole fire followed by an explosion needs rapid isolation and a safe cordon around debris.", "source_url": "https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/transformer-fire-blamed-for-power-outage-in-pitcairn/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:09:41.252192+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1143", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1143/", "title": "Fire reported at a power substation in Midland County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline on 23 June 2018 reported a fire at a power substation in Midland County. The article text could not be retrieved, so the cause, the response, any injuries and any effect on supply are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire reported only in a headline leaves cause and impact unknown, so operators should seek full reports before assessing risk. (2) Substation fires need logged details on equipment and supply loss even from brief reports, to allow proper review later.", "source_url": "https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/fire-sparks-up-at-power-substation-in-midland-county/513-3acef341-f282-4690-9c92-52799aee6d9a", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:09:50.985537+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1145", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1145/", "title": "Transformer fire at University of Hawaii at Manoa substation causes $1.5 million damage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 19 April 2018 a transformer caught fire at an electrical substation on Lower Campus Road at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. The Honolulu Fire Department responded at 6:47 p.m. Thick black smoke rose over Honolulu. The department later ruled the fire accidental and said a malfunction inside the transformer ignited the oil. Damage was estimated at $1.5 million. Injuries, outages and downtime were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The fire department reported that a malfunction within the transformer ignited the oil inside. No other contributing factors were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A malfunction in an oil-filled transformer can ignite the oil and create a large smoke plume. (2) Campus substations need clear access routes so fire crews can reach equipment fast.", "source_url": "https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/story/38054607/hfd-transformer-fire-at-uh-manoa-ruled-accidental/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:10:14.715362+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1146", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1146/", "title": "Substation transformer fire cuts power to thousands in Manchester Township", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer at a JCP&L electrical substation in Whiting, part of Manchester Township, New Jersey, caught fire on the afternoon of 15 January 2018. A patrolman reported hearing a loud boom near Manchester Boulevard and Lacey Road, coming from the substation located just off Route 530; the local report headlined the event as an explosion. About 4,200 customers in the western section of Manchester Township lost power. Crews from the Whiting Volunteer Fire Company and power crews from JCP&L attended, extinguished the fire and restored supply faster than first anticipated, with only about 12 customers still off supply by early evening. Because of the freezing weather, the Manchester Office of Emergency Management set up a warming station at the fire company premises as a precaution. No injuries were reported and no cause has been made public.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source gives no technical cause for the transformer failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation transformer fires cause immediate outages to thousands of customers, so operators must plan for rapid joint response with local fire crews. (2) Freezing weather during substation outages leaves residents without heat, so emergency offices should set up warming stations in advance.", "source_url": "https://wobm.com/manchester-transformer-explodes-knocks-out-power-for-4200-residents/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:10:33.153585+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1147", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1147/", "title": "Fire damages electric power substation in Uyo", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-03", "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Residents of Afaha Ubeh, on the outskirts of Uyo in Akwa Ibom State, watched a fire at an electric power substation on a Thursday. Witnesses said the facility was alight for more than three hours before firefighters from Julius Berger arrived. The state fire service reached the scene later and then joined that effort. The Akwa Ibom State government said substantial damage to the facility would cause power outages in parts of the state, and asked the Power Holding Company of Nigeria to speed the repairs. A reporter observed that most of Uyo had been without power for almost a day, but the source says it was unclear whether that wider outage was connected to the fire.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can burn for hours if the public fire service is slow to arrive, so operators should agree response times and site access with local services before an incident. (2) A nearby industrial crew may be the first effective response; sites should know which organisations can assist and how they will be called. (3) Public updates should separate confirmed damage and expected local outages from wider blackouts that have not been tied to the incident.", "source_url": "https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/south-south-regional/260387-fire-guts-electric-power-substation-uyo.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:10:42.613789+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1148", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1148/", "title": "Explosion at Shkodra substation injures three workers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-11", "country": "Albania", "country_code": "al", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 30 November 2017, three employees were injured while repairing a defect at a substation in Shkodra. A short report said there was an explosion of a vehicle that was being repaired, and that the electricians received body burns. They were taken towards Shkodra Hospital and then to Tirana for specialised treatment. The same day, flooding was reported to have caused electricity problems in the city and suburbs. The report does not make clear what failed, or whether the weather caused the explosion.", "contributing_factors": "The workers were repairing a defect. Bad weather is mentioned, but the available report does not establish that flooding caused the explosion.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Vehicle repair at a substation carries explosion risk, so confirm isolation and safe work area before starting defect repairs. (2) Burn injuries from substation incidents need rapid transfer plans to specialised care. (3) A short secondary report may not identify the failed item or cause, so treat findings as provisional.", "source_url": "https://periskopi.com/en/2017/11/blasting-shkodra-substation-injured", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:10:59.807098+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1149", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1149/", "title": "Substation fire reported to have briefly cut power to thousands, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local newspaper serving Waco, Texas reported in late December 2017 that a fire at an electrical substation left thousands of customers briefly without power. Only the headline and summary were available, so the substation's name and exact location, the utility involved, the cause of the fire, the outage duration, the emergency service response and whether anyone was injured are all not reported. The reference to the outage being brief is the only indication of its duration.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires can cut supply to thousands even when brief, so operators should maintain rapid load transfer switching. (2) Early public reports often give only headlines, so operators should publish short post-incident summaries.", "source_url": "https://wacotrib.com/news/article_a55301eb-1386-516e-bc58-f4a338bffd0d.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:11:02.60431+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1151", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1151/", "title": "Fire at Lubbock substation after reported equipment failure", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Around 2 a.m. on 24 April 2017, a fire was reported at the McDonald's substation on Milwaukee Avenue in Lubbock, Texas. LP&L reported an equipment failure at the substation that affected more than 7,000 customers. Officials said something sparked a riser at 11th Place, the line overheated, and there was an explosion and an arc of electricity. The exact cause of the spark was not known. A transformer was also reported to have blown at 4th and Slide Avenue. Equipment inside the substation used to identify faults was reported to have malfunctioned. Power lines were down and some roads were closed. Customers were reported back on supply, with crews remaining on site to check the equipment and investigate.", "contributing_factors": "LP&L reported an equipment failure, and the equipment used to identify faults was reported to have malfunctioned. A spokesman said the spark might have been caused by an animal or by a lightning strike in the previous month that weakened the line, but neither was confirmed. The exact cause was not known.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fault detection equipment must be tested regularly because its malfunction can allow a fault to develop into a fire and explosion. (2) Unknown causes require prompt checks of all damaged lines and transformers before the event is treated as closed.", "source_url": "https://www.kcbd.com/story/35223217/caught-on-camera-fire-at-electrical-substation-leaves-7700-customers-in-the-dark/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:11:27.947606+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1152", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1152/", "title": "Substation fire reported at Menlyn", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A substation was reported to have caught fire at Menlyn. The only available report is a headline dated 5 February 2017. Cause, damage, injuries and any effect on supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A headline report of a substation fire gives no detail on extent or supply impact, so operators must seek confirmation before assessing risk. (2) No cause or outage should be assumed from a fire notice that states neither, to avoid incorrect risk ratings.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/rekord/news-headlines/2017/02/05/substation-catches-fire-at-menlyn/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T02:11:48.875245+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1153", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1153/", "title": "Fire destroys 28 battery packs at KEPCO ESS site in Daejeon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at around 6:25am on 21 September 2026 in an outdoor container housing an energy storage system (ESS) at the KEPCO Power ICT Daejeon Center in Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, South Korea. The ESS is located on the premises of KEPCO's Electric Power Research Institute but is managed by the Daejeon Center. Fire authorities deployed 24 pieces of equipment and 69 personnel, fully extinguishing the blaze approximately three hours and 58 minutes later, at around 10:23am. The fire completely burned 28 lithium-ion battery packs housed in two racks. There were no casualties. To prevent reignition, fire crews separated each battery pack and submerged them in water-filled immersion tanks. Police and fire authorities are investigating the exact cause and the scale of the damage.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation by police and fire authorities.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Outdoor containerised lithium-ion ESS fires can spread across racks, so operators must install rapid detection and internal suppression systems. (2) Lithium-ion battery fires risk reignition, so response plans must include separation and immersion of each pack.", "source_url": "https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/09/21/UBXABI3GBRHYTJXVSJMHJAAPYY/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-21T05:09:16.912328+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1154", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1154/", "title": "Cuba nationwide grid collapse follows high-voltage transmission line failure", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Cuba", "country_code": "cu", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 18 September 2026, at around 14:00 local time, Cuba's national electrical grid suffered a total collapse after a failure affecting high-voltage transmission lines in the central part of the country. The failure left millions of people without electricity across the island. Cuba's National Electrical Union initiated procedures to gradually restore the system. By late evening, power had been returned to several areas of Havana, primarily around hospitals, while much of the capital remained without electricity. The event was the latest in a series of major grid failures during 2026, with the country having experienced at least six partial or total system collapses since January, including three in July alone. Restoration work was reported as continuing following the failure.", "contributing_factors": "The grid has been under sustained pressure from fuel shortages and ageing infrastructure, which the source identifies as underlying causes of repeated system collapses during 2026.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A central high-voltage transmission line failure can trigger nationwide grid collapse, so operators must verify transmission redundancy and islanding capability. (2) Sustained fuel shortages combined with ageing infrastructure increase the risk of repeated total collapses, so insurers should require targeted reinvestment plans. (3) Six partial or total collapses in one year show systemic vulnerability, so lenders should review whether emergency response alone is sufficient.", "source_url": "https://transformer-magazine.com/news/cuba-grid-collapses-after-transmission-failure/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-21T09:07:07.184559+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1155", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1155/", "title": "Rooftop solar fire contained on a Peterborough warehouse roof", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In February 2024 a fire broke out on the roof of a commercial distribution warehouse at Alwalton Hill, on the south-western edge of Peterborough, England. The roof covers about 484,000 square feet and carried 21 rooftop solar arrays. Eleven fire engines and more than fifty firefighters attended, with a turntable ladder and a water carrier. Crews wore breathing apparatus and used hose reels. The fire service recorded the cause as accidental. Damage was contained to the roof and the building was saved. All crews were back at their stations by 7:40 p.m. A published account linked the blaze to the solar panels and discussed an arc fault, but it does not report a site-specific finding that an arc fault was the cause.", "contributing_factors": "The published account does not identify a confirmed mechanism. It says the fire service recorded the cause as accidental, and it discusses in general terms how a direct-current arc can continue if insulation, a connector or a joint fails. That discussion is not reported as a finding for this fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Daylight keeps rooftop modules energised after supply isolation, so crews must plan for live dc circuits on arrival. (2) A fire on a large commercial roof needs aerial access where ground hoses cannot reach. (3) Connectors and wiring are a known origin of photovoltaic fires, so inspection of those parts should be planned.", "source_url": "https://www.ecoportal.net/en/484-000-square-foot-warehouse-roof/39409/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T12:04:33.24318+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1156", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1156/", "title": "Fire at Pixley Solar Facility near Medicine Lodge", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported on a Saturday afternoon at the Pixley Solar Facility, a solar farm near Medicine Lodge, Kansas, which Public Service Company of Oklahoma was reported to own and operate. No injuries were reported. Barber County Emergency Management said there was no current danger to the environment or human health from the fire. The cause had not been established and the investigation was continuing. The extent of damage was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A solar farm fire needs prompt public statements on health and environmental risk, so operators should brief emergency services in advance. (2) After a fire at a solar facility, operators should publish the extent of damage so insurers can judge similar assets.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/investigation-continues-following-solar-farm-fire-near-medicine-lodge/ar-AA2cGe0K", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T15:06:59.826785+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1157", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1157/", "title": "Fire destroys turbine at Whitelee windfarm near Glasgow", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of Thursday 17 September, one of the 215 turbines at Whitelee Windfarm near Glasgow caught fire. Pictures shared with the reporting newspaper showed the turbine's charred head and blackened blades on the roughly 65-metre-tall hub, described as a burnt-out shell. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted at 22:49 and sent two fire appliances to the site in East Renfrewshire. Firefighters worked alongside ScottishPower representatives to make the area safe, leaving the scene at 01:17 the following morning. ScottishPower, which operates the windfarm, said the affected turbine was taken out of service and a safety exclusion zone established around it in line with the company's safety procedures. The relevant authorities were notified. The rest of the windfarm, the UK's largest onshore site, continued to operate normally. No injuries were reported. An earlier fire at the site was reported in July 2025, when footage showed smoke coming from one of the turbines.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of reporting; ScottishPower said it was investigating.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire at 65 metres cannot be fought from the ground, so plans must rest on early detection and remote isolation. (2) Repeat fire events at the same site warrant a wider review of turbine maintenance and fire detection.", "source_url": "https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/26568234.turbine-destroyed-fire-whitelee-windfarm-near-glasgow/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-21T15:07:09.598496+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1158", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1158/", "title": "Inverter hut fire at Wheelock Tract solar project in Shutesbury prompts permit review", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 16 April 2026 an inverter hut caught fire at the Wheelock Tract solar project, a 5.6 megawatt solar development on Pratt Corner Road in Shutesbury, Massachusetts, operated and owned by NextEra Energy, which holds the town special permit. Emergency dispatch was notified at 5.52pm and firefighters located the source of the blaze at 6.28pm. According to a memo from the town fire chief, the immediate aim was to stop the fire spreading beyond the inverter hut, and crews had to wait about an hour for capacitors to be deenergised before applying water to the inverters. Firefighters remained on site for several hours, eventually opening cabinet doors to confirm the equipment had cooled. No injuries or evacuations were reported in the source. A Planning Board member said that during an August site visit planners learned NextEra Energy representatives had described the company's best practice as not informing first responders of an inverter fire. Town officials are now seeking to reopen the special permit to add conditions on vegetation management, hardscape buffers, emergency access and site monitoring.", "contributing_factors": "Firefighters reported waiting roughly an hour for capacitors to be deenergised before water could be applied. Officials noted the site's remote location and reliance on a mostly volunteer fire department, and said the fire could have spread beyond the site had it occurred later in the season when grass is longer, or during drought conditions. The cause of ignition was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators must inform local fire services of any inverter fire at once, so crews can plan a safe approach without delay. (2) Inverter huts need clear documentation on how and how quickly capacitors can be deenergised, because delay extends the fire growth window. (3) Remote solar sites should have vegetation management and hardscape buffers around electrical equipment to limit fire spread risk.", "source_url": "https://recorder.com/2026/09/21/shutesbury-select-board-seeks-new-permit-conditions-after-solar-project-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T15:07:15.980147+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1159", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1159/", "title": "Substation fire reported mostly contained", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A news headline reported that a substation fire was mostly contained. The place, the operator, the cause, any injuries and the extent of damage were not reported in the material available to the register.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A headline that a substation fire was mostly contained gives too little detail to judge cause or residual risk. (2) Recheck early public reports on substation fires before drawing conclusions on equipment or response.", "source_url": "https://www.kgw.com/article/news/local/substation-fire-mostly-contained/283-574914450", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-21T15:09:19.027098+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1160", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1160/", "title": "Substation fire in Norwalk cuts power to thousands of Eversource customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical substation on New Canaan Avenue in Norwalk, Connecticut, caught fire on the evening of 24 August 2020. Fire officials reported heavy fire visible from an elevated switch gear cabinet controlling a 13,800 volt transmission line. Eversource technicians shut down power to the area so firefighters could safely tackle the blaze. Firefighters used dry chemical extinguishers to knock down the fire before applying a CO2 extinguisher to cool the equipment. Once the fire was extinguished, Eversource employees began restoring power that had been shut off for firefighting. At the peak of the outage, more than 16,000 Eversource customers in the city were without power, with over 6,000 still affected by around 9pm. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not state a root cause for the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Eversource technicians shut down power before firefighters tackled the blaze at the substation. (2) Dry chemical and CO2 extinguishers controlled fire in the elevated switch gear cabinet without further damage.", "source_url": "https://patch.com/connecticut/norwalk/power-outage-hits-thousands-eversource-customers-norwalk", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-22T02:06:37.305818+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1161", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1161/", "title": "Fire breaks out at ComEd substation on Goose Island in Chicago", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a ComEd electrical substation on Goose Island, on the North Side of Chicago, shortly after midnight. Fire crews were notified at about midnight and attended the substation in the 1100 block of North North Branch Street. The fire was struck out a little over an hour later after crews sprayed foam on it. No one was injured. The extent of any property damage was not immediately known. ComEd was not reporting any serious power outages in the area. The cause has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires can start outside working hours, so operators must ensure reliable out-of-hours detection and rapid call-out. (2) Foam was applied to an electrical fire, so responders must confirm isolation before using any suppression agent. (3) Early checks on customer supply allow better prioritisation of response effort.", "source_url": "https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/comed-substation-catches-fire-in-goose-island", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-22T02:07:05.037927+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1162", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1162/", "title": "Wind turbine fire at Harvest Wind II project in Michigan draws spectators, no injuries", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine caught fire on 1 April 2019 near Elkton in Huron County, Michigan. The turbine is part of the Harvest Wind II project, which Exelon Generation says is its project. The fire produced black smoke and flaming debris fell from the turbine, drawing local spectators who watched and recorded the event. Crews could not reach the fire at the top of the turbine, so it was left to burn itself out. As a precaution, operators de-energised other turbines at the Harvest Wind II project. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire is not stated in the available reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Turbine fires at height are often beyond the reach of ground crews, so response plans should anticipate a controlled burn-out with a safe cordon. (2) Precautionary de-energisation of adjacent turbines can reduce escalation risk while a fire is in progress. (3) Falling burning debris and public gathering show the value of rapid perimeter control during a turbine fire.", "source_url": "https://www.themorningsun.com/2019/04/02/wind-turbine-fire-in-huron-county-draws-spectators-no-injuries/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-22T02:07:46.227045+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1164", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1164/", "title": "Monopile crashes onto quay at Port of Rostock", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-11", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "EnergyWatch reported that a monopile wind turbine foundation weighing 800 tons, intended for the Hornsea 1 offshore wind farm, crashed down onto the quay at the Port of Rostock. The report is a short lead only. It does not say when the crash happened, how the monopile was being moved, whether anyone was hurt, or what damage resulted.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Heavy monopiles can drop during port handling, so lifts need the same controls and reporting as offshore work. (2) Operators must not assume a rigging fault until the cause of a monopile drop is known. (3) Early reports of component drops must state what is known about injury and damage.", "source_url": "https://energywatch.com/EnergyNews/Renewables/article10984367.ece", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-22T02:08:28.651099+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1166", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1166/", "title": "Disturbance at Chatsworth Substation reported minutes before Woolsey Fire start", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Southern California Edison told state regulators that a circuit at the Chatsworth Substation relayed at 2:22 p.m. on Thursday, switching the circuit off after a sensor detected a disturbance. The utility linked this to an outage two minutes before the Woolsey Fire is believed to have started, at about 2:24 p.m., in the area of Alfa Road, south of Simi Valley in Ventura County. The substation is just south of Simi Valley, near that reported ignition area. Edison said crews had not been able to reach its facilities in the area where the fire began, and that it had no indication from fire agency personnel that its facilities were involved in the start of the fire. It was not known whether the disturbance contributed to the fire, whether the fire caused the disturbance, or whether the two were unrelated. The company filed the report with the California Public Utilities Commission out of caution because the event might draw public attention.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the sensor trip was not reported. Edison said it did not know what triggered the circuit sensor. Any link between the disturbance and the Woolsey Fire had not been established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation circuit relay near a reported fire start must be logged and shared with investigators at once, without treating timing alone as proof of cause. (2) Access limits during an active fire can delay inspection of substations, so early reports must state what has and has not been checked. (3) Operators must keep protection-event records, including relay time and circuit identity, so investigators can compare them with ignition timing.", "source_url": "https://www.kqed.org/news/11705553/disturbance-occurred-at-socal-edison-substation-moments-before-woolsey-fire-started", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-22T02:08:30.89815+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1168", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1168/", "title": "Deliberate fire at Govan substation cuts power to 1,000 homes", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At around 6.30pm on 26 June 2017, a fire was deliberately started at an electrical distribution substation on Napier Drive in Govan, Glasgow. ScottishPower said the distribution box was completely destroyed by the fire, which was in a predominantly residential area, and that the incident caused a power cut affecting about 1,000 homes. Fire crews attended. Engineers from SP Energy Networks reconnected homes within a few hours by switching supplies on to another part of the electricity network, a temporary fix until a new substation could be installed and connected. ScottishPower described the incident as vandalism and offered a £3,000 reward for information leading to a conviction. Police Scotland said enquiries were continuing and appealed for information. Casualties were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was reported by ScottishPower and Police Scotland as having been started deliberately at an unmanned electrical distribution substation in a residential area.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Distribution substations in residential areas need physical security measures to deter unauthorised access and interference. (2) Network operators should maintain redundant switching capability so supplies can be restored quickly while permanent repairs or replacement assets are arranged. (3) Public communication about the dangers of tampering with electrical infrastructure supports both community safety and deterrence.", "source_url": "https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/glasgow-news/utility-firm-offer-3k-reward-13271449", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-22T02:09:09.346595+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1169", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1169/", "title": "Solar panel fire forces evacuation at IKEA Bolingbrook", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 13 May 2018 a solar panel on the roof of the IKEA store in Bolingbrook, Illinois caught fire. A dark cloud of smoke was visible over the building. Hundreds of people were evacuated. Firefighters said a solar panel on the roof had caught fire. The second floor and upstairs restaurant were assessed for water damage. Customers were allowed back in after a few hours. No one was hurt.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar on occupied commercial buildings should be included in fire risk assessments and evacuation planning. (2) Water used on a roof fire can affect floors below, so occupied areas under the array should be checked for water damage. (3) Reopening should wait until the fire is out and that check is complete.", "source_url": "https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/891896-ikea-roof-solar-panel-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-22T11:04:27.107335+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1170", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1170/", "title": "Rooftop solar panels catch fire at IKEA store in Wembley", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 16 October 2025 a fire broke out on the roof of the IKEA store on Drury Way in Wembley, north-west London. Approximately 100 solar panels were involved. The London Fire Brigade attended with five fire engines and around 30 firefighters, using a 32-metre turntable ladder. The fire was reported at 10:35 and brought under control by 12:44. At least 250 people were evacuated from the store as a precaution. A small section of the roof sustained damage. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar fires on large retail buildings require turntable ladders for access, so operators should ensure local fire services have suitable height equipment. (2) Fires in elevated solar arrays can spread to the roof structure, so owners should fit early detection and isolation systems. (3) Visible smoke from rooftop solar fires prompts large-scale evacuations, so stores must plan rapid public safety measures.", "source_url": "https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/hundreds-evacuated-ikea-wembley-after-solar-panels-catch-fire-1748354", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-22T11:04:29.325856+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1171", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1171/", "title": "Rooftop solar panel fire prompts evacuation at Wisconsin IKEA store", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 16 April 2026, smoke was reported coming from the roof of the IKEA store at 7500 S. IKEA Way in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. A rooftop solar panel had caught fire. The building was evacuated as a precaution while the Oak Creek Fire Department responded. Store employees extinguished the small fire before firefighters arrived on scene. Because rooftop solar equipment must be de-energised before crews can safely approach, firefighters waited for maintenance personnel to shut down the system before checking the rest of the rooftop installation. No injuries were reported. The store reopened to customers later that night. The cause of the fire remained under investigation, with fire officials saying they would work with store maintenance and company representatives to determine what went wrong.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; the cause of the fire was stated to be under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar arrays must be de-energised by maintenance staff before firefighters can approach safely. (2) On-site staff should be trained and equipped to tackle small rooftop solar fires at once. (3) Evacuate the building at once if smoke appears from rooftop solar equipment.", "source_url": "https://hoodline.com/2026/04/solar-scare-at-ikea-oak-creek-as-rooftop-panel-sparks-evacuation/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-22T11:04:33.962477+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1172", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1172/", "title": "Fire damages roof and solar panels at Joliet IKEA warehouse", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 29 April 2025 a fire spread across about a third of the roof of the IKEA distribution centre at 650 Emerald Drive, Joliet, Illinois. Around 10:15 a.m. local firefighters responded to heavy smoke from the roof. A total of 81 firefighters attended and the fire was put out after about two hours. Dozens of rooftop solar panels appeared to be destroyed. All employees left the building with no injuries reported. One firefighter received hospital treatment for exhaustion. The cause of the fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar arrays on large industrial buildings can be heavily damaged when a roof fire spreads. (2) Warehouse roof fires may need a large, coordinated fire service response and a long extinguishment time. (3) Evacuation planning should account for roof fires that also involve solar equipment, even when the cause is not yet known.", "source_url": "https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/joliet-ikea-warehouse-fire-roof-solar-panels", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-22T11:04:36.525629+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1173", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1173/", "title": "Rooftop solar panel fire on residential block in Lewisham, London", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 2 August 2024 a fire broke out involving a solar panel on the roof of a seven-storey residential building at Loampit Vale, Lewisham, London. London Fire Brigade received the first of 14 calls at 12:19 and brought the fire under control by 13:11. Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters attended, drawn from Lewisham, Greenwich, Lee Green and surrounding stations. Crews deployed a 32-metre ladder to reach the roof and applied PVStop, a black liquid polymer coating that blocks sunlight from reaching solar panels, stopping electricity generation so firefighters could safely tackle the blaze. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported; the cause of the fire was under investigation at the time of the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar on multi-storey buildings needs aerial ladders for access, so operators should plan for this response time. (2) Live solar panels need de-energising agents such as PVStop before crews can approach safely. (3) Publish root cause findings so owners of similar residential solar arrays can improve fire safety.", "source_url": "https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/incidents/2024/august/solar-panel-fire-lewisham", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-22T11:35:23.945822+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1174", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1174/", "title": "Rooftop solar panel fault sparks fire at Kent flats block", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on the roof and top floor of a 12 flat block on the Rosewood estate in Eden Road, Langley, near Maidstone, Kent. Residents first noticed smoke around 2.30pm before flames rapidly took hold. A passer by alerted occupants and ten fire engines attended. Firefighters evacuated the affected block and a neighbouring block as a precaution, forcing entry into some flats to confirm they were empty. No injuries were reported, but the 12 households in the affected block were unable to return home and were placed in emergency accommodation. Kent Fire and Rescue Service investigators attended the scene the following day and concluded that a fault with the rooftop solar panels had caused the blaze.", "contributing_factors": "Fire investigators attributed the fire to a fault with the rooftop solar panel installation; no further technical detail on the nature of the fault was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault in a rooftop solar panel installation can ignite a fire that spreads rapidly through roof spaces, so operators should inspect arrays on multi-occupancy blocks at regular intervals. (2) Solar panel faults on residential roofs require fire services to plan for rapid roof-space spread and forced entry for evacuation, so pre-incident plans must record array locations.", "source_url": "https://www.kentonline.co.uk/maidstone/news/rooftop-solar-panels-started-fire-288467/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-22T11:35:27.413944+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1175", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1175/", "title": "Rooftop solar panel fire guts NHS mental health ward in Malton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 8 July 2026 a fire broke out at the Springwood ward, a mental health unit at Malton Hospital in North Yorkshire, operated by Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust. The building was evacuated safely and no one was harmed. North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service investigated and established that the fire most likely started at one of the solar panels installed on the roof of the building. Because of the extensive damage the panels sustained during the fire, investigators were unable to determine further details about the specific cause of ignition. The trust confirmed that fire safety systems at the site operated as intended when the fire started, and that fire safety risk assessments covering the building and its electrical infrastructure were current at the time.", "contributing_factors": "The likely origin was one of the rooftop solar panels, but fire damage to the panels prevented investigators from establishing the precise technical cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar panels on occupied buildings need regular inspection to spot electrical or thermal faults before ignition. (2) Fire damage to solar panels can destroy evidence, so operators should retain inverter telemetry for later analysis. (3) Fire safety systems must cover renewable energy equipment on healthcare sites to allow safe evacuation.", "source_url": "https://www.yorkmix.com/hospital-fire-in-malton-started-in-solar-panels", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-22T11:35:29.364199+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1176", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1176/", "title": "Electricity substation fire closes road in Oxted", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Surrey Fire and Rescue Service was called at 4.30pm on 21 September 2026 to a fire at an electricity substation on Caterfield Road in Oxted. Two fire engines attended. Caterfield Lane was closed in both directions between Red Lane and Park Road. The service said black smoke could be seen from a distance and advised people who needed to to close windows and doors. It also said the fire had had some impact on the railway and advised people to check journeys. Crews were still at the scene at 11pm. By 8.10am on 22 September they had left and handed the incident to UK Power Networks and Southern Rail. Caterfield Lane remained closed that morning for emergency repairs, according to AA Traffic News. The cause of the fire has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) After a substation fire, hand the site promptly to the network operator so that emergency repairs can start without delay. (2) Visible smoke from a substation fire can affect rail services, so operators must warn passengers and advise them to check journeys. (3) Road closures near a substation fire must be maintained until repairs finish, as emergency work can extend into the next day.", "source_url": "https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/other/surrey-road-remains-closed-for-emergency-repairs-after-electricity-substation-fire/ar-AA2cKFlz", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-22T15:07:29.269393+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1178", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1178/", "title": "Lithium ion battery fire at Metropolitan Water District facility La Verne", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Evacuation orders were issued on 22 September after a lithium ion battery fire broke out at the Metropolitan Water District facility, 3000 block of Wheeler Avenue in La Verne. The fire involved a battery energy storage system near a solar panel field on the northeast side of the property. The initial fire in one battery storage container subsided after cooling measures, but popping sounds and smoke were observed from an adjacent unit. Fire crews monitored temperatures and stood by with water to prevent spread. A small explosion occurred when firefighters arrived. One civilian employee sustained minor injuries. Evacuation orders remained in place overnight due to concerns over potential toxic smoke, with shelter in place orders also issued in parts of the area. The water supply was unaffected and the cause remains unknown.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lithium ion battery storage container can reignite after initial cooling, so operators must monitor adjacent units for heat and smoke. (2) Fire crews at a battery energy storage system need water on standby to prevent spread from one container to another. (3) A small explosion can occur on arrival at a lithium ion battery fire, so responders must plan for sudden pressure events.", "source_url": "https://www.sgvtribune.com/2026/09/22/leave-now-evacuations-ordered-in-la-verne-after-lithium-ion-battery-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:18:20.728633+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1180", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1180/", "title": "Fire at a transformer station of a solar park near Wilhermsdorf", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Tuesday afternoon, firefighters were called to Meiersberg near Wilhermsdorf, in the district of Fürth, after a report at about 14:45 that a transformer station of a local solar park was on fire. A smoke plume visible from a distance prompted a larger response. The same report also describes the fire as being at a transformer station beside a solar park, so that link is not settled. High property damage is reported, and criminal police are investigating. The cause is not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer stations at or beside solar parks can catch fire, so operators should check electrical connections and cooling systems on a fixed schedule. (2) A visible smoke plume from park electrical equipment should trigger an immediate and scaled fire service response. (3) Until police report the cause of a station fire, operators should avoid assumptions and keep records for investigators.", "source_url": "https://www.nn.de/fuerth/feuer-in-trafostation-bei-wilhermsdorf-kripo-ermittelt-nach-brand-im-solarpark-1.15289884", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:21:02.56054+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1181", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1181/", "title": "Birds triggered fault at Subestação Carajás causing outage in Goiânia area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Brazil", "country_code": "br", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Birds on the electrical network caused a fault at Subestação Carajás. The incident led to a power outage affecting parts of Goiânia and Aparecida de Goiânia on the evening of 22 September. The interruption lasted approximately nine minutes. EDP worked to restore supply.", "contributing_factors": "Presence of birds on the electrical network at the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Birds on substation busbars or insulators can trigger faults, so operators should fit bird guards or insulated covers on live parts. (2) A wildlife fault at a transmission substation can affect distribution customers, so rapid coordination between operators is needed to limit outage duration.", "source_url": "https://www.g5news.com.br/geral/passaros-provocaram-falha-em-subestacao-que-deixou-partes-de-goiania-e-aparecida", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:21:11.551575+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1182", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1182/", "title": "Transformer fire at photovoltaic plant in Offida", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Italy", "country_code": "it", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At 16.00 on 23 September 2026 firefighters from Ascoli responded to a fire inside a cabin containing the transformer of a photovoltaic plant between the localities of Rovecciano and San Barnaba in Offida. Crews extinguished the flames with foam. They then used a thermal camera to confirm that temperatures had returned below safe levels and continued cooling and site cleanup. The cause and the extent of damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fires in photovoltaic plant cabins require foam to extinguish, so operators should store suitable foam on site or nearby. (2) A thermal camera after extinction confirms temperatures are safe, so response plans should include this step. (3) Residual heat after a transformer fire needs continued cooling and cleanup, so crews must stay until the site is clear.", "source_url": "https://www.vigilfuoco.it/direzione-regionale-vigili-del-fuoco-marche/notizie/incendio-trasformatore-offida", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:21:20.586274+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1183", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1183/", "title": "Fire at Subestación América disrupts supply in Daule and Santa Lucía", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Ecuador", "country_code": "ec", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred near 07:00 on 22 September 2026 within the perimeter of Subestación América in the canton of Daule, Guayas. The Corporación Nacional de Electricidad (CNEL EP), through its Unidad de Negocio Guayas Los Ríos, confirmed the incident. It caused damage to voltage regulators and interrupted supply in some settlements in the cantons of Daule and Santa Lucía. CNEL said the fire was under control. Technical staff were assessing the affected equipment to establish the extent of the damage and to restore supply. The time of full restoration was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire inside a substation perimeter can damage voltage regulators and cut supply to settlements in nearby cantons. (2) Technical staff must assess damaged substation equipment before supply can be restored safely. (3) An early statement from the network operator clarifies a local substation fire from wider grid failure.", "source_url": "https://www.eltelegrafo.com.ec/noticias/nacionales/210/incendio-en-subestacion-america-cnel-trabaja-para-restablecer-servicio-en-daule-y-santa-lucia", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:22:53.686527+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1184", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1184/", "title": "Transformer fire at Trejo substation in Silao disrupts supply in Irapuato", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Mexico", "country_code": "mx", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A news report says a transformer at the Trejo substation in Silao caught fire and interrupted electricity supply in some areas of Irapuato. CFE said supply had been restored to 79.9 per cent of the affected areas. The report does not say when the fire started, what caused it, whether anyone was injured, or whether the remaining supply was later restored.", "contributing_factors": "The report does not give a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at one substation can interrupt supply in a neighbouring town, so restoration plans should cover areas beyond the substation itself. (2) Early public updates should state what share of affected supply has been restored and what remains out.", "source_url": "https://oem.com.mx/noticiasvespertinas/policiaca/incendio-de-transformador-de-cfe-provoca-cortes-de-luz-en-algunas-zonas-de-irapuato-32214354", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:23:08.433067+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1185", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1185/", "title": "Vegetation fire reaches two solar plants near Torrecera", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Spain", "country_code": "es", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A vegetation fire broke out on the CA-4107 road between Torrecera and Paterna de Rivera at kilometre 6. The blaze affected around 15,000 square metres and reached vegetation at the Arcos 4 and Arcos 5 photovoltaic plants in the municipality of Jerez. Firefighters from Medina Sidonia, with support from Benalup, attended. The fire lasted one hour and ten minutes. The provincial fire consortium reported no damage to the solar installations themselves.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A vegetation fire on a road beside a solar plant can reach plant grounds even when the equipment is not damaged. (2) Crews should treat vegetation next to arrays as a spread path and cool affected ground after the flames are out. (3) Where the ignition cause is unknown, operators should record conditions at the site boundary for later review.", "source_url": "https://www.lavozdelsur.es/ediciones/jerez/incendio-en-la-carretera-que-une-torrecera-con-paterna-el-fuego-alcanza-dos-plantas-fotovoltaicas.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:24:13.823841+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1186", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1186/", "title": "Fire at Raven Battery Facility prompts evacuation and school closure", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at Raven Battery Facility. The same report states that an evacuation order remained in place and that a primary school was closed. The cause, the operator, any injuries and the extent of damage are not stated in the available headline.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A battery facility fire may keep an evacuation order in place, so plans must cover a prolonged exclusion zone. (2) A fire at a battery facility may force a nearby primary school to close, so operators should map schools in the smoke or evacuation area. (3) The first report of a battery fire may omit the cause and damage scale, so updates must state what remains unknown.", "source_url": "https://www.radiokorea.com/news/article.php?uid=504890", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:24:28.249897+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1187", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1187/", "title": "Incipient fire at San Mateo substation cuts power in Cúcuta", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Colombia", "country_code": "co", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 16 September 2026, Centrales Eléctricas del Norte de Santander (CENS) reported an unscheduled loss of electricity in several sectors of Cúcuta and the metropolitan area after an incipient fire in equipment at the San Mateo substation. CENS said it had activated specialised substation staff and sent them to the site. Supply in Los Patios and Villa del Rosario was also reported affected. The Los Patios mayor's office said CENS staff were inspecting the substation and working on an alternate connection to restore supply. The cause, any injuries, and whether supply was restored were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The company described an incipient fire in one piece of substation equipment. A social-media post referred to an explosion, but that claim was not confirmed in the company statement.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An incipient fire in one piece of substation equipment can cut supply to a city and nearby municipalities. (2) Operators must prepare an alternate connection path to restore supply during substation isolation and inspection.", "source_url": "https://www.pulzo.com/amp/nacion/cucuta-sufrio-apagon-varios-sectores-incendio-subestacion-san-mateo-PP5305232A", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:24:57.546585+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1188", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1188/", "title": "Incipient fire reaches solar equipment at a home in Arapiraca", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Brazil", "country_code": "br", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the afternoon of 22 September 2026, an incipient fire at a residence on Rua Santa Cecília, in the Canafístula neighbourhood of Arapiraca, Alagoas, reached equipment in the property's solar energy system, according to the fire service. The owner had already brought the flames under control before a crew of three arrived. Firefighters assessed the scene and advised the person responsible for the property on precautions for the home. The cause, the extent of damage and whether anyone was hurt were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A small fire at a home with solar equipment may be put out by the owner, yet the system must be inspected before reuse to confirm no hidden damage. (2) Fire crews at a residence with solar panels should note the equipment involved and give the owner clear safety advice on site. (3) When reports omit cause and damage details, operators must await full findings before assuming any failure mode.", "source_url": "https://www.alagoas24horas.com.br/1763347/incendio-atinge-sistema-de-energia-solar-de-residencia/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:32:45.980537+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1189", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1189/", "title": "Wind turbine on dike catches fire near Simonsberg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Monday evening a wind turbine on a dike in the municipality of Simonsberg, Kreis Nordfriesland, on the North Sea coast, caught fire. Emergency services were called and the fire was extinguished. The turbine was reported out of operation afterwards. The cause was not established.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine fire on a coastal dike needs a pre-agreed access and water plan for emergency services. (2) Take the affected turbine out of service until the cause and the condition of the machine are known. (3) Record what is not yet known, including cause, damage and any injuries, rather than filling gaps.", "source_url": "https://www.welt.de/regionales/hamburg/article6ab21af2b1857e86757aa474/windrad-auf-deich-brennt-ursache-noch-unklar.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:35:48.809453+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1190", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1190/", "title": "Rooftop solar fire after unauthorised inverter replacement", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 7 September 2026 a fire broke out on the rooftop photovoltaic array at Zhongding Road 16, Xihongmen Town, Daxing District, Beijing. The fire was reported at 12:01 and extinguished by 12:30. The affected area measured 100 square metres. No one was injured or trapped. Investigation found that maintenance staff had replaced the inverter without the required special-operation qualifications and in breach of the equipment manual. The unauthorised work caused an inverter fault that started the fire.", "contributing_factors": "Maintenance personnel performed inverter replacement and testing without special-operation qualifications and contrary to the equipment user manual.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Inverter replacement on rooftop arrays must use only qualified staff, or an electrical fault can start a fire. (2) All inverter work must follow the equipment manual, or faults that cause fires will occur. (3) Operators must check qualifications before electrical maintenance, to stop unqualified work on live equipment.", "source_url": "http://m.solarzoom.com/index.php/article/204515", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:36:29.142287+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1191", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1191/", "title": "Substation fire briefly cuts power to about 6,000 in North Waco", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical fire at a substation in North Waco was reported to have left about 6,000 residents, street lights and businesses without power for about 40 minutes on a Thursday afternoon in December 2017. Oncor employees were reported working at the substation at 27th Street and Colonial Avenue. Power was reported restored in less than an hour. The cause of the fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not report a cause or the equipment involved.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A local substation fire can interrupt supply to thousands of customers even when power is back within an hour. (2) Operators should be ready to restore distribution quickly after a substation fire. (3) Where public reports do not identify the failed component, operators should record the cause for later review.", "source_url": "https://wacotrib.com/news/article_a55301eb-1386-516e-bc58-f4a338bffd0d.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T19:41:44.513711+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1192", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1192/", "title": "Sparks from a pole transformer reported to have started a fire in Güveçli village", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Turkey", "country_code": "tr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In Güveçli village, linked to the centre of Bingöl, Turkey, sparks said to have come from an electricity transformer on a pole were reported to have started a fire nearby. Firefighters, village residents and teachers from a local school responded. The fire was brought under control. The cause had not been established, and an investigation was opened. Injuries, damage and any effect on supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports an allegation that sparks from the pole-mounted transformer started the fire. The cause was still under investigation, so no contributing factor is established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Sparks from a pole-mounted transformer can ignite nearby vegetation, so operators should inspect connections and insulation on village-edge poles. (2) A local response with firefighters and residents can contain a small fire near grid equipment before it spreads.", "source_url": "https://www.bingolguncel.tv/guvecli-koyunde-trafo-kivilcimi-yangin-cikardi/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T20:09:11.326818+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1193", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1193/", "title": "Transformer fire closes portion of Route 30 in Framingham", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 23 September 2026, a transformer fire was reported near 16 Cochituate Road in Framingham, Massachusetts. The fire service said a utility pole fell for an unknown reason, spilling oil from the pole-mounted transformer, which then ignited. A portion of Cochituate Road (Route 30) between Beacon Street and Worcester Road (Route 9) was closed. Eversource was on site to repair the damaged transformer and was reported to have rerouted power so that only a small section of customers was affected. The utility estimated restoration later the same day; whether that time was met is not reported.", "contributing_factors": "A utility pole was reported to have fallen for an unknown reason, spilling transformer oil that ignited. No further cause is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) When a pole-mounted transformer fails after a pole fall, treat the cause as unknown until the utility investigation is reported. (2) Rapid rerouting can limit how many customers lose supply, but outage figures should still be published separately from that claim. (3) Oil release from a damaged pole transformer can close a road, so traffic control and fire response need to be planned with the repair.", "source_url": "https://www.metrowestdailynews.com/story/news/fire/2026/09/23/power-outages-closed-cochituate-road-after-transformer-fire-framingham-ma/91908047007/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T20:09:12.896934+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1194", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1194/", "title": "Transformer explosion reported in Yozgat centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Turkey", "country_code": "tr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline reported an explosion in a transformer in the centre of Yozgat, Turkey. The report is dated 23 September 2026. It does not say whether anyone was hurt, whether power was lost, or how the incident was dealt with.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators must confirm supply status after any transformer explosion report, since headlines give no outage details. (2) A headline report of a transformer explosion requires direct checks on asset condition before any response plan.", "source_url": "https://merhabayozgat.com/haber/28861332/yozgat-merkezde-trafoda-patlama", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T20:09:31.880767+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1195", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1195/", "title": "Fire reported at an energy storage facility in Nowe Bystre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Poland", "country_code": "pl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at an energy storage facility in Nowe Bystre, Poland, and firefighters were reported to have attended. The extent of damage, any injuries and the cause have not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported fire at energy storage as a thermal event until the cause is known. (2) Confirm the scale of damage and any off-site effects before closing the incident record. (3) Record the fire service response even when early reports give little detail.", "source_url": "https://24tp.pl/pl/19_wiadomosci-z-regionu/833_gmina-poronin/152654_pozar-magazynu-energii-w-nowem-bystrem-interweniowali-strazacy.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T20:09:33.899961+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1196", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1196/", "title": "Fire breaks out in wind turbine near Mjölby", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Sweden", "country_code": "se", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported in a wind turbine in Bjälbo outside Mjölby. The alarm was received at 11.20. Rescue services said callers could see fire at the top of the turbine and that it was about 50 metres up in the machine room. Crews kept a safety distance in case objects fell. At 11.49 the rescue service reported that the rotor blades had detached and fallen to the ground. A 100-metre exclusion zone was set up and road 947 was closed past the site. An officer said crews were unlikely to climb up and extinguish the fire with water, and expected it to burn out while they dealt with any fire that reached the ground. Whether the fire later went out, and whether anyone was hurt, was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Establish and maintain exclusion zones around turbines during nacelle fires. (2) Prepare contingency plans for structural detachment of blades. (3) Plan to contain any ground-level spread when crews cannot safely reach a fire high in the turbine.", "source_url": "https://www.tv4.se/just-nu/5OQ2s6Q9W0TMo72T1XGKvY/%E2%80%93%20Misstanken%20om%20spioneri%20grundar%20sig%20p%C3%A5%20att%20de%20misst%C3%A4nktas%20informationsinh%C3%A4mtning%20har%20varit%20koncentrerad%20till%20omr%C3%A5den%20i%20n%C3%A4rheten%20av%20objekt%20som%20%C3%A4r%20kritiska%20med%20tanke%20p%C3%A5%20Finlands%20f%C3%B6rs%C3%B6rjningsberedskap", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T20:11:57.674504+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1197", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1197/", "title": "Transformer cable fire cuts overnight power in Marhara, Etah", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Sunday evening at about 8pm, a short circuit in the cable of an electricity transformer near the old hospital in Marhara, Etah, started a fire. Supply was cut to Mohalla Kazi, part of Mohalla Chobdar, Mohalla Gafurganj and part of Mohalla Sheeshgiran, and stayed off through the night. Residents were reported sitting outside or walking in the streets because of the heat. Electricity staff reached the site during the night to attempt repairs but did not restore supply then. The next morning, residents reported difficulty getting water for drinking and bathing. A sub-divisional officer said a team was repairing the fault and that supply would be restored soon.", "contributing_factors": "The report attributes the fire to a short circuit in the transformer cable. No further technical detail is given.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A short circuit in a distribution transformer cable can cut supply to several neighbourhoods at once. (2) An overnight repair attempt at a transformer may not restore supply before morning. (3) Loss of electricity supply can disrupt household water use even when no water system damage is reported.", "source_url": "https://www.bhaskar.com/local/uttar-pradesh/etah/marahara/news/etah-marhara-power-outage-transformer-fire-residents-suffering-139098500.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-23T20:13:28.85097+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1198", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1198/", "title": "Fire at Sirius Solar plant in Zamora extinguished after eight resources respond", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Spain", "country_code": "es", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Sirius Solar photovoltaic plant in the municipality of Zamora, Spain, on the afternoon of 20 September 2026. The regional forest-fire service recorded the start at 18:20 and classed the fire at potential gravity index 0, a rating it kept for the whole response. Eight resources were assigned from the start, including two environmental agents or wardens. The fire was brought under control and declared out at 19:30, one hour and ten minutes after it began. Six resources were still assigned at that time. The probable cause is officially under investigation, and the burned area had not yet been measured.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A solar photovoltaic plant fire rated gravity index 0 can be declared out in seventy minutes when eight resources respond at once. (2) Operators must survey the site after extinguishment because a low severity rating does not confirm whether plant equipment burned. (3) Records may leave both cause and burned area unknown after the fire is out, so operators should continue their own checks.", "source_url": "https://www.za49.es/sucesos/incendio-planta-solar-zamora-ocho-medios-movilizados-sofocarlo_1_6021621.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:07:28.080724+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1199", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1199/", "title": "Blade failure damages GE Vernova turbine at Björkvattnet", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-09", "country": "Sweden", "country_code": "se", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 3 September 2021, Recharge reported a blade failure that damaged a 5.3MW GE Vernova onshore turbine at Björkvattnet in northern Sweden. The manufacturer was analysing the root cause. Injuries, the extent of damage beyond the blade, and whether the turbine was in operation were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A blade failure on a large onshore turbine can damage the machine and should prompt a manufacturer root-cause review before similar units return to service. (2) Where only the fact of an ongoing manufacturer analysis is public, operators should not infer a specific defect from that account.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/blade-failure-hits-flagship-ge-turbine-at-ill-fated-wind-farm-tapped-by-google/2-1-1062254", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:07:55.955265+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1200", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1200/", "title": "Transformer fire at Georgia Power plant in Cobb County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire occurred in the switchyard at Plant McDonough, operated by Georgia Power, in Cobb County, United States. The fire led to explosions and reports of shaking felt in the surrounding neighbourhood. Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services responded to the two-alarm fire, with hazmat crews also attending. The fire was contained within the switchyard and extinguished with no injuries reported. Neighbours observed flames, smoke and embers, and some chose to evacuate. The power delivery system operated as designed, with no extended customer outages. The cause is under investigation and is believed to be equipment failure related to the transformer.", "contributing_factors": "Equipment failure related to the transformer.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire in a switchyard can produce explosions felt in the neighbourhood, so operators must coordinate quickly with local fire services and hazmat teams. (2) Protection systems that isolate a switchyard fault prevent wider outages, so operators should verify these systems work as designed.", "source_url": "https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/transformer-fire-georgia-power-plant-shakes-cobb-county-neighborhood/N6WXFF5ZS5ENLEDWIRIJGA6IZE/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:08:07.577566+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1201", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1201/", "title": "Wind turbine reported to have collapsed onto Bartow Avenue near Co-op City", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine was reported to have come crashing down on Bartow Avenue about a month before a late January 2020 meeting. Elected officials, city agencies and Co-op City residents met to discuss the future of that turbine. The report does not give the exact date, the cause, whether anyone was hurt, or which company operated the turbine.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine collapse onto a public road should be treated as a public-safety event until the wreckage is made safe. (2) Operators should be ready to tell residents and agencies what failed and what will happen to the remaining machine. (3) Until a cause is known, similar turbines should be checked for the same mechanical risk.", "source_url": "https://longisland.news12.com/2020/01/30/coop-city-residents-elected-officials-push-against-wind-turbine-following-machinerys-collapse-41629257/47kBmuw3XH6PWur4qDh7cG", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:08:17.578596+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1203", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1203/", "title": "Underground transformer explosion cuts power near Dupont Circle, Washington", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Early on 30 October 2019, an underground transformer exploded in the 1400 block of 17th Street, NW, in north-west Washington, near Dupont Circle. WJLA reported power cuts for roughly 420 to 421 residents. Officials closed 17th Street between P Street and Massachusetts Avenue. Pepco said power was scheduled to be restored by 9 a.m. the same day. The cause was reported as still under investigation, and the report was marked as developing.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. Officials said the cause of the explosion was under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An underground transformer failure can close a street and cut supply before the cause is known. (2) Give a clear restoration time and update it if the investigation changes the schedule. (3) Keep the public closure in place until the vault or street is confirmed safe.", "source_url": "https://wjla.com/news/local/underground-transformer-explosion-causes-power-outages-in-dc", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:08:32.659872+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1205", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1205/", "title": "Witnesses link broken wind turbine to Juniper Fire near Bickleton, cause not confirmed", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Juniper Fire burned grass, sagebrush and timber in the Pine Creek Drainage area south of Bickleton, Klickitat County, Washington. Reporting dated 21 July 2019 said the fire started on the Saturday around 2:00 p.m. An earlier estimate put the burned area at 350 acres; by Sunday evening officials reported 242 acres burned and 40 percent containment. Thirty-nine structures were threatened and none had burned. Level three evacuations were in place. Crews faced 28 mph wind gusts and low humidity, and state fire resources were sent to support local crews. Officials said the cause remained under investigation. Witnesses said the fire started at a broken wind turbine. It is not reported which turbine, operator or site was involved, or whether that account has been confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Officials had not reported a cause. Witnesses attributed ignition to a broken wind turbine, which has not been confirmed. Reported fire weather included wind gusts of 28 mph and low humidity.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where witnesses link a wildfire to a turbine, operators should preserve the machine and site evidence until the official cause is known. (2) Remote wind sites should have pre-agreed mutual aid with local fire services. (3) Elevated wind and low humidity should prompt heightened readiness where turbines stand in dry vegetation.", "source_url": "https://katu.com/news/local/witnesses-say-broken-wind-turbine-caused-several-hundred-acre-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:08:44.746827+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1207", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1207/", "title": "EFL transformer blew in Dilkusha, cutting power in Nakasi and Davuilevu Housing", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-04", "country": "Fiji", "country_code": "fj", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 9 April 2019, an Energy Fiji Limited transformer blew in Dilkusha, and thousands of people in Nakasi and Davuilevu Housing were still without power. Energy Fiji Limited said technical staff were working on the fault and gave no time for restoration. The same report also described a separate outage in Koronivia, Nausori, after a feeder tripped, with no time given for supply to return. The cause, and whether anyone was hurt, were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source does not say why the transformer blew, or whether the Koronivia feeder trip was related.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A single transformer failure can leave a wide residential area without power before the extent of the fault is known. (2) Tell customers when a restoration time is not yet available, rather than leaving the outage open-ended. (3) Log a second feeder trip the same morning as a separate event until a shared cause is established.", "source_url": "https://fijivillage.com/r/Nakasi-and-Davuilevu-Housing-face-power-outage-after-EFL-transformer-blew-in-Dilkusha-2k5rs9/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:09:10.298401+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1210", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1210/", "title": "Transformer fire at We Energies substation cuts power to more than 19,000 customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a We Energies substation on Center and 30th in Milwaukee on 8 May 2018. Neighbours reported an explosion around 5 p.m. The initial fire caused only a brief outage before the system switched load to another transformer. When fire crews arrived, power was shut off to allow safe access, resulting in a secondary outage affecting more than 19,000 customers for approximately two hours. Power was restored by 7 p.m. The cause remains unknown.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a substation requires rapid de-energisation before fire crews enter, so operators must confirm isolation procedures work under load. (2) A substation fault can force load transfer to another transformer, so backup paths must be rated to prevent a secondary outage to thousands of customers. (3) Neighbours may hear an explosion at a substation before fire crews arrive, so operators should use public reports to speed initial response.", "source_url": "https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/nearly-20000-north-side-residents-lose-power-due-to-transformer-fire", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:09:51.006292+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1212", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1212/", "title": "Fire damages substation and cuts power in Eldorado Park", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-10", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Heavy rain fell in Johannesburg on Saturday after a fire broke out on Friday night at a transformer substation serving Eldorado Park. The fire completely damaged the substation, which is now being demolished. Technicians began preparatory work to install a replacement 500kVA mini-substation. Power remained off to Eldorado Park Extension 7 and surrounding areas, including streets such as Wisconsin, Vermont, Ohio, Texas and Nebraska, until repairs could be finished. City Power stated that work was expected to restore supply by late that evening.", "contributing_factors": "Preliminary information indicated that homeless squatters may have started a fire inside the substation to keep warm, or that the fire may have resulted from attempted theft of infrastructure. Both possibilities were under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer substation fire from internal trespass can destroy the asset, so operators should fit perimeter barriers and intrusion detection. (2) Theft attempts can ignite fires in live substations, so owners should secure cable and equipment against removal. (3) A fully damaged substation requires rapid mini-substation replacement, so plans must include pre-stocked units and technician access.", "source_url": "https://www.dailydispatch.co.za/news/2018-10-13-fire-at-substation-leaves-parts-of-eldorado-park-without-power/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:09:57.927765+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1213", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1213/", "title": "Crane boom collapse injures four on Pacific Osprey", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-08", "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The offshore wind installation vessel Pacific Osprey, operated by Swire Blue Ocean, was jacked up alongside the quay in Eemshaven, the Netherlands, when the box section of its crane boom collapsed onto the bridge at about 17.25 CET on 23 August 2018. The crane was undergoing maintenance. The company said four crew members were injured, one seriously and three with minor injuries, and that one other crew member was taken to hospital with shock. Three people were later discharged. One remained in a critical condition, and another crew member was in hospital under observation. Material damage was confined to the vessel, which the company said was significant. No third-party personnel were injured and no port infrastructure was damaged.", "contributing_factors": "The crane was undergoing maintenance when the boom collapsed. The company did not state a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Crane boom collapse on a jacked-up vessel can reach the bridge, so map fall paths and clear the space before maintenance starts. (2) Maintenance on large cranes leaves a collapse risk to occupied areas, so move crew or add exclusion zones. (3) A single crane failure on an installation vessel can produce several casualties at once, so plan for multiple hospital transfers.", "source_url": "https://www.rivieramm.com/news-content-hub/news-content-hub/several-injured-in-incident-on-offshore-wind-installation-vessel-23591", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:09:59.307279+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1214", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1214/", "title": "Downed PG&E lines reported as a possible start of the Camp Fire near Poe Dam", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 8 November 2018, firefighters were sent to a vegetation fire under high-tension power lines across the Feather River from Poe Dam in Butte County, California. Radio traffic referred to downed PG&E lines and a possible power line hazard, and crews noted winds of about 35 mph and difficult access. The fire spread and destroyed the town of Paradise. PG&E had warned that it might shut off power in parts of Butte County because of forecast wind and low humidity, but it did not, and later said conditions did not warrant a shut-off. Cal Fire said the cause was still under investigation, including electrical equipment. It had not been determined that the lines started the fire.", "contributing_factors": "High winds were reported at the scene, and forecasts had cited strong wind and low humidity. Whether downed lines, or the decision not to shut off power, contributed to the fire had not been established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High-tension power lines in high winds need recorded decisions on public safety power shut-off when forecasts show strong wind and low humidity. (2) A vegetation fire under transmission lines with reports of downed lines requires immediate hazard checks before crews approach.", "source_url": "https://www.chicoer.com/2018/11/09/pge-power-lines-may-have-sparked-deadly-butte-county-wildfire-according-to-radio-transmissions/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:10:07.296925+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1217", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1217/", "title": "Wind turbine blade tip breaks in high winds near Tiverton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-05", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 4 May 2018, the tip of one blade on a 1.8 MW Vestas V80 turbine at the Huron Wind project broke in high winds and was left dangling. The turbine stands just off Bruce Road 20, north of Tiverton, near Bruce Power's off-site visitors centre. Bruce Road 20 was closed to traffic and was expected to stay closed overnight while the turbine was inspected, with repairs planned for the following morning once the wind eased. The project, built in 2002, has five turbines. Environment Canada had warned of gusts of 90 to 100 km/h that afternoon for Saugeen Shores and Kincardine as a cold front moved through. The report does not mention injuries.", "contributing_factors": "The break happened during high winds linked to a cold front, with a regional warning for gusts of 90 to 100 km/h. A confirmed mechanical cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A blade tip on a Vestas V80 turbine can fail in high winds and leave debris that blocks a public road, so operators should close access routes until the turbine is secured. (2) High wind gusts of 90 to 100 km/h linked to a cold front can damage turbine blades, so operators should inspect blades after each such forecast event.", "source_url": "https://lfpress.com/woodstock/wind-turbine-damaged-near-bruce-power-visitors-centre/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:10:52.25133+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1218", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1218/", "title": "Explosion at Berrimah substation injures a worker and cuts power in Darwin", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-08", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Just before 8:00am on 29 August 2017, an explosion at the Berrimah substation in Darwin injured a Power and Water Corporation worker, who was taken to hospital with minor burns and was reported to be in a stable condition. The blast shut the whole substation and stopped eight feeders, leaving about 4,700 homes without power in Anula, Holtze, Berrimah, Winnelie and Leanyer. The cause was not known. A company spokesman said the site probably had smoke and carbon damage and that crews would have to isolate equipment and dismantle heavy machinery before they could inspect the switchgear. The substation was not to be re-energised until after an investigation. Because of the risk of a secondary explosion, investigators gave no clear timeframe for finishing that work. Power and Water warned of further minor outages as loads shifted during restoration, and said that, depending on the damage, parts of the substation might be back between 48 hours and a week, though it was too early to say when it would be fully back. Power was later restored to the affected properties.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fault was not reported. Investigators had not yet accessed the switchgear.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a substation explosion, keep the site isolated until crews can safely access damaged switchgear. (2) Tell customers that restoring supply may bring further short outages as loads shift. (3) Do not set a firm return-to-service date until the damage, including any secondary explosion risk, is known.", "source_url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-08-30/darwin-homes-without-power-after-explosion-at-berrimah/8855384", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:10:59.785043+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1219", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1219/", "title": "Transformer fire at Crystal River Complex power plant", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2011, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred on a transformer at Unit 1 of Progress Energy's Crystal River Complex shortly before 1 p.m. on a Sunday in January 2011. No injuries were reported. Three weeks earlier, on 19 December, fire crews responded to a transformer fire at Crystal River Units 1 and 2, fossil-fuel power plants on Powerline Road in Crystal River. That earlier incident damaged the transformer and surrounding area; the cause was not reported. After the second fire, the operator said a transformer fire is not typical and said a root-cause analysis would be carried out. The site maintains on-site fire-fighting staff, and a call for county backup was received at 12:41 p.m.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer fires at the same site three weeks apart require checks on shared systems and maintenance records after the first event. (2) Transformer fires need on-site fire-fighting staff because county backup was called after the alarm.", "source_url": "https://www.chronicleonline.com/news/local/power-plant-transformer-catches-fire-sunday/article_3552565b-74ec-547e-abc9-3edfdeb39074.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-24T02:11:02.275555+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1220", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1220/", "title": "Explosion and fire at a LUMA Energy substation in Carolina leaves over 217,000 without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Puerto Rico", "country_code": "pr", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report dated 24 September 2026 said more than 217,000 customers across several municipalities in Puerto Rico were without power after an explosion and fire at a LUMA Energy substation in Carolina. The report said the outages affected multiple areas. It did not say what failed, whether anyone was hurt, or how long the outages lasted.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source does not give a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut supply to a very large number of customers at once, so operators should be ready to confirm the affected area quickly. (2) Early public updates should state what is known and what is not yet known, including cause and expected restoration. (3) Until a cause is reported, treat fire detection, isolation and restoration planning as open checks rather than as findings.", "source_url": "https://www.jfeed.com/latest-news/over-217-000-customers-lose-power-after-explosion-at-puerto-rico-substation-52456", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T05:11:15.639332+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1221", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1221/", "title": "Fire at solar panels near Inba-numa after flooding in Narita", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Japan", "country_code": "jp", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At about 8.30 am on 24 September 2026 a passer-by reported a fire at solar power generation panels beside Inba-numa in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture. The site was flooded after Typhoon No. 25, so fire and police services could not approach and no active firefighting was possible. The fire appeared to be out at one point, but smoke and flames were still seen in the afternoon. No link between the typhoon and the ignition has been established. Police and others said they would examine the site once the fire was out. The extent of damage and whether the fire was later extinguished were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Flooding after Typhoon No. 25 prevented emergency access. The source does not establish that the typhoon caused the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Flooding can leave responders unable to reach a solar site, so access during inundation needs to be planned in advance. (2) A fire that appears out can still be burning later, so observation should continue after an apparent extinguishment. (3) Flooding should not be treated as the cause until the site can be examined.", "source_url": "https://www.fnn.jp/articles/-/1120104", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T09:07:16.002408+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1222", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1222/", "title": "Transformer fire at Blue Hills power plant disrupts supply in New Providence", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Bahamas", "country_code": "bs", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 22 September 2026, a transformer fire at the Blue Hills power plant, at Blue Hill Road and Soldier Road in Nassau, disrupted electricity supply in New Providence, Bahamas Power and Light said. Police said fire services were alerted shortly before 6 a.m. and two fire engines attended. The blaze was confined to a transformer in the southwestern section of the property. The transformer was extensively damaged before the fire was extinguished. BPL said staff and partners remained safe, the site was isolated, and crews then worked to restore supply. This report does not state how many customers lost power or when supply was fully restored.", "contributing_factors": "A site manager told fire services that a lightning strike may have caused the fire. That remains a suspicion. BPL said it was assessing how to better protect equipment and reduce the impact of storms on customers. No confirmed cause is given.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A suspected lightning strike should stay marked as unconfirmed until the investigation is finished, and lightning protection should be checked after a storm-related transformer fire. (2) Isolating the affected equipment and confirming that the fire is confined limits damage and protects staff. (3) Operators should say clearly what is known about the outage and what is still being assessed, including the scale of the disruption.", "source_url": "https://ewnews.com/bpl-assessing-protections-after-transformer-fire-and-power-outage/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T09:09:37.290562+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1224", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1224/", "title": "Fire at Sabana Llana substation leaves more than 200,000 without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Puerto Rico", "country_code": "pr", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at the Sabana Llana substation. The report said the incident took several generation units out of service and left more than 200,000 customers without electricity. The cause, the extent of damage and whether anyone was injured were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can take generation units offline and cut supply to a very large number of customers. (2) Operators should be ready to restore supply and explain the scale of an outage while the cause is still unknown. (3) A short early report can confirm an outage without explaining the failure, so technical conclusions should wait for a fuller account.", "source_url": "https://www.elnuevodia.com/noticias/locales/videos/asi-lucio-la-subestacion-sabana-llana-tras-incendio-294375/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T12:07:01.254747+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1225", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1225/", "title": "Incipient fire reported on photovoltaic panels in Mareno di Piave", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Italy", "country_code": "it", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local headline reported an incipient fire on photovoltaic panels in Mareno di Piave, Italy, and a prompt attendance by the fire service. The register has only that headline, so the type of installation, the cause and whether the fire was extinguished are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An incipient fire on photovoltaic panels leaves the installation type unknown, so operators should confirm roof or ground mount before assessing risk. (2) Prompt fire service attendance at a solar site does not show how far the fire spread, so insurers should seek outcome details. (3) Early reports of fire on photovoltaic equipment remain incomplete until failure point and outcome are confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.oggitreviso.it/principio-dincendio-sui-pannelli-fotovoltaici-mareno-di-piave-intervento-tempestivo-dei-vigili-del-au23899-385714", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T12:07:09.203594+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1226", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1226/", "title": "Substation fire in Nagano City reported to have cut power to about 5,200 households", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Japan", "country_code": "jp", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 22 September 2026, at about 5:20 pm, a fire was reported at a substation in Nagano City, Japan. The published lead places the incident in Matsushiro-machi Saijo, but the article is behind a paywall and the sentence is cut off, so the exact site name is not confirmed. The headline says the fire burned a net and that about 5,200 households lost power for a time. A rat is reported as a possible cause. Damage, injuries and how long the outage lasted are not known from the available text.", "contributing_factors": "The headline says a rat may have been the cause. No confirmed cause, failed component or sequence of events is given in the text that could be read.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A rat can bridge live equipment in a substation and start a fire, so operators should check entry points and barriers regularly. (2) A local fire at a substation can interrupt supply to thousands of households, so operators must prepare rapid restoration plans.", "source_url": "https://www.shinmai.co.jp/news/article/gf01dap875fscpf4olnkhug0", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T12:07:53.344967+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1227", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1227/", "title": "Firefighters respond to a battery storage fire in Mission, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A short local report says that, on a Wednesday night, firefighters in Mission, Texas, responded to a fire at a battery storage facility. The report does not name the site or the operator. Authorities gave no further details on injuries, the cause, or how much of the facility was affected.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage fires may involve energised equipment, so response plans must confirm isolation before crews approach. (2) Local reports often omit key details on BESS fires, so operators should maintain records for later review.", "source_url": "https://noticiaselpaso.com/bomberos-de-mission-responden-a-incendio-en-instalacion-de-almacenamiento-de-baterias/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-24T20:06:47.12825+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1228", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1228/", "title": "NV Energy substation fire near South Decatur Boulevard and West Pyle Avenue", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Electrical power was restored in southwest Las Vegas after a fire late on 30 July 2020 at an NV Energy electrical substation near South Decatur Boulevard and West Pyle Avenue. The fire affected 8,600 customers. Power was restored to the last customers by 5.45 a.m. on 31 July. Firefighters and police were called at about 11.15 p.m. to the substation. Police evacuated an unspecified number of houses. No injuries were reported, and the source gave no details of damage to the substation.", "contributing_factors": "NV Energy said the fire was caused by a transformer failure at the substation. No further technical detail was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer failure at a distribution substation can interrupt supply to thousands of customers until crews restore power safely. (2) Substation fires near houses require a shared plan between emergency services and the operator for evacuations.", "source_url": "https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/power-restored-after-substation-fire-in-southwest-las-vegas-2085055/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-25T02:07:38.948738+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1229", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1229/", "title": "Transformer explosion causes outage in Kelowna neighbourhood", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded near Tamarack Drive, close to South Rutland in Kelowna, at 9:30 p.m. on a Friday night in June 2019. Fire fell into grass below the power line and set it alight. At the same time, power went out for more than 1,000 homes and businesses. FortisBC said the affected area was east of Dilworth Drive, along the Highway 97 corridor to Highway 33, and bordered by Mission Creek on the south. The Kelowna Fire Department doused the area with water, and residents helped stop the grass fire spreading. FortisBC crews investigated the cause and estimated restoration by 12:30 a.m. on Saturday once it was safe. Restaurants, grocery stores and hotels were among those affected.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the outage was not reported. FortisBC said crews were investigating.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a transformer failure, restoration should wait until crews confirm it is safe. (2) A prompt fire-service response, with help from people nearby, can limit grass fire spread under a power line. (3) A clear estimate of restoration time helps customers during a large local outage.", "source_url": "https://globalnews.ca/news/5393846/power-out-in-kelowna-neighbourhood-after-transformer-explodes/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T02:08:13.261405+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1230", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1230/", "title": "PG&E reports transmission line malfunction near Kincade fire origin", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Pacific Gas and Electric told state regulators that a 230,000 volt transmission line malfunctioned near Kincade Road and Burned Mountain Road in Geyserville, Sonoma County, at about 9:20 p.m. The first calls reporting a major fire followed about seven minutes later. The next morning a Cal Fire crew member pointed out a broken jumper on a transmission tower to a PG&E worker. Lower-voltage distribution lines in the area had been shut off in a public safety power shutdown affecting 27,837 customers, but the high-voltage transmission line had remained energised. PG&E said the filing did not determine the cause of the fire or where it started, and that this remained under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports that the transmission line stayed energised during high fire-danger weather because it did not meet PG&E's forecast conditions for a transmission outage. A broken jumper was identified the next morning. Why the line was not inspected for some hours after the failed line was reported was not explained. The report does not establish that the malfunction or the inspection timing caused the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported transmission malfunction in extreme fire weather should be treated as time-critical until the line condition is confirmed on site. (2) Where transmission and distribution de-energisation criteria differ, the reason a line stayed energised should be recorded and explainable. (3) A preliminary report to the regulator is not a finding on fire cause or origin; that conclusion belongs to the investigating authority.", "source_url": "https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/pge-malfunction-transmission-tower-near-origin-kincade-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T02:08:14.385857+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1231", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1231/", "title": "Transformer fire closes Interstate 495 in Westford", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 19 June 2018, state police said a transformer fire spreading to electrical wire had closed the northbound and southbound lanes of Interstate 495 in Westford, Massachusetts. The Westford Fire Department and National Grid were responding. No injuries were reported. Drivers were told to use other routes because of closures and traffic. Fire crews were to decide whether poles and wires needed replacing. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire beside a highway can close both directions and create traffic risk beyond the electrical fault. (2) Grid and highway teams need a shared plan for isolating supply, checking poles and wires, and reopening the road. (3) Early advice on other routes limits secondary risk while the cause and the extent of damage are still unknown.", "source_url": "https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2018/06/19/i-495-in-westford-shut-down-due-to-transformer-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T02:09:04.501072+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1232", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1232/", "title": "Transformer explosion and fire reported at Ebden Street substation in Komani", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-06", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 12 June 2018, the Daily Dispatch reported that a substation in Ebden Street, Komani, had blown that morning and that the Komani power station had caught fire. Municipal firefighters attended and tried to put the blaze out. An engineer at the scene said a transformer had exploded after an attempt to switch on the Queendustria substation, which had tripped earlier. A spokesman for Enoch Mgijima municipality said the circuit breaker had tripped because of power overloading, and that electricians were investigating. Residents were reported as likely to be without electricity for more than three days. The confirmed length of the outage and the outcome of the investigation were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The municipality said the circuit breaker tripped because of overloading. Separately, an engineer said the transformer exploded after an attempt to switch the tripped Queendustria substation back on. The report does not confirm a single root cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check the reason a circuit breaker has tripped, such as overload, before any attempt to re-energise. (2) Stop and investigate after a failed re-energising attempt rather than repeat the switch-on operation. (3) Tell customers promptly when a substation fire may cause an outage lasting several days.", "source_url": "https://www.dailydispatch.co.za/news/2018-06-12-substation-out-after-transformer-explodes/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T02:09:14.754638+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1233", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1233/", "title": "Transformer fire reported to have delayed traffic in West Hempfield Township", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline dated 31 May 2018 reported that a transformer fire delayed traffic at Prospect Road and Route 462 in West Hempfield Township. The article text was not available. Any outage, the cause, injuries and the operator were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire beside a road can disrupt traffic before the electrical consequences are known. (2) A headline alone should be treated as incomplete until cause, injuries and customer impact are confirmed. (3) Operators should be ready to confirm whether a roadside transformer is a grid asset and what failed.", "source_url": "https://lancasteronline.com/news/local/transformer-fire-delays-traffic-at-prospect-road-route-in-west/article_aa1aaf08-6449-11e8-8bfe-537055bd5e74.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T02:09:26.854326+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1234", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1234/", "title": "Transformer failure reported as cause of power outage in Chicopee", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published headline reports that a transformer failure caused a power outage in Chicopee. The article text was not available, so the operator, the size of the outage, any damage or injuries, and any cause beyond the headline are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The headline attributes the outage to a transformer failure and gives no further detail.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A headline report of transformer failure can interrupt supply before the extent of the fault is clear. (2) Early public reports of grid failure should be checked against the utility before the scale or cause is treated as established.", "source_url": "https://www.masslive.com/news/2017/11/chicopee_power_outage_caused_b.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T02:09:48.273597+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1236", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1236/", "title": "Blade failure on GE 5.3-158 Cypress turbine in Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "GE Renewable Energy was reported to have suffered a blade failure at one of its GE 5.3-158 Cypress wind turbines in Germany. The report said the same model had already had a similar incident at a wind farm in Sweden the previous year. The site, the date of the failure, any injuries and the extent of the damage were not stated in the report.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A second blade failure on the GE 5.3-158 Cypress model should prompt inspection of all similar turbines. (2) Nearby turbines should remain offline until debris risk from a blade failure is assessed.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/new-failure-for-flagship-ge-wind-turbine-as-cypress-blade-breaks-in-germany/2-1-1138840", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T09:58:07.768991+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1237", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1237/", "title": "Rooftop solar panels reported to have caught fire; Walmart and Tesla settle lawsuit", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published headline reports that rooftop solar panels caught fire and that Walmart and Tesla later settled a lawsuit. The article text was not available, so the site, the date of the fire, the extent of damage and whether anyone was hurt are not confirmed here.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A headline about a rooftop solar fire should be treated as an early alert, not as a confirmed cause. (2) Hosts and suppliers should keep clear records of inspection and responsibility after any reported panel fire. (3) A later legal settlement should not be read as a finding of fault or of technical cause.", "source_url": "https://www.mlive.com/news/2019/11/walmart-tesla-settle-lawsuit-after-rooftop-solar-panels-catch-fire.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T09:58:09.944594+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1238", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1238/", "title": "Leak from solar heating system at Carnegie Leisure Centre Dunfermline", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Carnegie Leisure Centre in Dunfermline was evacuated after an odour was detected. Fife Sports said the odour was related to a leak of a low-hazardous chemical from a solar panel heating system on the roof. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service treated it as a chemical incident, and police described the substance as non-corrosive with no risk to the public. The centre was due to reopen at 1pm. Pilmuir Street was closed to traffic and reopened at 8.45am.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not report why the heating system leaked.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An odour from rooftop solar heating plant should prompt full evacuation until the fire service confirms the building is safe. (2) A chemical smell at a leisure centre with solar heating must be treated as a possible fluid leak until ruled out.", "source_url": "https://www.dunfermlinepress.com/news/17876887.carnegie-leisure-centre-closed-due-leak-solar-panel/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T09:58:51.636142+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1240", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1240/", "title": "Solar system reported to have caught fire at an Amazon warehouse in Redlands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Amazon said that in June 2018 a solar system installed by SolarCity on one of its warehouses in Redlands, California, caught fire. Amazon said it was taking steps to protect other facilities and had no plans to install further Tesla solar systems. A Tesla representative described the fire as an isolated event. Damage, injuries and cause were not reported in this account.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported for this fire. Claims in a separate lawsuit about installation quality at other companies' stores are not evidence about the Redlands warehouse.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A rooftop solar fire at a warehouse prompts inspection of similar arrays even when no shared cause is known. (2) Record the installer of each solar array to allow targeted checks after any fire.", "source_url": "https://www.roofingcontractor.com/articles/93875-amazon-joins-walmart-in-blaming-tesla-for-solar-panel-roof-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T09:59:20.306227+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1241", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1241/", "title": "Walmart says Tesla solar panels caused fires on store roofs", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A New York Times headline reported that Walmart said Tesla solar panels installed on store roofs had set fires. The article text was not available. No site, town, date, number of fires, injuries or independent confirmation was reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The headline records Walmart's statement only, and does not describe a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar fires on occupied stores need early logging of the headline but not treatment as confirmed history. (2) Operators should avoid inferring a common failure mode until sites, dates and findings appear.", "source_url": "https://www.nytimes.com/2019/08/20/business/walmart-tesla-lawsuit-fires.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T09:59:40.814005+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1242", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1242/", "title": "Solar panels spark roof fire at New Bedford RMV", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the afternoon of 9 July 2019 the New Bedford Fire Department responded to a roof fire at the Registry of Motor Vehicles in the North End business park. A fire officer told the station that solar panels had sparked the blaze, affecting about five or ten panels among hundreds. Crews had knocked the fire down and were attempting to shut down power to the building and checking for any spread. Some water damage inside the building was reported, but its extent was not known. No injuries were reported. The fire remained under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The fire department said solar panels sparked the blaze. No further cause was reported, and the fire was still under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A rooftop solar array fire can affect only five or ten panels yet still leave the roof unsafe until power is isolated and spread is checked. (2) Crews should treat isolation of a live solar array as incomplete until shutdown is confirmed, not merely attempted. (3) Water used on a roof fire with solar panels can damage the building below, so internal damage must be assessed after the fire is out.", "source_url": "https://wbsm.com/solar-panels-spark-roof-fire-at-new-bedford-rmv/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T10:01:51.049267+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1243", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1243/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on a Boston building roof", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 30 October 2015, fire crews were called just before 1 p.m. to a roof fire at 518 Tremont St. in Boston. Several solar panels on the building caught fire. Crews extinguished the blaze a short time after arrival. Portions of the panels dropped during the fire, and parts of the rubber roof also ignited, according to Boston fire officials. One person was taken to hospital for smoke inhalation. Damage was estimated at around $50,000. Reports described the panels as malfunctioning, but officials said it was not known why they ignited and an investigation was under way.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not established. The report described the panels as malfunctioning, and said an investigation was under way.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A rooftop solar fire can ignite the roof covering and drop panel debris, so access routes and isolation steps must be set before crews arrive. (2) Smoke from a panel fire can injure people even when the blaze is put out quickly, so breathing protection must stay in place. (3) If the reason panels ignited is not known, the array and roof should be recorded before damaged equipment is removed.", "source_url": "https://www.wcvb.com/article/malfunctioning-solar-panels-spark-boston-blaze/8228159", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T10:02:28.356096+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1244", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1244/", "title": "Fire reported to have started in solar panels at Westleigh primary school", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Sunday morning in March 2018, a fire broke out at Westleigh Methodist Primary School in Leigh, Greater Manchester. Firefighters said the blaze was believed to have started in solar panels on the roof. An eyewitness told the emergency services that about four panels were on fire. The fire was contained to the main hall, with no further damage to other school buildings. The school, which teaches about 200 pupils aged three to 11, was closed for the foreseeable future.", "contributing_factors": "Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said the likely cause was an electric fault in the panels. Intense heat burnt the panel wiring away, so investigators could not determine whether or why an electrical fault occurred.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Electric faults in rooftop solar panels can destroy wiring evidence when heat burns it away, so record early observations of the fire origin. (2) Isolation and access plans for school rooftop arrays help crews limit a fire to one building section. (3) Schools with rooftop solar need plans for continued teaching if a hall or roof fire closes the site.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-43543696", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T10:02:34.321843+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1246", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1246/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on Beavercreek Walmart roof", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Solar panels on the roof of the Beavercreek Walmart Supercenter at 3360 Pentagon Blvd caught fire on 7 March 2018. Crews from three fire departments were called after smoke and flames were reported from the roof. The store and nearby stores were evacuated, and gas and electricity to the store were shut off. A light smoke haze was reported inside. No one was injured. The store stayed closed for inspections and had reopened by the following Thursday, according to the 16 March report.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the panel fire was not reported. Fire officials said gas lines and electric wires were damaged and were being checked by the utilities.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A rooftop solar fire can require evacuation of the occupied store and nearby premises. (2) Gas and electricity supplies may need isolation after a solar panel fire. (3) The building may remain closed for inspections after the fire is extinguished.", "source_url": "https://www.whio.com/news/local/beavercreek-walmart-reported-fire/2bbIQsfcbIwva2oPxoCVGM/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T10:02:49.569868+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1247", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1247/", "title": "Fire at Napier Drive substation Govan destroys distribution box", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 26 June 2017 a fire at Napier Drive substation, Govan destroyed a distribution box at about 6.30pm. Scottish Fire and Rescue was called to extinguish the flames, and ScottishPower engineers were then called to fix the problem. Hundreds of residents were affected, and some homes were without power for up to six hours. Police later said a teenager had been arrested for alleged vandalism at the substation, and a report was sent to the procurator fiscal. The cause has not been established in the reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The cause is not established. Police have alleged vandalism; no finding is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution box fire at a street substation can be started by vandalism, so operators should check physical security and install detection that alerts before total loss. (2) Loss of one distribution box at Napier Drive left homes without supply for up to six hours until engineers arrived, so operators should keep spares and rapid response plans for local substations.", "source_url": "https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/15394935.teenager-arrested-after-blaze-at-govan-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T10:02:51.937455+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1249", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1249/", "title": "Underground transformer explosion closes street in Norwalk", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An underground transformer fire and explosion occurred at about 9:35 a.m. on 21 January 2020 in front of 44 North Main Street in Norwalk. The blast blew open the doors of a sidewalk electrical vault and sent thick black smoke into the air. It caused a power outage in South Norwalk and North Main Street was closed for about two hours. Norwalk firefighters and SNEW crews contained the fire after power to the area was cut. No buildings were damaged and there were no injuries, although one person nearby had a close call and was uninjured. By about 11:30 a.m. SNEW said most customers had been restored by isolation and switching. Some customers on and around North Main Street were to remain without power while the damaged transformer was temporarily replaced, and no time was given. Buildings along North Main Street were expected to be without power for at least the rest of the day. A reported water main cutoff was later corrected as a planned event unrelated to the explosion.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An underground transformer failure in a sidewalk vault can blow the doors and force a street closure, so operators must isolate the area and exclude the public at once. (2) Isolation and switching can restore supply to most customers while the damaged unit stays off, so operators must state clearly which customers remain without power.", "source_url": "https://www.thehour.com/news/article/Underground-transformer-fire-closes-Norwalk-street-14991786.php", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T10:19:37.80075+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1250", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1250/", "title": "Transformer explosion causes outage for more than 6,700 Seattle customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Electrical equipment exploded and caught fire at the intersection of E Aloha and Harvard Ave in Capitol Hill, Seattle, on a Saturday night. Seattle Fire responded to visible flames and smoke and worked to secure the scene. Seattle City Light crews assessed damage to the electrical infrastructure. The incident occurred during severe weather, with blustery winds and heavy rain forecast to continue. Seattle City Light first reported more than 700 customers without power, including Broadway north of Roy Street. By 9.38 pm it reported a further 6,000 customers without power in the Capitol Hill core, bringing the total to more than 6,700. The outage affected residential and commercial properties and, as of Saturday night, remained limited to the Capitol Hill area. No restoration time was given. Residents were advised to check the utility outage map.", "contributing_factors": "Blustery winds and heavy rain were forecast, and the report says weather may have contributed. Seattle City Light has not confirmed the cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) When customer numbers rise after an equipment fire, operators should say whether the wider outage is the same fault or a separate one. (2) If no restoration time is known, saying so and pointing customers to a live outage map is a clear minimum. (3) Severe weather at the time of a transformer fire is not, by itself, a confirmed cause.", "source_url": "https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/capitol-hill-transformer-explosion-causes-power-outage-for-over-6700-seattle-customers/articleshow/124824514.cms", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:38:31.588671+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1252", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1252/", "title": "Napa Valley College solar field reported taken offline after leakage concern", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "end_of_life", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A photovoltaic array of about 1.2 MW at Napa Valley College, inaugurated in April 2006, is reported to have been taken out of service after roughly 15 years and to now sit idle and overgrown. A college spokesperson told The Press Democrat that the panels were decommissioned when a campus fuel cell came online because they had started leaking and posed a fire hazard, and that the maintenance contractor, SunPower, was unavailable. The paper says the exact date is not clear from college records, that payments to SunPower for maintenance continued until February 2021, and that SunPower had not filed for bankruptcy by then. In 2018 SunPower identified a wiring fault and charged the college $160,000 for repairs. Output had already fallen by 2017. No fire, injury or emergency response is described.", "contributing_factors": "The source describes ageing equipment, a repaired wiring fault, rising maintenance costs and falling output. It also reports a college account of panel leakage and loss of contractor support, which the article says is hard to reconcile with the public record on SunPower. A single cause is not established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A solar array with falling output and a repaired wiring fault needs continued monitoring even after a contractor leaves. (2) When maintenance support ends, owners must verify panel condition themselves before deciding to decommission.", "source_url": "https://www.pressdemocrat.com/2025/11/13/napa-valley-colleges-7-5-million-solar-field-was-once-a-model-now-it-sits-dead-in-the-weeds/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:38:35.809306+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1253", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1253/", "title": "Eversource workers injured during transformer work in New Bedford", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Four Eversource employees were injured while working on a transformer at 1457 East Rodney French Blvd in New Bedford, according to the New Bedford Fire Department. Firefighters were sent after 8:30 a.m. on Friday to reports of a possible explosion and an injured worker. On arrival they found workers with multiple injuries and called for more firefighters and New Bedford EMS. The four workers were taken to hospital: two to St. Luke's Hospital and two to Rhode Island Hospital. One worker was later moved from St. Luke's to Rhode Island Hospital. The department said the incident caused a brief power outage for more than 1,300 customers. Eversource, OSHA and the New Bedford Fire Department Investigation Unit are investigating. The cause has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. Workers told firefighters the incident happened while they were working on a transformer. A possible explosion was reported, but the source does not confirm that an explosion occurred.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer maintenance can injure multiple workers at once, so site plans must cover several casualties and routes to more than one hospital. (2) A reported possible explosion during transformer work must be treated as an electrical hazard until the scene is secured. (3) Even brief outages from site incidents can affect over a thousand customers, so control rooms need prompt and accurate updates.", "source_url": "https://www.masslive.com/news/2025/11/4-eversource-workers-injured-after-working-on-transformer-in-new-bedford.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:38:36.91589+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1254", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1254/", "title": "We Energies substation damaged in St. Francis during copper theft attempt", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A person forced entry to the We Energies substation on S. Kinnickinnic Avenue in St. Francis, just south of Howard Avenue, on 14 March 2025. A We Energies employee told police the intruder had tried to cut a live wire while stealing copper and was believed to have been electrocuted. Tools and clothing were left at the scene. Surveillance from a nearby recycling business was reported to show an explosion at the substation. Damage was estimated by the employee at around 100,000 dollars. Hospital staff later told detectives they found no evidence of electrocution.", "contributing_factors": "Unauthorised entry to a fenced substation and an attempt to cut a live conductor during copper theft. The precise electrical outcome has not been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Reinforce perimeter security and intrusion detection at substations. (2) Ensure rapid isolation procedures are in place for unauthorised access events. (3) Review copper theft prevention measures across grid sites.", "source_url": "https://www.fox6now.com/news/power-substation-damaged-milwaukee-man-accused-trying-cut-live-wire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:38:38.145185+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1255", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1255/", "title": "Field fire at solar farm north of Carmi contained to vegetation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Wednesday afternoon in November 2025, firefighters were called to a field fire at a solar farm north of Carmi, at County Road 850 E 2150 North. The fire chief said the fire was limited to vegetation and that no solar panels were damaged. The solar farm is owned by Ameren Missouri, after an earlier report that it was owned by Ameren of Illinois was corrected. Crews were on scene for about three hours. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A vegetation fire on a solar farm should be recorded separately from damage to the arrays, because panels can remain undamaged. (2) Check ownership with the operator before relying on a first attribution, which in this case was later corrected. (3) Where a short local report gives no cause, state that the cause is not known rather than infer one.", "source_url": "https://www.wrul.com/local-news/firefighters-battle-solar-farm-field-fire-north-of-carmi-wednesday/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:38:46.306109+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1256", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1256/", "title": "South Australia blackout linked in a headline to three towers and six wind farms", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published headline reported a South Australia blackout involving three towers, six wind farms and a span of 12 seconds. The available source is a headline only, so it is not confirmed whether the towers failed, how the wind farms were involved, or how wide the outage was.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Events on transmission lines and at wind farms can interact on a very short timescale, so operators need a shared view of both. (2) Early headlines may give counts of towers and farms before any sequence is confirmed. (3) Treat such figures as unconfirmed until an official account is available.", "source_url": "https://joannenova.com.au/2016/10/sa-blackout-three-towers-six-windfarms-and-12-seconds/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:39:14.892191+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1257", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1257/", "title": "Substation explosion cuts power to Easton customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "More than 1,300 customers in South Easton lost power after an explosion at the electrical substation at Williams and Davis streets. Reporting said the outage began on the afternoon of 12 May 2025 after a cable failure. It produced a loud sound, an arc flash and fire, all confined to the substation property. FirstEnergy Corp.'s Met-Ed confirmed the failure and sent crews to restore supply. Firefighters attended and extinguished the flames. No injuries were reported. The following morning, about 10.5 per cent of the city's Met-Ed customers were still without power, and some traffic signals were not operating.", "contributing_factors": "Met-Ed attributed the outage to a cable failure at the substation. No further cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A cable failure inside a substation can produce arc flash, a loud bang and fire even when the event stays on the site. (2) After a local outage, operators should expect dark traffic signals and coordinate temporary controls with the city. (3) Neighbour and police reports of noise and flame can help crews confirm that a fire is confined to substation property.", "source_url": "https://www.lehighvalleylive.com/news/2025/05/easton-power-outage-105-city-customers-remain-in-dark-after-substation-failure.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:39:19.701718+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1258", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1258/", "title": "Possible explosion at Enschede substation injures a worker and cuts power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 30 April 2025, a power outage began at about 11 a.m. after a reported incident at a high-voltage substation on the Vechtstraat in Enschede, Netherlands. One worker was injured. The outage lasted about two hours and affected more than 20,500 homes in Enschede and the nearby villages of Lonneker and Glanerbrug. A resident reported a loud bang. A safety region spokesperson said they had no knowledge of an explosion and that the Labour Inspectorate would have to investigate. Paramedics and firefighters were sent to the street. Emergency crews dealt with at least six reports of people stuck in lifts. The hospital in Enschede and the University of Twente were not affected. Shops, restaurants and museums closed.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. Accounts differ: a resident reported a loud bang, while the safety region said it had no knowledge of an explosion.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation incidents can trap people in lifts, so response plans must include rapid lift rescue teams. (2) When a bang is reported but not confirmed, treat the event as unclassified until the official investigation concludes. (3) Outage notices must list every village affected so residents and businesses know if they remain supplied.", "source_url": "https://nltimes.nl/2025/04/30/possible-explosion-enschede-power-station-injures-one-thousands-without-electricity", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:39:28.185518+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1259", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1259/", "title": "Grass fire damages solar panels behind Williams Elementary in Farmington", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Several solar panels in a solar field behind Williams Elementary in Farmington were damaged in a grass fire, according to fire officials. The headline of the only available report said a fire chief attributed the fire to a mower. Injuries, the scale of the damage beyond several panels, and whether the array was taken out of service were not reported in the text available.", "contributing_factors": "A grass fire reached the solar field. The headline attributes the start of the fire to a mower; that account is not set out in the visible article text and is not confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Vegetation work beside solar arrays should be planned so that mowers and other equipment do not ignite dry grass. (2) After a grass fire, modules and nearby electrical equipment should be inspected before the array is returned to service. (3) Early reports of cause and damage should be checked against the fire service account before they are treated as confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2024/dec/18/farmington-school-district-solar-field-damaged-in/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:39:40.145653+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1261", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1261/", "title": "Solar panel fire on home roof in Newburyport", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 19 November 2024, Newburyport firefighters responded to reports of smoke from the roof of a single-family home on Merrimac Street. On arrival they found a solar panel on fire on the roof of an addition. Crews knocked the fire down quickly, and a portion of the street was closed during the response. The cause, the extent of damage, and whether anyone was injured were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The available report does not state a cause or a failed component.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar fires can start on a small addition and still require a street closure while crews work. (2) Early reports may confirm only that smoke was seen and a panel was alight, so operators should not infer a cause until more is known. (3) Response notes should record whether the array was isolated and whether anyone was hurt, even when the fire is knocked down quickly.", "source_url": "https://www.newburyportnews.com/news/local_news/port-fd-knocks-down-solar-panel-fire/article_92922388-a6a1-11ef-b3e7-2bfa47822da6.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:40:03.668247+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1262", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1262/", "title": "Fire reported on solar-panel roof at Fitzwilliam College auditorium", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 4 October 2024 a small fire was reported on the exterior roof of the auditorium at Fitzwilliam College, a college of the University of Cambridge. Staff noticed a plume of smoke. College staff said the fire followed an issue with cables for the building's solar panels. The college said firefighters attended a small electrical fire, which was put out quickly, and that an investigation would follow to determine the cause. Four fire engines attended and crews remained for more than an hour. The college said nobody was harmed, no student housing was affected, nobody was evacuated, and the auditorium was expected to return to use the next morning.", "contributing_factors": "Not established. Staff suspected an electrical issue with cables serving the roof solar panels. The college said the cause was still to be investigated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Roof-mounted solar cabling should be inspected so electrical faults can be found before they ignite. (2) A prompt fire service call-out and post-incident safety check support quick return to use. (3) Suspected causes should be recorded as suspected until the investigation is complete.", "source_url": "https://www.varsity.co.uk/news/28274", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:40:05.574117+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1263", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1263/", "title": "Lake Placid solar plant in Florida reported damaged by Hurricane Milton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Duke Energy reported that its Lake Placid Solar Power Plant in Highlands County, Florida, suffered damage during Hurricane Milton. The plant opened in December 2019 and has a capacity of 45 megawatts. The only account available to the register gave no official figure for how much of the plant was damaged, no repair timetable, and no statement on whether local supply was affected.", "contributing_factors": "The damage was attributed to Hurricane Milton. The source also refers to tornadoes with the storm in general, but it does not say that a tornado struck this plant. The extent of the damage has not been officially reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Utility-scale solar plants need post-storm surveys of modules and trackers after high winds, because damage extent was not reported promptly. (2) Operators should issue a damage assessment soon after a hurricane, stating what is known and what is under review.", "source_url": "https://legalinsurrection.com/2024/10/massive-solar-farm-in-florida-appears-heavily-damaged-by-hurricane-milton/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:40:17.274192+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1264", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1264/", "title": "Explosion at Egaila substation reported to injure two people", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Kuwait", "country_code": "kw", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Kuwait News Agency reported that two people were injured in an explosion at the Egaila substation. Only the headline and feed summary are available. The cause, the extent of damage, whether power was lost, and the condition of those injured are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The available summary does not say what failed or why.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation explosion can injure people on site, so exclusion and emergency access should be planned before a fault escalates. (2) Early official headlines often omit cause and injury severity, so operators should not state a cause until a fuller account exists. (3) One headline is not enough to judge the failure mode or to change equipment procedures.", "source_url": "https://www.kuna.net.kw/ArticleDetails.aspx?id=3226993&Language=en", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:40:18.586123+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1265", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1265/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire and destroy three buildings in Harby", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Solar panels on the roof of a workshop in Harby, near Melton Mowbray, caught fire on 26 June 2024. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service attended after an emergency call at 1.49pm. The fire destroyed three outbuildings. The incident was closed at 9.29pm. Crews from Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire fire services responded. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "An electrical fault with the solar panels is the believed cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An electrical fault in roof mounted solar panels can start a fire that spreads to nearby buildings, so operators should check wiring and connections on all similar arrays. (2) A solar panel fire on a workshop roof destroyed three outbuildings before it was put out, so insurers should require clear separation or fire breaks around panel arrays.", "source_url": "https://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/news/local-news/solar-panels-catch-fire-destroy-9374436", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:40:19.826064+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1266", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1266/", "title": "Transformer fires and cable fault cause outages in Noida", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in a transformer in Noida. A cable was damaged by overheating in Noida, and a transformer in Noida caught fire after an oil leak. Power officials disconnected the transformer, but outages continued the next day. Cuts of half an hour to more than four hours were reported in several Noida sectors, and in parts of Ghaziabad. Water supply was also affected in some places. An official said rising temperatures and higher demand had increased the load on substations, and that supply itself was not short.", "contributing_factors": "The report links the faults to overheating, an oil leak, overload and higher demand in hot weather. Residents said they had warned of frequent cuts for more than a week.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Inspect distribution transformers for oil leaks before peak summer load, as an oil leak led to a transformer fire. (2) Track substation loading when demand rises with temperature, as overload from hot weather caused faults. (3) Act on repeated local faults, as residents had warned of frequent cuts for more than a week.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/fire-in-transformer-cable-snag-lead-to-long-outages-in-noida/articleshow/110714996.cms", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:40:30.082431+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1267", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1267/", "title": "Fire at NTDC grid station disrupts power in Lahore", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Pakistan", "country_code": "pk", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Dunya News reported that a fire broke out on a Sunday night at the National Transmission and Despatch Company's 220 kV grid station on Bund Road in Lahore after a power transformer caught fire. Power supply to many LESCO feeders was suspended, and localities including Sabzazar, Allama Iqbal Town, Shahpur, Qartaba Chowk, McLeod Road, Syedpur and Islampura lost power. Fire brigade personnel and NTDC officials attended, but the fire had not been put out when the report was filed. Injuries, a cause beyond the transformer fire, and the later outcome were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The report does not state a cause beyond a power transformer catching fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a transmission grid station can cut supply to many distribution feeders at once. (2) Firefighting at a live high-voltage station needs close coordination between the operator and the fire service and may not be finished quickly. (3) While a fire is still burning, operators should say clearly what is known and what is not yet known.", "source_url": "https://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/812822-NTDC%5C", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:40:42.149958+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1268", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1268/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire at Sydney Olympic Park aquatic centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Solar panels on the roof of the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre caught fire during a high school swim meet, and the venue was evacuated. Fire crews used a hose line, breathing apparatus and an aerial appliance, and switched the panels off. Damage was confined to some roof panels and solar panels. The centre closed for the rest of the afternoon.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Regular inspection and maintenance of rooftop solar installations can identify faults before they lead to fire. (2) Fire services should be equipped and trained for incidents involving live solar arrays. (3) Clear evacuation procedures for public venues with rooftop solar reduce risk during electrical or thermal events.", "source_url": "https://legalinsurrection.com/2024/05/people-evacuated-from-sydney-olympic-park-aquatic-center-after-solar-panels-catch-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:41:03.491631+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1269", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1269/", "title": "Floating solar farm reported wrecked by a storm before launch", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A May 2024 headline reported that a floating solar farm, described as the world's largest, was wrecked by a storm shortly before launch. The article is paywalled, and the available text does not name the site, country, operator or storm date, or describe the damage.", "contributing_factors": "The headline attributes the damage to a storm shortly before launch. No further cause, weather detail or design information is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Floating solar arrays need storm securing before and during commissioning. (2) A forecast storm should delay launch or trigger a securing plan. (3) Public reports should name the site and describe the damage.", "source_url": "https://www.zerohedge.com/energy/worlds-largest-floating-solar-farm-wrecked-storm-just-launch", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:41:06.213294+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1271", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1271/", "title": "Large fire reported at solar farm south of Blossom", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A large fire was reported at a solar farm at 1900 FM 196, south of Blossom. The Blossom Fire Department received mutual aid from the Faught Volunteer Fire Department, which sent a tanker and two booster trucks, and from the Pattonville, East Post Oak, Reno, Deport, Powderly and Hopewell volunteer fire departments and the Texas Forest Service. The cause had not been determined. The report did not say how much of the site was damaged, whether anyone was hurt, or whether the fire was put out.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a rural solar farm can need mutual aid from several fire services, including water tankers where mains may be limited. (2) Early reports often do not state the cause or the extent of damage, so operators should keep their own incident record. (3) Access and water supply for fire services should be agreed before an incident.", "source_url": "https://easttexasradio.com/223996-2/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:41:09.741237+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1272", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1272/", "title": "Fire in solar panel distribution board at Birmingham college", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews attended a blaze at South and City College Birmingham on the Bordesley Green campus on 22 June 2022. The fire was reported as being within a distribution board for solar panels on the second floor of a three-storey building. Four crews with 23 firefighters used breathing apparatus and a hydraulic platform. Roof cladding was removed, and the fire was confirmed extinguished at around 3:40 pm. Smoke logging affected part of the building and was ventilated. Students and staff were evacuated. No injuries were reported, and a full search found no persons involved. West Midlands Police and West Midlands Ambulance Service also attended. The cause was reported as under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was reported as under investigation. No contributing factor has been stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Distribution equipment linked to rooftop solar should be reachable for isolation and firefighting without relying on extensive removal of cladding. (2) Occupied buildings should have a clear plan to evacuate and ventilate when smoke from electrical plant logs part of the building. (3) Investigations into solar distribution-board fires should be shared so other operators can check similar equipment.", "source_url": "https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/college-fire-probe-underway-after-24297415", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:41:17.986454+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1273", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1273/", "title": "Solar panels believed to have started roof fire at house in Old Basing", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters attended a house fire in Old Basing on 21 May 2022 after smoke was seen coming from the roof. The incident commander said it was believed the fire was caused by solar panels on the roof. Crews from several stations used hose reel jets and an aerial ladder. The roof and part of the first floor were badly damaged. The property was evacuated. No one was injured.", "contributing_factors": "The incident commander said the fire was believed to have been caused by solar panels on the roof. No specific component, installation fault or other cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar panels can start fires that spread to the structure below, so owners should inspect wiring and inverters before installation and at intervals. (2) Smoke from a roof with solar panels allows early evacuation, so detectors should cover roof voids and alert before flames reach living areas. (3) Fires involving rooftop solar need aerial access and electrical isolation plans, so response teams should train for height and live DC circuits.", "source_url": "https://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/news/20156686.firefighters-tackle-solar-panel-roof-fire-house-old-basing/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:41:42.305114+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1274", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1274/", "title": "Fire damages rooftop solar panels at We The Curious in Bristol", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A serious fire on the afternoon of 9 April 2022 damaged the roof of We The Curious in Bristol. Reporting said dozens of solar panels on the roof were destroyed, and that more than 60 of the building's array of around 200 panels, described as Bristol's largest photovoltaic array, were completely destroyed. The report said solar panels catching fire appeared to be the cause. We The Curious said fire and water had caused significant damage to the roof, the second floor and other areas where water had come through, while the main exhibition floors appeared relatively unharmed. The site was closed for the Easter holidays and said it would remain closed for a few weeks. Avon Fire and Rescue was thanked for its response.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of this fire was not established in the report. The article cited general analysis by the BRE National Solar Centre on possible causes of solar panel fires, including a design error, a faulty product or poor installation, and noted that poor installation leading to water in DC isolators has been a frequent cause of recent fires elsewhere. That analysis was not presented as a finding for this incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat early reports that solar panels appeared to have started a roof fire as unconfirmed until an investigation is complete. (2) Where a rooftop array is involved, plan for both fire damage and water damage to the building below. (3) Record how many panels were destroyed and what remains unknown, so later reviews do not treat a suspected cause as established.", "source_url": "https://www.bristol247.com/news-and-features/news/solar-panels-catching-fire-appears-cause-we-the-curious-blaze/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:41:50.856676+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1275", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1275/", "title": "Fire damages Siemens Gamesa turbine at French Farm wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Siemens Gamesa G80-2.0 wind turbine at the French Farm project in Cambridgeshire caught fire on the evening of 24 April 2022. The nacelle and blades were affected. Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service initially attended, followed by Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service. No firefighting action was taken and the fire burned out. Power to and from the turbines was switched off and a precautionary exclusion zone was established. The project consists of two turbines and was commissioned in 2016. RES manages the site on behalf of REG Windpower. Siemens Gamesa is not responsible for servicing the turbine. The cause is believed to be accidental and an investigation is under way.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A nacelle fire on a G80-2.0 turbine led to no firefighting action, so operators must rely on early remote isolation and exclusion zones. (2) Two fire services attended a boundary site, so operators should pre-agree joint response protocols for turbines near county lines. (3) Siemens Gamesa does not service this turbine, so post-fire analysis must still include the manufacturer for root cause.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1754092/res-probes-uk-siemens-gamesa-turbine-fire-uk-onshore-wind-farm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:41:53.513037+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1277", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1277/", "title": "Fire at Kloofsig substation disrupts supply in Tshwane area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at Kloofsig substation in the early hours of Wednesday affected power supply to Kloofsig and Lyttelton. The City of Tshwane said technicians made significant progress overnight, including completing installation of switchgear and cable termination. Rain delayed the work. Restoration also involved cable identification and termination at Barnard Park substation, identification of feeder cables from Lyttelton and Die Hoewes, and planned testing. When power would be restored had not been stated in this report.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported. Rain was reported to be delaying restoration work.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut supply to neighbouring areas until alternative feeders are identified and joined. (2) Restoration after a substation fire must allow for weather delays such as rain during cable work. (3) Cable identification and testing at several sites reduce the risk of energising the wrong circuit.", "source_url": "https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2021-12-23-significant-progress-made-to-restore-power-after-fire-at-kloofsig-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:42:22.922728+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1278", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1278/", "title": "Electrical substation in Shah Alam reported to explode during flooding", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-12", "country": "Malaysia", "country_code": "my", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the night of 18 December 2021, video shared online was reported to show a main electrical substation in Glenmarie, Shah Alam, exploding during flash flooding, with a large fireball and further explosions. A separate social media report said the Glenmarie electricity substation had exploded and was believed to have contributed to blackouts across Shah Alam. The outlet that carried both accounts said there was still no official confirmation, and the extent of any damage was not reported. The reports came during worsening floods in Selangor.", "contributing_factors": "Flash flooding was alleged in the video account. No official cause has been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations in flood-prone areas need protection and, where practicable, elevated electrical equipment. (2) During widespread flooding, operators should be ready to confirm or deny viral reports so the public is not left without official information. (3) Outage attribution should wait for operator confirmation when the only accounts are video and social media reports.", "source_url": "https://www.therakyatpost.com/news/2021/12/19/watch-shah-alam-electrical-substation-explodes-due-to-flood/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:42:41.180007+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1279", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1279/", "title": "Fire at SMUD substation disrupts downtown Sacramento power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at 11:47 a.m. on Tuesday 14 December 2021 at SMUD’s Station A at 6th and H streets in Sacramento. The fire affected outdoor equipment and knocked out power to 1,300 customers. Thick black smoke was seen, and a camera showed an explosion before crews responded. One of three networks from the station suffered significant damage, and the other two were de-energised for safety. Those two were re-energised on Wednesday, restoring power to more than 750 customers. Power to the remaining 550 customers was restored by 7:25 a.m. on Friday 17 December. Traffic lights and businesses were affected, and some residents left their homes for hotels. SMUD said the historic brick building at the site was not affected.", "contributing_factors": "SMUD said the cause was still under investigation and that it would cooperate with inquiries from the California Utilities Commission, although it is not under that commission’s jurisdiction. A 2015 SMUD report said the outdoor equipment was nearing the end of its useful life and needed replacement. SMUD later said planned replacement does not mean the equipment was unsafe or broken. No cause has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep contingency plans for re-energising undamaged networks after a substation fire, while damaged equipment stays isolated. (2) Tell affected customers and local authorities what is known about restoration, and update that estimate if it changes. (3) Do not treat a planned asset replacement, by itself, as the cause of a fire until an investigation reports its findings.", "source_url": "https://www.kcra.com/article/smud-restores-all-power-to-downtown-sacramento-3-days-after-fire/38551615", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:43:06.898556+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1280", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1280/", "title": "Substation explosion reported to have cut power in Pietermaritzburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-12", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published report said a substation exploded in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, and that residents were left without power. The site, the operator, the cause, injuries and how long the outage lasted were not reported in the available text.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fault can interrupt supply with little public warning. (2) Operators should be ready to isolate the affected equipment and restore supply by other routes where they exist. (3) Early updates should say what is known and what is not yet known about the outage.", "source_url": "https://www.news24.com/witness/news/pietermaritzburg/residents-left-in-the-dark-after-substation-explodes-in-pietermaritzburg-kzn-20211216", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:43:31.894921+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1281", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1281/", "title": "Substation fire disrupts power in Greater Taipei districts", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-12", "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The available report says a fire at a primary power substation in Taipei affected several Greater Taipei districts on the morning of 12 December 2021. State-run Taiwan Power Co. (Taipower) said supply had returned to normal by Sunday afternoon. The substation name, the cause and the extent of damage are not stated in the text available to the register.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a primary substation interrupted supply across several districts until the network was reconfigured. (2) Operators should state publicly when supply is restored and what remains unknown. (3) Until the cause and damage are reported, no failure mode can be assigned.", "source_url": "https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202112120007", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:43:48.600836+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1282", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1282/", "title": "Transformer explosion cuts power in Normal Heights, San Diego", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 3 December 2019, a power transformer exploded in the Normal Heights area of San Diego, in the 330 block of El Cajon Boulevard, and sparked a small fire. San Diego Fire-Rescue said the flames did not spread to nearby buildings. According to the SDG&E outage map, nearly 7,500 customers in University Heights, North Park, Normal Heights, Kensington, Talmadge and City Heights lost power from just after 5:30 p.m. An update at 6:50 p.m. said power had been restored in the Mid City area. The cause was still being assessed and has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. SDG&E crews were assessing what caused the outage.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A single transformer failure can interrupt supply across several neighbouring districts at once, so operators should keep outage maps and restoration estimates current. (2) Even a small fire at a street transformer needs a rapid check that flames have not reached nearby buildings. (3) Publish a clear update when power is restored, and keep the cause separate from what is still under assessment.", "source_url": "https://www.10news.com/news/local-news/normal-heights-transformer-explodes-plunging-thousands-into-darkness", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:46:20.496889+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1283", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1283/", "title": "Fire at Wanlong substation cuts power to more than 300,000 households in Taipei", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-12", "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at Taiwan Power Co's Wanlong substation in Taipei's Wenshan District cut power on 12 December 2021. The city government said Taipower reported a mechanical malfunction that led to the fire, and that the substation's 161 kV and 69 kV supply systems were shut off. Taipower later said the No. 5 distribution transformer malfunctioned, its insulating oil caught fire and smoked, and this led to an insulation failure and a shutdown of supply systems. The fire department said a report was received at 9:56am and the fire was put out at 10:26am, with no casualties. Taipower said 305,418 households in Taipei's Wenshan District and New Taipei City's Sindian District were affected, and that power was restored to those households and facilities by 1:07pm. The outage also shut down some water purification plants and booster pump stations until emergency generators and restored power allowed operations to resume.", "contributing_factors": "Taipower said a malfunction of the No. 5 distribution transformer caused its insulating oil to catch fire and smoke, which led to an insulation failure. The city government described the initiating event as a mechanical malfunction. No independent cause beyond that account is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution-transformer malfunction that ignites insulating oil can take 161 kV and 69 kV supply systems offline and affect several hundred thousand households. (2) A substation outage can also stop water purification and pumping, so emergency generation for those plants needs to be available. (3) A prompt public account of the equipment failure, and of the reserve margin at the time, can counter rumours that the outage was caused by a national supply shortage.", "source_url": "https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/12/13/2003769509", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:46:22.757997+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1284", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1284/", "title": "Smoke reported at Townhill Road electricity substation in Dunfermline", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-12", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 2 December 2021, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted at 6.22pm to reports of smoke from an electricity substation in Townhill Road, Dunfermline. Four fire engines were sent. Crews found that the substation was not alight, made the area safe, handed the site over to Scottish Power and left.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not say what produced the reported smoke, or whether any equipment failed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A report of smoke from a substation should be treated as an emergency until crews confirm whether anything is alight. (2) Once the area is safe, the site should be handed to the network company named by the fire service so any follow-up is not left unclear. (3) Public reporting may stop at \"not alight\"; operators should still record what was checked and what, if anything, caused the smoke.", "source_url": "https://www.dunfermlinepress.com/news/19760464.dunfermline-scottish-fire-rescue-service-attend-townhill-road-electricity-substation-reports-smoke/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:46:24.80135+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1285", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1285/", "title": "Fire at Mooikloof substation interrupts supply in Pretoria east", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire damaged the Mooikloof substation, east of Pretoria, and interrupted electricity supply. Published reports described residents without power for about a week, although quoted accounts of the wait differed. Traffic lights were reported out of service at the Solomon Mahlangu Drive and Atterbury Road intersection, and in some other areas. The City of Tshwane said technicians were repairing the substation at Mooikloof Estate in heavy rain that delayed the work. The city said the site had been cleaned, all 26 damaged panels replaced, and supply restored to more than 1,500 residences and businesses. It also reported later progress on roofing, the installation of 15 switchgear panels, a transformer panel and a bus coupler, preparation of 11 kV cable re-routing, and planned transformer oil treatment. The cause of the fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported. Heavy and consistent rain was reported only as interrupting and delaying the repair work.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a substation fire, public updates should separate customers already restored from repair work that is still under way. (2) Repair plans should allow for weather that can delay roofing, cable and equipment work. (3) A substation outage can also take traffic signals out of service, so operators should coordinate with road authorities while supply is down.", "source_url": "https://www.iol.co.za/pretoria-news/news/week-without-power-angers-residents-in-pretoria-east-after-mooikloof-substation-fire-fe2a6497-5ed4-47c1-8594-a8598c27569b", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:46:32.038102+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1286", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1286/", "title": "Transformer explosion and pole fire reported in Marchfield", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "Barbados", "country_code": "bb", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Barbados news headline dated 1 December 2019 reported a transformer explosion and a pole fire in Marchfield. The article text was not available, so the cause, the response, any injuries and any effect on supply are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The available source is a headline only.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline about a transformer or pole fire as an early notice and confirm the asset, the time and the outcome before drawing conclusions. (2) Keep pole-mounted equipment inspection and vegetation clearance on a regular cycle, because a pole fire can interrupt local supply. (3) Record what is not yet known, including injuries and outage extent, until a fuller report is obtained.", "source_url": "http://www.loopnewsbarbados.com/content/transformer-explosion-and-pole-fire-marchfield", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:46:56.550259+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1287", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1287/", "title": "ATC reports rare part failure as cause of July transformer explosion", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published headline dated 3 October 2019 says ATC had identified the cause of a transformer explosion on 19 July as a part failure, which it called a very rare event. The article itself could not be retrieved, so the site, the outcome and any further detail are not known from this source.", "contributing_factors": "The headline attributes the explosion to a part failure. No further description of the part, or of how it failed, is available.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported cause should be recorded only at the level the source actually states. (2) A rare part failure still warrants a check of similar equipment once the failed part is identified. (3) Headline-only reports should be rechecked when a full account becomes available.", "source_url": "https://chippewa.com/news/state-and-regional/atc-identifies-cause-of-july-transformer-explosion-part-failure-called/article_7a13c95e-d371-583a-a02d-10a97b68d510.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:47:18.456065+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1288", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1288/", "title": "Wind turbine blade fails at Big Turtle Wind Farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine blade failed early on a Wednesday morning at the Big Turtle Wind Farm in Bloomfield Township, west of Port Hope, Huron County. A report dated 29 November 2018 said turbine 14, off Minden Road and north of Dobson Road, was affected. Company officials, the operations manager of Heritage Sustainable Energy and the turbine manufacturer secured the area, and an investigation into the cause was to begin. Images from the scene appeared to show that the blade had delaminated, but the report said there would be no official determination until the investigation was completed. Injuries and any damage beyond the turbine were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. Images appeared to show delamination, but that was not an official finding.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Apparent blade damage in scene images should be treated as unconfirmed until investigation. (2) Securing the area after a blade failure limits secondary risk while the cause is unknown. (3) A joint review by the operator and the manufacturer supports a clearer account of the failure.", "source_url": "http://www.windaction.org/posts/49160-wind-turbine-blade-near-port-hope-failed-early-this-morning", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:47:48.608569+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1290", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1290/", "title": "Fatality during equipment loading at Turtle Creek Wind Farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A construction worker employed by White Construction died while loading heavy equipment at Turtle Creek Wind Farm, a St. Ansgar wind farm under construction. Reporting says the accident happened at about 1 p.m. on a Saturday. Deputies concluded after an initial investigation that the matter was not criminal. OSHA began an investigation at the construction site the following Monday. The cause has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The worker died while loading heavy equipment. No further sequence or cause is given in the source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Loading heavy equipment on a wind farm construction site carries high risk of fatality, so operators must enforce detailed lift plans and direct supervision. (2) A fatal event on site requires immediate work stoppage until the scene is secured and an external investigation begins.", "source_url": "https://www.kcrg.com/content/news/OSHA-investigates-death-at-St-Ansgar-wind-farm-501086791.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:48:04.760877+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1291", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1291/", "title": "Fatality at Viking wind farm site in Shetland Islands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 5 June 2022, a labourer was crushed while using a hammer to remove dried concrete from a skip at the Viking site on Upper Kergord in the Shetland Islands. The skip bale arm fell and pinned him against the chest. Colleagues raised the alarm and attempted resuscitation, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. Contractor BAM Nuttall later pleaded guilty to health and safety breaches and was fined £800,000, with a £60,000 victim surcharge.", "contributing_factors": "An investigation reported that the contractor had not secured the bale arm from falling, had not identified that risk, and had not put in place a safe system of work for anyone using, maintaining or cleaning the skip. No further technical cause is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Secure movable plant parts, including bale arms, before cleaning or maintenance starts. (2) Assess the risks of every task involving plant, including routine cleaning. (3) Put in place and follow a safe system of work that keeps workers clear of parts that can fall.", "source_url": "https://kchanews.com/2018/11/21/osha-investigating-death-on-wind-farm-in-mitchell-county", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:48:20.417159+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1292", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1292/", "title": "Fire at Metairie substation leaves more than 10,000 without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 29 June 2018 a fire occurred at an Entergy power substation at Cleary Avenue and Iota Street in central Metairie. The East Bank Consolidated Fire Department responded just before 5 p.m. Entergy said the fire was in a piece of equipment. Adjacent equipment had to be de-energised so crews could extinguish it safely. The fire was under control as of 5 p.m. Entergy reported 10,506 residences and businesses without power in an area bordered by Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Airline Drive, Transcontinental Drive and North Causeway Boulevard. The exact location and cause were not immediately available. Restoration was expected around 7:30 p.m.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not immediately available. The only reported operational factor is that adjacent equipment had to be de-energised so the fire could be extinguished safely.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fire response can require adjacent equipment to be de-energised before crews can work safely, so operators should keep an isolation plan that the fire service can use. (2) A fire in one piece of equipment can still cut supply across a wide area when neighbouring plant must be taken out of service. (3) Until the cause is known, early outage and restoration figures should be treated as provisional and checked against later utility reports.", "source_url": "https://www.nola.com/traffic/index.ssf/2018/06/more_than_10000_without_power.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:48:41.834163+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1295", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1295/", "title": "Equipment failure at Hypoluxo substation causes Lake Worth outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A piece of equipment failed and sparked a fire late on a Wednesday night in June 2018 at the Hypoluxo substation, causing a widespread power outage in Lake Worth. The city manager said the item that failed was a replacement installed after a transformer malfunctioned in April and was sent away for forensic testing, and that there was no data yet on the cause of the latest failure. Residents were without power in high temperatures. He said failures of this kind affected the city's only incoming supply line, after which it takes several hours to start the city's own power plant.", "contributing_factors": "The city manager described an ageing system, a backlog of problems and years of under-investment, but said the cause of this failure was not known. The city has only one incoming supply line.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Do not treat the cause as known until testing of the failed item is complete, including when a replacement fails. (2) A single incoming supply can turn a local equipment failure into a wider outage lasting several hours. (3) Sections that fail more often, and deferred renewal, should be identified and funded before the next outage, not only after repeated events.", "source_url": "https://www.wptv.com/news/region-c-palm-beach-county/lake-worth/equipment-failure-at-hypoluxo-substation-to-blame-for-lake-worth-power-outage", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:49:17.847214+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1296", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1296/", "title": "Substation fire reported to have cut power in the Krugersdorp area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-06", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 12 June 2018, Mogale City Local Municipality said a sudden power outage was caused by a fire at a substation in the Kagiso area, described in the same report as rural Krugersdorp. The municipality said Eskom had lost a busbar, affecting supply to Mogale City, Randfontein and parts of the City of Johannesburg. The cause was under investigation. Some areas were later reported to have had power restored. How badly the substation was damaged, and how long the wider outage lasted, were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The municipality said the matter was still being investigated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at one substation can remove a busbar and interrupt supply across more than one municipality. (2) Early notices should say what is known, including that the cause is still under investigation, and should be updated as restoration proceeds. (3) Public accounts should separate a reported fire from any claim that the asset was destroyed until that is confirmed.", "source_url": "https://randfonteinherald.co.za/277220/massive-power-outage-after-substation-burns/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:49:24.0515+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1297", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1297/", "title": "Substation fire doused in Milton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline reported that a fire at a substation in Milton was doused on 25 June 2018. The article text was not available, so the cause, the extent of damage, any injuries and any effect on supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A headline that a substation fire was put out is not enough to judge cause or damage. (2) Operators should keep a clear record of fire-service attendance and what was affected. (3) Follow-up reporting should confirm whether supply or equipment was lost.", "source_url": "http://www.standard-journal.com/news/local/article_7cfcfcbc-7865-11e8-b945-43b0d5ccd609.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:49:25.083044+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1298", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1298/", "title": "Smoking electrical substation attended in Cowes", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 18 June 2018, firefighters were called to reports of a smoking electrical substation on York Street in Cowes. Two fire engines attended, investigated the scene and closed the road. A fire and rescue spokesperson said the smoke was caused by oil in a transformer. The incident was then handed over to Scottish and Southern Energy. Damage, injuries and any loss of supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The only cause reported was oil in a transformer. No further contributing factors were given.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Oil smoke from a transformer needs early isolation by the network operator before crews enter the substation. (2) Road closure should stay in place until the operator confirms the substation is safe after an oil smoke event. (3) Handover from fire service to Scottish and Southern Energy must record next steps on the transformer.", "source_url": "http://www.iwcp.co.uk/news/16297422.Firefighters_called_out_to_smoking_electrical_substation_in_Cowes/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:49:29.371933+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1299", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1299/", "title": "Wind turbine fire reported near Woodward, Oklahoma", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine was reported to have caught fire on the morning of 26 December 2017 about 10 miles north and 2 miles east of Woodward, Oklahoma. The fire was also reported to have started a grass fire nearby. Firefighters from several agencies, including the Woodward and Mooreland fire departments, responded and extinguished the fire. The cause was said to be under investigation. The wind farm, the operator and whether anyone was injured were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause was said to be under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine fire in open country can spread to grass, so nearby vegetation should be treated as part of the incident. (2) Rural turbine fires may need several fire services. (3) A short early report should not be used to infer the site, the operator, injuries or the cause.", "source_url": "http://www.koco.com/article/wind-turbine-catches-fire-near-woodward/14500830", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:50:01.374247+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1300", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1300/", "title": "Fire crews called to a substation blaze in Aberdeen", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline dated 7 June 2018 reported that fire crews were called to a blaze at a substation in Aberdeen. The article text was not available. Cause, scale, damage, injuries and any effect on supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline-only report of a substation fire as incomplete until the response and outcome are confirmed. (2) Log fire service attendance at substations so later reports can be matched to the site. (3) Do not infer cause or customer impact from a call-out headline alone.", "source_url": "https://www.eveningexpress.co.uk/fp/news/local/fire-crews-called-to-substation-blaze/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:50:02.543937+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1302", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1302/", "title": "Solar panels start fire at Racine event venue", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Tuesday in late November 2017, two rooftop solar panels started a fire at The Covenant at Murray Mansion, a wedding and event venue at 2219 Washington Ave in Racine. A published photograph showed the damaged panels on the roof, with a fire truck at the scene. The report does not say how the fire started, how far it spread, whether anyone was hurt, or how it was put out.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar equipment can be the point of origin of a building fire, so people on site should know how to isolate the array. (2) A short early report can confirm damaged panels without explaining the fault, so operators should not treat the headline as a cause finding. (3) Venues should plan how fire crews reach a roof array and how the array is made safe before crews work on it.", "source_url": "http://journaltimes.com/business/local/solar-panels-start-fire-at-murray-mansion-event-venue/article_c44e4fe9-49db-5730-a851-be8fd09e6ee2.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:50:19.262994+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1303", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1303/", "title": "Solar panel inverter fault destroys two Lewes homes", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Eight fire engines and forty firefighters attended a blaze at Prince Edward's Road, Lewes on 8 May 2017. The fire started in the roof space of one house and spread to the adjoining property. Investigators from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service determined that the cause was an electrical fault in the inverter of a roof-mounted solar panel system. Firefighters removed roof tiles to extinguish the fire in the roof void. Both properties were destroyed.", "contributing_factors": "Electrical fault in the solar panel inverter.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An electrical fault in a roof-mounted solar inverter started a fire in the roof void, so operators should ensure inverters receive the same installation and maintenance standards as other household electrical equipment. (2) Firefighters had to remove roof tiles to reach the fire in the roof void, so property owners should notify fire services of solar PV systems at domestic sites.", "source_url": "http://www.theargus.co.uk/news/15298085.Fire_battled_by_40_firefighters_caused_by_solar_panel_fault/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:50:45.550885+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1305", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1305/", "title": "Fire at Thornton Heath flats reported to have been caused by an overheated solar panel", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at flats in Thornton Heath. A June 2017 Croydon Advertiser headline said the owners attributed it to an overheated solar panel. The article is no longer available, so damage, injuries and any investigation findings are not known from this source.", "contributing_factors": "The only stated factor is the owners' report, in the headline, of an overheated solar panel. How it overheated, and whether other equipment was involved, is not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Overheating in rooftop solar equipment can start a fire in a block of flats. (2) Operators of solar on occupied buildings should be able to isolate the equipment and tell the fire service where it is. (3) A headline attribution is not a confirmed failure mode and should be checked if an investigation is later published.", "source_url": "http://www.croydonadvertiser.co.uk/fire-at-thornton-heath-flats-was-caused-by-overheated-solar-panel-housing-association-say/story-30402409-detail/story.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T13:50:50.999558+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1306", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1306/", "title": "Underground transformer explosion causes outage in Santa Barbara", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical transformer in an underground vault exploded on a Thursday night, leaving parts of downtown Santa Barbara without power. Firefighters were dispatched at about 9:20 p.m. to the vault on Anacapa Street at Cota Street. No injuries were reported, and two nearby vehicles were damaged. Southern California Edison Co. crews were on the scene assessing the situation and planning repairs. There was no estimate of when power would be restored to the 1,532 customers affected.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An underground vault failure in a street can damage nearby vehicles even when no one is injured. (2) Early public updates should state when the restoration time is not yet known. (3) Night-time vault incidents need a clear plan for fire and utility access in a built-up area.", "source_url": "https://www.noozhawk.com/underground-transformer-explosion-causes-power-outage-in-downtown-santa-barbara/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T15:07:55.165981+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1307", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1307/", "title": "Fire at residential solar installation in Castelfranco Emilia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Italy", "country_code": "it", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters attended a fire involving a photovoltaic installation on a residential property in via Cagnola, Castelfranco Emilia, on 25 September 2026. The blaze was extinguished and no injuries were recorded. The fire did not spread to the rest of the wooden-roofed dwelling, and the area was then made safe.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rapid attendance can limit fire spread from a roof-mounted solar array to the building fabric. (2) A wooden roof covering calls for a plan for safe firefighting at height. (3) After the fire is out, the installation and the surrounding area should be made safe before the site is left.", "source_url": "https://www.modenatoday.it/cronaca/incendio-fotovoltaico-castelfranco-25-settembre-2026.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T15:08:37.820547+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1308", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1308/", "title": "Transformer explosion kills worker during repair in Ghaziabad", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "One worker was killed and two others injured after a transformer exploded during repair work in Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, on 23 September 2026. Police said several workers, including electricity department contractors and a private contractor, were repairing electrical equipment on the transformer when a malfunction occurred. The transformer exploded and hot oil spilled, causing burn injuries. Those injured were taken to hospital. Paschimanchal Vidyut Vitaran Nigam Limited launched an inquiry into the cause. Police said no formal complaint had been filed as of the following day.", "contributing_factors": "A malfunction was reported during repair work on the transformer. The cause had not been established; an inquiry was under way.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat isolation and permit controls as essential before any work on a transformer that may still hold energy or oil. (2) Plan for hot-oil and burn injuries when crews work on oil-filled equipment, including protective equipment and a route to hospital care. (3) Do not treat the cause as known until the inquiry reports, and keep the affected equipment out of service until it is made safe.", "source_url": "https://transformer-magazine.com/news/transformer-explosion-kills-worker-in-ghaziabad/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T15:08:40.658715+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1309", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1309/", "title": "Transformer failure reported at Fort Peck Dam causes brief Montana outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 3 September 2026, a fire broke out in grass next to the powerhouse at Fort Peck Dam in northeastern Montana. Local emergency services said a failed transformer knocked a live power line to the ground and set the grass alight. The outage affected 3,157 NorthWestern Energy customers in the Glasgow area, and supply was restored by about 12:17 a.m. Three hydroelectric units that had been running were taken offline for roughly four hours while safety checks were completed. Nobody on site was injured, and staff on duty were evacuated. Local fire crews and project staff put the grass fire out. The Western Area Power Administration bypassed the damaged equipment, which is why customer supply returned before the generators did. The Army Corps of Engineers said the fire stayed outside the powerhouse, that nothing inside was immediately affected, and that the three units later returned to operation. The cause of the failure has not been stated publicly.", "contributing_factors": "Local emergency services attributed the fire to a failed transformer and a live line on the ground. Grass was reported next to the high-voltage equipment. The Corps release described a grass fire outside the building and did not name the failed component. The cause remains under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grass next to high-voltage equipment can turn an electrical fault into a fire that requires local crews to extinguish. (2) A grid bypass can restore customer supply before on-site generators return after safety checks. (3) Taking units offline when the grid link is lost protects machinery until checks are complete.", "source_url": "https://www.autonocion.com/us/four-mile-mud-dam-transformer-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T15:10:56.891396+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1311", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1311/", "title": "Intense fire reported to have consumed an electrical substation in Guayas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Ecuador", "country_code": "ec", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An intense fire was reported to have consumed an electrical substation in Guayas, Ecuador. Published video was described as showing large flames and a dense column of smoke. Emergency teams were reported to have attended to bring the fire under control. The date, operator, cause, any injuries and any effect on electricity supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires can grow quickly and produce a large smoke column, so early detection and a clear emergency call-out matter. (2) Keep access routes and isolation procedures ready so fire crews can work without delay. (3) After a substation fire, confirm equipment damage and any supply impact before restoring service.", "source_url": "https://www.tvaztecabajacalifornia.com/noticias/imagenes-impactantes-incendio-consume-subestacion-electrica-en-guayas/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T15:12:40.890739+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1313", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1313/", "title": "Transformer fire at DVC KTPS plant in Jaynagar, Koderma brought under control", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Monday evening, a transformer caught fire near turbine number 2 in an under-construction unit at the DVC KTPS thermal power plant in Jaynagar, Koderma, India. Two fire tenders attended and, after sustained effort, brought the fire under control before it spread to nearby equipment or other parts of the plant. No injuries or fatalities were reported. After the fire was fully controlled, the situation in the plant premises was reported as normal. The cause had not been established.", "contributing_factors": "An early account raised a possible short-circuit. Plant authorities were investigating, and the source says this should not be treated as the established cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An early call to the fire service, and a sustained attack, can keep a transformer fire from spreading to nearby plant equipment. (2) Under-construction generating units still hold large electrical plant, so a local fire needs the same response discipline as an operating site. (3) A suspected short-circuit should stay marked as unconfirmed until the investigation is finished.", "source_url": "https://thenewskhazana.com/koderma-2/koderma-news-92-68870/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T15:14:50.949962+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1315", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1315/", "title": "Home battery reported drained by EV charger during a grid outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "control_system", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A homeowner reported that a house with rooftop solar and two Tesla Powerwall 3 units lost its battery reserve during a grid outage. The account said a driver struck a transformer on a nearby main road at about 10 p.m., after which the house switched to battery backup without the occupants noticing. A charging request from a Rivian electric vehicle was reported to have continued through a Wallbox charger and emptied both Powerwalls in about one hour. The same account said Wi-Fi went down during the outage and that an automation intended to stop charging may not have worked. The place, date and any independent confirmation were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "As reported, a high-draw EV charge continued after the switch to backup. Loss of internet connectivity may have left cloud-based control of the charger unable to stop the session. No independent check of the outage or of the charger behaviour was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High-draw loads such as EV chargers should be kept off battery-backed circuits, or disconnected locally when the grid is lost. (2) Outage plans that rely on internet or cloud automation can fail if the router or the cloud link drops; a local interlock is more reliable. (3) Where network equipment is needed for control, a small UPS can keep it up through a brief interruption.", "source_url": "https://www.thecooldown.com/green-tech/home-battery-backup-failure-drunk-driver/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-25T20:06:25.560378+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1317", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1317/", "title": "Reported grid failure in Kazakhstan after generation shutdown in Uzbekistan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Kazakhstan", "country_code": "kz", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 25 September 2026, Kazakhstan's national grid operator reported a technical failure in the country's power grid following an unexpected shutdown of 1,516 MW of generation in Uzbekistan. The published text available to the register is a short lead only. The scale of any outage, its duration, and which plants were involved were not stated.", "contributing_factors": "The report links the failure to an unexpected loss of generation in a neighbouring system. No further cause was given in the text reviewed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grid operators must prepare controls for sudden loss of generation across borders. (2) Operators need fast visibility of cross-border trips to limit cascade effects.", "source_url": "https://akipress.com/news:921014:Power_generation_shutdown_in_Uzbekistan_triggers_grid_failure_across_Kazakhstan/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-26T02:06:11.906614+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1318", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1318/", "title": "Wind turbine blade breaks after undetected lightning damage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "Japan", "country_code": "jp", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 12 April a blade on a wind turbine in Oga City, Akita Prefecture, broke during operation. The operator reported to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry that a lightning strike on 20 March had damaged the blade. Continued running weakened the structure until it failed. An inspection on 4 April did not detect the damage because the turbine remained rotating during a ground-level visual check.", "contributing_factors": "Lightning damage reduced blade strength. The 4 April inspection was performed while the rotor was turning, so the fault was missed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A ground level visual check cannot detect blade damage if the rotor keeps turning, so stop the turbine for all blade inspections after lightning. (2) Lightning damage can weaken a blade enough to cause failure weeks later, so confirm no damage before return to service.", "source_url": "https://topics.smt.docomo.ne.jp/article/asahi_region/nation/asahi_region-ASV9T4CMLV9TUBUB002M?utm_source=dnews&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=contentsmatch5", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-26T02:06:14.023781+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1320", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1320/", "title": "Transformer explosion reported to have knocked out power in Boonton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A News 12 report said a transformer explosion knocked out power to residents in Boonton. The same report said heavy rain and strong winds pulled down trees and power lines in the town. It did not say how many customers lost power, whether anyone was hurt, or how the weather and the explosion were linked.", "contributing_factors": "Heavy rain and strong winds were reported in Boonton at the time. A causal link to the explosion was not stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Heavy rain and strong winds can pull down trees and power lines near transformers, so operators should inspect overhead lines after storms. (2) A reported transformer explosion may or may not link to weather, so operators should confirm the sequence before attributing outages.", "source_url": "https://westchester.news12.com/2018/05/16/transformer-explosion-knocks-out-power-to-boonton-residents-38201340/4MKP1fY91SvBH4DYTS1XOY", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-26T02:07:07.556428+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1321", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1321/", "title": "Substation fire linked in reports to a Reutlingen case, with no known tie to other incidents", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A regional report of 24 September 2026 says there had been a fire at a substation and discusses a case in Reutlingen, Germany. It does not name the substation, give the date of the fire, or say whether anyone was hurt or whether power was lost. State authorities were reported to have compared findings with other federal states. No link was reported to attacks on substations and power lines in Brandenburg, Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia in September 2026. The report, citing SWR and the Stuttgart public prosecutor general, said there were still no indications of a perpetrator or a motive in the Reutlingen case.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of the fire is not stated, and investigators were reported to have no indication yet of a perpetrator, a motive, or a link to other incidents.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat an unexplained substation fire as both a safety event and a security event until investigators rule out third-party action. (2) Compare findings with other regions before assuming separate incidents share a cause. (3) Do not state a cause or a link to other events until it is confirmed by investigators.", "source_url": "https://www.rtf1.de/news.php?id=43528", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-26T02:11:15.267603+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1324", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1324/", "title": "Transformer fire causes outage in Allentown neighbourhood", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer blew in the Midway Manor neighbourhood of Allentown, knocking out power to about 88 customers, according to PPL. Firefighters were sent to the neighbourhood at about 7:30 a.m. after a report of a transformer fire. A transformer was reported to have fallen from a pole on Fairmount Street and to have been on fire, as was an overhead power line, which then fell to the ground. PPL had sent a crew and expected power to be back by 10:30 a.m. Whether restoration met that time was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A pole-mounted transformer can fall and bring down live lines, so crews must isolate the site before any approach. (2) Restoration estimates given early in an outage may change, so operators should update them once crews reach the site.", "source_url": "https://www.mcall.com/2018/07/12/power-goes-out-in-east-allentown-after-transformer-power-lines-catch-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-26T07:34:37.185379+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1326", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1326/", "title": "Transformer fire at Whiting substation causes power outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 15 January 2018, a transformer fire at a JCP&L electrical substation in Whiting left nearly 4,200 customers without power for part of the afternoon. Fire crews and power crews extinguished the fire and restored power within a few hours. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a substation can leave thousands of customers without power, so operators should maintain alternative supply routes. (2) Rapid joint response by fire crews and power crews can restore supply within hours after a substation transformer fire.", "source_url": "https://www.jerseyshoreonline.com/manchester/transformer-fire-at-substation-leaves-4200-without-power/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-26T07:36:41.697789+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1327", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1327/", "title": "Transformer blast kills three farmers in a field in Bemetara", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded on 20 September 2026 in the Hemband Khar area of Mohtara village, Bemetara district, Chhattisgarh, India. Hot oil and flames from the transformer spread into a nearby field where three farmers were working. They suffered severe burns, were taken to Bemetara District Hospital and later referred to Raipur, and died during treatment about five days later. The cause of the blast has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. Officials were expected to examine the circumstances.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution transformer blast can project hot oil and flame into adjacent fields, so operators must set exclusion zones around such units. (2) Burn injuries from transformer failures need rapid access to specialist care, so site plans should include known routes to burn units. (3) After a fatal transformer blast, the failure mode must be recorded before replacement to avoid repeat events at the same site.", "source_url": "https://english.dainikjagranmpcg.com/states/chhattisgarh/bemetara-transformer-blast-3-farmers-die-after-field-accident/article-33427", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-26T09:07:34.458687+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1328", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1328/", "title": "Battery storage fire at solar installation in Reichenbach", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 25 September 2026 at approximately 13:10, a fire occurred in the battery storage unit of a solar installation at a food factory on Robert-Georgi-Weg in Reichenbach, OT Mylau. The fire was extinguished by fire services from Reichenbach and Obermylau, with support from the Vogtlandkreis hazardous materials unit and criminal police fire investigators. The installation sustained substantial damage and factory production was significantly disrupted. The S 299 road was closed for four hours until the incident concluded around 17:15.", "contributing_factors": "A technical defect is presumed to have caused the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage units in solar installations need early defect detection to limit fire spread. (2) Battery fires at industrial sites need hazmat support because standard crews cannot contain them alone. (3) Operators of colocated battery assets must plan for factory production loss after a fire.", "source_url": "https://www.news.de/lokales/860031302/polizei-einsatz-sachsen-vogtlandkreis-autounfall-heute-am-26-09-2026/1/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-26T15:06:15.504049+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1329", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1329/", "title": "Fires reported at Kanash substation and an energy company office in Chuvashia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "Russia", "country_code": "ru", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A news report dated 2 May 2026 says that, from Friday night into early Saturday, a fire broke out at the 220 kV Kanash substation in Kanash, in the Chuvash Republic, Russia. A separate fire was reported at the office of the energy supply company Alatyrskoye MO Chesk in Alatyr. Residents of Kanash were reported to have heard explosion sounds, and were thought to have heard them before the substation fire. The cause, any damage to equipment, and any effect on electricity supply have not been confirmed. The account cites the Telegram channel Astra, and the report itself says official information has not been confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The cause of either fire is unknown.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Overnight fire at a 220 kV substation must be treated as a grid incident until supply impact is confirmed. (2) Explosion sounds heard before a substation fire require evidence preservation and no assumed cause. (3) Public updates on substation fires must state clearly what remains unconfirmed by the operator.", "source_url": "https://mezha.net/jp/news/a483e3e0_fires_erupted_at/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-26T15:06:27.18027+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1330", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1330/", "title": "Transformer fire causes outage in Aydın shopping area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Turkey", "country_code": "tr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred at a transformer in Hasanefendi-Ramazanpaşa Mahallesi 23 Sokak, Efeler district, Aydın. Firefighters extinguished the blaze quickly. Repair work by ADM teams began on the damaged transformer. Electricity was cut to Umut and Sevgi Caddesi, known as Yağcılar İçi Çarşısı, to allow safe repairs. Some businesses used generators during the outage.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure rapid isolation and repair protocols for distribution transformers to limit outage duration. (2) Provide clear communication to affected businesses on expected restoration times. (3) Encourage backup power readiness for commercial areas during planned or emergency outages.", "source_url": "https://ajansaydin.com/aydinda-trafo-yangini-sonrasi-carsi-esnafi-elektriksiz-kaldi-33742h.htm", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-26T20:06:14.157757+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1331", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1331/", "title": "Pole-mounted transformer explodes injuring three in Hyderabad", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Pakistan", "country_code": "pk", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A pole-mounted transformer of the Hyderabad Electric Supply Company exploded on Khai Road in Hyderabad. Officials said the unit caught fire before a powerful explosion, and burning oil spilled onto people nearby. The fire spread to a nearby dhaba hotel and damaged five vehicles and motorcycles. Three people were injured, taken to hospital and later reported to be out of danger. Rescue teams brought the fire under control after a two-hour operation. Company teams were notified but were reported not to have reached the site in time.", "contributing_factors": "The transformer caught fire before it exploded, and burning oil was reported to have spilled onto people nearby. Company teams were reported not to have reached the site in time. The cause of the fire was not stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in a pole-mounted transformer can precede an explosion and release burning oil onto people nearby. (2) If utility teams are slow to attend, emergency services may have to control the fire for a prolonged period on their own. (3) Transformers beside shops, hotels and parked vehicles can spread fire beyond the asset, so that exposure should be included in risk assessments.", "source_url": "https://arynews.tv/hyderabad-transformer-explosion-leaves-3-injured", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-26T20:06:29.100046+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1332", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1332/", "title": "Fire at TSSPDCL substation office in Somajiguda, none injured", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Sunday afternoon in April 2018, a fire broke out at about 1 pm in the outdoor substation office of Telangana State Southern Power Distribution Company Limited (TSSPDCL) near the chief minister's camp office at Somajiguda, Hyderabad. It started in the section office on the first floor, where old records and plastic cases of electricity reading metres were stored. An electric short-circuit from rodent bites is believed to have caused the fire; that cause has not been confirmed. A few employees were on the ground floor. None were injured, and the department claimed no losses. A fire tender already stationed at Paryatak Bhavan because of VIP movement in the area put the fire out within minutes.", "contributing_factors": "The only suggested cause is an electric short-circuit from rodent bites among stored records and plastic metre cases. The source presents this as a belief, not a confirmed finding.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep paper records and spare metre cases away from wiring that rodents can reach. (2) Do not treat a fire tender that happens to be nearby as normal cover; substation sites still need a planned response. (3) Say clearly whether a fire was in an office or in electrical plant, so later reports do not overstate what was damaged.", "source_url": "https://www.newindianexpress.com/hyderabad/2018/Apr/23/fire-breaks-out-at-discom-sub-station-none-injured-1805128.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-27T02:06:12.819257+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1333", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1333/", "title": "Fire at new Bryan Texas Utilities substation on Texas A&M campus", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 14 June 2017 a fire broke out at the Bryan Texas Utilities substation on Enterprise Avenue on the Texas A&M campus after the new substation was activated for the first time, according to utility officials. College Station firefighters responded after power had been cut and extinguished the smoking equipment. No construction workers were injured. The cause was reported to remain under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. The source said only that the fire remained under investigation after the substation was activated for the first time.", "lessons_learned": "(1) First energisation of a new substation should include a clear check that equipment is de-energised before anyone approaches smoke or fire. (2) Commissioning crews should be able to evacuate and account for people quickly if newly activated equipment catches fire. (3) The cause of a fire during first activation should be investigated before the asset is returned to service, and the findings shared with the operator.", "source_url": "https://www.kbtx.com/content/news/Electrical-substation-equipment-catches-fire-at-Texas-AM-campus-428479093.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-27T02:06:16.076056+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1335", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1335/", "title": "Transformer explosion damages homes in Montebello", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer explosion linked to a Thanksgiving Day outage on Ferguson Drive in Montebello shook homes and, residents said, sent a power surge through electrical lines. Families in eight households said they remained without power, with reports of damaged wiring and appliances and of a car destroyed by fire. Southern California Edison initially attributed the outage to lightning. The National Weather Service, as reported, found no evidence of lightning in the area that morning, only rain showers. Residents also reported a transformer failure on the same line eight days earlier and utility work the day before. An Edison spokesperson said the incident left 2,450 customers without power. The Montebello Fire Department reported an underground vault explosion nearby later the same day.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not established in the report. Edison first attributed the outage to lightning, but that account was disputed after weather data showed rain and no lightning. Residents reported an earlier transformer failure on the same line and utility work the day before; those reports were not independently confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check weather records independently before attributing an electrical failure to lightning. (2) Treat reported repeat failures on the same circuit as a prompt for investigation. (3) Tell affected customers clearly what is known, and what is not, after a surge that damages property.", "source_url": "https://abc7.com/montebello-residents-angry-at-edison-after-destructive-transformer-explosion/5730555/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-27T02:13:23.907001+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1336", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1336/", "title": "Fire reported in a room with energy storage devices in Kłodnica", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Poland", "country_code": "pl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Sunday morning before 9am, the fire service received a report of a fire at a property near Wyspiańskiego street, at the main junction in Kłodnica. Fire was reported in a room containing devices used to store energy, and it produced heavy smoke. Several fire crews attended and worked in breathing apparatus. The situation was reported as under control. The cause, the scale of the installation and whether anyone was hurt were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in a room with energy storage can produce heavy smoke, so crews should treat the space as needing breathing apparatus until the hazard is known. (2) Early reports may not say whether storage is residential or larger, so the scale and the cause should not be assumed. (3) Comment speculation is not a finding and should not guide response until investigators report a cause.", "source_url": "https://www.kk24.pl/artykul/26990,pozar-przy-glownym-skrzyzowaniu-w-klodnicy-ogien-pojawil-sie-w-pomieszczeniu-z-magazynami-energii", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-27T09:05:58.057531+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1337", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1337/", "title": "Transformer fire at Georgia Power substation in Norcross", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A short report said firefighters contained a transformer fire at a Georgia Power high-voltage substation in Norcross, Georgia, early on 22 September 2026, after crews responded at 12:58 a.m. They encountered intense heat and a large fire inside the substation perimeter and set up a protective area while Georgia Power personnel managed electrical hazards. A hazardous materials team and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division monitored the area for possible environmental exposure. The fire was reported under control by 6:32 a.m. No injuries were reported. The report said more than 13,000 people in the area were left without power. The cause had not been determined, and Georgia Power was reported to have taken over the site to investigate and begin repairs.", "contributing_factors": "The cause had not been determined at the time of the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation transformer fire can produce intense heat inside the perimeter, so crews should set a protective area before electrical hazards are managed. (2) Where environmental exposure cannot be ruled out, hazardous materials and environmental agencies should monitor the site while the fire is controlled. (3) Cause investigation and repairs can start once the operator takes the site back, and outage planning should not wait on a confirmed cause.", "source_url": "https://megaproject.com/news/powerplant/transformer-fire-hits-georgia-power-substation", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-27T09:06:44.098376+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1338", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1338/", "title": "Fire at Girga transformer station cuts power to four centres", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Egypt", "country_code": "eg", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in an electrical cell at the Bayt Dawud transformer station in Girga, Sohag governorate, Egypt. Civil protection forces responded with two fire engines, contained the blaze and cooled the site, preventing spread to other station components. Initial inspection found a main electrical cell completely burned and taken out of service. Power was cut to four centres: Girga, Al-Balina, Al-Mansha and Dar Al-Salam. No injuries or fatalities were recorded.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. Initial inspection found that a main electrical cell had burned completely and left service, which affected the network.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rapid deployment of fire services limits damage to critical grid assets. (2) Pre-planned alternative supply arrangements reduce outage duration for affected areas. (3) Immediate technical investigation after cell fires supports timely replacement and network restoration.", "source_url": "https://www.masrawy.com/news/news_regions/details/2026/9/27/3054393/%D8%AA%D8%B3%D8%A8%D8%A8-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D9%82%D8%B7%D8%B9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%83%D9%87%D8%B1%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D8%B9%D9%86-4-%D9%85%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%83%D8%B2-%D8%AA%D9%81%D8%A7%D8%B5%D9%8A%D9%84-%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%8A%D9%82-%D9%85%D8%AD%D8%B7%D8%A9-%D9%85%D8%AD%D9%88%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%AC%D8%B1%D8%AC%D8%A7-%D8%A8%D8%B3%D9%88%D9%87%D8%A7%D8%AC", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-27T15:07:59.425598+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1339", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1339/", "title": "Fire damages solar system at Hospital Mário Gatti in Campinas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Brazil", "country_code": "br", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An incipient fire on the afternoon of 27 September 2026 affected part of the roof of Hospital Municipal Dr. Mário Gatti in Campinas, in the area where photovoltaic panels for the hospital's solar system are installed. Firefighters reported that a short-circuit in wiring connected to the system may have started the fire. They shut off the electrical installation before fighting the flames with extinguishers. Smoke spread near the intensive care unit and the emergency department. As a safety measure, the emergency room temporarily stopped admitting new patients while the incident was dealt with. Power to the surgical centre was interrupted briefly. Rede Mário Gatti said no procedure was under way at the time. The fire was brought under control. Firefighters reported no casualties and said no one needed treatment for smoke inhalation. The affected area was isolated, and damage was found to part of the roof tiles. The company responsible for the solar system was called to carry out maintenance and assess the damage, and investigators were also called. The hospital network said services were not lastingly affected.", "contributing_factors": "Firefighters reported that a short-circuit in wiring linked to the solar system may have started the fire. The cause had not been confirmed, and investigators were called.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolate electrical systems before fighting a fire involving a solar installation. (2) Plan for smoke moving into nearby critical care and emergency areas. (3) Keep a route to the system maintainer for assessment and repairs after an incident.", "source_url": "https://rca1.com.br/incendio-atinge-sistema-de-energia-solar-no-hospital-mario-gatti-em-campinas/?amp=1", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:10:18.644178+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1340", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1340/", "title": "Vegetation fire extinguished at Jarafuel solar plant", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Spain", "country_code": "es", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Consorcio Provincial de Bomberos de València extinguished a low vegetation fire at a photovoltaic plant in Jarafuel, in the Casa Mojón area, on the afternoon of Sunday 27 September 2026. The call was received at 16.36. The response included one officer, one sergeant from Requena, two appliances from that station, three volunteer appliances from Ayora and Cofrentes, one BRIFO unit and one unit of forest firefighters from the Generalitat. The fire service said the fire started in a field of photovoltaic panels, affected only low vegetation, and did not damage the installation. The fire was extinguished and stabilised.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Vegetation in a photovoltaic field can burn even when the electrical installation is not damaged, so fuel management around panels still matters. (2) A clear report of where the fire started, and of what it did not damage, helps later reviews avoid treating an undamaged plant as a failed asset. (3) Operators should keep access and location information ready so crews can reach a panel field quickly and confirm whether equipment is involved.", "source_url": "https://www.elconfidencial.com/espana/2026-09-27/incendio-matorrales-planta-fotovoltaica-jarafuel-1tna-1tps_4433258/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:10:29.785146+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1341", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1341/", "title": "Transformer fire causes extended outage in Germantown area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local report said a transformer near Observation Drive and Ridge Road blew and caught fire, causing a power outage in parts of the Milestone area in Germantown. Power was reported still out for an extended period in parts of Milestone Shopping Center and surrounding areas. An SUV was removed from the scene that afternoon; the report said it was not clear whether the vehicle was involved.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire can leave nearby shops and homes without power for an extended period, so restoration plans should cover commercial clusters as well as homes. (2) Until investigators say otherwise, treat both equipment failure and nearby vehicle activity as open questions and preserve the scene. (3) Early public updates should separate what is known from what is not, including whether a vehicle was involved.", "source_url": "https://mocoshow.com/2026/09/27/transformer-fire-causes-extended-power-outage-in-milestone-area/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:10:53.102589+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1342", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1342/", "title": "Breaker explosion at Chaumuhani grid substation disrupts power in Noakhali", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Bangladesh", "country_code": "bd", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 33 kV source breaker at the Chaumuhani grid substation in Begumganj, Noakhali, was damaged in an explosion at around 8:30 pm on a Friday, as reported on 27 September 2026. The breaker caught fire and shut down the 33 kV line from Chaumuhani to Maijdi, cutting power to Maijdi, the district town, and surrounding areas. An alternative ring circuit was reported to be supplying about 10 MW against demand of about 20 MW. In the area under the Bangladesh Power Development Board in Maijdi, about 10 MW was supplied against demand of 22 to 25 MW, with supply rotated by area for about an hour at a time until the breaker could be replaced.", "contributing_factors": "The local utility reported that the pole of the 33 kV source breaker was damaged and broken. Rain was reported to have slightly disrupted repair work. The cause of the explosion was not otherwise reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep replacement 33 kV breakers available so a failed source breaker can be changed without a long outage. (2) Check that ring-circuit capacity covers peak demand, so a single breaker failure does not force wide rotational cuts. (3) Plan breaker replacement with allowance for weather delaying the work.", "source_url": "https://dailycountrytodaybd.com/story/breaker-explosion-at-grid-substation-causes-power-outage-in-noakhali-town-", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:11:00.013842+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1343", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1343/", "title": "Worker dies after fall inside turbine at PPAW wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A man in his forties died after a fall while carrying out tasks inside a wind turbine on the Pohénégamook-Picard-Saint-Antonin-Wolastokuk (PPAW) construction site, in the chemin Champoux sector, on 27 September 2026. Emergency services attended and he was taken to hospital, where his death was confirmed. Preliminary information said three workers were doing maintenance on the third platform of the turbine at the time. The CNESST sent inspectors to secure the area and start an investigation, and climbing was prohibited in the turbine involved and in the other turbines on the site. Work on the site was suspended. Construction of the PPAW wind farm began in 2025, with commissioning planned for December 2026.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) After a fatal fall inside a turbine, stop work and keep the scene secure until the safety authority has gathered the first facts. (2) Restrict access to the turbine involved and to similar turbines on the site until checks show it is safe to return. (3) Resume work only with the safety authority's authorisation and a clear plan for the crews.", "source_url": "https://www.infodimanche.com/justice-et-faits-divers/un-travailleur-blesse-gravement-dans-le-chantier-du-parc-eolien-ppaw/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:11:07.191366+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1344", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1344/", "title": "Thunderstorms damage equipment at three substations, leaving customers without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Friday 7 August 2026, a heavy band of strong thunderstorms around 3 pm damaged equipment at three substations and affected two transmission lines, according to AES. Power was mostly restored by Sunday morning. As of 8:20 am on 9 August, the AES outage map showed 28 customers still without supply in Montgomery County and one in Greene County. Repair crews were working. The precise sites and the extent of damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "AES said strong thunderstorms damaged substation equipment and affected two transmission lines. No further cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Severe weather can damage several substations and transmission lines at once, so restoration plans should cover more than one site. (2) Outage maps should be checked after the main supply returns so remaining customers are not missed. (3) Public updates should separate confirmed equipment damage from remaining customer counts.", "source_url": "https://www.daytondailynews.com/tncms/asset/editorial/a0362ff9-0f7e-51d7-bdc6-ff224b849136", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:11:57.060648+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1345", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1345/", "title": "Technician dies after fall from wind turbine in Wyoming", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine technician is reported to have fallen to his death from a turbine while working at a wind farm in Wyoming, in the United States. The source does not name the wind farm, the date of the fall, or the circumstances.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Work at height on a wind turbine needs a fall-arrest system that is attached before a worker leaves a protected platform. (2) A rescue plan for a person suspended from a turbine should be in place before the task starts. (3) After a fatal fall, the task, harness use and conditions should be recorded so the cause can be established.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/teenage-technician-dies-after-fall-from-wind-turbine-in-us/2-1-1807575", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:12:05.928077+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1346", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1346/", "title": "Line tripping at Egbin substation disrupts power supply", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At about 2:47 p.m. on 5 August 2024 a heavy system surge caused arcing on the Benin-Egbin 330kV line isolator fingers at the Egbin Transmission Substation switchyard. The resulting line tripping affected outgoing lines from the substation and led to loss of supply to some areas. The Transmission Company of Nigeria stated that the event did not constitute a national grid collapse. Power supply was restored to affected areas by 6:10 p.m. the same day after the line tripping was rectified.", "contributing_factors": "Heavy system surge leading to arcing of the Benin-Egbin 330kV line isolator fingers.", "lessons_learned": "(1) 330kV line isolator fingers must resist system surges without arcing, so operators should check contact condition and alignment on similar assets. (2) Line isolator faults at substations require fast local repair to limit outage spread, so plans should include spare parts and trained crews on site. (3) Clear statements from the grid operator prevent wider alarm during local trips, so protocols should cover rapid public updates.", "source_url": "https://techeconomy.ng/tcn-refutes-national-grid-collapse-attributes-power-outage-to-egbin-substation-line-tripping", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:12:22.083081+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1348", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1348/", "title": "Man flown to hospital after electrocution at Campbell Road substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline dated 14 November 2024 reported that a man was electrocuted at the Campbell Road substation and was flown to hospital. The article text was not available. The town, the operator, the man's role and the circumstances are not reported in the material held by the register.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat live substation equipment as a serious injury risk for workers and anyone else on site. (2) Keep emergency access and medical response arrangements ready at substations. (3) Do not state a cause from a headline alone until the operator or the emergency services confirm it.", "source_url": "https://www.sidneydailynews.com/2024/11/14/photos-man-hurt-in-explosion/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:12:37.318766+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1349", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1349/", "title": "Storm-damaged wind turbine demolished with explosives near Mechanicsville", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 26 November 2024, a wind turbine near Mechanicsville in Cedar County, Iowa, United States, was brought down with explosives at 7:30. Cedar County Emergency Management said Acciona, the owner, was removing it because it was no longer functional. The same report said the turbine had previously caught fire and been damaged in a storm months earlier. The date of that fire and storm, and any injuries, were not reported. Local fire, ambulance, sheriff and emergency management crews were on site for the controlled demolition.", "contributing_factors": "The owner told emergency management the turbine was no longer functional after earlier fire and storm damage. This report does not state how the fire started, which storm was involved, or why explosives were chosen for the removal.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine left standing after fire or storm damage may still need a planned removal, with emergency services present. (2) The date and cause of the original damage should be recorded separately from a later demolition, so the two events are not conflated. (3) Controlled demolition of a damaged turbine should be coordinated with local emergency management.", "source_url": "https://cbs2iowa.com/news/local/wind-turbine-damaged-in-storms-months-ago-taken-down-in-eastern-iowa", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:12:46.408718+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1350", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1350/", "title": "Contractor electrocuted at Duke Energy substation in Charlotte", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 25 January 2024, Duke Energy told a local news station that one person was hurt in an incident at one of its substations in Charlotte, and that a few hundred people were left without power. The outage was reported to have started just after 9 a.m. Around the same time, the emergency medical service said one person was taken to hospital with serious injuries after an electrocution on Elizabeth Avenue near Kings Drive. Duke Energy said the injured person was a contractor working at one of its substations and that it was investigating. The exact circumstances, and the contractor's later condition, have not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. Duke Energy said it was investigating.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat work in or near a live substation as a high-risk task and confirm isolation before work starts. (2) Make clear how a medical emergency at a substation is raised and who attends. (3) When an early report gives little detail, record what is known and what is still under investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/contractor-electrocuted-duke-energy-substation-charlotte/FJOER5IQCJDNBBUAQDCHPA5JTE/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:13:01.521179+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1351", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1351/", "title": "Two wind turbines reported to have caught fire in western Ontario", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 29 June 2023 report said that two wind turbines had caught fire in western Ontario. The article text was not available, so the date of the fires, the site, any injuries, the extent of damage, the response and the cause are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine fire report should name the site and the date, so it can be matched to an asset and not confused with other events. (2) Operators should have a plan to isolate a burning turbine and keep people clear of falling debris. (3) Cause, injuries and time offline should be recorded even when the first public report is only a headline.", "source_url": "https://farmersforum.com/two-wind-turbines-catch-fire-in-western-ontario/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:13:03.084233+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1352", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1352/", "title": "Turbine fire at Stemwede Bürgerwindpark in Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-07", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A turbine at the Stemwede Bürgerwindpark in North Rhine-Westphalia caught fire early on Tuesday 4 July 2023. The local fire brigade said the operator had already tried to put the fire out and had shut the turbine down. Crews then secured the site and checked for embers so the fire did not spread to nearby fields. No one was hurt. The damaged machine was a Nordex N43 of 600 kW. The 6 MW farm was built in 1998 and was no longer serviced by Nordex.", "contributing_factors": "The farm's managing director told the reporter that a defective brake started the fire after the turbine had to be braked several times because of negative electricity prices, which he said the law required. He said these older machines were not built for repeated ramping, unlike larger pitch-controlled turbines. That account has not been independently confirmed. Nordex did not comment when approached.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators of older turbines should check whether braking systems can safely handle frequent stops required by negative prices or curtailment rules. (2) Ageing turbines no longer serviced by the manufacturer need a clear maintenance plan for safety-critical parts such as brakes. (3) Emergency plans should cover an operator's first attempt to shut down a burning turbine and fire crews securing the site against spread.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/wind-farm-blaze-boss-blames-negative-power-prices-for-strain-on-old-turbine/2-1-1481181", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:13:14.503443+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1353", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1353/", "title": "Fires damage multiple City Power substations in Johannesburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Over about 18 months to June 2023, City Power reported at least seven fires at its substations in Johannesburg. The latest named site was the Brixton traction substation, less than a week after a fire at a City Power substation in Soweto. The fires caused significant inconvenience for residents and compounded load shedding. A related report linked the Brixton fire to electricity and water supply problems. City Power estimated R106 million to restore full capacity at the affected substations, and said not all of them were fully operational. It also put the asset renewal backlog for substations and transmission lines at R3.6 billion. Full restoration at Brixton was estimated at R3 million. Dates and the full list of sites were not set out in this report.", "contributing_factors": "City Power said the fires had a range of causes, including theft and vandalism, rolling blackouts and overloading of transformers. An energy expert separately argued that poor maintenance, ageing transformers and weak protection against overload are wider problems. Those points were not confirmed as the cause of each fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Accelerate predictive and preventative maintenance so ageing substation plant is less likely to fail in service. (2) Keep transformer protection in place and effective against overload and other faults. (3) Maintain contingency plans for every substation, as City Power said it is required to do.", "source_url": "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2023-06-20-restoring-full-capacity-to-joburgs-fire-damaged-substations-will-cost-r106m-says-city-power/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:13:16.550895+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1354", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1354/", "title": "Substation fire causes large blackout in Beira", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Mozambique", "country_code": "mz", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Saturday morning, a fire destroyed much of the electricity substation in the Munhava neighbourhood of Beira, Mozambique. EDM said the resulting power cut left more than 160,000 of its clients without electricity. Alternative supplies kept Beira Central Hospital and the city's international airport running. After the fire was brought under control, EDM technical teams worked to restore normal supplies. The cause of the fire was not known.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Critical facilities should keep independent backup supplies so a substation fire does not stop essential services. (2) A clear restoration plan helps shorten a widespread outage once a fire is under control. (3) Where the cause is unknown, operators should investigate before treating the event as closed.", "source_url": "https://clubofmozambique.com/news/mozambique-substation-fire-causes-huge-blackout-in-beira-aim/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:13:18.819895+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1355", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1355/", "title": "Electricity substation fire disrupts power in Hoddesdon High Street", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service was called at 10:25pm on 14 June 2023 to a fire in an electricity substation off Conduit Lane in Hoddesdon. Six fire engines attended and found the substation well alight. Power to the nearby area was disrupted, including most of the High Street, and Hoddesdon Library was closed the following morning. Firefighters checked that the fire had not spread to neighbouring buildings, ventilated smoke from nearby flats, and worked with UK Power Networks to isolate the supply and extinguish the fire. The fire was out by 2am. Police reported no damage to businesses or property from the fire. UK Power Networks engineers attended to assess the damage and restore supply. A resident said power was back by 9:15am.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires require joint isolation work with the network operator to prevent spread to nearby buildings. (2) Smoke from substation fires can reach adjacent flats, so ventilation must be part of the response plan. (3) Substation fires can close public buildings the next day even when no property damage occurs.", "source_url": "https://www.hertfordshiremercury.co.uk/news/hertfordshire-news/major-electricity-substation-fire-hoddesdon-8523605", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:13:43.606069+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1356", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1356/", "title": "Suspected lightning strike starts nacelle fire at Gesner wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-06", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 15 June 2023, firefighters attended a fire at Tower 2 of the Gesner wind farm on Duart Road in Muirkirk, east of Chatham. Saturn Power said the probable cause was a lightning strike and that the fibreglass nacelle ignited. Fire officials said the same night that the cause was undetermined. Crews secured the area, monitored the fire and left after it was extinguished and contained to that tower. No injuries were reported, and technicians were not on site. Saturn Power said it would investigate and assess the damaged tower and had no damage estimate.", "contributing_factors": "The operator believes a lightning strike was the probable cause. Fire officials initially reported the cause as undetermined. The element reported to have ignited was the fibreglass nacelle.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Record a lightning assessment as provisional until the operator's investigation and the fire service agree a cause. (2) Plan a turbine fire response for height, falling debris and a watch until the fire is out, even when it stays on one tower. (3) Account for whether technicians are on the turbine before and during the response.", "source_url": "https://lfpress.com/news/lightning-strike-likely-caused-area-wind-turbine-fire-company/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:13:47.486715+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1357", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1357/", "title": "Fire reported at 330kV Alagbon substation, with power later restored", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire incident was reported at the 330kV Alagbon substation. Power was later restored, according to a statement attributed to TCN in a June 2023 headline. The available summary does not report the cause, the extent of damage, whether anyone was injured, or how long supply was interrupted.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) After a substation fire, operators should isolate the affected equipment and restore supply only once it has been checked. (2) Public updates should say what is known about damage, injuries and the cause, and what is not yet known. (3) Restoration plans should be ready so a substation fire does not leave customers without power longer than necessary.", "source_url": "https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/604600-power-restored-in-330kv-alagbon-substation-after-fire-incident-tcn.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:13:50.126493+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1358", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1358/", "title": "Wind turbine fire contained at Kingsbridge 1 Wind Farm north of Goderich", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-06", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported in the nacelle of a wind turbine at Capital Power's Kingsbridge 1 Wind Farm, two concessions north of Goderich, Ontario. It was spotted around 6:30 a.m. The main blaze in the nacelle was reported out by 9 a.m., though flames continued down one blade. Fire crews stayed on site for much of the day. They could not reach the fire, nearly 100 metres up, and watched for falling material that might start a ground fire. It appears the turbine has a fire suppression system and that the fire burned itself out. The operator said an investigation would establish more. No one was injured and the fire was contained to the single turbine. The source describes this as the second wind turbine fire at the farm, which was constructed in 2006. A similar nacelle fire was reported in 2013. How long repairs would take, and what they would cost, was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of ignition was not reported. Extreme dry conditions and a burn ban were in force in Huron and Bruce counties, but the source does not link them to how the turbine fire started. Firefighters could not apply water because the fire was nearly 100 metres above the ground.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Nacelle fires can be beyond the reach of ground crews, so detection and any onboard suppression are the first response, and their effect should be confirmed by investigation rather than assumed. (2) After a nacelle or blade fire, crews may need to remain for hours to watch for falling debris that could start a ground fire, especially in dry conditions. (3) A repeat fire at an older wind farm is a reason to check maintenance, detection and suppression on turbines of similar age, without treating one investigation as the only check.", "source_url": "https://www.ctvnews.ca/london/article/wind-turbine-blaze-contained-north-of-goderich-ont/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:14:13.24991+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1359", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1359/", "title": "Substation fire reported in Smaznevo, Altai Krai", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-06", "country": "Russia", "country_code": "ru", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at a substation in Smaznevo, in the Zalesovsky district of Altai Krai, Russia. The head of the district was quoted as saying the substation was on fire, that an emergency power outage affected the whole district, and that the fire was being put out, after which the substation was to switch to backup supply. Telegram channels reported an explosion, and early reports said a transformer caught fire. Neither point is confirmed in the district statement. No information about casualties was given.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. An explosion and a transformer fire have been mentioned only in early media and Telegram reports.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat early claims of explosion or a specific failed component as unconfirmed until the operator or fire service states them. (2) Plan how a district-wide outage will be covered if a substation must move to backup supply after a fire. (3) Keep public updates limited to what is known about casualties, the fire, and restoration.", "source_url": "https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2023/06/05/7405410/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:14:19.620894+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1360", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1360/", "title": "Electricity substation explodes twice in Swanage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electricity substation off West Durlston Lane in Swanage was reported to have exploded twice over a weekend in May 2023. Two crews from Swanage Fire Station attended after a call at 4.33pm. The fire was already out on arrival. The area was cordoned off while crews made the site safe, and the incident was handed to the electricity board. It was understood that no one was injured.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) After a reported substation explosion, treat the site as live until the network operator has made it safe. (2) A fire that is out on arrival still needs a cordon and a formal handover to electricity engineers. (3) Record the call time and the arrival of engineers so later reports do not confuse the incident date with the publication date.", "source_url": "https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23537482.substation-swanage-explodes-twice-sunday/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:14:32.866959+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1361", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1361/", "title": "Fire at Henry County substation causes outage for thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Sunday evening, a fire occurred at a Georgia Power substation in the Stockbridge area of Henry County, Georgia, at the intersection of GA-138 and Rock Quarry Road. Henry County Fire and Rescue were fighting the fire. Georgia Power said the fire initially affected service to about 10,000 customers, including Piedmont Henry Hospital in Stockbridge, which used backup power to continue services. The company said it was working to reroute power and restore service. It later reported that all customers had power restored. A cause was not known at the time of the report.", "contributing_factors": "A cause was not known at the time of the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can interrupt supply to a large number of customers at once, so operators should be ready to reroute power and restore service quickly. (2) Hospitals and other critical sites may lose grid supply during a substation fire and need working backup power. (3) Where the cause is not yet known, operators should preserve evidence and complete an investigation before drawing conclusions.", "source_url": "https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/henry-county/fire-stockbridge-substation-causes-power-outage-thousands/HSRGUIIMJBH7PD374NSUDTGZ4Q/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:14:37.11997+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1362", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1362/", "title": "Fire destroys solar panels at ACME plant in Barmer", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A large number of solar panels were destroyed by fire at an under-construction ACME solar plant in Shiv Arang village, Barmer district. Police said the fire started in a truck while cartons of material for the plant were being loaded, and strong winds spread it through the plant. The fire brigade brought the blaze under control after about one and a half hours. The loss was reported as lakhs of rupees.", "contributing_factors": "Police said the fire began while paper-carton material was being loaded into a truck, and that strong winds then spread it through the plant.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep combustible packaging away from ignition sources during loading at construction sites. (2) Account for local wind when judging how a fire could spread across a site. (3) Remote renewable construction sites need a workable fire response plan.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/fire-at-barmer-plant-destroys-solar-panels/articleshow/99801980.cms", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:14:42.82181+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1363", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1363/", "title": "Grass fire shuts down Beryl Solar Farm near Gulgong", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A grass fire led to the shutdown of Beryl Solar Farm, about 5 km west of Gulgong in New South Wales. Crews from the NSW Rural Fire Service and Fire and Rescue NSW worked to extinguish a fire burning under the solar modules on a Monday. Firefighters said access was difficult because the fire was under the panels, and that a large column of smoke could be visible from Gulgong. The solar farm supplies power to the Sydney Metro Northwest rail link. A site spokesperson said all plant personnel were safe and accounted for, there were no injuries, and the site had been secured. The extent of damage and how long the shutdown lasted were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not state how the grass fire started. Firefighters reported that the fire burning under the modules made access difficult.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Plan emergency access so crews can reach vegetation fires under and between solar arrays. (2) Share site layout and electrical hazards with local fire services before an incident. (3) Keep vegetation fuel loads managed around modules so a grass fire is less likely to run under the array.", "source_url": "https://esdnews.com.au/grass-fire-shuts-down-beryl-solar-farm/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:14:59.398682+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1364", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1364/", "title": "Solar panel fire at Olympia schools prompts remote learning", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Solar panels caught fire at Olympia high school and middle school on 13 April 2023. Crews kept the fire under control with extinguishers until a certified solar electrician disconnected a malfunctioning inverter. The fire was brought under control in 23 minutes. Students were evacuated and were reported safe. Both schools continued remote learning during the week of 24 to 28 April. Which building the panels were on, and the extent of damage, were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "A malfunctioning inverter had to be disconnected before the incident could be fully dealt with. Why the inverter malfunctioned, and whether array layout contributed, were not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Have a qualified solar technician available to isolate inverters or arrays during a fire. (2) Plan how firefighters will reach and isolate rooftop solar equipment. (3) After a school solar fire, confirm the building is safe before students return.", "source_url": "https://www.cities929.com/2023/04/25/solar-panel-fire-leads-olympia-schools-closed-for-the-rest-of-the-year/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:15:03.732367+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1365", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1365/", "title": "Damage to wind turbines under investigation in Lakeshore", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Lakeshore OPP are investigating damage to wind turbines at two locations, which police have asked the public to treat as vandalism. The first case was reported on 4 April. Damage was reported on the transformer of a wind turbine, a part police said is typically on the ground near the tower. A second incident, reported on a Wednesday and described in a 14 April report, involved damage to the base of the tower at a different site. Police warned that such acts can risk injury or death from electric shock, fire or explosion, and that damage to the towers also endangers the public. No confirmed cause has been reported.", "contributing_factors": "Police are investigating the damage as possible vandalism at two separate sites. The cause has not been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should check turbine transformers and tower bases for tampering or unexplained damage. (2) Reports of suspicious activity near remote turbine sites can help police respond. (3) After damage to turbine equipment, warnings should cover shock, fire and explosion risk to workers and the public.", "source_url": "https://windsorstar.com/news/damage-to-wind-turbines-under-investigation-in-lakeshore/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:15:43.85981+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1366", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1366/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire at a cinema in south Austin", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 15 April 2023, Austin Fire Department said crews responded on a Saturday afternoon to a fire in solar panels on the roof of the Cinemark cinema in Southpark Meadows, south Austin. Around 2 pm the fire was under control and evacuation of the building was complete. Firefighters later used a machine to clear remaining smoke. No injuries were reported. Crews cleared the scene at about 4:15 pm, but the cinema was to stay closed pending restoration of electricity, with no timescale given.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Occupied buildings with rooftop solar need a plan for evacuation and for isolating the array during a roof fire. (2) Smoke can remain after the fire is under control, so ventilation and re-entry should be planned before the building is reopened. (3) Loss of electricity can keep a site closed after the fire service has left, so operators should plan for an outage of unknown length.", "source_url": "https://www.kxan.com/news/local/austin/afd-solar-panels-at-south-austin-movie-theater-catch-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T02:16:08.089934+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1368", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1368/", "title": "Tesla solar panel fire damages roof in Sandisfield home", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Tesla rooftop solar panel on a house off Route 8 in Sandisfield caught fire and continued to reignite several times. Firefighting crews from Sandisfield, Monterey, Otis and two Connecticut towns responded to the incident. The fire destroyed part of the roof and caused damage to the attic. No injuries were reported and damage inside the house was minimal. The cause remains under investigation. The call was received at 10:59 a.m. and the fire was knocked down in ten to fifteen minutes. The property includes a nearby general store which was not affected.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Tesla rooftop solar panels can reignite after initial knockdown, so responders must plan for extended on-site monitoring. (2) Rooftop solar fires on homes may require mutual aid from several fire departments to contain roof and attic damage. (3) Clear shutdown information for solar arrays should be available so crews can isolate the system quickly.", "source_url": "https://www.berkshireeagle.com/breaking/fire-sandisfield-solar-panel-roof-reignite-tesla/article_ce59f7b6-d7d0-11ed-8171-cfe2b8b20fa1.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:15:02.855197+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1369", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1369/", "title": "Monsoon damages 5,077 poles and 24 transformers in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Between June and August, strong winds and heavy rain from the south-west monsoon damaged the MESCOM electricity distribution network in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. The source reports that 5,077 electricity poles and 24 transformers were brought down. It does not report which sites failed, how long supply was lost, or when it was restored. The same weather damaged homes, roads and crops; an estimate running into crores of rupees covers that wider damage, not the electricity network alone.", "contributing_factors": "Strong winds and heavy rain from the south-west monsoon. No other cause is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Distribution operators in monsoon districts should plan for many pole and transformer failures across a season, not a single site. (2) Restoration plans should cover scattered rural and urban feeders at the same time. (3) Damage reports should separate electricity losses from wider weather losses so the scale of the grid event is clear.", "source_url": "https://www.daijiworld.com/index.php/news/newsDisplay?newsID=1326898", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:15:12.530012+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1371", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1371/", "title": "Wind turbine fire in western Steuben County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A single wind turbine caught fire at the top of the tower on the Allegany and Steuben county line, officially in Steuben County, off Cemetery Hill Road in West Union. Local fire services responded but could not put the fire out because of its height, and after several hours handed the scene to the wind company, named as eight point winds. The fire was reported as isolated. The tower remained standing and the blades stayed attached. No one was injured, and no danger to the public was reported. The cause was not reported, and it was not reported whether the fire was fully out the next morning.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at the top of a wind turbine may be beyond the reach of ground-based firefighting. (2) Operators should agree a clear handover with emergency services once public safety is assured. (3) Where members of the public gather near an incident, access should be managed even if the hazard is confined to the asset.", "source_url": "https://wellsvillesun.com/blog/2023/03/29/update-wind-turbine-fire-in-western-steuben-county/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:15:35.222469+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1372", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1372/", "title": "Substation fire causes smoke at Philadelphia 30th Street Station", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at a substation at 30th Street Station in Philadelphia just before 5 a.m. on 7 March 2023. Smoke was reported in the building. There had been no word of any service disruptions, and no injuries were reported. The cause and the extent of any damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Smoke from a substation fire can enter an occupied transport building even when any effect on supply is still unknown. (2) Early public reports should say clearly what is not yet known, including cause and service impact. (3) Substations at transport hubs need a prompt way to confirm whether station services and supply are affected.", "source_url": "https://6abc.com/post/30th-street-station-fire-philadelphia-philly-substation/12924233/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:15:44.76573+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1373", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1373/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses in Dodge County, with the cause still unreported", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a mild, moonless night in January 2023, a large wind turbine, described as the size of Milwaukee City Hall, crashed to the ground in the Town of Herman in rural Dodge County. No one was injured. Nearly two months later, a local report said residents, including the farmer who leases the land to the turbine operator, were still waiting for answers. The exact date, the site name, the operator and the cause were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the collapse has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a turbine collapse as a serious structural failure even when no one is injured. (2) Tell nearby residents and the landholder what is known, and what is still unknown, rather than leaving them without an update. (3) Do not treat the failure as isolated until the damaged turbine has been examined.", "source_url": "https://www.jsonline.com/story/money/business/energy/2023/03/09/why-did-a-dodge-county-windmill-collapse-residents-still-wait-for-answer/69923975007/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:15:54.763137+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1374", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1374/", "title": "Fire at Oakland substation causes widespread power outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a PG&E utility substation in Oakland, California, on 19 February 2023, at the utility yard at 50th Avenue and Coliseum Way, where a transformer was reported to have burst into flames. The cause was not reported. The outage began shortly before 1 p.m. and affected about 54,000 households from the Bay coast to the Oakland hills, and it shut Oakland International Airport for a time. About 45,000 of those households were reported back online by 9 p.m.; at least 8,500 were said to face waits until the predawn hours of 20 February or later. Fire crews reported the fire out by mid-afternoon. Two drawbridges on Fruitvale Avenue and High Street were frozen upright for hours. No hazardous-materials concern or evacuations were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer fire was not reported. Authorities did not say whether the substation had been targeted.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fires can cut power to tens of thousands of customers and to an airport within minutes, so restoration estimates should be treated as provisional. (2) Utilities and fire services should share a single status on whether the fire is out, and on any hazardous-materials or evacuation need. (3) Outage plans should cover transport links that depend on power, such as drawbridges, as well as households.", "source_url": "https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2023/02/20/utility-substation-fire-causes-oakland-power-outage/7081676890979/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:16:12.036257+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1376", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1376/", "title": "Fire destroys substation in Ladysmith causing outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-01", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A substation on Jantha Street in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, caught fire on 4 January 2023. The site, described as one of the Alfred Duma Municipality's primary switch-houses, was reported destroyed. Large parts of Ladysmith lost power, including the Progress/Main Road area, Rose Park, Leonardsville, Acaciavale and Hillside. The municipality's electrical department was sourcing contractors to repair the substation. Its technical team attempted to restore power in some affected areas. The municipality apologised and said it was working on the problem. The cause was under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. The municipality said investigations were under way.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Loss of a primary switch-house can cut supply across several neighbourhoods, so operators should keep switching plans that can restore parts of the network while repairs proceed. (2) Repair contractors and spare equipment should be lined up early so a destroyed substation does not leave a long outage. (3) Cause investigations should be completed and the findings used to check similar sites.", "source_url": "https://newcastillian.com/2023/02/09/fire-destroys-one-of-ladysmith-municipalitys-substations/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:17:01.616168+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1377", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1377/", "title": "Southside school evacuated after solar panel fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published headline reported that a solar panel caught fire at a southside school and that the school was evacuated. The article body could not be read, so the cause, the extent of damage and whether anyone was hurt are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. Only a headline was available.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Schools with rooftop solar should have a practised plan to isolate the array and evacuate if a panel fire starts. (2) Keep people clear of a burning panel until the electrical supply is isolated. (3) Do not treat a headline as confirmation of cause, damage or injury.", "source_url": "https://www.couriermail.com.au/questnews/logan/southside-school-evacuated-as-solar-panel-catches-fire-video/news-story/6d8769727e0a6ad0f3690f7fcf9d845b", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:17:21.627708+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1378", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1378/", "title": "Wind turbine destroyed by fire near Breadalbane", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-01", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine just off the Hume Highway near Breadalbane in New South Wales caught fire at the rotor hub and one blade, about 90 metres off the ground. The NSW Rural Fire Service was called out at 6am and monitored the ground for spot fires, of which there were none. Firefighting resources could not reach the fire, and power to the structure was isolated. The blaze was visible from the highway and prompted numerous calls from motorists. The fire went out by itself just before 11am and the turbine was handed back to the wind farm operator. No other properties were threatened. No cause was reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) High-altitude turbine fires are too dangerous for direct firefighting intervention. (2) Ground crews should focus on monitoring and containing any secondary grass or spot fires. (3) Operators should isolate power and allow safe self-extinguishment where access is not feasible.", "source_url": "https://www.dailymail.com/news/article-11601057/Wind-turbine-catches-fire-Hume-Highway-near-Breadalbane.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:17:32.106361+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1379", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1379/", "title": "Substation fire reported to have lit up the skies over Cincinnati", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 29 January 2023, a Cincinnati news outlet reported a fire at a substation, describing it as lighting up the skies across the city. The available source is a video headline and page summary only. Cause, damage, injuries and any effect on electricity supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A widely visible substation fire should be treated as a public-safety and supply risk until the equipment involved and any outage are confirmed. (2) Early reports may not state cause or damage, so site checks should not wait for a fuller public account. (3) Keep a clear record of what was observed, because later investigation may not match the first description.", "source_url": "https://www.fox19.com/video/2023/01/29/it-looks-like-nuke-substation-fire-lights-up-skies-across-cincinnati/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:17:36.984799+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1380", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1380/", "title": "Mini-substation fire on a grass verge in Arboretum, Richards Bay", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-12", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A mini-substation was reported to have caught fire on a grass verge under trees, directly outside houses, on Ouhoutoord road in Arboretum, Richards Bay. The fire was reported about one hour after load-shedding ended in the suburb. City of uMhlathuze Fire and Rescue attended and extinguished the blaze. The cause was not known. Municipal electrical officials were to investigate. Separately, the same report said parts of Meerensee had been left without electricity on Tuesday night after a trip at a substation outside a Pick n Pay.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of this fire was not reported. A municipal electrical portfolio chairperson told the Zululand Observer that such issues were part of a legacy of many years of non-maintenance of critical infrastructure. That comment was not presented as a finding on this fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where a distribution fire is reported soon after load-shedding, record the timing and wait for the investigation before treating shedding as the cause. (2) Mini-substations on verges beside vegetation and houses need a prompt response, because spread to property is a credible risk. (3) Keep the cause open until the electrical department reports it.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/zululand-observer/news-headlines/local-news/2022/12/29/watch-mini-substation-on-fire-in-richards-bay-suburb/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:17:56.37478+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1381", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1381/", "title": "Fire at electrical substation affects customers in Delaware County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters responded to a fire at an electrical substation on Haverford and County Line roads in Delaware County on the afternoon of 28 December 2022. PECO said the incident left roughly 1,300 customers without power. Hours later, a spokesperson said power had been fully restored. Investigators were still working to determine what started the fire.", "contributing_factors": "The cause had not been established. PECO said a problem with a transformer could be to blame.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a distribution substation can interrupt supply to a large number of customers even when power is restored the same day. (2) Operators should be ready to restore supply while the cause of a substation fire is still under investigation. (3) Public updates should keep a suspected component problem separate from a confirmed cause.", "source_url": "https://www.fox29.com/news/fire-at-power-station-in-delaware-county-leaves-thousands-without-power", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:18:10.272994+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1382", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1382/", "title": "Fire at substation cuts power to Tolko plants in Armstrong", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-12", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the substation serving the Tolko Industries Armstrong division. The incident knocked out power to both the plywood plant and the lumber mill. The cogeneration plant on site remained unaffected as it connects to a separate substation. Neither plant was operating at the time of the fire. The Armstrong-Spallumcheen Fire Department responded to the call just after 4 a.m.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure critical site loads have redundant substation feeds where possible. (2) Confirm separation of essential generation from process loads during substation design. (3) Establish rapid communication protocols with local fire services for early damage assessment.", "source_url": "https://www.castanet.net/news/Vernon/403584/Fire-in-substation-knocks-out-power-to-Tolko-plywood-and-lumber-plants", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:18:14.157727+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1383", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1383/", "title": "Transformer explosion reported to have knocked out power to Route 135 in Ashland", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published headline reported that a transformer explosion knocked out power to Route 135 in Ashland. The full article was not available, so the outage extent, cause, injuries and any response are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported transformer explosion should be treated as a possible loss of supply until the operator confirms the affected area. (2) Early reports should not be used to state cause, injuries or duration when those facts are not yet published. (3) Operators should be ready to isolate the failed unit and restore supply by an alternative path once the site is safe.", "source_url": "https://framinghamsource.com/index.php/2022/12/23/transformer-explosion-knocks-out-power-to-route-135-in-ashland/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:18:27.720418+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1384", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1384/", "title": "Explosion at Fawkner Street substation in Melbourne CBD during copper theft", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-11", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Police say a man caused an explosion at Fawkner Street substation in Melbourne CBD while attempting to steal copper. Only a headline and short summary are available. Injuries, the extent of damage, and any effect on supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Police attribute the explosion to an attempt to steal copper from Fawkner Street substation in Melbourne CBD. No further cause or equipment detail was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Access controls at live substations must stop unauthorised entry so copper theft cannot bring people into contact with energised equipment. (2) Metal theft at substations creates an ignition and explosion risk, so operators must plan responses for blast events.", "source_url": "https://news.sky.com/video/cctv-blast-as-man-tries-to-plunder-copper-from-electrical-substation-12757717", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:18:53.104719+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1386", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1386/", "title": "Wind turbine fire near St Cyrus in Aberdeenshire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-11", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews attended a wind turbine that caught fire near Mains of Lauriston in the St Cyrus area of Aberdeenshire on a Wednesday afternoon. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service mobilised two appliances. Crews remained on site and worked with onsite personnel to make the area safe. No firefighting was required.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A wind turbine fire at height may need no active firefighting if crews work with site staff to isolate and secure the area. (2) Early contact between fire crews and onsite staff can resolve a turbine fire without water or foam.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-63728998", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:18:59.557629+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1387", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1387/", "title": "Fire damages engine room at Nova power station", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-12", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the early hours of 3 December 2022 a fire broke out in the diesel engine room of the 10 MW Nova power station in Western Australia's Fraser Range. The station supplies IGO's Nova nickel-copper mine and includes solar PV and battery storage. The on-site emergency response team isolated and extinguished the fire, confining damage to the engine room. No other infrastructure was affected and there were no injuries. Mining operations were halted and non-essential personnel sent home.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire has not been reported. A probe was launched to establish it.", "lessons_learned": "(1) On-site emergency teams should be ready to isolate and contain fires rapidly to protect adjacent plant. (2) Staged contingency power arrangements can limit the duration of operational shutdowns after localised damage. (3) Damage confined to one room can still take generation and processing offline for different periods, so restoration plans should treat those timelines separately.", "source_url": "https://safetowork.com.au/fire-at-the-nova-operation-power-station/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:19:01.900067+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1388", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1388/", "title": "Explosions and fire at Portland electrical substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Explosions and a fire occurred at an electrical substation at the intersection of Northeast 60th Avenue and Stark Street near Mt. Tabor in Portland. Firefighters found heavy fire in and around the substation. Electricity continued to flow and oil from a transformer fed the flames. Neighbouring buildings lost power. PGE line operators and firefighters assessed the site and used one water line and chemical suppressants to extinguish the fire. No surrounding structures were affected and no injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Fire was fed by oil from the transformer and electricity remained live initially.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain clear protocols for isolating supply before firefighting electrical substations. (2) Coordinate early with the network operator when a representative is nearby. (3) Prioritise protecting nearby structures while allowing controlled burn-out if safe.", "source_url": "https://www.kptv.com/2022/11/05/explosions-fire-electrical-substation-light-up-portland-night/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:19:43.042431+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1389", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1389/", "title": "Fire guts substation and cuts power in Lenasia South", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-11", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out early on Friday 4 November 2022 at the 88/11 kV substation that supplies Lenasia South. It was reported that the fire started immediately after, or during, load shedding restoration. City Power said the fire destroyed transformer number 3, partly damaged the standby transformer, and completely burnt low-voltage cables and high-voltage line links. Large parts of the suburb lost power. The fire was extinguished, and City Power teams were on site to assess the damage and work on recovery. Upstream substations at Ennerdale and Hopefield, which had also been affected, were restored. City Power said the preferred plan was to fill the standby transformer with about 40,000 litres of oil, replace low-voltage terminations and complete electrical tests, with power hoped for on Sunday evening. If that failed, the burnt transformer would be removed and a replacement brought in, with restoration then expected on Friday 11 November.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was reported to have started immediately after or during load shedding restoration. That timing was not confirmed as the cause, and no confirmed cause was stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Switching and restoration after load shedding should include checks of protection, isolation and cable condition before equipment is re-energised. (2) A usable standby transformer, with oil and cable terminations available, can shorten recovery after loss of a main transformer. (3) Stating both a preferred restoration time and a fallback date helps customers plan during an extended outage.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/news/lenasia-south-dark-fire-guts-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:19:58.176868+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1390", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1390/", "title": "Marti substation in Matanzas reported affected by major fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "Cuba", "country_code": "cu", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Reporting says the Marti substation plant, in the industrial zone of Matanzas, Cuba, was affected by a major fire in August 2022. The same report describes the fire as a supertanker fire. By late October, recovery work included adapting a new control house for the diesel engine battery, so diesel engines could deliver around 10 megawatts to the power system, and assembling a set of 110 kW three-phase blades. The exact date, the cause, the scale of damage and any casualties are not stated.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source describes recovery work rather than the cause of the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a fuel or industrial site can damage nearby electrical plant and delay the return of local supply. (2) Control-house and equipment work can be planned so that some capacity returns before the full programme is finished. (3) Early reports should state what is known about damage and casualties, and what is not yet known.", "source_url": "http://www.cubanews.acn.cu/cuba/19240-cuba-advances-in-recovery-of-electric-substation-in-supertanker-fire-in-matanzas", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:20:43.583079+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1391", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1391/", "title": "Wind turbine catches fire off Wicklow coast during lightning storm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-10", "country": "Ireland", "country_code": "ie", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 19 October 2022, a vessel passing Arklow Bank reported a wind turbine on fire at the Arklow Bank Offshore Windfarm in the Irish Sea, off Arklow, Co Wicklow. The Department of Transport said the Marine Rescue Coordination Centre in Dublin contacted the turbine owner, GE Renewable Energy, and that no personnel were near the turbine, so there was no risk to life. Reporting attributed the fire to a lightning strike during a storm. GE Renewable Energy said it would investigate the root cause once the site could be reached safely. EirGrid said the fire had no impact on the grid or on energy supply, and that it resulted in the loss of three megawatts from one turbine at a relatively small offshore wind farm.", "contributing_factors": "Published reporting linked the fire to a lightning strike during a storm. The owner said the root cause had not yet been determined.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An offshore turbine fire can start when no one is on site, so detection and notification cannot depend on personnel being present. (2) A passing vessel may be the first to see a fire, so coastguard notification should reach the owner quickly and trigger a safe-access plan. (3) Loss of one turbine may not affect the wider grid, but the system operator should still confirm the lost output and any supply impact.", "source_url": "https://www.thejournal.ie/no-impact-on-the-grid-after-wind-turbine-catches-fire-during-lightning-storm-off-wicklow-coast-5898419-Oct2022/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:20:55.668918+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1392", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1392/", "title": "Substation fire leaves hundreds without power in Hayden", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A power substation at the corner of County Road 600 W and County Road 100 N in northeastern Hayden caught fire on 12 October 2022. Jackson County REMC was alerted by its SCADA system that the substation had gone out at 5 p.m., and reports that it was on fire followed about 20 minutes later. Spencer Township Fire Department attended but did not apply water because of the electrical hazard, and watched until the fire burned itself out after just over two hours. About 1,850 people were without power. Power was restored to about 950 services around 6:20 p.m.; the remaining services were restored just after 9 p.m. once the area was safe. The transformer, voltage regulators, some metering equipment and associated switches were reported damaged beyond repair, with normal operation of the substation expected to take several weeks.", "contributing_factors": "Jackson County REMC said it believed a catastrophic fault inside the transformer released oil, which an electrical arc then ignited. It said the cause was unlikely to be known for certain because of the fire damage. The utility said this substation had not caused a problem in the past. How long the fire had been burning before it was reported was not known.", "lessons_learned": "(1) SCADA alerts enable rapid detection of substation faults. (2) Fire services may elect to monitor rather than suppress oil-filled transformer fires when water presents an electrical hazard. (3) Pre-planned feeder transfers to neighbouring substations limit the duration of customer outages.", "source_url": "https://www.madisoncourier.com/north_vernon/substation-fire-causes-power-outage-for-hundreds/article_048ae27b-3ae9-5954-8e3b-d81eb031c555.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:21:13.876051+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1393", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1393/", "title": "Transformer fire cuts water supply in Dysselsdorp", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-10", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 500 kVA Eskom transformer supplying the Dysselsdorp purification works caught fire and was destroyed. About 1,500 households in Dysselsdorp and rural areas east of Oudtshoorn, including Rooiheuwel, Vlakteplaas, Middelplaas and Oudemuragie, were left without water. Eskom said a mini-substation had caught fire because of storm damage, that only the water treatment plant was affected, and that electricity restoration was expected at about 6pm the day after the fire. The municipality said a team was travelling from Cape Town to install a replacement transformer and that water tankers would be arranged.", "contributing_factors": "Eskom said the fire followed storm damage. No separate technical finding is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A water purification works fed by a single distribution transformer can leave a town without water if that transformer fails. (2) Where storms are a known risk, operators should keep a spare transformer and a clear plan for a replacement crew. (3) Water utilities should have tanker arrangements ready for the period before power to a treatment works is restored.", "source_url": "https://iol.co.za/capetimes/news/2022-10-18-dysselsdorp-drought-as-fire-guts-transformer/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:21:30.088477+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1394", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1394/", "title": "Fire reported at a substation in Belgorod", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-10", "country": "Russia", "country_code": "ru", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 14 October 2022 a fire was reported at a substation in Belgorod, Russia, and electricity was lost in some districts of the city. The regional governor was reported as saying that a substation described as 110 kW caught fire after an attack, that a switch to backup supply could take up to four hours, and that water pumps had moved to other lines so the water supply remained normal. The same report said the fire was later extinguished and reconnection work had started. An earlier statement attributed to the governor said projectile strikes had damaged five private houses and cut a power line, with a partial loss of supply in Voznesenovka, Nezhegol, Marino, Krasnoe and Leninskii. It is not clear from this report whether that outage was the same event as the substation fire.", "contributing_factors": "The governor was reported as linking the substation fire to an attack on Belgorod. Explosions were reported, and air defence was said to have been activated. The report does not state which part of the substation was damaged.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Backup connections for essential loads, including water pumps, can keep critical services running when a substation is out of service. (2) A stated time to switch to backup supply helps operators and the public judge the likely length of an interruption. (3) Reports that mix a substation fire with a separate power-line outage should be checked before the two are treated as one event.", "source_url": "https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2022/10/14/7372029/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:22:04.741232+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1395", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1395/", "title": "Further fire reported at City Power central substation, cutting power in Marshalltown", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "City Power reported another fire at its central substation early on a Saturday morning, in a report dated 26 September 2026. The fire caused a power outage affecting Marshalltown and surrounding areas. The utility said it was the third fire at the facility in recent weeks. The cause was not known, and no restoration time was given. A suspect was reported to have been detained. A person with severe burn injuries was reported to have been found at Hillbrow Clinic after emerging from smoke-filled underground cable tunnels.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of this fire has not been reported. City Power said the repeated fires form part of a wider investigation. Suspected theft and vandalism were discussed in reporting of an earlier fire at the same substation and have not been confirmed as the cause of this one.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where the cause of a substation fire is not yet known, operators should still secure access points, including underground cable routes, while investigation continues. (2) Repeated fires at one facility call for interim protective measures and a clear public statement of what remains unknown. (3) Restoration plans should include alternatives for customers supplied from a damaged substation when a return time cannot yet be given.", "source_url": "https://www.ewn.co.za/2026/09/26/another-fire-rips-through-city-power-central-substation", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T05:23:44.369899+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1396", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1396/", "title": "Solar panel fire leads to Travelodge evacuation in Poole", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters were called at 14:24 GMT on Sunday to the Travelodge in Waterloo Road, Poole, after a fire involving solar panels broke out on the roof. Dorset fire service said the blaze was found in a junction of some solar panels and was extinguished using foam. Hotel customers were evacuated, and people were advised to avoid the area during the incident. The fire service said no issues were found after a reinspection later that evening. Injuries and the extent of any damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in a rooftop solar array can require evacuation of an occupied building even when crews contain it on the roof. (2) An extinguishing method suited to the installation, here foam, and a later reinspection can help confirm that the fire has not restarted. (3) Operators of hotels and similar buildings should keep a clear plan for moving guests away from a roof fire involving solar panels.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-dorset-68654721", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:45:19.616385+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1397", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1397/", "title": "Rooftop solar fire at a home in Emerald prompts maintenance warning", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on the roof of a home in Emerald in central Queensland. An electrician confirmed that the fire began in faulty DC isolators on a rooftop solar system installed about a decade earlier. People at the home used a ladder and a fire extinguisher to put out the blaze and saved the house. The source does not say whether anyone was injured. It notes that, since 2018, breather valves have been used to ventilate isolator switches and reduce overheating, and that isolator fires can occur if the devices are exposed to the weather.", "contributing_factors": "An electrician attributed the fire to faulty DC isolators. The householder said she had not known that the older system should have had regular maintenance checks. The report does not say whether water ingress or weather exposure caused this particular fault.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Home owners should arrange annual inspections of rooftop solar systems by accredited installers, with particular attention to isolators and wiring. (2) Systems should be checked after major weather events for signs of damage or water ingress, and damaged equipment should not be touched. (3) Regular maintenance reduces the chance of electrical fires in solar installations.", "source_url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-27/solar-system-fire-maintenance-warning-for-home-owners/103026362", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:45:21.07578+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1400", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1400/", "title": "Solar panel and battery fire at a bungalow on Anglesey", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews were called to a bungalow in Min-yr-Afon, Tyn-y-gongl, near Benllech on Anglesey. North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said an electrical fault caused the blaze. One person left the property. She breathed in smoke and was taken for tests, but was not injured. Crews from Caernarfon and Bangor attended and used breathing apparatus, a thermal imaging camera, a CO2 extinguisher and a ventilation fan. The service said a solar panel and batteries were gutted. The bungalow is part of an independent living complex run by Clwyd Alyn Housing. The association said contractors had been installing solar panels, air source heat pumps and batteries there, and that it had disconnected the batteries in the other homes at Min-yr-Afon while it investigated.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service reported an electrical fault. It did not say which part of the installation failed. The housing association said solar panels, batteries and air source heat pumps were being installed at the homes.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Home solar and battery work should include a clear way to isolate the batteries if a fault is suspected. (2) On a site where the same equipment is fitted in several homes, isolation of the other units should be ready while the cause is checked. (3) Reports of smoke exposure should be treated as a possible harm even when no injury is recorded at the scene.", "source_url": "https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/familys-warning-after-solar-panel-27724249", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:46:19.8806+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1402", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1402/", "title": "Fire damages Brisbane home after lightning strikes solar panels", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a two-storey house in Durack, Brisbane, after lightning struck the solar panels during a storm. The occupants were woken by smoke alarms around 11pm and left without injury. The fire damaged the roof and both floors. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services sent 12 firefighters, who extinguished the blaze in about 15 minutes. After the fire was out, one or more solar panels exploded and no one was injured. Energex reported about 7000 lightning strikes across southeast Queensland that night.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports a lightning strike on the solar panels during a storm. It does not say whether surge protection was fitted or failed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lightning strike on rooftop solar can start a house fire even when the occupants get out. (2) Panels may fail explosively after a fire appears to be out, so crews should treat the array as live and unstable. (3) Working smoke alarms gave the occupants time to leave.", "source_url": "https://7news.com.au/news/qld/fire-damages-roof-two-storeys-of-house-after-lightning-hits-solar-panels-at-durack-in-brisbane-c-11897562", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:46:46.182622+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1403", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1403/", "title": "Vegetation fire burns nearly 60 acres on a solar farm near Jamestown", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Sunday 27 August 2023, a fire was reported at 3:19 p.m. near the junction of O'Byrnes Ferry Road and George Reed Rock Plant Road, outside Jamestown. Reporting said it burned on a solar panel farm, in a mix of cured grasses and oak woodland, and scorched 59.8 acres. One outbuilding was damaged. It was not clear whether solar panels or other property on the farm were damaged. Forward progress was stopped by 4:15 p.m. and containment was declared at 9:11 p.m. State and local crews used aircraft, engines, hand crews, bulldozers and water trucks. No injuries were reported. Cal Fire had not reported the cause. A fire in May 2021 burned on or near the same solar panel farm.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was still under investigation and had not been reported. Afternoon temperatures were in the 90s, with southeast winds of 8 to 12 mph.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A vegetation fire on a solar farm can spread quickly in hot, windy conditions even when the cause is not yet known. (2) Early official accounts may not say whether panels or other plant equipment were damaged, so that point should be checked before it is treated as established. (3) A later fire in the same area is a reason to review site vegetation and previous investigation findings once they are released.", "source_url": "https://www.uniondemocrat.com/news/article_29feb5e4-4922-11ee-a968-93d881ddfaa1.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:46:50.85716+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1404", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1404/", "title": "Fire reported at a solar farm, location not stated", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 28 July 2023, television station WWNY published a video item headlined as a solar farm fire. The available source is that headline and video link only. It does not state the site, town, time, cause, damage, injuries, emergency response, operator or capacity, and it gives no written account of what burned or how the fire ended.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A headline alone is not enough to identify the asset or the outcome, so operators should not treat it as a confirmed failure mode. (2) Where a solar-farm fire is reported with no written account, the site operator should still preserve video, alarm and inverter logs for a later check. (3) Public updates should say clearly what is not yet known, including location, damage and cause.", "source_url": "https://www.wwnytv.com/video/2023/07/28/solar-farm-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:47:58.975081+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1405", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1405/", "title": "Rooftop solar panels and HVAC unit on fire at Robbinsville warehouse", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Saturday in July 2023, solar panels and an HVAC unit were on fire on the roof of the McKesson Corporation pharmaceutical supply warehouse on John Henry Drive in the Matrix Northeast Business Park, Robbinsville, New Jersey, when firefighters were called shortly after 5 p.m. Crews from Robbinsville and surrounding towns in Monmouth and Mercer counties brought the blaze under control in a little over an hour. The 350,000-square-foot building was not heavily damaged, merchandise inside was not destroyed, and no one was injured. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Commercial roofs can present a combined fire involving solar arrays and other plant, such as HVAC. (2) Until investigators report a cause, operators should not treat either the array or nearby equipment as the established source. (3) Pre-incident planning for rooftop solar helps fire services limit damage to the building and its contents.", "source_url": "https://www.firerescue1.com/electric-fire/articles/video-firefighters-face-burning-solar-panels-at-large-nj-warehouse-dHWYPkpBRmdnJvAZ/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:48:20.499952+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1406", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1406/", "title": "Solar panel fire at Office Depot prompts evacuations in Antioch", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At 11:48 am on Sunday 20 August 2023 the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District responded to a reported roof fire at PetSmart in Antioch. At the 5800 block of Lone Tree Way, crews found solar panels on fire on a small portion of the Office Depot roof. The fire was extinguished and PG&E was requested to the scene. Both stores had damage from the fire, including water damage. Office Depot was closed until repairs were made, and PetSmart was temporarily evacuated. No animals were injured.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Early visual detection of smoke by passing crews can enable a rapid response to a rooftop solar fire. (2) Evacuation of nearby commercial premises may be required even when the fire is limited to solar panels. (3) The electricity utility should be called when a solar installation is involved in a fire.", "source_url": "https://contracosta.news/2023/08/20/solar-panel-fire-at-office-depot-prompts-evacuations-in-antioch/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:48:36.566359+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1407", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1407/", "title": "Arcing solar connectors reported as cause of Rarotonga airport roof fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Cook Islands", "country_code": "ck", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In May 2023, a fire tore through the roof of the departure terminal at Rarotonga International Airport. Cook Islands News reported that reports had found electrical arcing from the solar panel connectors to be the cause. Repairs to the roof followed. Injuries, the exact date, and any effect on airport operations were not reported in the available text.", "contributing_factors": "Reports cited electrical arcing at the solar panel connectors. No further detail on how the connectors failed is available from the published text.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Roof-mounted solar connectors should be inspected regularly for damage, looseness and overheating. (2) Thermal imaging or arc-fault detection should be considered where it can find connection faults early. (3) Arrays on occupied buildings should be arranged so a faulty circuit can be isolated and firefighters can reach the roof.", "source_url": "https://www.cookislandsnews.com/uncategorised/internal/national/economy/reports-finds-arching-solar-panel-connectors-triggered-rarotonga-international-airport-blaze/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:48:46.507639+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1408", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1408/", "title": "Fire at Vodacom headquarters in Cape Town, solar panels suspected", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-07", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 9 July 2023 firefighters attended a fire at Vodacom's head offices in Century City, Cape Town. A published caption said it was believed that solar panels on the roof had caused the fire. The extent of damage, any injuries, and whether the panels were confirmed as the source were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of this fire was not established in the report. Separate commentary in the same article, not tied to this building, said poor installation and a lack of maintenance are leading causes of ignition in photovoltaic systems generally.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Poor installation and lack of maintenance are leading causes of ignition in photovoltaic systems, so operators should check installation records and maintenance logs for rooftop arrays. (2) Firefighters attended a roof fire at a headquarters building, so operators should confirm that access routes and panel layouts allow safe crew entry.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/business/flames-at-vodacom-the-fire-risks-that-come-with-solar-panels/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:48:53.270562+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1409", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1409/", "title": "Man dies from electrocution during solar installation in Maringá", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-01", "country": "Brazil", "country_code": "br", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A man died from electrocution while installing a solar energy system on the roof of a commercial establishment in Maringá, Paraná, on 9 January 2023. According to the fire service, he suffered cardiorespiratory arrest after an electrical discharge of approximately 700 V. Rescuers tried to revive him without success, and a tow truck was used to recover him from the roof. The site was isolated. The Civil Police were still investigating the cause of the shock.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the electric shock had not been reported. The source says it was still under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat rooftop photovoltaic work as potentially live until isolation and voltage checks are confirmed. (2) Plan how a casualty will be recovered from a roof before work starts. (3) Preserve the scene and do not assume a cause while police and technical inquiries are open.", "source_url": "https://canalsolar.com.br/en/man-dies-from-electrocution-during-installation-of-PV-system/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:49:59.20891+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1410", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1410/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on Bank of America building roof in Plano", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 29 July 2022, solar panels on the roof of a five-storey Bank of America office building in Plano, Texas, caught fire. The two-alarm fire was reported at about 10.20 a.m. on the 7100 block of Corporate Drive. Dozens of panels were installed on the roof, and a number of them were charred and destroyed. The building was evacuated and no injuries were reported. It was not clear whether the fire damaged the building.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Occupied buildings with rooftop solar need a clear way to isolate the array and give the fire service safe access after evacuation. (2) If only part of an array is fire-damaged, the remainder should be treated as potentially live until it is isolated and inspected. (3) The array should not be returned to service until building damage and the cause have been checked.", "source_url": "https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/solar-panels-catch-fire-on-roof-of-plano-bank-of-america-building/3035318/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:50:18.807416+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1411", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1411/", "title": "Solar panels destroyed in fire at Home Depot in Hamilton Township", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire damaged the roof of a Home Depot store in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, on 23 June 2021. It was reported around 10:30 a.m. in the 700 block of Route 130. The fire destroyed a section of the solar panels on the roof. The cause was not reported. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A roof fire at a retail building can destroy rooftop solar panels even when the origin is not yet known. (2) Early reports should state whether panels were the origin or were damaged by a fire that started elsewhere. (3) Operators should keep panel layout and isolation details available so crews can work safely on a roof with solar equipment.", "source_url": "https://6abc.com/post/home-depot-fire-hamilton-store-nj-business-solar-panels-destroyed-in/10824284/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:50:20.649882+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1412", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1412/", "title": "Fire damages solar panels at New Delhi station platforms", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-07", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on the roof of platforms 9 and 10 at New Delhi railway station around 1am on 10 July, damaging solar panels and portions of the roof. No casualties were reported. The fire was brought under control within minutes using fire extinguishers before fire tenders arrived. A couple of benches were also damaged.", "contributing_factors": "The incident was caused by a short circuit from an IRCTC vending machine installed at the station.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A short circuit in a vending machine next to solar panels can start a fire, so operators should inspect all nearby electrical equipment for wiring faults. (2) Fire in solar panels on a station roof spreads fast, so staff need ready access to extinguishers for quick control before tenders arrive.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/fire-damages-solar-panels-at-new-delhi-station-platforms/articleshow/65061232.cms", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:51:09.090072+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1413", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1413/", "title": "Solar panel fire prompts brief evacuation at Apple campus in Austin", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": "2016-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 30 August 2016, Apple briefly evacuated employees from a building at its Austin, Texas campus after a fire on the roof. Local station KXAN reported that solar panels on offices in the 5500 block of West Parmer Lane were the cause. The Austin Fire Department confirmed that the fire had been extinguished and that no injuries had been reported. Employees were waiting to return to the building. It is not reported whether they had re-entered by the time of the report.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not report how the fire started beyond KXAN identifying the rooftop solar panels as the cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire limited to rooftop solar equipment can still require a precautionary building evacuation. (2) Occupiers should be able to tell the fire service where roof arrays are so isolation and extinguishment can be confirmed. (3) Re-entry should wait until the fire service says the fire is out and the array is safe.", "source_url": "https://9to5mac.com/2016/08/30/apple-austin-solar-panel-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:51:31.776583+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1414", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1414/", "title": "Tornado damages solar array at Camp Ripley in Minnesota", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": "2016-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A weak EF-1 tornado with winds up to 90 mph struck Camp Ripley near Little Falls, Minnesota, on 7 September 2016. The storm blew roofs off barracks buildings and drove debris into a 10 MW solar array that was nearing completion. A quarter of the 97 rows of panels suffered damage including twisted racks, broken modules and damaged wiring. The dedication planned for 16 September was postponed until the following spring. No injuries occurred. The National Weather Service confirmed the tornado remained on the ground for 7 to 8 miles and was about 50 yards wide. Minnesota Power, the project developer, assessed the site for safety and began insurance and repair planning.", "contributing_factors": "High winds from an EF-1 tornado carried debris from nearby buildings into the array. The array was designed to withstand 105 mph winds.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Secure loose materials and temporary structures before forecast high-wind events. (2) Review debris pathways from adjacent buildings when siting ground-mounted arrays. (3) Maintain rapid-response protocols for post-storm safety and insurance engagement even during final commissioning.", "source_url": "https://www.twincities.com/2016/09/08/storm-damages-national-guard-camps-new-solar-energy-project/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:51:35.023155+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1416", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1416/", "title": "Fire at Bristol hospital started in solar panels", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in solar panels on the roof of St Michael's Hospital in Bristol. The blaze forced the evacuation of the maternity unit, including pregnant women and babies. Emergency services were called shortly before 16:30 BST on a Thursday and firefighters extinguished the fire on the roof within an hour. No other part of the hospital was affected and the hospital reopened by 19:00 the same day. No injuries were reported. Some appointments were later rescheduled. Avon Fire and Rescue Service said the cause was accidental and due to a fault in the solar panels. An investigation was opened.", "contributing_factors": "A fault in the solar panels, described by the fire service as accidental. The precise fault was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar on occupied buildings should be installed by qualified contractors from a reputable company and kept on a regular maintenance schedule. (2) Sites with vulnerable occupants need a plan to move people clear of a roof fire quickly, then confirm the fire is confined before reopening. (3) A contained roof fire can still disrupt services, so operators should expect cancelled appointments and a follow-up investigation even when no injuries are reported.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy5ew654g32o", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:56:10.801464+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1417", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1417/", "title": "Fire contained to rooftop solar panels and HVAC in Mount Kisco", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 29 June 2025, Mount Kisco firefighters attended a fire on the roof of 333 North Bedford Road in Mount Kisco, New York. A local news photo gallery reported that the fire was contained to HVAC equipment and solar panels on the roof. Crews from Bedford Hills, Yorktown and Millwood assisted. No injuries were reported. The cause was not stated.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The available account does not say how the fire started or whether the solar panels or the HVAC equipment ignited first.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where solar panels share a roof with other plant, crews need a clear way to isolate the array before working on the roof. (2) Neighbouring fire services should be included in plans for roof fires that may need extra crews. (3) After a roof fire involving solar equipment, record which items were damaged so the cause can be checked later.", "source_url": "https://www.lohud.com/picture-gallery/news/local/2025/06/29/solar-panels-fire-on-mt-kiso-ny-rooftop/84409428007/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:56:16.33083+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1418", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1418/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on Capitol Hill apartment building", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 6 June 2025, the Seattle Fire Department was called just after 2 pm to a fire involving solar panels on the roof of the Holiday Apartments, a four-storey building at 10th and John on Capitol Hill in Seattle. Black smoke was visible. Crews had difficulty reaching the fire but kept it from spreading into the building. The fire was declared under control around 2:30 pm. Residents were kept outside and nearby streets were closed. An inspection found no major damage to the building, and no injuries were reported. The Seattle Fire Marshal was investigating the cause, which had not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause had not been reported. Crews were reported to have had difficulty accessing the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Plan roof access and isolation points for rooftop solar so crews can reach a panel fire before it spreads into the building. (2) Keep occupants clear and control nearby streets while a rooftop fire is being brought under control. (3) Complete and share the cause investigation so similar arrays can be checked.", "source_url": "https://www.capitolhillseattle.com/2025/06/seattle-fire-handles-solar-panel-blaze-atop-e-john-apartment-building/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:56:25.260939+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1419", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1419/", "title": "Solar panels melt during fire at Pasadena warehouse", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Local news reported on 15 May 2025 that solar panels on a warehouse in Pasadena, Texas, melted during a fire. The available source is a headline and short summary only. It does not say whether the panels started the fire, how the fire began, how much was damaged, or what the fire service did.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar can be damaged in a building fire even when the cause is not yet known. (2) A headline alone does not show whether panels started a fire or were damaged by it. (3) Site operators should keep panel layout and isolation information ready for fire crews.", "source_url": "https://www.khou.com/article/news/local/fire-warehouse-red-bluff-pasadena-texas/285-ffdeaa98-b708-4bb0-b21c-b87009fb1be9", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:56:54.689386+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1420", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1420/", "title": "Solar panel fire breaks out on Bayport home roof", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters from the Bayport Fire Department responded to a structure fire on Bay Avenue in Bayport after a neighbour reported smoke on the roof. They found a rooftop solar panel burning underneath. The burning panel and an adjacent panel were removed and the fire was extinguished without entering the attic and with minimal damage to the roof. Mutual aid was provided by the Sayville Fire Department and emergency medical services by the Community Ambulance Company.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rapid isolation and removal of affected panels can limit fire spread and roof damage. (2) Neighbour reports of smoke can enable early intervention before fire enters the structure. (3) Coordination with mutual aid departments supports effective response at residential solar sites.", "source_url": "https://patch.com/new-york/sayville/solar-panel-fire-breaks-out-long-island-home-police", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:57:35.80712+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1421", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1421/", "title": "Canton house fire possibly caused by rodents under solar panels", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Wednesday, firefighters responded to a structure fire at a single-family home in Canton, Massachusetts, after residents reported flames from solar panels on the roof. Crews found flames and smoke from a row of panels and extinguished the fire in about 30 minutes after it had begun to spread into the home. Firefighters noted rodent activity under the panels and later found two dead squirrels. The three residents were displaced because of damage to the home's electrical system. The cause remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "Rodent activity under the solar panels was observed, and a fire officer said it looked as if the animals had likely contributed. That link has not been confirmed, and the cause remains under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Roof-mounted solar arrays should be inspected for animal intrusion, which can damage wiring and create a fire risk. (2) Early detection of rodent activity beneath panels may limit the chance of fire spreading into the building. (3) Where the cause is still under investigation, operators should treat animal intrusion as a suspected factor, not a confirmed one.", "source_url": "https://www.boston25news.com/news/local/three-people-displaced-following-canton-house-fire-possibly-caused-by-rodents-under-solar-panels/F7M6G2H6SVA6ZKIL5H3PMBTOMM/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:57:37.478542+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1422", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1422/", "title": "Firefighters tackle solar panel fire in Yapton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Argus reported on 18 March 2025 that firefighters were tackling a solar panel fire in Yapton. The published text said only that fire crews were tackling a fire in Yapton and that live updates would follow. Damage, cause, the type of building or site, and whether anyone was hurt were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline-only solar fire report as unconfirmed until the fire service or a fuller account states what burned. (2) Record place and date from the report, and leave cause, injuries and asset details blank until they are stated. (3) Recheck live reports, because early pages often add no outcome.", "source_url": "https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/25017646.firefighters-tackle-solar-panel-fire-yapton/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:57:38.976637+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1423", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1423/", "title": "Fire reported at LaFayette solar farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Valley Times-News headline dated 30 December 2024 reported a fire at LaFayette Solar Farm. The article could not be read, so the cause, the extent of damage, any injuries and whether the solar equipment itself was involved are not known from this source.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline report of a fire at a solar farm as an open incident until asset involvement is confirmed. (2) Record whether modules, inverters, cabling or vegetation were involved once a fire service account is available. (3) Until cause and damage are known, isolate the affected area and complete a recorded inspection before returning equipment to service.", "source_url": "https://www.valleytimes-news.com/news/fire-at-lafayette-solar-farm-64653", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:57:45.408832+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1424", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1424/", "title": "Fire at UK Power Networks substation in West London", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report says faulty equipment has been blamed for a large fire at a UK Power Networks electrical substation in West London. Around 100 firefighters were called on the morning of 29 April 2025. Injuries, damage and any effect on customers are not stated in the available text.", "contributing_factors": "The report says faulty equipment has been blamed. It does not identify the failed item or how the fault developed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported equipment fault at a substation can escalate into a fire that needs a large fire service response. (2) Operators should be ready to isolate plant and give firefighters clear site information. (3) Early reports may not establish the failed component or customer impact, so those points should stay unconfirmed until further sources appear.", "source_url": "https://utilityweek.co.uk/100-firefighters-tackle-major-blaze-at-ukpn-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:58:01.728186+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1425", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1425/", "title": "Rooftop solar panels catch fire at Pretoria East Hospital", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at Pretoria East Hospital in Tshwane, South Africa, after solar panels located above some of the hospital's theatres caught alight. The blaze started on Thursday evening and was extinguished around midnight. Parts of the hospital were affected. All patients were evacuated to an area outside the hospital entrance and later moved back into some wards once the emergency services declared the building safe. No injuries or deaths were reported. The cause of the fire has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar on occupied medical buildings should be included in fire risk assessments and routine inspection. (2) Hospital emergency plans should cover evacuation and controlled re-entry when a rooftop array is involved in a fire. (3) Patients should return only after the emergency services have declared the building safe.", "source_url": "https://www.jacarandafm.com/news/news/rooftop-solar-panels-burnt-during-ptaeasthospital-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:58:10.361646+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1426", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1426/", "title": "Facade solar panels catch fire at Brussels office building", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "Belgium", "country_code": "be", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Emergency services responded to a fire at solar panels forming part of the facade at a seven-storey office building in central Brussels on 22 October 2024. The fire triggered the building alarm, leading to a full evacuation. Fire crews used ladders, pumps and a command vehicle. They isolated the inverter and partially dismantled sections of the solar array to reach and extinguish burning insulation and cool remaining hot spots. The cause of the fire was not determined.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Facade solar arrays need inverter isolation before crews approach, so that live parts do not endanger firefighters. (2) Multi-storey facade systems may require partial dismantling plans, because ground access alone cannot reach burning sections.", "source_url": "https://www.thefpa.co.uk/news/fa-ade-solar-panels-cause-fire-at-brussels-high-rise-", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:58:24.746146+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1427", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1427/", "title": "Three die after solar panels being installed contact a power line", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Malaysia", "country_code": "my", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report on 12 December 2024 said three people died after solar panels they were installing came into contact with a power line. The available report does not give the place, the site, the companies involved, or how the contact occurred.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The only stated circumstance is that panels being installed came into contact with a power line.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Before solar panels are lifted or positioned, crews should confirm clearance from any nearby power line and treat the line as live until the network operator says otherwise. (2) Lifting and handling methods should be checked so that panels and mounting gear cannot bridge to a line. (3) A death during installation should stop the work until line proximity and the method of work have been reviewed.", "source_url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/12/1147847/3-die-after-solar-panels-they-were-installing-come-contact-power-line", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:58:28.177513+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1428", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1428/", "title": "Fire reported at a solar farm on River Road near Castleton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Castleton firefighters were among crews who responded to a large fire at a solar farm on River Road, at an address the report links to White River Solar Farm. The fire was reported while a red flag warning was in effect for much of upstate New York. Crews said the fire spread across the 40-acre plot. The report names Pure Sky Energy as the owner and says state data collection at the site began in May 2023. The cause, the damage to the equipment, and whether anyone was hurt were not reported. The outlet described the story as still developing.", "contributing_factors": "A red flag warning, low humidity and stronger winds were in effect and were described as raising the fire danger. The report does not say these conditions started the fire, and no cause has been stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar farms should have a wildfire response plan for red flag conditions, including how crews reach and isolate the array. (2) Operators should be ready to confirm the site address, owner and layout quickly when fire services are called. (3) Early public reports often lack cause and damage detail, so operators should keep a clear record of what burned and what did not.", "source_url": "https://cbs6albany.com/news/local/castleton-firefighters-respond-to-large-solar-farm-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:58:46.539702+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1430", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1430/", "title": "Grass fires at Eagle Point solar farm prompt safety measures", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Two grass fires occurred at the solar farm at 1035 Highway 234 in Eagle Point, Oregon. Fire District 3 said the first, on 31 July, burned about seven acres, and the second, on 30 September, burned three acres. The district said both were caused by overheated electronic panels that failed and dropped molten material onto dry grass. The site has 33,000 panels. After the first fire, Soltage, which owns the panels, worked with Fire District 3 and added fire breaks. The panels were not reconnected to the grid and were moved as far from dry grass as possible, but they still produce electricity in sunlight. The district said the fire breaks and cooler weather lessen the chance of another fire, while work on a return to normal operations continues.", "contributing_factors": "Fire District 3 said overheated electronic panels failed and dropped molten material onto dried grass. Mowing of about 115 acres was not possible after the July fire because of fire danger restrictions.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Install and maintain fire breaks around and within solar arrays where dry vegetation is present. (2) Treat modules as still able to produce electricity in sunlight, and keep combustible vegetation away from equipment that can fail hot. (3) Agree return-to-service conditions with the local fire service after any ignition.", "source_url": "https://www.kdrv.com/news/firewatch/eagle-point-solar-farm-working-with-fire-district-3-after-two-grass-fires-in-two/article_42bc7ed2-81ab-11ef-9329-f306386f6e42.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:59:28.504122+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1431", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1431/", "title": "Solar panels cause fire at Charlotte building", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A solar panel system caused a fire at a building on North Graham Street near Camp North End in Charlotte. Smoke was seen coming from the structure around 3 p.m. on Sunday. Charlotte Fire crews found the fire originating on the roof. Firefighters used hoses and extinguishers on the roof while checking the building interior. The blaze was brought under control in 14 minutes by 30 firefighters. Investigators attributed the fire to an unspecified abnormal electrical event in the solar panel system.", "contributing_factors": "Unspecified abnormal electrical event in the solar panel system.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar electrical faults can ignite a building roof, so isolation and roof access should be planned before crews arrive. (2) An abnormal electrical event that is not yet specified still warrants inspection of the array and associated wiring after a fire. (3) Checking both the roof and the interior when smoke is first seen can limit spread.", "source_url": "https://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/solar-panel-system-sparks-fire-north-charlotte-building/USM6LMC255HIDCP6ZLABIULALE/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T09:59:42.377021+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1432", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1432/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire at Kian Teck Road factory in Jurong", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": "Singapore", "country_code": "sg", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A section of solar panels mounted on the zinc roof of a single-storey factory at 11 Kian Teck Road in Jurong caught fire on 27 July 2024. The Singapore Civil Defence Force responded after 76 staff evacuated the premises. Firefighters used two water jets and extinguished the fire within 20 minutes. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Preliminary investigations indicate the fire was likely of electrical origin from the solar panels.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rapid spread is possible with roof-mounted solar arrays; early detection and response planning are essential. (2) Evacuation procedures should be practised where solar installations are present on occupied buildings. (3) Electrical faults in photovoltaic systems require specific inspection regimes beyond standard building maintenance.", "source_url": "https://mustsharenews.com/solar-panels-fire-kian-teck/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:00:02.778803+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1433", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1433/", "title": "Electrical malfunction causes fire at a Bourne solar farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A short report says investigators attributed a fire at a solar farm in Bourne to electrical equipment that failed. Crews were called to Scenic Highway near the Cape Cod Aggregates gravel pit at about 2:30 pm on a Monday afternoon and put the fire out quickly after the power was turned off. A hazardous materials team was called to check for environmental effects. No damage estimate has been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The report attributes the fire to failed electrical equipment. It does not identify which component failed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Turning off the supply can let crews extinguish a solar-farm fire quickly. (2) After an electrical fire, a hazardous-materials check is a prudent step while environmental effects are still unknown. (3) Early reports may not give damage or the failed component, so operators should treat them as incomplete.", "source_url": "https://95wxtk.iheart.com/content/2024-08-06-electrical-malfunction-causes-fire-at-bourne-solar-farm/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:00:04.114685+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1434", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1434/", "title": "Fire damages transformer at Singhawala village grid sub-station", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire broke out at the 220-kV grid sub-station at Singhawala village in Moga district operated by Punjab State Power. The blaze and smoke were visible from a distance and caused panic in surrounding areas. Fire tenders from various places attended and extinguished the fire after considerable effort. Power supply to villages attached to the substation was interrupted. A 20 MW transformer was burnt. No loss of life was reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not immediately known.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A 20 MW transformer fire at a 220 kV sub-station needs rapid mobilisation of several fire tenders from different locations. (2) Loss of one transformer at this sub-station interrupts supply to all attached villages until replacement or bypass is arranged.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/fire-at-grid-substation-in-moga-causes-power-supply-disruption/articleshow/111895329.cms", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:00:34.770118+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1435", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1435/", "title": "Solar panel fire causes evacuation at Cumberland industrial building", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Multiple agencies responded to a fire at an industrial building in Cumberland, Rhode Island. At around 12:15 p.m. on 22 July 2024 a passerby reported heavy black smoke coming from 35 Martin Street. Fire crews found solar panels on fire on the roof. The building was occupied and everyone inside evacuated safely. Rhode Island Energy secured utilities to the building and the solar company attended. There was no structural damage inside the building, the remainder of the roof stayed intact and there was no significant damage to products inside. The building remained shut down until further notice. The cause is under investigation by the state fire marshal. Some firefighters suffered heat exhaustion while working on the roof fire.", "contributing_factors": "Fire occurred on a hot day and involved solar panels on a roof, increasing physical demands on responders.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar panel fires on occupied building roofs need rapid utility isolation, as shown when Rhode Island Energy secured utilities to the building. (2) Roof solar fires on hot days raise heat exhaustion risk for responders, so rotations and extra resources must be planned. (3) Solar system operators must be contacted at once during roof fires to support safe isolation and access.", "source_url": "https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/blackstone-valley/cumberland-road-closed-due-to-reported-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:00:36.458682+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1436", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1436/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on the roof of Mondawmin Mall", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A dozen solar panels caught fire on the roof of Mondawmin Mall in Baltimore on a Thursday afternoon, in a report dated 28 June 2024. A Baltimore City Fire spokesperson said flames broke out shortly after 4pm. No injuries were reported. The exact cause remains under investigation, and it is not clear how much damage the building sustained. No further technical detail on the array or the response was reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source says only that the exact cause remains under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in a small number of rooftop modules on an occupied building can still leave the cause and the building damage unknown in the first report. (2) Operators of similar roofs should be ready to separate array damage from building damage when early accounts cannot do so. (3) Until a cause is reported, treat connector, isolator and module faults as open possibilities rather than a finding.", "source_url": "https://www.wmar2news.com/local/a-dozen-solar-panels-caught-fire-on-the-roof-of-mondawmin-mall", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:01:07.009431+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1437", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1437/", "title": "Transformer catches fire in Delhi's Najafgarh", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published report says a video showed a transformer catching fire in Najafgarh, Delhi. The article text was not available, so the cause, any injuries, and any effect on supply are not known.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat public video of a transformer fire as a prompt to confirm the asset, isolate it and check neighbouring equipment. (2) Record what is known and what is not before drawing operational conclusions from a headline. (3) Keep inspection and protection routines in place so a fire in one unit is less likely to spread.", "source_url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/trending/frightening-video-transformer-catching-fire-delhis-najafgarh-9418383/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:01:19.777959+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1438", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1438/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in Sayreville", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A rack of 25 solar panels caught fire at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in Sayreville on a Sunday afternoon. A neighbour reported the fire around 3 p.m. Fire crews extinguished it quickly, and it remained limited to the solar panels. An initial investigation found that no water had penetrated the building and that there appeared to be no structural damage to the roof. The cause was not known. Power to the panels was turned off, and generation at the school was shut down until the installer could determine the cause and confirm the panels were safe.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) After a rooftop solar fire, keep power to the array off until the system has been inspected. (2) A call from a nearby resident can bring fire crews to a school solar fire quickly. (3) Do not restart generation until the installer has inspected the array and confirmed it is safe.", "source_url": "https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/2024/06/09/solar-panels-catch-fire-at-woodrow-wilson-school-in-sayreville/74035557007/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:01:34.228134+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1439", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1439/", "title": "Explosion and fire at Zola substation in Soweto", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred and a fire broke out at the Zola substation in Soweto on 12 June 2024. Areas including Dobsonville Extensions 3 and 5, Jabulani, Mofolo North, Naledi, Tladi, Zola, Zondi, Emdeni, Moletsane and Old Dobsonville were affected. Service was restored in some parts, while Eskom said technicians were still working in Emdeni, Moletsane and Old Dobsonville. The fire caused minor disruption at health facilities in the affected areas, and a few operated on generators. At the Zola community health centre a generator failed and a transformer was reported to need repair, with some services diverted. A published report said a probe into the fire pointed to vandalism, but it does not set out how the fire started. Eskom separately said there had been 40 vandalism incidents in Gauteng in the previous month, and described theft from substations as an ongoing problem.", "contributing_factors": "A probe was reported to point to vandalism. The article does not explain the mechanism of this fire, and wider theft of infrastructure is described as a standing problem rather than as a finding for this event.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat substations in known vandalism hotspots as sites that need layered security, not guards alone. (2) Work with police on scrap-metal markets, because stolen components can leave equipment unprotected or faulted. (3) Plan for generator and local transformer failure at clinics when a substation outage follows an explosion or fire.", "source_url": "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2024-06-13-probe-into-zola-soweto-substation-fire-points-to-vandalism/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:02:13.445096+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1440", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1440/", "title": "Brush fire burns three acres at Ashaway solar farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A large brush fire broke out at a solar farm on Maxson Hill Road in Ashaway on the afternoon of 10 April 2024. Crews were called to reports of smoke in the solar field. Firefighters said they found a grass fire under the solar panels. Officials said the fire burned approximately three acres. No damage was visible to the solar panels. The incident was reported to be under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. The fire was described as a grass fire under the panels.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grass and brush under ground-mounted panels can carry a fire across a site even when no damage to the panels is immediately visible. (2) Reports of smoke in a solar field should be treated as a site incident until the extent is confirmed. (3) After a vegetation fire, operators should inspect arrays and access routes rather than relying only on a first visual check.", "source_url": "https://turnto10.com/news/local/large-brush-fire-breaks-out-at-ashaway-solar-farm-southern-new-england-rhode-island-april-10-2024", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:02:16.168712+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1441", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1441/", "title": "KSEB transformers catch fire under summer overload in Kerala", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The New Indian Express reported that Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) distribution transformers were catching fire because they could not bear rising summer load. A senior KSEB officer said six transformers had been lost in Thiruvananthapuram district alone, and that the strain was severe in Malappuram, Kannur and Kasaragod, where capacity upgrades had been delayed by protests against new lines. The report appeared as the state recorded daily consumption of 110.10 million units and a peak of 5,506 MW. The officer linked the pressure to air-conditioner growth and said fuses could melt or transformers catch fire once a local transformer was overloaded. Electric-vehicle charging in peak hours, and night-time grid draw by some rooftop solar customers, were also described as adding to peak demand. It is not reported which of the lost transformers caught fire, when each failure occurred, or whether anyone was injured.", "contributing_factors": "The officer attributed the failures to air-conditioner installations that can exceed local transformer capacity, delayed reinforcement where new lines had been opposed, and consumers not notifying KSEB when adding high-load equipment. Peak demand was also said to be extended by air-conditioner use, electric-vehicle charging and night-time draw after daytime rooftop solar export.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Distribution operators should track local load growth from air conditioning and other new appliances and reinforce transformers before ratings are breached. (2) Daytime rooftop solar does not by itself relieve evening peaks if customers still draw heavily from the grid at night. (3) Clear rules for notifying the network operator before adding high-load equipment, and peak-hour demand advice, can reduce overload failures.", "source_url": "https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/2024/Apr/10/kseb-transformers-catch-fire-unable-to-bear-power-overload-3", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:02:18.578507+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1442", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1442/", "title": "Solar panels on fire at Milford home roof", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews responded to a fire involving solar panels on the front roof of a single-family house on Easy Street in Milford. Arriving companies found the panels burning. Crews disconnected all electrical services to the panels and took precautions because power could remain present. The fire was extinguished before spreading into the house or attic, which were checked for extension. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Always isolate electrical supply to solar arrays before firefighting operations begin. (2) Assume residual voltage may remain after disconnection and maintain caution. (3) Verify that fire has not extended into the structure even when the array appears contained.", "source_url": "https://www.firerescue1.com/electric-fire/conn-firefighters-quickly-extinguish-solar-panel-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:02:26.772956+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1443", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1443/", "title": "Solar panel fire on Madison home roof extinguished by firefighters", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Madison Fire Department responded to a fire reported at approximately 2:45 p.m. on a single-family home. Smoke and flames were coming from a solar panel on the roof of the wood-framed structure. Firefighters shut off power to the panels, extinguished the flames and confirmed the fire did not spread to the home. MG&E also attended. The cause was determined to be radiant heat from the solar panel, with a squirrel observed running from under the panels possibly contributing. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Radiant heat from the solar panel; possible involvement of a squirrel under the panels.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolate power to solar arrays promptly on arrival at rooftop incidents. (2) Inspect for wildlife or debris under arrays during maintenance. (3) Confirm fire has not spread into the building structure before declaring incident under control.", "source_url": "https://www.wkow.com/news/madison-fire-crew-puts-out-solar-panel-fire-on-roof-of-home/article_14444d3e-fc34-11ee-9561-43f5001c26fd.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:02:33.34578+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1444", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1444/", "title": "Fire reported on solar panels of a home in Bowie, Maryland", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Black smoke and flames were reported from solar panels on the roof of a home in the 13000 block of Walkers Lane, Bowie, Maryland, on 13 March 2024. Firefighters attended around 11:30 a.m. and extinguished the fire. No injuries were reported. How the fire started, and how much damage it caused, were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar should be included in residential fire risk assessments. (2) Fire services need a clear way to isolate a photovoltaic array. (3) Until cause and damage are known, treat early reports as incomplete and do not infer a failure mode.", "source_url": "https://www.fox5dc.com/news/fire-burns-solar-panels-on-roof-of-maryland-home", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:02:41.625972+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1445", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1445/", "title": "Solar panel fires prompt shutdown at Suffolk schools", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fires occurred at Sidegate Primary School in Ipswich and two other Suffolk schools where solar panels had been installed on roofs. Suffolk County Council is isolating and switching off solar panel systems at 80 schools as a precaution. The panels were installed between 2011 and 2016 under the council's Renewable Energy Scheme. Investigations by Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service are ongoing and no common fault has been confirmed across the incidents. Engineers will complete the isolations over the next two weeks without disrupting school operations.", "contributing_factors": "Solar panels identified as a potential factor in each fire. No conclusive link established between the incidents.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Roof-mounted solar panels can contribute to school fires, so operators should isolate similar systems from 2011 to 2016 until checked. (2) Multiple roof fires at solar sites require county-wide isolation even without a confirmed common fault.", "source_url": "https://www.suffolknews.co.uk/ipswich/news/we-cannot-take-the-risk-fire-prompts-solar-panel-shutdown-9471659/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:05:22.817692+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1446", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1446/", "title": "Solar panel fire at Allendale rehabilitation centre forces resident relocations", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A rooftop solar panel caught fire at the Allendale Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Allendale, New Jersey, on 29 June 2026. The fire was reported at 11:46 a.m. Responding fire departments confirmed the active fire on the roof of one section of the building and extinguished the flames. Residents whose rooms were directly below the affected area were temporarily relocated to other parts of the facility. Multiple mutual aid fire companies and EMS agencies responded. The scene was cleared after about an hour and residents returned to their rooms. No injuries directly related to the fire were reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar panel fires need direct roof access by fire crews, so operators should keep clear routes and early detection systems in place. (2) Residents directly below a roof fire must be moved quickly, so healthcare sites with solar arrays need tested relocation plans.", "source_url": "https://dailyvoice.com/article/solar-panel-fire-forces-resident-relocations-at-allendale-rehab-center/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:05:30.224778+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1448", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1448/", "title": "Roof fire at new-build house with solar panels in Wellingborough", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the roof of a four-bedroom detached new-build house in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, on a hot Bank Holiday Monday. The property was destroyed. Neighbours and doorbell footage described solar panels on the roof bursting into flames, and the fire service has not ruled out the weather as a factor in that account. An initial investigation found only that the fire started accidentally in the roof. Five crews and an aerial appliance from Moulton attended and put the fire out. Three adults and one child were helped from the house by an off-duty firefighter, and nobody was reported injured. Several homes were evacuated. The side of the next-door house and at least four cars were damaged. Many homes on the estate have similar solar panels.", "contributing_factors": "The fire occurred on a hot day, with the temperature reported at 22C when crews arrived. Neighbours reported earlier problems with fire alarms and roof ventilation on the estate, and some speculated about overheating, a battery in the roof, or poor connections. None of these explanations has been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Residential solar systems need thermal protection and monitoring that remain effective in hot weather. (2) Nearby residents should be told promptly what a fire investigation has and has not established, so they can judge whether to isolate similar equipment. (3) Roof ventilation and electrical connections on new-build homes should be checked at commissioning and after extreme heat.", "source_url": "https://www.dailymail.com/news/article-15858559/neighbours-fire-solar-panels-terrified.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:06:27.891234+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1449", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1449/", "title": "Solar panel fire on roof of home in Stratford", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Crews from the Stratford Fire Department responded to multiple 911 calls about a house fire on Clover Street in Stratford on Tuesday afternoon. On arrival, firefighters found a solar panel on fire on the roof, with the fire extending to the roof material. Crews rapidly extinguished the fire and disconnected the solar power supply to the home. A search of the property confirmed that the occupants had already left the building. The incident was brought under control in approximately 20 minutes. No injuries were reported. The cause is under investigation by the Stratford Fire Marshal's office. Stratford EMS and police also attended to support the response.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar panel fires on roofs can spread quickly to roof material, so operators must ensure first responders can isolate the DC supply on arrival. (2) Multiple 911 calls about a roof fire allowed crews to reach the site before the blaze grew, so clear signage for solar systems aids fast isolation.", "source_url": "https://patch.com/connecticut/stratford/solar-panel-catches-fire-home-stratford-officials", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:06:49.504616+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1451", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1451/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on Clough Road home in Waterbury", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire broke out on the roof of a Clough Road residence in Waterbury after solar panels ignited. The Waterbury Fire Department received the call at 12:17 p.m. on Friday and found the panels near the top of the roof on fire. Firefighters extended an attack line and brought the fire under control in six minutes. An elderly resident inside the home was assisted to safety. No injuries were reported to residents or firefighters. Utility companies attended to secure the remaining panels and infrastructure. The resident was not displaced.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure rapid isolation of rooftop solar arrays during fire response to prevent extension. (2) Survey the interior of properties with rooftop solar for hidden fire spread after initial attack. (3) Coordinate early with utility providers to de-energise and secure remaining panels and associated infrastructure.", "source_url": "https://www.newstimes.com/waterbury/article/waterbury-solar-panel-roof-fire-rescue-22250965.php", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:07:41.414543+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1452", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1452/", "title": "Rooftop solar fire damages warehouse in Towaco, New Jersey", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 15 March 2024 a fire damaged a warehouse in Towaco, New Jersey that had a rooftop solar system, according to a subrogation complaint reported by Insurance Business. Advanced Solar Products had designed, procured and built the system in 2021 using TS4-A-2F rapid shutdown devices made by Tigo Energy. The insurer says it paid its insured, Corporate Mailings, more than 236,000 dollars and is seeking more than 241,000 dollars, including a 5,000 dollar deductible. The complaint, which has not been tested in court, alleges that about seven rapid shutdown devices showed thermal damage within the first eight months and that a 2022 inspection did not raise possible signal interference between devices and inverters.", "contributing_factors": "The complaint alleges early improper string readings and thermal damage to rapid shutdown devices. It also alleges that a 2020 product manual did not warn about connector types to limit crosstalk, and that this was not raised at a November 2022 inspection. These points have not been tested in court.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Abnormal string readings should prompt an early check of rapid shutdown devices for thermal damage. (2) Installation instructions should make clear any connector and string layout requirements intended to limit electromagnetic interference. (3) After an early component fault, follow-up should record what was checked and what remains unresolved before the system stays in service.", "source_url": "https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/us/news/risk-compliance-legal/insurer-sues-tigo-energy-over-rooftop-solar-fire-at-new-jersey-warehouse-576163.aspx", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:07:51.478955+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1453", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1453/", "title": "Fire crews tackle solar panel unit blaze in Burnham-On-Sea", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 8 May 2026, Burnham-On-Sea fire crews were called to a fire involving a solar panels unit at a home in Highburn Close. A fire service spokesman said crews extinguished the fire using CO2 and isolated the panels with a PV stop, using a turntable ladder from Avon Fire. The road was closed near the junction with Marine Drive. The cause, the extent of damage and whether anyone was hurt were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Fire crews may need a ready way to isolate photovoltaic equipment during suppression. (2) Elevated access, such as a turntable ladder, may be needed where the equipment cannot be reached from the ground. (3) A short local report does not establish how a fire started, so the method of response should not be treated as evidence of cause.", "source_url": "https://www.burnham-on-sea.com/news/solar-panel-unit-blaze-tackled-by-burnham-on-sea-crews/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:08:12.872955+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1454", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1454/", "title": "Birds nest may have sparked rooftop solar panel fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire involving rooftop solar panels was reported at a single-family home on Conrad Court in Damascus. Crews from Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service responded to smoke coming from the roof and quickly extinguished the fire with no extension into the home. Firefighters used a handheld device called PVStop to apply a liquid tarp to deactivate the solar panels. The fire is believed to have started accidentally, possibly due to a bird's nest under or near the panels igniting from accumulated heat, though the exact cause remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "A bird's nest under or near the panels may have ignited from accumulated heat.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Bird nests near rooftop solar panels can ignite from accumulated heat, so operators should clear debris during routine checks. (2) PVStop allows safe deactivation of live rooftop panels, so firefighters should carry it for solar incidents.", "source_url": "https://mocoshow.com/2026/04/27/birds-nest-may-have-sparked-solar-panel-fire-officials-say/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:08:24.425463+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1455", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1455/", "title": "Toms River house fire started by rooftop solar panels", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical failure in a rooftop solar panel system ignited a fire at a two-story residence in Toms River. Fire crews responded on 17 April and found flames and smoke coming from the roof. The incident was briefly upgraded to a second alarm before the fire was brought under control. The home sustained damage to its electrical system and was declared unsafe for occupancy. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Electrical failure in the rooftop solar panel system.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Electrical failure in rooftop solar panels can ignite house fires, so operators should inspect wiring and connections on all similar systems. (2) Rooftop solar fires may need a second alarm response, so insurers should check that local crews have solar isolation training.", "source_url": "https://www.shorenewsnetwork.com/toms-river-house-fire-sparks-from-rooftop-solar-panels-leaves-home-uninhabitable/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:08:26.044535+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1456", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1456/", "title": "Solar panel roof fire at Middleton Operations Center", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Middleton firefighters responded on Thursday afternoon to a roof fire involving solar panels at the Middleton Operations Center. The fire damaged the building's electrical system, seven solar panels and part of the roof structure. Crews extinguished the fire about ten minutes after arrival. No injuries were reported, and medical personnel were present as a precaution. Dane County Dispatch said the initial call suggested the fire may have started because of an issue with the building's solar panels. The cause remains under investigation, and a possible electrical problem is suspected.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been established. Dispatch reported a possible issue with the solar panels, and a possible electrical problem is suspected.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Pre-plan ladder and handline deployment for rooftop solar fires. (2) Isolate power rapidly on arrival at sites with solar arrays. (3) Maintain training for uncommon electrical and solar-related incidents.", "source_url": "https://www.wmtv15news.com/2026/04/16/crews-respond-fire-near-middleton-trash-recycling-center/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:09:14.808193+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1458", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1458/", "title": "Fire reported on solar panels at a home in Ballantyne", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 10 April 2026, crews responded to a fire that appeared to involve solar panels at a home in the 11200 block of Grahamwood Place in Ballantyne, Charlotte. Fire and smoke were seen coming from the solar panels on the roof of the two-storey house. Firefighters climbed onto the roof to tackle the flames. Charlotte Fire had not released the cause. The report was still developing, and no details of damage, injuries or whether the fire was put out were given.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat an early report of fire or smoke at a rooftop array as a solar incident until the fire service says otherwise, and isolate the array before roof work if it is safe to do so. (2) Keep roof access and isolation points clear so firefighters can reach a home array. (3) Do not treat cause or extent of damage as known until the fire service has reported them.", "source_url": "https://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/crews-tackle-solar-panel-fire-ballantyne/IE775HB6WZFNHOGZJG7A3OUXPA/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:09:48.513836+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1459", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1459/", "title": "Fire on solar panel roof displaces residents in Floral Park", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on the solar panel-covered roof of a two-storey house on Webster Street in Floral Park just after 12:36 p.m. The Floral Park Fire Department responded, with mutual aid from Elmont, Garden City, Garden City Park, Mineola, New Hyde Park and South Floral Park. Officials said the blaze was brought under control within about half an hour. No injuries were reported to residents or firefighters. Four residents were displaced. The local building department was notified, the Red Cross was contacted, and the fire marshal and NCPD arson bomb squad investigated. The source does not say whether the solar panels started the fire.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The investigation was still under way, and the source does not give a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a fire on a roof fitted with solar panels as an electrical as well as a structural fire, and call mutual aid early. (2) Isolate the photovoltaic system before overhaul where it is safe to do so, and brief incoming crews on residual shock risk. (3) Notify the building authority and arrange welfare support for displaced residents while the cause is investigated.", "source_url": "https://patch.com/new-york/newhydepark/fire-atop-solar-paneled-roof-floral-park-leaves-4-displaced-fire-marshal-says", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:09:55.224268+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1460", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1460/", "title": "Fire in rooftop solar systems at Europa Point Stadium in Gibraltar", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "Gibraltar", "country_code": "gi", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 10 March 2026 a fire broke out in the solar photovoltaic systems installed on the roof of the Europa Point Stadium in Gibraltar. The Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service said the blaze involved solar panels on the sports complex, that two fire appliances were deployed, and that crews contained and extinguished it. The service gave no further details. Local media, as reported by pv magazine, said the fire was put out in 20 minutes and was caused by an electrical fault when an arcing cable overheated. Injuries and the extent of damage were not reported. In May 2023 a separate fire on two solar panels at the same stadium damaged the roof waterproof membrane, and flooding followed later heavy rain. Gibraltar's government said repairs had addressed that damage and that costs were covered by general insurance.", "contributing_factors": "Local media reported an electrical fault in which an arcing cable overheated. The fire service did not state a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop PV cable runs and joints should be inspected for damage that can lead to arcing and overheating. (2) Clear access and isolation information for roof-mounted arrays helps crews contain a small electrical fire. (3) A later fire at the same array is a reason to review earlier repairs and the condition of cabling, not only the panels that were replaced.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/13/fire-hits-pv-equipped-sport-complex-in-gibraltar/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:10:19.108154+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1461", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1461/", "title": "Residential solar panel fire extinguished in Champaign", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters responded to a report of smoke on the roof of a house in the 1300 block of West Ridge Lane in Champaign. The fire was on a solar energy system panel. Crews turned the panel off and extinguished the fire. No smoke entered the home and there was no internal damage. No injuries were reported. The cause was accidental.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Training for solar panel incidents enables rapid response. (2) Proper inspection and correct labelling of systems supports safe isolation by responders. (3) Early detection of roof-level smoke allows containment before fire spreads indoors.", "source_url": "https://www.wcia.com/news/champaign-county/crews-quickly-extinguish-residential-solar-panel-fire-in-champaign/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:10:55.135168+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1462", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1462/", "title": "Solar panel reported to have sparked a fire near a major centre in Noosa", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Adelaide Now reported on 1 November 2025 that a solar panel sparked a fire near a major centre in Noosa. The story address indicates that fire crews were called to a solar panel fire near the Noosa civic centre. The article text was not available, so the size of the fire, whether a building was damaged, any injuries and the cause are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. Only a headline and a short feed summary were available.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A headline that a solar panel sparked a fire is enough to log the event, but not enough to state a cause. (2) Operators of solar equipment near public buildings should be ready for a fire service call-out and able to isolate the array. (3) Until a full report is available, do not assume injuries, spread or a particular failure mode.", "source_url": "https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/regional/fire-crews-called-solar-panel-fire-near-noosa-civic-centre/news-story/d4602ae4d0edb607629ff8e54d329c43", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:11:16.097483+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1463", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1463/", "title": "Serious fire at St Martins School near Oswestry believed linked to solar panels", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A serious fire broke out at St Martins School near Oswestry at about 5.24pm on Sunday 21 September 2025. Flames and smoke were seen coming from the school hall area. Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service crews from Oswestry were first on scene. The response was increased to eight pumps and an aerial ladder platform, with appliances from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service. Firefighters in breathing apparatus used hose reel jets, thermal imaging cameras and positive pressure ventilation fans, working inside the building and on rooftops to stop the fire spreading to adjoining buildings. The school, operated by the 3-18 Education Trust, was closed to all pupils on Monday 22 September. In a message to parents and a public notice, the school said the fire was believed to be linked to the building's solar panels. Images taken the next day showed damage to the school building, including several solar panels on the roof. Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service said it would conduct a full investigation to establish the cause. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The school said the fire was believed to be linked to the building's solar panels. The cause had not been established in the published report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Building operators should be able to tell fire crews where rooftop solar equipment is and how it can be isolated, even when the cause is not yet known. (2) A fire in a school hall can escalate quickly. Early extra resources and roof access matter where solar arrays are fitted. (3) A suspected link to solar panels should be kept separate from a confirmed cause until the fire service investigation reports.", "source_url": "https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/oswestry/st-martins/village-school-near-oswestry-closed-today-after-serious-fire-believed-to-be-linked-to-solar-panels-5667517", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:11:41.306531+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1465", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1465/", "title": "Brush fire at FPL solar farm in McDavid", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Escambia County Fire Rescue responded to a brush and grass fire on a Saturday afternoon at Florida Power and Light's First City Solar Energy Center on Cox Road in McDavid. The fire reportedly reached about 20 acres before it was extinguished. The cause was not reported, and there was no report of damage to the solar panels or other equipment.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A vegetation fire on a solar farm can cover a large area even when damage to panels or other equipment is not reported. (2) Site access and vegetation control should let fire crews reach the array without delay. (3) After a fire, operators should record whether panels, cabling or other equipment were affected, because early reports often leave this unknown.", "source_url": "http://www.northescambia.com/2025/09/20-acre-brush-fire-reported-at-fpl-solar-farm-in-mcdavid", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:12:04.39496+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1466", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1466/", "title": "Solar panel fire disrupts first day at Lunenburg school", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on the roof solar panels at Lunenburg Middle-High School in Lunenburg shortly after 11 a.m. on the first day back after summer break. The school was evacuated and students were dismissed early. Firefighters extinguished the fire in 15 to 20 minutes using dry chemical extinguishers. No injuries were reported. At least five panels were damaged and there was minor damage to the roof of the weight room. The incident is under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was probably caused by an electrical malfunction from wear and tear and a short circuit.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar panel fires require dry chemical extinguishers because water cannot be used. (2) Solar panels continue to generate electricity when exposed to sunlight even after the building feed is isolated. (3) Regular inspection and maintenance of roof-mounted solar arrays can help identify wear that leads to electrical faults.", "source_url": "https://www.wcvb.com/article/solar-panel-fire-lunenburg-high/65900561", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:12:34.235635+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1467", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1467/", "title": "Solar panel fire extinguished quickly at Echuca property", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A small fire broke out on the roof of a property in Riverview Crt, Echuca, and was reported as a solar panel fire. The homeowner put the blaze out before emergency crews arrived. Echuca West Fire Brigade attended and remained as a precaution. Echuca CFA crews also responded but were not needed. Damage, the cause and any injuries have not been reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Prompt action by those on site can limit fire spread on rooftop solar installations. (2) Fire services should still attend as a precaution even when the fire appears extinguished. (3) A report that the flames are out does not remove the need for a precautionary check of the roof and solar equipment.", "source_url": "https://www.sheppnews.com.au/news/solar-panel-sparks-roof-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:15:29.41163+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1468", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1468/", "title": "Solar panels involved in fire that destroyed a Sidmouth bungalow", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 21 September 2026, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service was called at 2.26pm to a bungalow in Yardlands, Sidmouth, whose roof was fully involved in fire. The service later said crews confirmed the fire started within the solar panels on the roof and that the cause was deemed accidental. Six fire crews attended. Two people had left the property before crews arrived. Crews protected an adjacent bungalow because of a limited water supply. The fire was extinguished around 8.45pm. The bungalow was reported as 100 per cent damaged. Devon and Cornwall Police assisted with road closures and crowd control. Locals had been urged to keep doors and windows closed because of smoke. It was not thought that anyone was injured.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service said the fire started within the solar panels and was accidental. No further cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire that starts in rooftop solar equipment can involve the whole roof and destroy a dwelling before crews arrive. (2) Limited water supply can force crews to prioritise protecting neighbouring buildings. (3) Smoke from a roof fire can affect the surrounding area even after occupants have left.", "source_url": "https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/sidmouth-bungalow-destroyed-after-solar-11165799", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:15:49.235336+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1469", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1469/", "title": "Solar panel fire at industrial building in south Louisville", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A solar panel on the roof of a large industrial building in south Louisville caught fire on a Wednesday afternoon in September 2026. The fire was reported just before 3 p.m. in the 8700 block of Minor Lane, near Okolona. The building is Grainger Industrial Supply and is nearly 1.5 million square feet. Video showed one of 12 chunks of the solar panels scorched. Firefighters brought the fire under control after about two hours. No employee injuries were reported. Four firefighters went down due to heat exhaustion.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the panel fire was not reported. Responders described strong sun on the roof and heavy protective gear, including a respirator, as making the work harder. Four firefighters went down due to heat exhaustion.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in a rooftop solar array on a very large building can keep crews on an exposed roof for a long time. (2) Heat-stress planning matters when firefighters must work in sun, heavy gear and respirators. (3) The cause was not reported, so operators should still be ready to isolate rooftop arrays and give fire services clear access and site information.", "source_url": "https://www.wlky.com/article/grainger-south-louisville-catches-fire/73655376", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:16:01.383861+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1471", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1471/", "title": "Rooftop solar panels catch fire at Jamestown home", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters from the Jamestown Volunteer Fire Department responded to a fire in rooftop solar panels at a home in Jamestown, Rhode Island. The fire remained confined to the solar equipment and did not spread to the roof. No injuries were reported. The incident was linked to an electrical fire involving the rooftop system.", "contributing_factors": "The incident was linked to an electrical fire involving the rooftop system.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar systems require the same design, installation and maintenance standards as other household electrical equipment. (2) Fire services need up-to-date information on solar arrays installed on properties. (3) Homeowners should use licensed installers, ensure fire code compliance and schedule post-installation inspections.", "source_url": "https://www.thecooldown.com/green-home/rooftop-solar-panels-fire-jamestown-rhode-island/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:16:55.977713+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1472", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1472/", "title": "Warehouse operator takes US rooftop solar offline after six fires or arc-flash events", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Between April 2020 and June 2021, a warehouse operator had six fires or arc-flash events at rooftop solar on 47 North American sites. The first, on 14 April 2020, was a three-alarm fire at a fulfilment centre in Fresno that damaged 220 modules. About fourteen months later a two-alarm fire at Perryville, Maryland, drew in around sixty firefighters. By June 2021 every US rooftop array had been taken offline. An outside inspection then reported one critical finding and 259 major findings. That audit covered rooftops in the United States, Asia Pacific and Europe, the Middle East and Africa, not only the 47 North American sites.", "contributing_factors": "The inspection reported mismatched connectors, connectors installed incorrectly, poor wire management and water inside inverters. The source says none of these was a panel defect. It does not identify the operator.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Mating connectors should be of the same type and brand, or listed and identified for intermatability, before they are joined. (2) Large rooftop arrays contain many handmade joints that can loosen with heat, weather and poor wire management, so connectors, leads and inverters need periodic inspection. (3) Water inside inverters and leads left free to rub on racking should be treated as fire risks, not only as losses of generation.", "source_url": "https://www.ecoportal.net/en/warehouse-rooftop-solar-fires-connector-findings/34866/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:17:16.154248+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1473", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1473/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on Walmart roof in Manchester", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in solar panels on the roof of the Walmart store at 420 Buckland Hills Drive in Manchester. The Manchester Fire Department attended and found several banks of panels actively burning. A store employee had already used several fire extinguishers and reduced much of the fire before crews arrived. Firefighters then extinguished the remaining fire, isolated the solar system and checked the roof and store for any spread. The roof sustained minor damage. The store closed for about an hour while responders were on site.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) On-site staff can reduce a rooftop solar fire with extinguishers before crews arrive. (2) Fire crews must isolate the solar system to limit risk to the building and responders. (3) Full checks of the roof and store after a solar fire confirm no hidden spread.", "source_url": "https://patch.com/connecticut/manchester/alert-walmart-staffer-gets-head-start-solar-panel-fire-manchester", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:17:43.790445+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1474", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1474/", "title": "Rooftop solar panel fire at Beaverton townhome", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Smoke and flames were reported from the roof of a three-storey townhouse in the 12400 block of Southwest Cady Lane in Beaverton. A bystander alerted the homeowner, who shut off the solar panel power. Firefighters controlled the fire in under an hour, using a rope safety manoeuvre and covering the solar panels with plastic, after limited access to the side of the roof where the panel was located. The fire did not spread, and no injuries or displacement were reported. The cause remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Early isolation of rooftop solar power, as done here after a bystander raised the alarm, should be part of the first response. (2) Limited access to panels on a multi-storey roof can slow suppression, so crews need a plan for that layout. (3) Covering the panels was one tactic used to finish the fire; the cause was still under investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.koin.com/local/washington-county/beaverton-rooftop-solar-panel-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:18:28.615495+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1475", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1475/", "title": "Solar panel fire displaces residents at Amarillo apartment complex", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire involving rooftop solar panels occurred at a two-story apartment complex at 900 S.E. 10th Ave. in Amarillo. Firefighters found flames and smoke on the roof and determined the fire involved the solar panel system. Residents were evacuated and the fire was contained to the solar panels and roof covering without spreading into living spaces. The cause was ruled accidental but could not be determined.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar panel fires can be isolated if the system design prevents spread into living spaces, so operators should verify compartmentation between panels and building structure. (2) Solar panel fires on apartment roofs require evacuation plans that clear residents quickly while firefighters assess the system.", "source_url": "https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/solar-panel-fire-displaces-10-residents-at-amarillo-apartment-complex", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:18:40.157083+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1476", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1476/", "title": "House fire reported to have started on solar panels in Carnoustie", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Courier headline reports that fire crews battled a house blaze in Carnoustie that started on solar panels. The article text was not available, so the response, damage, injuries and outcome are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported fire that starts on solar panels as involving live electrical equipment until isolation is confirmed. (2) Make isolation points easy for crews to find at a home with rooftop solar. (3) Do not treat a headline as a cause finding; wait for a fuller account before drawing wider conclusions.", "source_url": "https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/5535373/firefighters-battle-carnoustie-house-blaze/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:18:43.905093+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1477", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1477/", "title": "Fire destroys solar installations at Sokoto university medical library", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire in the early hours of Saturday destroyed a section of the Hamidu Ahmed Medical Library at the Teaching Hospital Complex of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. Adjoining offices and the library's solar power installations were completely destroyed. The cause had not been officially determined. Some sources attributed the incident to a power surge, but that has not been confirmed. The fire was reported to have started around 4:00 a.m. and to have burned for more than an hour before the university firefighting team and the Sokoto State Fire Service brought it under control. The main collections were reported not to have been affected. The library was closed to the public for one week for safety inspections and assessments.", "contributing_factors": "The cause had not been officially determined. Some sources attributed the incident to a power surge, but that has not been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where a fire destroys on-site solar installations, treat the cause as unconfirmed until a formal investigation reports. (2) Coordination between on-site teams and the local fire service can limit spread beyond the affected area. (3) A short closure for inspection after a fire supports a safer reopening.", "source_url": "https://dailytrust.com/fire-guts-offices-solar-panels-at-udus-medical-library/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:19:01.312871+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1479", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1479/", "title": "Planned detonation removes damaged blade at Cross Winds wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A damaged wind turbine blade at the Cross Winds Energy Park near Akron in Tuscola County, Michigan, was removed by planned detonation on a Sunday evening. The site is operated by Consumers Energy. The blade had been damaged several months earlier and had been making noise when windy. Residents in the rural area had been notified in advance via social media that the detonation would take place between noon and 6 p.m., although the blast occurred later. The loud report was heard across the surrounding area.", "contributing_factors": "The blade is believed to have been damaged by a lightning strike several months earlier.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lightning damaged blade left in place for months produced noise in wind, so operators should remove such blades without delay to avoid nuisance and further failure. (2) Controlled detonation of a blade at height needs timed notice to residents, as the blast occurred later than stated and was heard across the area.", "source_url": "https://www.abc12.com/news/local/planned-detonation-removes-damaged-wind-turbine-blade-near-akron/article_73e04ee3-2f5c-4984-8e77-120c3cdd3d58.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:20:17.353038+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1480", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1480/", "title": "Fire damages solar panels at Cuddalore power plant", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a private solar power plant near T Pudaiyur village in Veppur, Cuddalore district, on the evening of 8 June 2026. Solar panels were reported to have caught fire. Fire and Rescue Services personnel from Veppur attended but were initially unable to control the blaze. Crews from Virudhachalam and Tittakudi were then called. Thick smoke spread across the area. Firefighters extinguished the fire after more than five hours. Several solar panels, reported to be worth several lakh rupees, were damaged. Veppur police were investigating the cause, which had not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at an operating solar plant can last several hours and may need crews from more than one station. (2) Water may not bring a panel fire under control at first, so response plans should allow for a prolonged incident and mutual aid. (3) Where the cause is unknown, the site should be preserved for investigation before repair.", "source_url": "https://www.dtnext.in/news/tamilnadu/fire-damages-solar-panels-worth-lakhs-at-cuddalore-power-plant", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:20:20.667262+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1481", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1481/", "title": "Residential battery system prompts extra caution at Folsom house fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters from Folsom Fire Department, El Dorado Hills Fire Department and Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District responded to a structure fire on the 100 block of Loughridge Way in Folsom. Crews found heavy smoke inside the residence and traced the fire to a bedroom where flames had extended into a wall cavity. The fire was contained after opening wall sections and ventilating the attic. A residential energy storage system with an inverter and lithium batteries was present inside the home. Firefighters exercised added caution due to risks of explosion, toxic smoke and re-ignition. All occupants and pets were evacuated with no injuries reported. The cause remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The presence of lithium batteries required additional safety measures during suppression, including full decontamination of personnel. It was not reported whether the battery system was the ignition source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Residential battery systems require pre-incident planning for toxic smoke and re-ignition hazards. (2) Full decontamination protocols should be applied when crews enter spaces containing lithium batteries. (3) Early identification of energy storage equipment during size-up improves crew safety.", "source_url": "https://folsomtimes.com/lithium-battery-system-prompts-added-caution-at-folsom-house-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:20:22.203419+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1482", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1482/", "title": "Overloaded solar installation causes fire in Ogbomoso home", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Oyo State Fire Services Agency reported that a fire broke out at a private three-bedroom flat in the Aaje Ologo area of Ogbomoso. Personnel from the Ogbomoso Zonal Command responded to a call received at about 4:59 p.m. and extinguished the fire before it spread to adjoining buildings. No casualty was recorded. A preliminary investigation attributed the fire to an overloaded solar power installation on the roof.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service's preliminary investigation attributed the fire to an overloaded solar power installation mounted on the roof. No completed finding on the failed component, installation quality or maintenance history has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar power systems should be installed only by qualified and certified technicians. (2) Panels, inverters, batteries, cables and related accessories should meet approved safety standards and be correctly sized to avoid overloading. (3) Regular inspection and maintenance, cable protection, ventilation, and keeping combustible materials away from solar equipment reduce the risk of a similar fire.", "source_url": "https://guardian.ng/news/overloaded-solar-installation-triggers-fire-in-ogbomoso-home-oyo-fire-service/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:20:37.892145+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1483", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1483/", "title": "Arson damages solar construction site in Pattani", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "Thailand", "country_code": "th", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Unknown assailants entered a solar power plant construction site in Moo 4, Ban Tha Phong, Talo Kapo subdistrict, Yaring district, Pattani province early on 15 June 2026 and set fire to a storage area containing solar panels. The project is operated by Gunkul Solar Power Generation Co., Ltd. Substantial property damage was reported. No injuries or fatalities were reported. The 42nd Rangers Task Force and other agencies responded, established checkpoints and conducted an investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports a deliberate arson attack by an unknown number of assailants.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Secure storage areas for equipment at construction sites with physical barriers and surveillance. (2) Maintain rapid coordination with local security forces for incident response. (3) Establish clear reporting channels for suspicious activity to protect energy infrastructure projects.", "source_url": "https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2026/06/15/audacious-arson-attack-damages-pattani-solar-farm-authorities-launch-manhunt-for-suspects/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:21:52.543014+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1485", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1485/", "title": "Faulty solar panel wiring sparks house fire in Stoke-on-Trent", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in the loft of a house on Whitley Road in Ball Green, Stoke-on-Trent. The alarm was raised at 9.35pm on 23 July. Two fire appliances attended and found a small fire, which was extinguished with a hose reel jet. The cause was determined to be faulty solar panel wiring. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Faulty solar panel wiring was identified as the cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Faulty solar panel wiring can start a loft fire, so installers must check all connections during commissioning and maintenance. (2) A small solar wiring fire is quickly controlled by hose reel jets, so response plans should focus on early detection.", "source_url": "https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/stoke-on-trent-news/faulty-solar-panel-wiring-sparks-11083458", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:24:06.288612+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1486", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1486/", "title": "Fire under solar panels at Broadclyst brought under control", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters from several Devon stations attended a rapidly spreading fire under solar panels at Broadclyst on the morning of 24 August 2026. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service received multiple calls just before 11am reporting a blaze initially believed to cover about 300 metres by 500 metres. Ten fire engines attended after further resources were requested. Crews used four hose-reel jets, beaters, a drone and a water bowser to bring the fire under control. It affected two sectors of about 90 metres by 270 metres and 90 metres by 200 metres. The cause is not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire under solar panels can spread quickly over a large area and may need many appliances. (2) Early requests for more resources, and the use of hose reels, beaters, a drone and a water bowser, were part of bringing this fire under control.", "source_url": "https://www.middevonadvertiser.co.uk/news/bovey-tracey-fire-station-940473", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:24:10.17761+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1488", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1488/", "title": "Long Tap reported to regain power nearly two years after a solar facility fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published headline reports that Long Tap in Telang Usan regained power nearly two years after a solar facility fire. The article text was not available, so it is not known whether the fire caused the outage, what was damaged, or whether anyone was hurt.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A solar facility fire can be followed by a long loss of supply. (2) Do not treat a headline as proof of cause, damage or injury. (3) Recheck the full report before treating the outage length as confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.theborneopost.com/2026/08/12/long-tap-in-telang-usan-regains-power-nearly-two-years-after-solar-facility-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:24:23.433466+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1490", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1490/", "title": "Firefighter shocked by solar panels during house fire in Durham, North Carolina", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters responded to a house fire in Durham, North Carolina. Dry and windy conditions complicated efforts to extinguish the blaze. The property featured a lightweight roof fitted with solar panels and had limited upstairs access. One firefighter sustained hand and arm burns. Another firefighter received an electric shock from the solar panel system. The cause of the fire remains under investigation and it is not known whether the solar panels contributed to ignition.", "contributing_factors": "Lightweight roof construction with solar panels mounted on top, limited access to upper floors, and dry windy weather.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar arrays must be isolated and verified de-energised before contact, as one firefighter received an electric shock from the solar panel system. (2) Lightweight roofs with solar panels need early structural checks, as limited upstairs access and roof construction complicated the response. (3) Pre-incident plans for properties with solar panels should note dry windy conditions that can spread fire and hinder access.", "source_url": "https://www.firefighterclosecalls.com/firefighter-shocked-by-pv-solar-panels-at-house-fire-north-carolina/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:25:15.632569+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1491", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1491/", "title": "Vegetation fire injures two at a solar plant near Villamediana", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Spain", "country_code": "es", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A vegetation fire broke out within a photovoltaic plant about 2 km south of Villamediana, in Spain's Palencia province, and was reported at 12:49 p.m. local time. The Civil Guard, the Palencia Provincial Council Fire Department, Castilla y León environmental emergency services and emergency medical personnel responded. Two people required medical attention: one was treated for smoke inhalation and another fainted. Local authorities said the fire was confined to vegetation inside the plant perimeter. The cause, the identity of the plant and the extent of any damage to the solar facility have not been disclosed. The report said there was no indication that electrical infrastructure was damaged. Responders brought the fire under control and treated those affected.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep vegetation inside solar plant perimeters managed so a ground fire is less likely to spread. (2) Agree in advance how fire, environmental and medical services will be called and coordinated. (3) Be ready to identify the site quickly so responders and later reports are not left guessing which plant is involved.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/07/14/two-injured-in-fire-at-photovoltaic-plant-in-spain/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:25:18.480626+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1492", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1492/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on Stafford County home roof", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire involving solar panels broke out on the roof of a two-storey, single-family home on Beech Tree Court near Courthouse Road in Stafford County. Fire crews were dispatched just before 2 p.m. and found smoke and flames coming from the panels. The fire was contained to the solar panels and did not spread into the home. Firefighters extinguished the flames and searched the residence. No injuries were reported. Officials credited the quick response with preventing the fire from extending further into the house. The Stafford County Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported. The fire marshal's office is investigating.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A rooftop solar fire can remain limited to the array if it is found early and does not enter the roof. (2) Crews should treat roof-mounted panels as live electrical equipment and still search the dwelling when flames appear confined to the array. (3) Leave the cause to the fire investigation and preserve the installation for inspection.", "source_url": "https://www.fox5dc.com/news/solar-panels-catch-fire-stafford-county-home-roof", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:25:19.958882+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1493", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1493/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on Bedford warehouse roof", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Crews from Bedford, Kempston and Leighton Buzzard attended a fire affecting solar panels on the roof of a warehouse in Caxton Court, Caxton Road, Bedford. The call was at 1.18pm on the afternoon of Monday 25 May 2026. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the blaze, reported to measure about 50 by 30 metres, using an extended hose reel and a thermal imaging camera. An aerial platform and a water carrier were also used. Gas and electricity supplies were isolated, as were the solar panels, under the guidance of engineers. The cause was recorded as accidental.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service recorded the cause as accidental. No further contributing factors were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolate gas, electricity and the solar array under engineer guidance before crews work on a rooftop solar fire. (2) Thermal imaging, an aerial platform and an extended hose can help crews reach and check a large roof fire. (3) Record an accidental finding and share it so operators can review inspection of warehouse rooftop arrays.", "source_url": "https://www.bedfordtoday.co.uk/news/emergency-incident/solar-panels-catch-fire-on-bedford-warehouse-roof-8641099", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:25:24.446176+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1494", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1494/", "title": "Roof-mounted solar panels linked to house fire in southwest Columbia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews responded on Saturday to a structure fire at a house in the 4900 block of Craydon Drive in southwest Columbia. A fire department press release said the fire was accidental, with the cause determined to be electrical and related to roof-mounted solar panels. Crews reported a working fire on the roof, and the loss was described as predominantly confined to the attic. No injuries were reported. The home was said to be occupied by a family of four. A second alarm was called because of fire progression in the attic. Heat was also reported to have affected the response, with extra crews used to rotate firefighters.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service reported an electrical cause related to roof-mounted solar panels. It was also reported that alarms did not activate and that two occupants inside did not notice the fire. High ambient temperatures were reported to have affected firefighting operations.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An electrical fault associated with roof-mounted solar panels can involve the roof and attic, where access is difficult. (2) Hot weather can increase the resources needed to rotate crews during a structure fire. (3) Occupants may not notice a roof fire early if alarms do not sound.", "source_url": "https://abc17news.com/news/top-stories/2026/07/18/no-injuries-reported-in-southwest-columbia-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:25:27.890356+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1495", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1495/", "title": "Solar panel fire forces Amazon warehouse evacuation in West Jefferson", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in solar panels on the roof of the Amazon Fulfillment Center at 1550 W. Main St. in West Jefferson, west of Columbus, on 8 April 2026. Firefighters from several departments, led by the Jefferson Township Fire Department, responded at about 12:10 p.m. The fire chief said investigators believe 75 to 100 solar panels caught fire, and that the investigation was still at an early stage. He described limited burning through the roof membrane and insulation, with some material falling onto about two racks of product, and said water damage was likely greater than fire or smoke damage. The facility was evacuated, and Amazon said employees were sent home for the rest of the day. No injuries were reported, and no damage estimate was available.", "contributing_factors": "Investigators believe the fire involved the rooftop solar panels. The precise ignition source was not reported, and the investigation was described as still at an early stage.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A rooftop solar fire can burn through a roof membrane and insulation and drop debris onto stock below even when the main fire stays on the roof. (2) Water used on a roof fire can cause more internal damage than the fire itself, so affected areas should be isolated early. (3) Evacuation can keep people clear while the cause and the extent of damage are still being established.", "source_url": "https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/local/2026/04/08/amazon-warehouse-west-jefferson-ohio-fire/89518809007/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:25:52.627652+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1496", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1496/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on Pikesville house roof", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Solar panels on a house roof in the 1300 block of Saddleback Road, Pikesville, caught fire on the afternoon of 27 February. Pikesville Volunteer Fire Company and Baltimore County Fire Department responded shortly before 1:30 p.m. Light smoke was visible on arrival. Firefighters laid a supply hose line and extinguished the fire in the panels. The blaze did not spread into the house. The cause remains unknown.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Fire services should prepare specific procedures for isolating and suppressing fires in rooftop solar arrays. (2) Rapid response can limit damage to the array and prevent fire spread to the building structure.", "source_url": "https://foxbaltimore.com/news/local/solar-panels-catch-fire-atop-pikesville-house-roof", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:26:20.123108+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1497", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1497/", "title": "Solar fire at Dandenong South warehouse", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire Rescue Victoria and CFA crews responded to a solar box fire at a food distribution warehouse on Berends Drive, Dandenong South, on 13 February 2026. Firefighters found a small fire involving an inverter and cabling for the solar system. The incident was declared under control at 2.42pm. Crews remained on scene for several hours to isolate the solar panels and make sure the scene was safe. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) An inverter and its cabling can be the seat of a small fire in a warehouse solar system. (2) Bringing the fire under control does not end the job: isolating the array can take several further hours. (3) Fire services should plan how to make the DC side safe before leaving the scene.", "source_url": "https://berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au/news/2026-02-15/solar-fire-at-dandenong-south-warehouse/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:26:35.574296+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1498", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1498/", "title": "Battery storage suspected in a basement fire in Worms, Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Saturday, a fire broke out in the basement of a house in the Pfeddersheim district of Worms, Germany. A lithium-ion battery storage unit used to store power from a rooftop photovoltaic system was in the basement where the fire started. A 50-person crew faced high temperatures and heavy smoke and flooded the basement with foam to reach the fire. The battery unit kept reigniting. After the fire was out, the fire service reported that the affected battery pack appeared to have burst, which let water in and cooled it. Residents were told to keep doors and windows shut because of smoke. A short circuit in the house led emergency services to cut power to the street as a precaution. Nobody was injured. The house was reported uninhabitable because toxic substances had spread to the top floor, and the residents were given temporary housing. The cause remains under police investigation.", "contributing_factors": "A city spokesperson said it was possible a battery block ignited, perhaps from an external heat source. Another electrical appliance stored in the basement could also have caused the fire. The manufacturer has not been identified publicly, and the exact cause is still under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a home battery in the room where a fire starts as a possible source until the investigation is finished, and do not treat suspicion as a confirmed cause. (2) Plan for repeated reignition and difficult basement access when a lithium-ion storage unit is involved. (3) Smoke and contamination from a basement fire can make a whole house uninhabitable and force temporary rehousing even when nobody is injured.", "source_url": "https://www.ess-news.com/2025/08/11/battery-storage-suspected-in-a-fire-in-german-city-of-worms/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:26:51.379466+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1499", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1499/", "title": "Solar panels linked to fires at council buildings in Northumberland", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Two fires have been caused by solar panels at council buildings over the last 13 months. Shanklea Primary School in Cramlington caught fire on 5 July. Northumberland County Council had been aware of potential safety issues with the panels since June 2024, when a similar fire broke out at Northburn Community Centre. Similar panels fitted on 141 of its buildings were switched off as a precaution following the school fire. The fire service began a plan to inspect all the council's solar panels installed prior to 2019. The council has isolated solar panels across all similar properties where installations predate 2019 to allow time to consider the findings of the fire investigation report.", "contributing_factors": "Potential safety issues with solar panels installed prior to 2019 were known following the earlier fire but no immediate action to isolate panels was taken.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Review and act on inspection findings from solar panel incidents without delay. (2) Maintain a programme of proactive inspections for installations predating current standards. (3) Isolate similar systems across a portfolio when a common fault is suspected.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c2k1k2xg7wko", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:26:58.517355+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1500", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1500/", "title": "Rooftop solar panels catch fire on a home in Franklin County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Solar panels on the roof of a home on St. Annes Drive in Franklin County caught fire just before noon on a Saturday. Fire crews were called after people at a nearby golf course reported the fire. The fire spread to part of the roof but did not extend into the home. The occupants left safely. No injuries were reported, and the cause is not known. Crews cleared the scene around 1:15 p.m.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a rooftop solar fire as a roof fire until crews confirm it has not entered the roof. (2) Where the cause is not known, keep the array and electrical equipment available for investigation before repair. (3) People nearby may be the first to see smoke on a roof, so a clear way to report it matters.", "source_url": "https://www.wgal.com/article/crews-on-scene-of-solar-panel-fire-in-franklin-county/65581362", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:27:03.539487+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1501", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1501/", "title": "Fire damages solar panels and roof at Weirton industrial park", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Crews responded to a fire at Half Moon Industrial Park in Weirton on Sunday morning after a call just before 10:30 a.m. Firefighters found that a series of solar panels at the Fanti USA building had caught fire. The fire damaged part of the roof and the solar structures. The fire was extinguished in about 45 minutes. No one was inside the building at the time. Assistance was provided by the Steubenville Fire Department, Weirton Police Department, State Patrol and Follansbee Fire Department.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Roof-mounted solar panels can ignite and spread to the roof structure, so operators should fit rapid isolation switches and train local crews on solar-specific shutdowns. (2) A roof fire involving solar arrays needs coordinated response from several agencies because power isolation and safe access take time.", "source_url": "https://wtov9.com/news/local/fire-at-weirton-industrial-park-damages-solar-panels-roof", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:27:18.117618+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1502", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1502/", "title": "Storm Eowyn damages solar panels at Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Storm Eowyn damaged solar panels at Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre in County Durham. The centre closed briefly for a damage assessment and reopened on 28 January 2025. The main doors stayed shut while the storm damage was addressed, and visitors were directed to the Greenwell Road entrance. A short section of Greenwell Road was closed to vehicles and pedestrians for public safety. The car park remained open. The extent of the panel damage was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The council attributed the damage to Storm Eowyn. The same report said winds of up to 96 mph battered the wider region. No site wind speed or failure mechanism was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Review mounting and securing methods for rooftop solar arrays in areas prone to high winds. (2) Inspect arrays promptly after severe weather and keep the public clear until the damage is understood. (3) Plan temporary access and road controls where damaged panels may pose a risk to people nearby.", "source_url": "https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/county-durham-road-partially-closed-30892939", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:27:46.622806+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1503", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1503/", "title": "Fire at Tallapiedra substation causes blackout in Havana", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "Cuba", "country_code": "cu", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at the Tallapiedra electrical substation on Salud Street in Havana cut power to several districts, including Old Havana, Centro Habana, Cerro, 10 de Octubre and Plaza. The substation is underground. The Electric Company of Havana said the fault was caused by the fire and that it was working to restore supply. The same report said that, at that point, 30.5 per cent of Havana demand was being met, with 57 circuits connected for 117.53 MW. The cause of the fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in an underground substation can interrupt supply across several districts at once, so operators need a tested plan to isolate the fault and restore neighbouring circuits. (2) Customer notices should name the affected districts and the substation, and say that restoration is under way. (3) Circuit counts and demand met during restoration should be recorded so the scale of the outage is clear.", "source_url": "https://en.cibercuba.com/noticias/2025-04-13-u1-e199894-s27061-nid300827-gran-parte-habana-apagon-incendio-subestacion-talla", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:27:48.158613+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1504", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1504/", "title": "Fire destroys turbine at Clements Gap wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine was destroyed by fire at the Clements Gap wind farm in South Australia. Smoke was spotted by a maintenance crew at 8:30am and emergency services were alerted. Five fire crews attended and the fire took some time to burn out. Spot fires from falling debris were also extinguished. The fire underneath the turbine burnt about 30 hectares of grassland. The cause remains unknown. No injuries occurred. The site was secured and power to the affected turbine was isolated. Investigations are underway.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rapid alerting of emergency services can limit spread of turbine fires. (2) Fire crews should prepare for spot fires from falling debris during turbine incidents. (3) Post-incident site security and power isolation support safe investigation.", "source_url": "https://reneweconomy.com.au/fire-destroys-wind-turbine-at-south-australia-wind-farm/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:27:59.57177+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1505", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1505/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on industrial roof in Araquari", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "Brazil", "country_code": "br", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A solar energy system caught fire on the roof of an industrial building on the BR-101 highway in Araquari, Santa Catarina, on 16 January 2024. The fire affected approximately 30 square metres of roof. The fire service used 15 litres of water, a truck and three hose lines to extinguish the flames from a distance. After initial containment the service waited for a platform to reach the photovoltaic panels and prevent reignition. The cause remains under investigation by local authorities.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Roof mounted photovoltaic panels can reignite after initial containment, so operators must plan for elevated platform access before declaring the fire out. (2) Fires in roof mounted solar systems may need remote suppression from the ground, so response plans should include suitable hose lines and exclusion zones.", "source_url": "https://canalsolar.com.br/en/Solar-panels-catch-fire-in-industry-in-the-interior-of-Santa-Catarina/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:28:02.869006+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1506", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1506/", "title": "Investigators reported to blame a solar panel for a building fire in northwest Washington DC", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A WUSA9 headline dated 22 February 2024 said investigators were blaming a solar panel for a building fire in northwest Washington DC. The web address refers to a Georgetown building fire whose cause had been determined. The article text was not available, so the failure mode, the damage and whether anyone was hurt were not reported in the material used for this entry.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The headline attributes the fire to a solar panel but does not describe how the panel is said to have been involved.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A headline that blames a solar panel is not a full investigation record, and the finding should be checked against the published report before it is treated as established. (2) Building owners should keep array, inverter and isolation details ready for the fire service after a rooftop fire. (3) Until the report is available, operators should not infer a failure mode or the extent of damage.", "source_url": "https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/cause-of-georgetown-building-fire-determined/65-10ba9315-5f1c-46c4-a50b-c2fb45c6df0f", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:28:05.698647+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1507", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1507/", "title": "Power line fire causes outage near Mic Mac Mall in Dartmouth", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-01", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Around 2,600 Nova Scotia Power customers near Mic Mac Mall in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, lost power after a power line caught fire on a Sunday morning in January 2025. Fire crews put out a small fire from a downed line on the front lawn of a house on Sea King Drive. Nova Scotia Power crews isolated the supply. Power was restored around 2 p.m., ahead of the utility's 3 p.m. estimate. Mic Mac Mall closed because of the outage and said it would reopen at 2:30 p.m.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the downed line and fire was not reported. The utility said the repair was made more difficult by the make-up of the power pole.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Unusual pole construction should be identified early so isolation and repair plans can be adjusted. (2) Restoration estimates should be updated as site conditions become clearer. (3) Operators of nearby premises should have a plan for short distribution outages.", "source_url": "https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/electricity-restored-in-dartmouth-after-power-line-catches-fire-1.7441972", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:28:18.408993+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1508", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1508/", "title": "Fire damages tower at Ivanpah solar plant", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "other", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred at one of the three towers at the Ivanpah concentrated solar power plant in the Mojave desert. Metal pipes in the tower were scorched and melted. The fire service suggested misaligned mirrors may have concentrated sunlight on the wrong part of the tower. The operator said the cause was still too early to determine, and that damage was being assessed and a repair plan developed.", "contributing_factors": "Misaligned mirrors were suggested by the fire service as a possible cause, which the operator had not confirmed. The plant uses a very large number of computer-controlled moving mirrors to concentrate sunlight, which the reporting describes as harder to maintain than static panels.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where mirrors can be misaligned, operators should be able to check alignment before concentrated sunlight can fall on the wrong part of a tower. (2) Maintenance for large fields of moving mirrors needs to account for the number of individual components. (3) Operators of concentrating solar plants should keep a plan for assessing tower damage and arranging repair after a fire.", "source_url": "https://www.wired.com/2016/05/huge-solar-plant-caught-fire-thats-least-problems/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:28:30.817704+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1509", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1509/", "title": "Fire damages solar panels at Adani plant in Kamuthi", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": "2016-02", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Adani Group solar power plant in Kamuthi, damaging four solar panels, police said. The plant is run by Adani Green Energy (Tamilnadu). The cause, the time of the fire, and whether anyone was hurt were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire limited to a few panels can still interrupt generation, so the affected strings should be isolated and inspected before the array is returned to service. (2) Until an investigation reports a cause, similar sites should treat connectors, cabling and nearby vegetation as open lines of enquiry rather than assume a single failure. (3) Early reports should record how many panels were damaged and whether anyone was hurt, so later reviews are not left with a headline only.", "source_url": "https://m.economictimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/fire-at-adani-group-solar-power-plant-in-kamuthi/articleshow/50966630.cms", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:28:45.539354+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1510", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1510/", "title": "Birds ignite mid-air at Nevada solar plant during tests", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Around 130 birds caught fire mid-air while entering an area of concentrated solar energy at the 110-megawatt solar project near Tonopah, Nevada. The birds, described as streamers due to smoke trails, were observed during tests that began on 14 January. Biologists noted the first incidents within an hour and a half of one test. The project uses thousands of mirrors to focus sunlight onto a central tower. Owners stated that mitigation measures were implemented after the incidents, reducing further fatalities in subsequent tests.", "contributing_factors": "Birds may have been attracted by the glow of the tower. Tests involved focusing a large number of mirrors at a point above the tower, creating intense solar flux.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Adjust testing procedures and mirror aiming to minimise avian exposure to concentrated solar flux. (2) Implement mitigation measures promptly once wildlife impacts are identified. (3) Share safety methods with similar facilities to protect wildlife during commissioning.", "source_url": "https://www.dailymail.com/sciencetech/article-2965070/Solar-farm-sets-130-birds-FIRE-Extreme-glow-power-plant-ignites-creatures-mid-air-tests.html", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:29:07.898639+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1511", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1511/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on roof of Mississauga home", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": "2016-03", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Solar panels on the roof of a home on Creditview Road in Mississauga caught fire on the afternoon of 9 March 2016, according to Mississauga fire officials. The fire broke out around 1:45 p.m. and was under control by about 2:30 p.m. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A rooftop solar fire can spread into the roof and may be limited if the fire service attends quickly. (2) An early report may not establish why panels caught fire, so the first public account should not be treated as a full cause.", "source_url": "https://www.mississauga.com/news/solar-panels-catch-fire-on-roof-of-mississauga-home/article_2d8200e3-6674-55b1-9aa5-551bc49d7545.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:29:14.035448+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1512", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1512/", "title": "Solar panels involved in fire at school in Carshalton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews were called to a school in Carshalton after its roof caught fire by its solar panels. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters attended the building on Camden Road on 30 March 2024. Four solar panels on the flat roof were destroyed and part of the roof was damaged. The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by an electrical fault in a cable connected to the solar panels. Firefighters used a turntable ladder to apply PV Stop to the panels. The cause has not been independently confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "The fire is believed to have started from an electrical fault in a cable connected to the solar panels. The fire service also noted the difficulty of isolating current from damaged panels.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Incidents involving solar panels may need specialist equipment such as PV Stop to block sunlight and de-energise panels before crews approach. (2) Water jets can conduct electricity from solar panels, so isolation procedures must be followed. (3) Fire services should train for the specific risks of photovoltaic systems on roofs to limit spread and reduce shock hazards.", "source_url": "https://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/news/24226429.camden-road-carshalton-school-fire-caused-solar-panels/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T10:34:10.888018+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1513", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1513/", "title": "Fire damages solar array on a warehouse roof in Boyle Heights", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 14 August 2024, a fire damaged part of a large solar panel array on the roof of a commercial building in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles. The Los Angeles Fire Department was sent to the 1400 block of South Los Palos Street at about 9:10 a.m., contained the fire to a portion of the array, and extinguished it in 48 minutes. No one was hurt. At the time the building was described as appearing to be a cold storage facility; later reporting identified it as a Lineage cold storage warehouse with a rooftop array operated by Altus Power. The cause was under investigation. A later, separate fire at the same site is not part of this entry.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the August 2024 fire was not reported. Later accounts of that response say the size of the building and a split-level roof made aerial ladder pipes ineffective, so firefighters worked from the roof with extension ladders and hand lines. Lawsuit claims about connector failures and re-energising the array relate to a subsequent fire and are not established facts about this incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Large split-level roofs can limit aerial streams, so fire plans for rooftop solar should cover safe roof access and hand-line tactics. (2) After a rooftop solar fire, keep the array isolated until damage to panels, wiring and the roof has been checked. (3) The building operator and the array operator should share what is known about the fire before any later work on the array.", "source_url": "https://www.theeastsiderla.com/neighborhoods/boyle_heights/fire-damages-large-solar-array-in-boyle-heights/article_18571a78-5a62-11ef-8133-9306dc8827ee.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T11:05:09.931887+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1514", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1514/", "title": "Garage fire destroys solar panels in Southgate, with a battery storage fault suspected", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 18 April 2024, four fire engines and around 25 firefighters attended a fire at a range of garages on Berkshire Gardens in Southgate, London. Several roof-mounted solar panels and one garage were completely destroyed, and a neighbouring garage was partially damaged. The Brigade was called at 1200 and the fire was under control by 1404. Two men had left one of the garages before firefighters arrived. Crews attended from Hendon, Edmonton, Hornsey and Stoke Newington.", "contributing_factors": "The Brigade believes the fire was accidental and caused by an unknown fault within a battery energy storage system. No confirmed cause has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A suspected battery storage fault at a small site can destroy the unit, roof-mounted solar panels and a neighbouring structure before the cause is known. (2) Treat an official belief about cause as provisional until an investigation is reported. (3) Garage ranges with solar panels and storage need clear access for a multi-appliance fire service response.", "source_url": "https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/incidents/2024/april/garage-fire-southgate/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T13:47:37.360114+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1515", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1515/", "title": "House and outbuilding fire in Cricklewood, with PV Stop used on rooftop solar panels", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 7 September 2023, six fire engines and about 40 firefighters attended a fire at an end-of-terrace house on Garth Road in Cricklewood. A detached outbuilding was destroyed, and a small part of the ground floor and the roof was damaged. No injuries were reported. Crews used a 32-metre turntable ladder to apply PV Stop to solar panels on the roof. The Brigade was called at 13:17 and the fire was under control by 15:07. The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by resistive heating in an extension lead. It is not reported that the panels started the fire.", "contributing_factors": "The Brigade says solar panels involved in a fire can be difficult to isolate, and that current can travel along water jets and hoses. Crews applied PV Stop to block sunlight before working closer to the roof. It is not reported whether these panels were damaged or were still generating.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar can remain live in daylight even when a fire has another believed cause, so crews need a way to reduce generation before working on the roof. (2) Water applied near energised panels can conduct current along jets and hoses, so isolation or light-blocking should come before close-in work. (3) Records should keep the believed ignition source separate from the presence of solar equipment, so a precautionary deployment is not later read as proof that the array failed.", "source_url": "https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/incidents/2023/september/outbuilding-alight-cricklewood/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T13:48:21.18293+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1516", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1516/", "title": "Solar panels suspected in house roof fire in Ferndown", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 12 May 2025, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service was called at 12.31pm to Golf Links Road, Ferndown, to a property fire involving the roof and first floor. Crews used breathing apparatus, hose lines and an aerial ladder platform. The stop was at 5.22pm, after which the incident was scaled back and firefighters remained to dampen down. A later reinspection was completed. No casualties were reported. The service believed the fire started accidentally and suspected that it started from solar panels. Nearby residents were advised to close windows and doors because of smoke, and the road was closed temporarily.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service believed the fire started accidentally and suspected solar panels as the origin. No further cause has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A suspected solar origin should be recorded as a suspicion until a cause is confirmed. (2) A roof and first-floor fire at a home with solar panels may need breathing apparatus, hose lines, an aerial appliance and a later reinspection. (3) Smoke from such a fire may lead the fire service to advise nearby residents to close windows and doors and to close the road for a time.", "source_url": "https://www.dwfire.org.uk/incident/property-fire-ferndown-5/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:05:06.850295+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1517", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1517/", "title": "Solar inverter fire spreads to field in Yealmpton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews were called to a solar inverter that was alight in a field in Yealmpton on 6 August 2025. One solar inverter was fully damaged by fire. The fire had spread to the ground and to cabling of another inverter. Crews extinguished it with one carbon dioxide extinguisher, electrical gloves and a thermal imaging camera.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service report does not state why the inverter caught fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Fire in one solar inverter can spread to the ground and to cabling of another inverter, so nearby cabling and ground cover should be treated as part of the incident. (2) This electrical installation fire was put out with a carbon dioxide extinguisher, electrical gloves and thermal imaging. (3) No cause was reported, so a similar event should be investigated before any design or maintenance change is assumed.", "source_url": "https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/incidents/outdoor-fire-2025-08-06-11-16", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:05:08.602441+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1518", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1518/", "title": "Roof fire damages flats with solar panels in Jordans", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters were called to a fire affecting the roof of a two-storey apartment building, about 50 metres by 10 metres, at Puers Lane, Jordans, Beaconsfield. The fire service described it as a fire involving solar PV. The roof was fitted with solar panels. Four crews from Beaconsfield, Gerrards Cross, Amersham and High Wycombe attended, with an aerial appliance. On arrival, crews isolated the power supply and other utilities. The fire caused fire damage to two flats, and two further flats had water damage from firefighting. Crews were to remain on scene for an extended period. How the fire started was not stated.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The fire service account does not say whether a solar panel, inverter, isolator or cabling failed, or whether the panels only sat on the roof that was alight.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Before working on a roof fitted with solar PV, crews should isolate the electrical supply and other utilities, as was done here. (2) A roof fire in an apartment building can damage neighbouring flats by fire and by water used in firefighting, so occupied units next to the seat of the fire need early attention. (3) Building managers should keep solar isolation points known and accessible so fire crews can make the roof electrically safe without delay.", "source_url": "https://bucksfire.gov.uk/incidents/roof-fire-5/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:05:11.582718+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1519", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1519/", "title": "Solar panels involved in outbuilding roof fire in Bourne End", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 16 September 2025, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service attended a fire at a single-storey outbuilding in Blind Lane, Bourne End. A roof involving solar panels was well alight on arrival. One crew from Beaconsfield, two from High Wycombe and an officer attended. Firefighters used two sets of breathing apparatus, one hose reel jet, ladders, small gear and a thermal imaging camera, and a crew later reinspected the property for hotspots. The service did not report the cause, the extent of damage, or whether anyone was injured.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The fire service said the roof involved solar panels, but it did not say whether the panels started the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A roof fire involving solar panels may still be burning when crews arrive, so access at height and a check for remaining heat should be planned. (2) Thermal imaging and a later reinspection can help find hotspots after the main fire is tackled. (3) Involvement of panels is not, on its own, evidence that they caused the fire.", "source_url": "https://bucksfire.gov.uk/incidents/single-story-building-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:05:13.026084+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1520", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1520/", "title": "Fire in home battery storage system connected to solar panels", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire and Rescue Service crews attended a property on Kingsway in Chandlers Ford after smoke was seen issuing from the roof. The fire is believed to have started within a battery storage system connected by cabling to rooftop solar panels. An aerial ladder platform was deployed and electrical engineers attended to isolate the power. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the property and extinguished the fire using hose reel jets. The battery was removed and its temperature monitored with a thermal imaging camera. Ventilation fans cleared the smoke. Crews completed their work by around 18:30 with a later reinspection.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Battery storage systems connected to solar panels require clear isolation points so first responders can cut supply without delay. (2) After removal of a battery involved in fire, monitor its temperature with thermal imaging to confirm it has stabilised. (3) A later reinspection after the initial response can detect any reignition risk in battery storage systems.", "source_url": "https://www.hantsfire.gov.uk/incident/a-lithium-ion-battery-sparked-a-loft-fire-at-a-property-in-chandlers-ford/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:05:14.453089+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1521", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1521/", "title": "Solar panels on flat roof alight at terraced building in Newquay", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire control mobilised two appliances from Newquay to reports of a residential fire. On arrival firefighters discovered a terraced building, with solar panels on a flat roof, alight. Fire crew isolated the solar panel and extinguished the fire.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolate solar PV systems at the earliest opportunity during firefighting. (2) Ensure response crews have procedures for safely de-energising rooftop solar arrays.", "source_url": "https://db.cornwall.gov.uk/fbnews/info/details.asp?ID=50746", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:05:19.190032+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1522", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1522/", "title": "Fire damages roof with one solar panel in The Charltons", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 23 March 2026, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service attended an address in The Charltons after a call reporting smoke from the roof of a building. On arrival, crews found the roof well alight with one solar panel. The fire involved the roof space of a two-storey property of stone and slate construction, measuring 20 metres by 10 metres. Six fire engines and an aerial ladder platform attended. Crews extinguished the fire using breathing apparatus, hose reel jets, a safety jet, thermal imaging cameras, ladders and the aerial platform. The service recorded 25% fire damage to the roof void. It did not state whether the solar panel started the fire.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service did not state a cause, or whether the solar panel, its cabling or any other part of the installation contributed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a roof fire where a solar panel is involved as potentially live electrical equipment until it is isolated. (2) Record whether the panel, cabling or isolator was damaged, not only that a panel was present in the fire. (3) Keep the public clear while crews work at height with ladders and an aerial platform.", "source_url": "https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/incidents/property-fire-2026-03-23-12-14", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:05:20.674755+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1523", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1523/", "title": "Fire damages solar panel batteries in a Teignmouth garage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 3 June 2026, fire control received an emergency call reporting a battery pack on fire in a garage attached to a property in the Valley Close area of Teignmouth. Crews from Teignmouth and Dawlish attended. The electrics to the property had been isolated. The incident involved solar panel batteries in the garage. Four batteries were damaged by fire and the garage sustained approximately 20 per cent smoke damage. Crews extinguished the fire using breathing apparatus, hose reel jets, a safety jet, a thermal imaging camera and a gas monitor. The fire service recorded the cause as accidental.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service recorded the cause as accidental. No further detail on how the fire started was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar panel batteries stored in an attached garage can be damaged by fire, with smoke affecting the building, even after the property electrics have been isolated. (2) A response to this type of fire may need breathing apparatus, thermal imaging and gas monitoring as well as hose jets. (3) Where only a short official note is available, the ignition mechanism should not be assumed beyond the stated accidental cause.", "source_url": "https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/incidents/property-fire-2026-06-03-19-00", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:05:26.252654+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1524", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1524/", "title": "Fire at a solar PV equipped house in Stoney Stratton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 11 May 2025, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service attended a fire at a detached timber-clad house in Stoney Stratton, Somerset. The first crew reported smoke, and all persons were accounted for. Crews isolated the electricity supply and worked in the roof space. Incident commanders requested PV Stop, a sprayable liquid carried on the service's aerial ladder appliances to block power generation from photovoltaic panels, and also requested National Grid. They asked for the number of fire engines to be increased to eight pumps, and requested an aerial ladder platform and a water bowser. An incident command unit was mobilised. Thirty breathing apparatus wearers were used, with hose reel jets, main jets, a ground monitor and ladders. The service later confirmed a two-storey property measuring 25 m by 15 m, with the ground floor, first floor and roof 50 percent damaged by fire and 100 percent damaged by smoke. The fire was confirmed as accidental. The log does not say whether the panels started the fire, whether PV Stop was applied, or how the panels themselves were damaged.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The service confirmed an accidental fire but did not state an ignition point or whether the photovoltaic panels, inverter or cabling were involved.", "lessons_learned": "(1) At a house fire where photovoltaic panels may still generate, isolate the grid supply early and have a means of stopping panel generation available. (2) A well developed timber-clad roof fire can need many breathing apparatus wearers, thermal imaging and ladder access, so relief and welfare should be planned from the start. (3) Call the network operator when on-site isolation may not stop generation from the panels.", "source_url": "https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/incidents/property-fire-2025-05-11-11-51", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:05:31.372702+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1525", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1525/", "title": "Smoke reported from solar panels on an industrial unit in Horningtops", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 9 March 2025, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service crews from Liskeard and Looe attended an industrial unit in the Horningtops area after reports of smoke from solar panels on the roof. A later update the same afternoon said five appliances, one aerial ladder platform and two wholetime flexi duty officers were at the scene, and that firefighters were working to extinguish the fire and check for spread. The update does not say whether the fire was put out, how far it spread, or whether anyone was hurt.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The service recorded smoke coming from the rooftop solar panels, but did not state a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat smoke from rooftop solar panels as a fire involving the array until crews confirm otherwise. (2) Plan for extra appliances and an aerial platform where panels sit on an industrial roof and spread into the building cannot yet be ruled out. (3) Record the outcome after the incident, including whether the fire was extinguished and whether it spread, so an attendance note is not read as a finished account.", "source_url": "https://db.cornwall.gov.uk/fbnews/info/details.asp?ID=49254", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:05:51.947499+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1526", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1526/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on a retail or public building roof in South Petherton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 28 February 2025, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service received several calls reporting solar panels on fire on the roof of a retail or public building in South Petherton. Three appliances were mobilised with an aerial ladder platform and a supporting fire officer. On arrival, crews requested two further appliances and a water carrier. Crews used the aerial ladder platform, two breathing apparatus sets, one hose reel jet and one light portable pump. The fire was extinguished and the incident was scaled back to one appliance to monitor hotspots, with revisits scheduled for later that evening. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service report does not state a cause or a contributing factor.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar fires on occupied buildings can need an aerial platform and extra crews, so access and water plans should be agreed before an incident. (2) After the fire is out, hotspot monitoring and scheduled revisits reduce the risk of reignition. (3) Incident logs should record which part of the array was involved so operators can check similar roofs.", "source_url": "https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/incidents/property-fire-2025-02-28-11-40", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:06:00.20693+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1527", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1527/", "title": "Fire affects solar panels on nursing home roof in Woodingdean", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire and Rescue Service crews responded to a property on Warren Road, Woodingdean, Brighton on 30 August 2023. The fire affected solar panels on the roof of a nursing home. Five fire engines, an aerial ladder platform and an incident control unit attended. The fire was extinguished by 4.09pm. A full evacuation was completed with no casualties reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure rapid isolation procedures for rooftop solar arrays during fire response. (2) Maintain clear access for aerial appliances on buildings with roof-mounted solar. (3) Coordinate with multiple agencies including police and local council during evacuations.", "source_url": "https://www.esfrs.org/fire-warren-road-woodingdean", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:06:05.593216+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1528", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1528/", "title": "Fire at solar farm conversion unit in Roche extinguished", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 5 July 2023 a pumping appliance from St Austell attended a solar farm in Roche after a fire was reported. On arrival firefighters found a fire involving a conversion unit. Utility engineers isolated the system and one hose reel jet was used to extinguish the fire.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Utility engineers should isolate electrical systems promptly when fire is reported. (2) Early attendance by local fire services combined with on-site isolation reduces risk of escalation.", "source_url": "https://db.cornwall.gov.uk/fbnews/info/details.asp?ID=48634", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:06:07.547492+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1529", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1529/", "title": "Fire contained to solar panels on Gosport flats roof", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service attended a fire involving solar panels on the roof of a three-storey block of flats in Gosport on 13 May 2023. Crews from Gosport, Fareham, Cosham and an aerial ladder from Southsea responded shortly after 1pm to the property on Samson Close. The fire was contained to the solar panels and was extinguished using jets. The flats remained unaffected. Residents were evacuated by the fire service. The electricity board isolated the solar panels. Crews completed community fire safety activities before returning to station at around 2.30pm. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar on occupied blocks should have a clear isolation point that the electricity supplier or site manager can operate for attending crews. (2) Evacuation planning for multi-storey homes with roof arrays should assume the fire may stay on the roof while residents still need to leave. (3) After a contained panel fire, operators should confirm the array remains isolated until it has been inspected, rather than treating an extinguished fire as a return to service.", "source_url": "https://www.hantsfire.gov.uk/incident/flats-evacuated-following-fire-in-gosport/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:06:13.093788+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1530", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1530/", "title": "Electrical fault causes solar panel fire in Wickford house", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Crews from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service attended a fire at a detached house on London Road, Wickford on 15 May 2023. The fire was in the roof space, with the source identified in an electrical cupboard in the loft connected to solar panels on the roof. The fire was reported at 5:13pm after residents heard smoke alarms. Firefighters extinguished the fire by 8:14pm. The cause was stated as an electrical fault. Residents had closed the door to the electrical cupboard, which limited the spread of smoke and fire.", "contributing_factors": "Electrical fault in the cupboard connected to the rooftop solar panels.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure electrical connections for rooftop solar installations are inspected and maintained to reduce the risk of faults. (2) Working smoke alarms allow early detection and evacuation in properties with solar panels. (3) Keeping internal doors closed can help contain fire and smoke to the room or area of origin.", "source_url": "https://www.essex-fire.gov.uk/incidents/solar-panel-fire-2023-05-15-17-13", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:06:15.940506+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1531", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1531/", "title": "Fire involving solar panels damages roof of flats in Fleet", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 13 July 2022, crews were called just after 3pm to a terraced block of flats in Church Crookham, Fleet, and found the roof well alight in a fire involving solar panels. The fire service said the most likely cause was an electrical fault connected to the solar panels on the roof. Crews from several stations used an aerial ladder and jets. The stop message was received shortly before 5pm. The service reported that the roof was destroyed, with significant damage to one flat, damage to two further flats, and a partial collapse of the roof. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service said the most likely cause was an electrical fault connected to the solar panels. The fault has not been confirmed in the published account.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where a fire service attributes a roof fire to a likely electrical fault on solar panels, operators should treat rooftop DC connections as a priority for inspection. (2) A roof fire involving panels can damage several flats even if brought under control within about two hours, so early detection and a clear isolation plan matter. (3) Aerial access and jets were used here; owners of blocks with rooftop arrays should be ready to tell crews where panels and isolators are.", "source_url": "https://www.hantsfire.gov.uk/incident/partial-collapse-of-roof-following-fleet-flat-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:06:20.014754+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1532", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1532/", "title": "Roof-space fire involving a solar inverter at a house in Ferndown", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-03", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 27 March 2023, on-call firefighters from Ferndown and wholetime firefighters from Redhill Park attended a fire at a property on Westwood Avenue in Ferndown. On arrival the property was well alight, and two further fire engines were requested from Poole and Ringwood. The fire in the roof space involved the inverter for the property's rooftop solar panels. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished it with a hose reel jet and a main line. No injuries were reported. A building control officer from Dorset Council was requested to inspect the integrity of the roof structure. The cause of the fire is not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A roof-space fire involving a solar inverter can already be well developed when crews arrive, so detection and access to inverter locations matter. (2) Extra appliances and breathing apparatus may be needed to put out a roof-space fire involving rooftop solar equipment. (3) After a roof fire involving solar equipment, the roof structure should be inspected before the building is treated as safe to use.", "source_url": "https://www.dwfire.org.uk/incident/property-fire-ferndown/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:06:21.344512+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1533", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1533/", "title": "Solar panel fault causes fire at village hall roof in Cheriton Bishop", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire started in solar panels on the roof of a single storey village hall in Cheriton Bishop and spread across the entire roof. The roof sustained 100 percent damage while the rest of the building was affected by heat, smoke and water. Fire crews responded with multiple appliances, breathing apparatus and hose reel jets, and used an aerial ladder platform to assist extinguishing. The fire was accidental.", "contributing_factors": "Fault in the solar panels on the roof.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Regular inspection and maintenance of roof mounted solar arrays can identify faults before they ignite. (2) Fire services should plan for rapid water supply and access when solar panels are present on roofs. (3) Early detection systems for electrical faults in photovoltaic installations reduce the risk of fire spread.", "source_url": "https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/incidents/property-fire-2022-09-01-14-45", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:06:31.673826+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1534", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1534/", "title": "Storm Eunice loosens solar panels on Eastleigh flats", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A number of solar panels came loose from the roof of a block of flats on Badger Close in Eastleigh during Storm Eunice. Eastleigh firefighters attended and secured the panels at around 3pm on 18 February 2022. The call sat within a wider response by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service to storm damage across the region. Injuries, if any, were not stated.", "contributing_factors": "High winds associated with Storm Eunice. The source does not describe how the panels were fixed or why they came loose.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After severe weather, roof-mounted solar arrays should be checked for loose panels before they can fall or strike people below. (2) Fire services may have to make renewable equipment safe during a storm when a contractor cannot attend quickly. (3) A short official note may confirm that panels came loose and were secured, without stating cause, damage extent or whether anyone was hurt.", "source_url": "https://www.hantsfire.gov.uk/incident/hiwfrs-crews-busy-dealing-with-storm-eunice-call-outs/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:06:39.922791+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1535", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1535/", "title": "Fire involves roof and solar panels at a house under construction in Dittisham", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-01", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 13 January 2022, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service crews were called to a roof fire with smoke issuing at a detached two-storey private dwelling in Dittisham, reported to be under construction. An update said the roof fire also involved PV solar panels. The service later recorded that the fire involved the roof and the PV solar panels and was extinguished using six breathing apparatus wearers, four 45 mm jets, one hose reel jet, two 135 ladders and safety-at-heights equipment. About 20 per cent of the building was damaged by fire and 50 per cent by water. The cause was recorded as accidental.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service recorded the cause as accidental. It did not report how the fire started, or whether the solar panels were the origin.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A roof fire at a dwelling under construction can involve PV panels already fitted, so crews should treat the array as electrical equipment until it is isolated. (2) Water used on a roof fire can damage more of a building than the fire itself, which matters where panels sit on the roof. (3) Incident records should state whether solar PV was involved, and should not treat involvement as proof that the panels started the fire.", "source_url": "https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/incidents/property-fire-142", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:06:41.218161+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1536", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1536/", "title": "Inverter fire at a solar farm at East Langford, Kilkhampton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 22 May 2020, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service attended a fire in an inverter on a solar panel farm at East Langford, Kilkhampton, Bude. Two appliances from Bude, one from Holsworthy and a wholetime officer were mobilised. Western Power and the site maintenance technician helped crews isolate the electrical connection to the inverter, and the scene was made safe. The service said there were no further details. Cause, extent of damage and whether anyone was hurt were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Coordinate at once with the distribution network operator and on-site maintenance staff so the electrical connection to an inverter can be isolated. (2) Confirm isolation before treating the scene as safe. (3) Do not infer a failure mode, damage or injuries from a short attendance notice that gives no further details.", "source_url": "https://db.cornwall.gov.uk/fbnews/info/details.asp?ID=41385", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:06:52.208053+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1537", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1537/", "title": "Garage fire from overheated solar batteries in South Woodham Ferrers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Batteries connected to solar panels overheated and ignited inside a domestic double garage in South Woodham Ferrers. The fire spread throughout the garage. Firefighters were called at 12.35pm and stopped it spreading to nearby homes. Crews fully extinguished the fire by 1.59pm.", "contributing_factors": "The occupant was testing batteries on the solar panels and inadvertently left them connected overnight, after which the batteries overheated and ignited.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure battery connections are isolated when not actively monitored. (2) Consider installing a smoke alarm or heat detector in a garage that houses energy storage equipment. (3) On signs of fire, such as popping or banging, get everyone out and call the emergency services.", "source_url": "https://www.essex-fire.gov.uk/incidents/garage-fire-2021-09-22-12-35", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:06:58.063471+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1538", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1538/", "title": "Solar panels blown off roof in storm at Newquay", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A dozen solar panels were blown off a roof in East Street, Newquay. One appliance from Newquay Community Fire Station attended. Crews made the panels safe and cordoned off the area. No fire was reported.", "contributing_factors": "The service item is headed as storm damage. The cause of the panels leaving the roof is not otherwise described.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Roof-mounted solar arrays need fixings suited to local wind loads, and those fixings should be checked after high winds. (2) Loose or fallen panels should be reported and the area kept clear until they are made safe. (3) Crews should treat dislodged panels as a dangerous structure until the area is cordoned and the equipment is secured.", "source_url": "https://db.cornwall.gov.uk/fbnews/info/details.asp?ID=40259", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:07:06.517567+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1539", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1539/", "title": "Solar panel blown off bungalow roof onto vehicle in Newquay", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-11", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 21 November 2015, one fire appliance from Newquay Community Fire Station attended a report of a photovoltaic solar panel that had blown off the roof of a bungalow in Godolphin Way, Newquay, onto a parked vehicle. Firefighters made the scene safe by isolating the panel and securing it with lines. The notice does not mention a fire, and it does not say whether anyone was injured or what the weather was.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service reported only that the panel had blown off the roof. It did not state wind speed, whether a storm was involved, or the condition of the fixings.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A roof-mounted photovoltaic panel can detach and strike property below, so fixings should be suitable for the site. (2) After strong winds, owners should check that panels and mounts remain secure. (3) Crews attending a displaced panel need a way to isolate it and make it safe.", "source_url": "https://db.cornwall.gov.uk/fbnews/info/details.asp?ID=24518", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:07:07.782567+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1540", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1540/", "title": "Fire in solar panel on house roof in Flushing", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service reported a fire in a solar panel on the roof of a two-storey semi-detached house on Trefusis Road in Flushing on 20 April 2018. Two appliances from Falmouth and one from Truro attended. Crews gained access internally via the roof space to isolate the power. An aerial ladder platform was requested for a thorough inspection of the roof. The service said there were no further details.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolate the photovoltaic supply before crews work in a roof space above a panel fire. (2) Internal roof-space access may be needed when the array cannot be isolated from outside. (3) An elevated platform may be needed to inspect a roof after a panel fire; a request is not the same as confirmed use.", "source_url": "https://db.cornwall.gov.uk/fbnews/info/details.asp?ID=30059", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:07:09.069533+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1541", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1541/", "title": "Transformer unit fire at a solar farm on Copshorn Road, Bodmin", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 9 June 2015, appliances from Bodmin and St Austell attended a fire at a solar farm transformer unit on Copshorn Road, Bodmin. The unit was a shipping container 6.5 metres long and was well alight on arrival. Western Power engineers and a representative of the solar company were already there. Western Power and the solar contractor worked together to isolate the power. Crews remained for over an hour and a half and allowed the structure to burn because of its safe and isolated location. The incident was then left with a contractor on site.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A solar farm transformer housed in a container can be well alight before crews arrive, so isolation by the network operator and the solar contractor should be arranged at once. (2) Where the unit is in a safe and isolated place, a controlled burn-down may be chosen, but crews should stay until the risk to people and neighbouring equipment has fallen. (3) Handover to the contractor on site should be clear once power is isolated and the fire service is leaving.", "source_url": "https://db.cornwall.gov.uk/fbnews/info/details.asp?ID=21976", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:07:14.597403+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1542", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1542/", "title": "Fire at transformer building on solar farm in Treviscoe", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire and rescue crews responded to a fire in a transformer unit building measuring 5 by 3 metres on a solar panel farm in Treviscoe, St Dennis, United Kingdom. The alarm was raised by site staff. Crews adopted a defensive stance using carbon dioxide and dry powder extinguishers plus a covering jet. Firefighting could not begin until electricity supply to the building was isolated at 12:38. Two breathing apparatus wearers then extinguished the fire. Crews remained to damp down after the fire was out.", "contributing_factors": "Electricity supply to the building remained live on arrival, preventing immediate firefighting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Transformer buildings on solar farms need clear isolation points because live supply blocks entry and firefighting. (2) Site staff must give isolation details to crews at once so defensive tactics can end quickly. (3) Defensive stance with covering jets is required until power is confirmed off in energised plant rooms.", "source_url": "https://db.cornwall.gov.uk/fbnews/info/details.asp?ID=21762", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:07:18.081318+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1543", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1543/", "title": "Fire damages roof space and solar panels on bungalow in Crowan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-10", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred in the roof space of a bungalow measuring 12 by 20 metres in Crowan. The incident also involved solar panels on the property. Fire and rescue crews attended with multiple appliances, breathing apparatus and jets supplied from hydrants. The fire was reported as well established in the roof space. One casualty suffering smoke inhalation was taken to hospital. Resources remained on site to extinguish the fire and monitor hot spots before all appliances returned to station.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure rapid isolation procedures for solar PV arrays during roof fires. (2) Provide thermal imaging support early when solar panels are involved. (3) Plan for additional breathing apparatus resources on properties with rooftop generation.", "source_url": "https://db.cornwall.gov.uk/fbnews/info/details.asp?ID=28589", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:07:21.296689+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1544", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1544/", "title": "Fire at solar panel installation near Bodmin Jail", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2014, "incident_month": "2014-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 8 April 2014, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service responded to a fire at a ground installation of solar panel units near Bodmin Jail in Bodmin. Two appliances and an officer attended. Crews found electrical boxes and solar panel units on fire. They first liaised with an on-site specialist to isolate the electrical boxes, then extinguished the fire. The fire was accidental and remained confined to the electrical boxes and solar panels.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Liaise with on-site specialists to isolate electrical systems before attempting to extinguish fires at solar installations.", "source_url": "https://db.cornwall.gov.uk/fbnews/info/details.asp?ID=20445", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-28T17:07:31.696156+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1545", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1545/", "title": "Fire involving solar panels on a building under construction in Kettering", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service was called shortly before 7.30pm on 26 July 2024 to a fire at a six-storey building under construction at Dalkeith Place, Kettering. Smoke was issuing from the roof space. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus searched the building and found no casualties. They used hose reel jets to douse flames that had engulfed several solar panels on the roof. Seven appliances attended, with crews from Kettering, Corby, Wellingborough, Irthlingborough and Moulton. All crews had returned to their stations by 11pm. The service returned on the morning of 27 July, carried out a thermal scan, found no further hotspots, and handed the scene to the site owner. The most likely cause was reported as an electrical fault with one of the solar panels.", "contributing_factors": "The most likely cause was reported as an electrical fault with one of the solar panels. No fuller cause has been published.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Plan access and safe working positions for firefighters on the roofs of buildings under construction where solar panels are fitted and smoke may limit visibility. (2) Treat fires involving solar panels as a hazard to emergency responders and brief crews before they work on the roof. (3) Use a follow-up thermal scan to check for remaining hotspots before handing the scene back to the site owner.", "source_url": "https://www.northantsfire.gov.uk/2024/07/29/kettering-jobs-yard-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T18:09:39.90924+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1546", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1546/", "title": "Solar panel isolation switch overheats in roof fire at a house in Bucknall", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service attended a house on Corneville Road, Bucknall, Stoke-on-Trent, after reports of a fire in the roof. Crews were called just before 9am on 7 May 2025. Three appliances used breathing apparatus and an aerial ladder platform to extinguish the fire. The service later deemed the fire accidental and attributed it to a solar panel isolation switch overheating. Nobody was reported injured.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service attributed the fire to overheating of a solar panel isolation switch. No further detail on why the switch overheated was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolation switches on residential solar PV systems can overheat and start a roof fire, so inspection and maintenance should look for heat damage before failure. (2) Homeowners should keep solar PV installations maintained in line with the installer's and manufacturer's guidance. (3) When attending a roof fire, crews should be told if solar PV is present so they can isolate and work around it.", "source_url": "https://www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk/news/posts/firefighters-extinguish-accidental-house-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T18:09:43.890121+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1547", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1547/", "title": "Small fire within a solar panel at a house in Shropshire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service recorded reports of a house fire on 16 May 2025 that involved a small fire within a solar panel. The fire was out when crews arrived. Two appliances from Newport and Wellington attended, and crews used a thermal imaging camera.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported fire in a solar panel can already be out when crews arrive, so a thermal imaging camera is a practical check for remaining heat. (2) A small fire in a solar panel on a house should still be reported as a property fire rather than assumed to be finished. (3) The first record may not identify the failed part, so follow-up should establish whether the panel, isolator or cabling was involved.", "source_url": "https://www.shropshirefire.gov.uk/incidents/136710/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T18:09:50.204473+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1548", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1548/", "title": "Solar inverter fire on agricultural building in Shropshire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service attended a barn fire on 25 June 2026 involving an electrical solar panel inverter on an agricultural building of about 20 metres by 20 metres in Marton, Baschurch, Shrewsbury. Three appliances attended. Equipment recorded included a hosereel jet and a thermal imaging camera. The report does not state the extent of damage, whether anyone was injured, or the cause.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service report does not state a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar inverters on agricultural buildings should be identifiable and isolatable for attending crews. (2) Fire logs for inverter fires should record damage and whether the array remained energised. (3) Operators should treat a short official report as incomplete until damage and cause are known.", "source_url": "https://www.shropshirefire.gov.uk/incidents/149403/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T18:09:55.242033+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1550", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1550/", "title": "Small fire involving solar panels at a property in Clun", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 11 May 2021 at 12:16, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service recorded a small property fire involving solar panels in the Clun station ground. Three appliances attended, with operations stations listed as Clun and Craven Arms. The service did not report the cause, the extent of damage, or whether anyone was injured.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Log solar equipment as involved even when a fire is described as small, so later reviews can see patterns. (2) A record of appliance numbers alone does not explain cause or damage, so operators should not treat it as a full investigation. (3) Where panels are on a property, crews need a clear way to isolate the array before overhaul.", "source_url": "https://www.shropshirefire.gov.uk/incidents/93592/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T18:09:58.927027+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1551", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1551/", "title": "Fire involving solar panels on a garage roof in Shropshire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 22 February 2019, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service recorded a property fire involving five solar panels on a garage roof, on the Ludlow station ground. Two appliances were sent, and a utility company was listed among the agencies. The log does not state the cause, whether anyone was hurt, or how the fire ended.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Roof-mounted solar panels on outbuildings can be involved in a property fire, so isolation and access should be planned before crews arrive. (2) Fire logs often record only the panels involved and the appliances sent, so operators should not treat attendance figures as a measure of damage. (3) Where a utility company is listed, confirm isolation with that company rather than assuming the array is safe.", "source_url": "https://www.shropshirefire.gov.uk/incidents/70921/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T18:10:05.845513+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1552", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1552/", "title": "Fire starts in solar panels on commercial roof in Doncaster", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue reported a fire on the roof of a commercial building on Old Bawtry Road, Doncaster. The call was received at 3.45pm on 7 May 2023. Four fire engines and one aerial ladder platform attended. The short report said the fire originated from solar panels on the roof and spread to the insulation layer on the roof. It did not say how the fire was brought under control, or whether anyone was hurt.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the panel fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire that starts in rooftop solar panels can spread into the roof insulation, so isolation of the array and access to the roof build-up need to be planned in advance. (2) A short incident note may not record the cause, injuries or how the fire was stopped, so the operator should keep its own record. (3) The array and the roof should be inspected before the system is put back into use.", "source_url": "https://www.syfire.gov.uk/incidents/weekend-incidents-5-8-may-2023/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T18:10:07.132777+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1553", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1553/", "title": "Roof fire involving 14 solar panels attended in Shropshire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 30 May 2017 Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service recorded a property fire described as a roof fire involving 14 solar panels, on the Market Drayton station ground. Three appliances attended, with crews from Hodnet, Market Drayton and Shrewsbury. The service reported that the solar panels had been isolated and that an aerial ladder platform was in attendance for closer inspection. A hosereel jet, a 13.5 metre ladder and a thermal imaging camera were also listed. The cause, the extent of damage and whether anyone was injured were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service log does not state a cause or any contributing factor.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A roof fire involving solar panels should prompt early isolation of the array before close inspection. (2) Aerial access may be needed where a rooftop array cannot be assessed safely from the ground. (3) A short incident log may omit cause, damage and injuries, so isolation alone should not be treated as a full account of the outcome.", "source_url": "https://www.shropshirefire.gov.uk/incidents/53906/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T18:10:21.502527+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1554", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1554/", "title": "Fire involving solar panels at a Market Harborough house spreads to an adjoining property", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service received multiple calls to a building fire on Carroll Street in Market Harborough. Crews reported that one two-storey domestic dwelling was involved in a fire involving solar panels, with fire on the first floor and the roof, and that it had spread to an adjoining property. Breathing apparatus, hose reels and jets were used. The gable was unstable and the roof collapsed, and crews later worked from outside because of structural instability and a risk of stair collapse. All persons were accounted for. The gas supplier attended and isolated the gas supply. Electricity was requested to attend; the log does not say whether that supply was isolated. The stop message said the fire was believed out, with damping down under way and further inspections planned.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. The log records a fire involving solar panels, an unstable gable and a collapsed roof, but it does not state what started the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Confirm isolation of the building electricity supply and any solar PV system early, and record what has actually been isolated. (2) Reassess roof and gable stability when fire involves a roof with solar panels, and move crews outside if collapse is a risk. (3) Check adjoining properties quickly when fire has spread from a roof.", "source_url": "https://leics-fire.gov.uk/incidents/156", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T18:10:37.406913+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1555", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1555/", "title": "Fire in a domestic outbuilding in Oswaldkirk believed linked to a solar battery", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service reported a fire in a domestic outbuilding of about 10 by 5 metres in Oswaldkirk, Helmsley. The building contained a mini digger and a battery for solar panels that had been turned on a few days earlier. The fire is reported to have caused complete damage to the roof and to the mini digger. No injuries are stated in the available report.", "contributing_factors": "The service believed the fire was caused by a fault in the solar panel battery. No further technical findings are reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A solar battery that has recently been switched on should be checked for abnormal heat, smell or fault indications. (2) Storage batteries in outbuildings should be kept clear of vehicles and other combustible items. (3) Owners should have domestic solar batteries installed and maintained to recognised safety guidance.", "source_url": "https://www.northyorksfire.gov.uk/news-events/breaking-news/240221", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-28T21:11:11.923279+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1556", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1556/", "title": "Battery storage fire and explosion at a house in Mank", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Austria", "country_code": "at", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 15 September 2026, at about 20:30, a basement fire was reported at a house in Mank, in the district of Melk, Austria. The object involved was the energy storage of a photovoltaic installation, with a reported capacity of about 27 kWh and about 4,000 lithium-ion 18650 cells. It stood in a fire-protection room that had formerly been an oil store and was hard for the fire service to reach. At about 20:50 explosions were heard inside the house. The breathing-apparatus team left at once. Fire service equipment was damaged, and one firefighter was lightly injured in the face. A second firefighter was taken for examination. Three residents were outside; two were given first aid and taken for checks, and all three were ultimately uninjured. The fire service flooded the store with water to cool the cells and stop the smoke, and reported that the cells were extinguished. At about 22:50 the property was closed on building-authority grounds by the fire incident commander and then, verbally, by the mayor of Mank. At 22:53 the EVN fault service isolated the electricity supply. Damage was reported in the six-figure euro range.", "contributing_factors": "Police fire investigation reported that energy from the photovoltaic installation apparently overheated the cells because of a technical defect in the relevant fuses, and that a chemical reaction in the cells may then have occurred. The report also said that a self-built store above 20 kWh must be checked by a licensed electrical contractor under Lower Austria building rules, and that this had apparently not been done. These points are the investigators' findings from a single police report, not an independent conclusion.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A domestic battery store above the local inspection threshold should be checked by a licensed electrical contractor before it is used. (2) A store that is hard to reach, including a converted oil room, can delay crews and raise the risk if cells vent or explode. (3) Responders should expect possible cell explosions, confirm electrical isolation, and plan access and cooling before entering a domestic battery room.", "source_url": "https://polizeiticker.at/artikel/mank-defekter-batteriespeicher-loeste-brand-und-explosion-aus-290316", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T02:09:39.380333+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1557", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1557/", "title": "Fire at electrical substation on Tsitsernakaberd Highway in Yerevan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Armenia", "country_code": "am", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on 27 September 2026 at an electrical substation on Tsitsernakaberd Highway in Yerevan. The Ministry of Internal Affairs received a report at 17:07. Eleven firefighting and rescue crews were sent. The fire was contained at 20:10 and extinguished at 21:10. The Investigative Committee of Armenia reported that criminal proceedings had been opened under Article 264, Part 2, Clauses 2 and 6 of the Criminal Code, concerning destruction or damage of property by arson, explosion or other publicly dangerous means resulting in especially large-scale property damage. An investigative team was formed. Injuries, outages and the cause were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation fire response plans should assume several hours may be needed to contain and extinguish a fire, and should record call and arrival times. (2) Site evidence should be preserved once emergency crews have made the area safe, because investigators may open proceedings before a technical cause is known. (3) Operators should not treat the opening of proceedings, or the statutory description of the offence, as a finding of cause or of the scale of loss.", "source_url": "https://www.aysor.am/en/news/2026/09/28/Highway/2432089", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T02:09:43.965292+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1558", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1558/", "title": "Cyclone reported to have damaged power poles and transformers in Devipatan zone", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "NDTV reported that Cyclone Arnab caused widespread damage across all four districts of Uttar Pradesh's Devipatan zone, and that 10,000 power poles and 250 transformers were damaged. The Meteorological Department had issued a red alert for severe weather in the region. The available report does not say how long supply was affected, whether anyone was injured, or which operators were involved.", "contributing_factors": "Severe weather associated with Cyclone Arnab. No further cause is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a cyclone warning, distribution operators should be ready to replace poles and transformers across a whole zone, not only at one site. (2) A red alert should prompt checks on lines and transformers in every district expected to be hit. (3) Early damage counts from a short news report should be checked against the operator once the weather has passed.", "source_url": "https://www.ndtv.com/video/cyclone-arnab-10-000-power-poles-250-transformers-damaged-across-devipatan-1165783", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T02:11:11.803541+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1559", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1559/", "title": "Transformer explosion reported to have affected Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "El Universal reported that a transformer explosion affected areas of the Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo. Only the headline is available, so the cause, the extent of damage, any injuries and any loss of supply are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer failure can disrupt a hospital even when the full extent of damage is not yet known. (2) Operators of supplies to critical sites should confirm protection and backup arrangements after a reported transformer explosion. (3) A headline alone should not be treated as establishing the outcome until a fuller report or an official statement is available.", "source_url": "https://www.facebook.com/eluniversal/posts/explosi%C3%B3n-de-transformador-afecta-%C3%A1reas-del-hospital-universitario-de-maracaibo-/1555336829970786/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T02:11:39.003315+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1561", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1561/", "title": "Wire catches fire on Bhagalpur feeder after rain in Harkhauli", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "After three days of rain and strong wind, supply from the Bhagalpur feeder was reported restored on a Sunday in Harkhauli, Deoria district. Shortly afterwards an electrical wire developed a fault and caught fire, throwing sparks. Residents alerted the electricity department, which had the supply switched off and began repairs. The report says no one was hurt. Nearby villages on the same feeder had also been without supply during the weather. It is not reported whether the repair was finished or supply fully restored.", "contributing_factors": "Residents said moisture and faults remained on lines after the rain, and that restoring supply without a full inspection could be risky. The electricity department has not publicly confirmed a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check distribution lines for moisture and damage before restoring supply after prolonged wet weather. (2) Isolate a reported line fault promptly when the public raises an alarm. (3) Tell affected communities that supply is off for repair, and do not treat work as finished until it is confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.bhaskar.com/amp/local/uttar-pradesh/deoria/nadouli/news/bhagalpur-feeder-power-supply-harkhauli-fire-incident-139168465.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T02:12:21.883765+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1562", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1562/", "title": "Overload reported to have caused a power cable fire and outages in Rajepur villages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the Ganga Par area of Rajepur, Farrukhabad, a fault in a power cable started a fire on Friday morning. Sparks fell near shops beside the pole, alarming traders and residents. Supply to about half a dozen villages was interrupted. Villagers notified the electricity sub-centre, after which supply was isolated. Staff were sent to the site and repair of the burnt cable was started. According to the report, the fault was linked to overload on the cable on the pole. It was not reported whether supply had been restored.", "contributing_factors": "The report attributes the fault to overload on the cable lying on the pole. No independent technical finding is given.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Load monitoring of distribution cables can reduce the chance of overload faults. (2) Prompt isolation after a report of sparks reduces risk to nearby property and people. (3) Clear updates to nearby communities during repairs help keep people clear of the site.", "source_url": "https://www.bhaskar.com/local/uttar-pradesh/farrukhabad/rajepur/news/rajepur-power-cable-fire-outage-villages-electricity-repair-139142823.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T02:12:26.983801+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1563", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1563/", "title": "Transformer failure at SCE substation disrupts power in the Downey and Norwalk area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer failure at a Southern California Edison substation in the Downey/Norwalk area of California caused a widespread power outage on 24 December 2024. Southern California Edison said the outage began around 1:30 p.m. and affected more than 31,000 customers. Power was restored to most customers the same day, and all affected areas in Downey were reported restored the following morning. Metro C Line trains were halted between Norwalk and Willowbrook/Rosa Parks stations, with buses used as a replacement. Traffic lights were reported out at multiple intersections and some shops closed. There were also reports of power loss in Santa Fe Springs, Bellflower, Whittier, Compton, Lakewood, Paramount and South Gate, though how far the outage spread was not confirmed. The utility outage map listed storm conditions as the cause of the Downey outages.", "contributing_factors": "A transformer failure was reported by the utility. Storm conditions were listed as the cause on the utility outage map. No further cause has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grid operators should check substation redundancy and the ability to re-route supply quickly ahead of forecast weather. (2) Early coordination with transport agencies limits disruption when a substation fault affects traction power. (3) Clear public updates on restoration times help customers plan during holiday periods.", "source_url": "https://abc7.com/post/transformer-failure-downey-norwalk-area-leads-power-outage-multiple-socal-cities-thousands-sce-customers-impacted/15703469/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T02:13:03.937518+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1564", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1564/", "title": "Tornado damages North Substation in Madison causing explosion and outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 9 December 2023, a tornado struck the North Substation on East Campbell Road in Madison, Tennessee. A high-voltage circuit breaker took a direct hit, and a large explosion was captured on cameras. Nashville Electric Service described the site as a transmission substation that supplies distribution substations. In the wider storm, about 48,000 NES customers lost power. At least 190 power poles were broken, and the substation serving Hendersonville was also hit. Using warehouse parts and equipment from other utilities, the North Substation was back in working order within a few days. Repairs were reported as almost complete one year later.", "contributing_factors": "EF2 winds from the tornado passed through the substation and struck equipment, including a high-voltage circuit breaker. Debris delayed crews reaching the site.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Pre-stocked spare parts and sharing of equipment between utilities can shorten restoration after storm damage. (2) Owning excavation and heavy plant can speed debris clearance when outside resources are in demand.", "source_url": "https://www.newschannel5.com/news/remember-the-fireball-one-year-later-the-critical-substation-damaged-in-madison-tornado-is-almost-repaired", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T02:13:15.253457+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1565", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1565/", "title": "Fire at Ludhiana 66 kV substation prompts restoration", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-12", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 12 December 2024, reporting described a massive fire at a 66 kV substation in Ludhiana, India. A director of PSPCL visited the site to oversee restoration, and PSPCL was quoted as saying it was working to limit disruption. The available text does not report the cause, any injuries, or the extent of damage or outage.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can need senior operational oversight of restoration even when the first public report gives little technical detail. (2) Early reports may confirm a fire and a utility response without stating cause, injuries or customer impact, so those points should stay open until confirmed. (3) Restoration planning should treat supply disruption as possible until the outage extent is known.", "source_url": "https://www.thestatesman.com/india/massive-fire-at-ludhianas-66kv-substation-pspcl-director-visits-site-to-oversee-restoration-1503375195.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T02:13:21.791497+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1566", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1566/", "title": "Fires reported at electrical substations in Shkodër", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-12", "country": "Albania", "country_code": "al", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 13 December 2024, A2 CNN reported a fire at the electrical substation in Draçin, Shkodër, with power outages in some areas of the city. The same report said the fire also involved two other electrical substations. A fire-service account in that report described five events at once: an electric cabin in Kiras, three further small electric cabins, and then the Draçin substation. The cause was not established. An equipment defect was suspected, while the fire service was reported to have linked some cabin explosions to electrical charge. Household property next to a substation was damaged, with a reported loss of over 10 million old lek. Firefighters were reported to have extinguished the flames. No injuries or fatalities were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not established. The report suspected an equipment defect and also relayed a fire-service account that electrical charge was involved in some cabin explosions.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire beside homes can damage property outside the asset and should be managed as a public-safety event as well as a network fault. (2) Several cabin or substation alarms at once should be checked for a common electrical cause rather than treated only as separate fires. (3) Do not state a cause until inspection distinguishes an equipment defect from other ignition sources.", "source_url": "https://a2news.com/english/shqiperia/aktualitet/zjarri-ne-tre-nenstacione-elektrike-ne-shkoder-dem-ekonomik-i1135336", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T02:13:32.206291+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1567", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1567/", "title": "Transformer fire and explosion disrupts Amtrak services in the Bronx", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire in the Bronx was reported to have caused an explosion and disrupted Amtrak services, suspending trains between New York and New Haven. Video footage showed thick smoke and the effects of the explosion. The fire was reported to have begun at a nearby warehouse and spread to a substation. Firefighters took three hours to bring the flames under control. No injuries were reported. Authorities were investigating the causes of both fires. The exact date, the operator and the full extent of damage were not reported in this account.", "contributing_factors": "The source says the fire began at a nearby warehouse and spread to the substation, and that the causes of both fires were still under investigation. No further contributing factors were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An off-site fire can spread to a substation, so operators should treat nearby premises as a fire exposure. (2) A transformer fire at rail-related supply can suspend services for hours while the fire is controlled. (3) Where two fires are involved, investigation should cover both the origin and how the substation was affected.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.com/news/videos/c6243ve1z0vo", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T02:13:53.336831+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1568", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1568/", "title": "Explosion damages Heddon Greta substation after cable theft", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Late on 25 October 2024, an intruder reportedly broke into the electrical substation on Main Road, Heddon Greta, and took copper cabling. The theft is alleged to have triggered an explosion that caused serious damage to the facility, which is described as essential infrastructure. Emergency services were led to a nearby residence after the blast. Repairs and replacement of the stolen cables are estimated to exceed $165,000.", "contributing_factors": "Alleged theft of copper cabling from the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Strengthen physical security at substations to deter unauthorised entry and theft. (2) Consider design changes such as secured or alternative cabling to reduce theft risk. (3) Maintain rapid response and isolation procedures for infrastructure incidents to limit damage.", "source_url": "https://newy.com.au/2024/11/14/man-faces-court-after-alleged-copper-cable-theft-causes-explosion-in-heddon-greta-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T02:13:59.572711+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1569", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1569/", "title": "Transformer fire at subestación Codazzi disrupts power supply", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Colombia", "country_code": "co", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the subestación Codazzi operated by Energua after an operational failure caused transformer 1, operating at 110 kV, to open and ignite. The incident led to the sudden loss of the transmission line supplying the receiving substations, leaving thousands of residents without electricity in the urban and rural areas of Agustín Codazzi and Becerril municipalities, as well as the populations of Llerasca, Casacará, La Europa and El Desastre in the Cesar department. Firefighters, operational crews and security personnel attended the site to extinguish the flames and secure the perimeter. Repair and damage inspection work could only begin once the fire was fully extinguished and safety conditions in the substation yard were certified.", "contributing_factors": "Operational failure of transformer 1 at the subestación Codazzi.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure rapid isolation procedures for transformers following operational faults to limit fire spread. (2) Maintain clear communication protocols with affected communities during widespread outages. (3) Verify substation safety conditions thoroughly before allowing personnel to commence post-incident repairs.", "source_url": "https://elpilon.com.co/judicial/emergencia-en-el-cesar-voraz-incendio-en-subestacion-de-codazzi-deja-sin-energia-a-dos-municipios-y-varios-corregimientos", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:11:34.47285+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1570", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1570/", "title": "Fire at Anderbolt substation disrupts power supply in Boksburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Anderbolt substation in Boksburg in the early hours of 16 October 2024 after a transformer tripped. The City of Ekurhuleni emergency services responded and the extent of damage is being assessed. Power remains off in Ravenswood, Westwood, Eveleigh, Boksburg North, Jansen Park, Anderbolt, Cason and parts of Beyers Park with no estimated restoration time yet.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat all electrical networks as live during restoration work after a substation incident. (2) Provide regular public updates via social media and SMS during prolonged outages.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/boksburg-advertiser/news-headlines/local-news/2024/10/16/work-ongoing-to-restore-power-to-suburbs-affected-by-substation-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:11:41.309781+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1572", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1572/", "title": "Kenton substation fire reported to cause power outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline reported a fire at the Kenton substation that resulted in a power outage. The article text was not available, so the cause, the extent of any damage, injuries and how long the outage lasted are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can interrupt supply even when the cause is not yet known. (2) Operators should be ready to isolate affected equipment and restore customers by other feeds. (3) Early headlines should be treated as incomplete until the utility or fire service confirms the outcome.", "source_url": "https://www.limaohio.com/news/2024/10/25/kenton-substation-fire-results-in-power-outage/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:11:53.918866+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1573", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1573/", "title": "Transformer fire at Posey Power Substation expected to burn for about 40 days", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews were called on the evening of 23 October 2024 to a transformer fire at the Lubbock Power and Light Posey Power Substation, in the 5400 block of East FM 1585, southeast of Lubbock, Texas. The Lubbock County Sheriff's Office said the Woodrow and Slaton Volunteer Fire Departments responded. Lubbock Power and Light said its crews, the Lubbock Fire Department and Slaton Fire Rescue also responded and that the fire was contained. The sheriff's office said the fire was expected to burn for approximately 40 days and would be monitored around the clock by Lubbock Power and Light personnel. The utility said the incident was isolated, with no injuries, customer outages or disruption to the electrical system, and that it had notified the Electric Reliability Council of Texas and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. No specific cause had been identified. Lubbock Power and Light said it believed the fire was caused by equipment failure.", "contributing_factors": "No specific cause had been identified. Lubbock Power and Light said it believed the fire was caused by equipment failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A large transformer fire may need a long monitored burn-out if putting it out at once could harm the surrounding area. (2) Redundancy can keep supply stable if one substation is lost. (3) Early notice to reliability and environmental bodies helps others follow an agreed plan.", "source_url": "https://www.everythinglubbock.com/news/local-news/transformer-fire-expected-to-burn-for-40-days-at-posey-power-substation-lcso-said/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:12:15.600475+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1574", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1574/", "title": "Fire breaks out at Kwagga substation in Tshwane", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at Kwagga substation in Tshwane on 10 October 2024. Reports said supply was lost in Pretoria City Centre, Pretoria West, Atteridgeville, Pretoria North and Soshanguve, and the City of Tshwane said all southern parts of Tshwane were affected. An early suspicion that a transformer had exploded was later withdrawn by the city. Firefighters extinguished the fire, and city technicians were then on site preparing to restore supply in phases. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. City officials said they would comment only after a full investigation. No further findings were available on the final recheck.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check which equipment has failed before public updates name a transformer or an explosion, because early assumptions can be wrong. (2) Plan phased restoration after a substation fire so remaining plant is not overloaded. (3) Tell affected areas what is known about the outage while the cause is still under investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/932771-2/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:12:24.496641+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1575", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1575/", "title": "Fire reported in a German home with a Senec battery", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In late August, a fire broke out in the basement of a single-family home in Hechingen, southwest Germany. The home housed a Senec battery. The fire service reported that the house was full of smoke when firefighters arrived. After the fire was brought under control and the basement was ventilated, the fire service said an electricity storage unit had caught fire. No one was injured. Senec said the unit was an older model and that a new lithium iron phosphate unit was not affected. The company also said the house was being renovated and that the renovation work could have been a factor. The cause is still being investigated.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been established. Senec noted that ongoing renovation work could have been involved. The source does not state how the fire started.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Home storage already covered by a replacement campaign can still be involved in a fire, so outstanding exchanges should keep being tracked. (2) Until the cause of a house fire is known, nearby renovation work should be treated only as a possible factor, not as a finding. (3) A single residential storage fire should not be read as proof that a particular model failed while the investigation is still open.", "source_url": "https://www.ess-news.com/2024/10/07/cause-of-fire-in-german-home-with-senec-battery-unclear/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:12:29.777919+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1576", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1576/", "title": "Edinburgh substation fire leads to power cuts", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 23 September 2024 at about 5.15pm, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service found an electrical substation on fire on West Granton Road in Edinburgh. Smoke was visible for miles and fire crews attended. No injuries were reported. Homes near Waterfront Avenue lost power, and some were without electricity for nearly 12 hours.", "contributing_factors": "Police Scotland later said two people had been charged in connection with the fire, and that a report would go to the relevant authority. The published report does not say how the fire started.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation sites need controls that deter unauthorised access. (2) Operators should plan for a lengthy local outage after a substation fire, as some nearby homes were without power for nearly 12 hours. (3) Public statements should keep what is known separate from what remains under investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/two-teenage-boys-charged-after-33822367", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:12:30.996302+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1577", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1577/", "title": "Substation fire cuts power to more than 8,000 customers in Centerville", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a substation near Legacy Parkway and Parrish Lane in Centerville, Utah, and also affected a nearby substation. Supply was interrupted for more than 8,000 Rocky Mountain Power customers in Centerville, Woods Cross, West Bountiful and surrounding areas of south Davis County. Power was restored on Monday morning after outages through late morning. Early reports described an explosion and associated fire. Local refineries carried out normal flare-off during the outage, and thick smoke was seen from across the valley. The cause remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been established. Early reports described an explosion and associated fire, but that sequence has not been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at one substation can affect a neighbouring substation and widen the outage, so restoration plans should cover both sites. (2) Treat early reports of an explosion as unconfirmed until the investigation is complete. (3) A widespread outage can force nearby industrial sites, including refineries, to change operations, so operators and emergency services should plan for that.", "source_url": "https://www.ksl.com/article/news/utah/counties/davis/substation-fire-knocked-out-power-for-more-than-8000-customers-in-davis-county/51136535", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:13:04.694624+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1578", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1578/", "title": "Wind turbine fire near Chumleigh in Devon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Emergency services responded to a fire on a wind turbine near Chumleigh in Devon on 26 September 2024, the day before a Devon Live report dated 27 September. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service sent two fire engines after 999 calls at about 2:12pm. Crews found the turbine well alight, with flames from the engine about 30 metres above the ground. Because of the height and severity, they set a safety cordon and waited for the owner. Once on site, the owner isolated the turbine and firefighters assessed the scene. The turbine was severely damaged. Initial reports described the cause as accidental. No injuries were reported. Any effect on local energy supplies was still being assessed.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolation arrangements should be available quickly so crews can assess a turbine fire at height. (2) A safety cordon is needed when flames are high on a turbine and cannot be fought directly. (3) After a turbine fire, damage and any effect on local supply should be checked before the outcome is treated as known.", "source_url": "https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/dramatic-wind-turbine-blaze-devon-9585467", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:13:05.992831+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1579", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1579/", "title": "Explosion at a transformer substation leaves two streets without power in Ternopil", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-09", "country": "Ukraine", "country_code": "ua", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 22 September 2024, the State Emergency Service of Ukraine in the Ternopil region reported an explosion at a transformer substation on Lukiyanovych Street in Ternopil. The service said an SV-110 insulator exploded at a substation described as 110 kW, and that oil burned over about 1 square metre. Rescuers extinguished the fire. Two streets lost power, and the power company was reported to be switching supply to another line. The circumstances were still being established.", "contributing_factors": "The emergency service reported that an SV-110 insulator exploded and that this led to a small oil fire. The underlying cause had not been established in the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Insulator failures at substations can ignite insulating oil even when the burning area is small. (2) A prepared alternative supply line can limit how long nearby streets remain without power. (3) Early reports should record what is known about the failed component without treating it as a confirmed root cause.", "source_url": "https://unn.ua/en/news/an-explosion-occurs-at-a-transformer-substation-in-ternopil-two-streets-without-power", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:13:10.559951+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1580", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1580/", "title": "Fire at Manali substation cuts power from Manali to the Mint in Chennai", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-09", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Manali substation in Chennai on 12 September 2024. Power was reported lost in areas from Manali to the Mint. Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation said restoration work was under way. The cause of the fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The operator said the fire was not caused by overload, and that demand was not as high as it usually is in summer. No other cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut supply across a wide urban area even when demand is not at a summer high. (2) Neighbouring feeders and a ready restoration plan limit how long customers stay off supply. (3) Public statements should separate a ruled-out cause from a cause that is still unknown.", "source_url": "https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-megacity-chennai-faces-massive-power-outage-following-fire-at-substation-758231", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:13:39.011649+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1581", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1581/", "title": "Three fatalities after CO2 leak at Hai Long onshore substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "gas_release", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 20 August several workers at the Hai Long Changhua onshore substation were affected by a carbon dioxide leak from the fire suppression system. Seventeen people were taken to hospital. Ten were discharged with minor injuries. Seven remained in hospital, three in serious condition. One died on 26 August and the other two later. Work at the substation was suspended while investigations continued. Offshore construction proceeded.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Fire suppression systems using CO2 must have robust leak detection and alarm procedures. (2) Immediate medical assessment and monitoring of all personnel exposed to CO2 is essential. (3) Clear suspension of work and investigation protocols after containment reduce further risk.", "source_url": "https://offshorewind.biz/2024/09/10/three-dead-in-aftermath-of-hai-long-onshore-substation-co2-leak", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:14:38.160493+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1582", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1582/", "title": "Transformer explosion reported to have cut power across parts of Launceston", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Just after 8pm on Saturday, a bright green flash and two bangs were reported at two power transformer stations around Trevallyn in Launceston. Power was cut to much of the city's west, including Trevallyn, Riverside and parts of the CBD and Kings Meadows. TasNetworks said crews were on site working to restore supply. The cause, the extent of equipment damage and whether anyone was injured were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A flash and bang at a transformer station can leave a wide area without power before the fault is confirmed. (2) Ask customers to call the fault centre only for downed or damaged lines, so the line stays free for real hazards. (3) Early public updates should say what is known and what has not yet been checked.", "source_url": "https://pulsetasmania.com.au/news/bright-green-flash-seen-across-launceston-in-power-transformer-explosion/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:14:56.958861+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1583", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1583/", "title": "Veld fires trip Sebenza substation causing Johannesburg outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 19 August 2024 City Power reported that the Sebenza Substation tripped because of veld fires. The outage affected customers in parts of Alexandra, the inner city, Midrand and areas served by the Reuven Service Delivery Centre. Johannesburg Emergency Services attended to extinguish the fire beneath the transmission station. City Power operators were dispatched to restore supply once the fire was contained. The duration of the outage was not confirmed at the time of the announcement. City Power advised that regular updates would be issued to customers and cautioned residents against actions that contribute to veld fires. The company apologised for the inconvenience caused.", "contributing_factors": "Veld fires in the vicinity of the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain regular vegetation management around substation perimeters to reduce external fire exposure. (2) Establish rapid response protocols with local emergency services for fire events near grid assets. (3) Provide timely public updates during outages to minimise customer impact.", "source_url": "https://www.news24.com/citypress/news/veld-fires-at-sebenza-substation-cause-widespread-power-outages-in-johannesburg-20240819", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:15:11.767854+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1584", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1584/", "title": "Explosion and fire at Nyala substation in Pretoria East", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 17 August 2024, volunteer responders reported an explosion at Nyala Substation on Delmas Road in Pretoria East. They found a burning transformer, set up a safety area, and called City of Tshwane firefighters. Crews then set up an inline foam system and used foam on the fire. City of Tshwane electrical technicians took over the scene to assess the damage, and Tshwane Metro Police also attended. The cause, any injuries, and any effect on supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. The only detail given is that a transformer was burning after the explosion.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported substation explosion as a live fire until the scene is assessed, and keep a safety area until the operator takes over. (2) A burning transformer may need foam, so tell the fire service what resources are required before crews arrive. (3) Hand the scene to the network operator for damage assessment, and do not treat the cause as known until that investigation is reported.", "source_url": "https://www.arrivealive.co.za/news.aspx?s=1&i=68814&name=explosion-reported-at-nyala-substation-in-pretoria-east", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:15:23.742528+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1585", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1585/", "title": "Transformer explosion injures one and causes outage in Lynchburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A power line transformer exploded on Hydro Street in Lynchburg. Fire crews were sent after the explosion and were working to put out a fire on the transformer. Officials said one person was hurt, likely by the explosion, with concussion-like symptoms, and was expected to be okay. An AEP outage map showed an outage in the immediate area affecting 804 customers. The Lynchburg Department of Emergency Services said several traffic signals were out and advised drivers to treat unpowered signals as four-way stops. AEP was reported to be aware of the issue. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A failed line transformer can injure someone nearby and start a fire, so the scene should be treated as both an electrical and a fire incident. (2) Check outage maps and traffic signals together so road users are warned when signals lose power. (3) Clear public advice to treat dark signals as a four-way stop reduces secondary risk while supply is restored.", "source_url": "https://wjla.com/news/local/1-hurt-after-transformer-explosion-in-lynchburg-officials-power-outage-aep-appalachian-power-august-2024?photo=2", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:15:49.98022+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1586", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1586/", "title": "Third battery fire at Suncycle site in Thuringia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 11 August 2024 a lithium battery fire broke out at Suncycle, a solar and storage service company in Thuringia, Germany. Fire services treated it as the third lithium battery fire at the site in two months, after fires on 7 June and 30 June. The fire brigade said fumes slightly injured an employee. A German press agency report said that employee used a forklift to move the burning storage unit away from other stored batteries. The fire department estimated damage at 30,000 euros. Heavy smoke led to a warning for residents to keep windows and doors closed until the following day. Police again suspected a technical defect. Suncycle later said the batteries were electricity-storage batteries held temporarily for disposal, and that this fire, unlike the June incidents, affected individual pallets rather than a container, so the damage was lower. The first fire was estimated at about 700,000 euros and also prompted toxic-air warnings. On 30 June the fire department let a container burn in a controlled way after the first firefighting operation produced hydrofluoric acid and costly disposal of extinguishing water. No damage figure was given for the second fire.", "contributing_factors": "Police suspected a technical defect. The company said the batteries were being held temporarily for disposal. No confirmed cause has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Batteries awaiting disposal can still catch fire and should be stored so a burning unit can be separated from others. (2) Where lithium battery fires have produced toxic run-off, a controlled burn may be chosen, but smoke warnings for nearby residents need to be planned in advance. (3) Repeat fires at the same store should prompt a review of segregation, removal access and public warning arrangements.", "source_url": "https://www.ess-news.com/2024/08/12/third-battery-fire-at-the-same-site-in-germany/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:16:04.262379+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1587", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1587/", "title": "Substation fire in Gzira causes outage and precautionary evacuation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": "Malta", "country_code": "mt", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Police confirmed that a fire developed at the Gżira substation in Triq Sir Patrick Stuart. Enemalta said a small fire started at about 1.00pm at a substation in a private apartments block. Civil Protection attended and the flames were extinguished shortly afterwards. Some residents in Gżira were evacuated as a precaution, and no one was hurt. The outage affected some 3,276 consumers. Enemalta restored supply to the majority of houses and businesses in less than an hour. About 300 consumers directly connected to the substation were still without electricity while repairs were prepared. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation inside a residential block needs a pre-agreed evacuation and access plan with the fire service. (2) Even a small substation fire can cut supply to thousands of consumers, so restoration priorities and customer updates should be ready in advance. (3) Customers fed directly from the damaged substation may stay off supply after the wider network is restored, so isolation and temporary supply options should be planned.", "source_url": "https://tvmnews.mt/en/news/residents-in-gzira-evacuated-as-flames-engulf-sub-station/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:16:29.32909+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1588", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1588/", "title": "Fire reported at NGCP Hermosa substation in Bataan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "Philippines", "country_code": "ph", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) said a fire broke out at its substation in Barangay Balsik, Hermosa, Bataan, at 4:40 p.m. on 3 August 2024. Initial reports indicated that a DICT contractor struck a 69 kV line owned and operated by Peninsula Electric Cooperative (Penelco) outside the facility, and that the cut conductor landed on a non-technical structure inside the substation and started the fire. The fire affected NGCP's Hermosa-Calaguiman 69 kV line, which serves three generation plants in Bataan. NGCP said transmission services to distribution customers were not interrupted. Police reported that the fire, at a warehouse of the substation, was declared out at 6:51 p.m. and that three construction workers were injured. Separately, Penelco said an unscheduled interruption in Dinalupihan and the Hermosa Ecozone followed accidental contact by a truck with the Hermosa-Dinalupihan line in Balsik, and that a fire in the same area affected a segment of that line.", "contributing_factors": "NGCP's initial account attributed the substation fire to external contact that cut a 69 kV conductor, which then fell onto a structure inside the site. Penelco separately reported accidental truck contact with a distribution line in the same area. The link between the two accounts has not been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Work beside live overhead lines needs enforced clearance controls for vehicles and contractors. (2) A conductor cut outside a substation boundary can still start a fire inside the site if it falls onto structures. (3) Transmission and distribution operators should share timely information when an external contact and a fire affect lines in the same area.", "source_url": "https://punto.com.ph/fire-hits-ngcps-hermosa-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T05:16:45.811179+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1592", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1592/", "title": "Lightning reported to start fire at Bhadradri thermal power station transformer", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "other", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 29 June 2024, Telangana Today reported that lightning struck the first-unit power transformer at Bhadradri Thermal Power Station in Manugur, Kothagudem district, and that a fire broke out. Firefighters attended and were working to extinguish the flames when the report was filed. The report said it was not yet clear how the incident occurred, noting that power plants are fitted with lightning arresters. No injuries, outage figures or damage assessment were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The report attributes the fire to a lightning strike on the transformer. It does not say whether the installed arresters operated, failed, or were relevant to the fire. Social media claims of an accident were described as rumours and are not treated as established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a lightning-related fire at a power-station transformer, confirm what protection was in place and whether it operated, rather than assuming an arrester failure. (2) Keep the public account limited to what responders and the operator have confirmed while the fire is still being fought. (3) Separate unverified social media claims from the reported sequence until an investigation is available.", "source_url": "https://telanganatoday.com/fire-breaks-out-at-btps-in-kothagudem-as-lightning-strikes-transformer", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T09:10:21.13655+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1593", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1593/", "title": "Fire reported to injure two at Desco sub-station in Tejgaon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Bangladesh", "country_code": "bd", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at Desco’s sub-station at Tejgaon, with two people reported injured. The available report is a headline only. Cause, the extent of damage, the emergency response and whether power supply was affected were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported substation fire with injuries is a prompt to account for people on site and restrict access until the area is declared safe. (2) Headline reports often omit cause and damage, so operators should keep evidence and records for a later review. (3) Isolation and a safe approach should be confirmed before anyone re-enters a substation after a fire.", "source_url": "https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/349473/2-injured-in-fire-at-desco%E2%80%99s-sub-station-at", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T09:10:39.024383+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1594", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1594/", "title": "Transformer explosion cuts power to more than 1,700 households in Cambridgeport", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded at about 3:26 p.m. on 18 June 2024 at Pearl and Putnam in Cambridgeport, according to The Harvard Crimson. The Cambridge Fire Department responded to a transformer fire shortly before 3:30 p.m. A city spokesperson said the fire destroyed the transformer, the pole and all attached wiring, including electrical, phone and cable lines. More than 1,700 households were without power according to an Eversource outage map, which at the time expected restoration by 5:15 p.m. The same spokesperson said some blocks would be without power for an extended period. Whether the fire was put out, and when power actually returned, was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A pole-mounted transformer fire can destroy the pole and the lines on it, so restoration planning should cover more than the transformer itself. (2) Outage maps should be kept current so customers can see the scale of the loss and the first estimate of return. (3) Where some blocks may be off longer than the first estimate, that should be said early.", "source_url": "https://www.thecrimson.com/article/2024/6/19/cambridgeport-transformer-power-outage/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T09:10:42.443336+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1595", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1595/", "title": "Substation fire in Uttar Pradesh disrupts Delhi power supply", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 11 June 2024, a fire was reported at the Mandola sub-station of Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd near Loni in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. The fire was reported to interrupt supply from the sub-station, from which Delhi was said to receive 1200 MW, and to affect downstream grid sub-stations including Gopalpur, Sabzi Mandi, Kashmiri Gate and Narela. Outages were reported in parts of north, central, east and south Delhi, including Civil Lines, Model Town, Kashmiri Gate, ITO, Laxmi Nagar, Narela and Gopalpur. One distribution company said supply in its area, including load shedding reported at 440 MW and about 400,000 consumers, was restored within an hour. A separate official account put the outage at nearly two hours in several areas. The cause of the fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported. The reported effect was loss of supply from the Mandola sub-station to downstream Delhi grid sub-stations during hot weather, when uninterrupted supply was already under strain.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at one upstream grid sub-station can interrupt supply to several downstream sub-stations and a large number of customers. (2) Restoration reports should state the affected load, the areas involved and the time to restore, and should note where those figures differ. (3) Public accounts should distinguish a local sub-station fire from a wider grid failure so the scale of the event is not overstated.", "source_url": "https://www.rediff.com/news/report/up-sub-station-fire-leaves-delhi-powerless-for-1-hour-homes-of-lg-cm-hit/20240611.htm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T09:11:18.842513+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1596", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1596/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses on a hillside in Beed, India", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 6 June 2024, a wind turbine on a hillside in Beed, in the Indian state of Maharashtra, was reported to have collapsed. A short video report said the tower crumpled and the blades fell to the ground. No one was reported injured. The operator, the site and the cause were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The account describes the collapse as unexpected and gives no weather, maintenance or design information.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A tower collapse with blades reaching the ground is a serious structural failure even when no one is hurt. (2) Hillside sites need a clear exclusion zone and a prompt check that debris has not left the site. (3) Operators should record and share the failure mode once it is known, because a short public video does not establish a cause.", "source_url": "https://uk.news.yahoo.com/wind-turbine-collapse-western-india-140025951.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T09:11:20.907183+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1597", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1597/", "title": "TNB substation fire at Kepong church in Kuala Lumpur", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "Malaysia", "country_code": "my", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Tenaga Nasional substation next to the Jesus Caritas Catholic Church in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur caught fire on the evening of 9 June 2024. The substation supplied power to the church and other parts of the Jalan Kepong Baru area. An emergency call was received at 7.14pm, and the fire was spreading rapidly when firefighters arrived. They could not extinguish it directly because of live electrical currents, and put it out at 9.21pm using two foam tanks. The church was not affected and there were no casualties. Power was being restored in phases, with full restoration expected at midnight. The cause was under investigation.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Firefighting at a live substation may require non-conductive methods, such as foam, when a direct attack is unsafe. (2) Isolation and safe-access arrangements should be agreed in advance so crews are not delayed by live equipment. (3) Neighbouring facilities should have plans for a loss of supply during a substation fire.", "source_url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2024/06/09/tnb-substation-at-kepong-church-catches-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T09:11:45.478244+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1598", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1598/", "title": "Fire breaks out at Alamathy Tangedco substation near Chennai", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Alamathy Tangedco substation at Vanianchathiram between Tamaraipakkam and Red Hills on the outskirts of Chennai on Saturday morning. Power supply was disrupted in the locality. The master control room received a call about the fire around 6.45am and vehicles from Manali, Red Hills, Madhavaram and Avadi were deployed. Fifty firefighters used foam and water to bring the fire under control after 12 hours. The exact cause of the fire has not been ascertained.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure rapid mobilisation of multiple fire units when smoke spreads beyond the site boundary. (2) Pre-plan shutdown procedures for substations to limit disruption to local supply. (3) Maintain clear records of equipment status to support post-incident investigation.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/fire-at-tangedco-sub-station/articleshow/110429603.cms", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-29T09:12:10.433982+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1599", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1599/", "title": "Wind turbine at Brock Environmental Center catches fire after lightning", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at the Brock Environmental Center in Virginia Beach caught fire on 27 May 2024 after being struck by lightning, according to the Virginia Beach Fire Department. When crews arrived there were no active flames, but the turbine was smouldering. Rain put the fire out. No other structures were involved, the centre's building was not damaged, and no injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Fire officials confirmed a lightning strike. No further cause has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A lightning strike can leave a wind turbine smouldering after visible flames have gone, so a later inspection is still warranted. (2) Rain may extinguish an outdoor turbine fire before crews arrive; that does not replace a check of the turbine and nearby structures. (3) Owners should be ready to confirm promptly whether the associated building was damaged and whether anyone was hurt.", "source_url": "https://www.wtkr.com/news/in-the-community/virginia-beach/brock-environmental-center-windmill-catches-on-fire-after-lightning-strike", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T09:12:13.024096+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1600", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1600/", "title": "Explosion and fire at Sayreville substation injures contractor during repairs", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 24 May 2024, a JCP&L substation along Main Street in Sayreville, New Jersey, caught fire while repairs were under way, and witnesses reported an explosion. Officials said a contractor doing the work suffered burns to the hands and was taken for treatment. JCP&L said about 4,000 people were without power at the peak, with about 1,800 still off on Friday evening and restoration expected overnight or into Saturday morning. A later update said power had been restored for hundreds of customers. The borough administrator said a temporary substation had been brought to the site the day before to address rolling brownouts. Businesses lost power, and intersections including Washington Road at Jernee Mill were affected, with traffic backups.", "contributing_factors": "The fire is reported to have started while repairs were being made and a temporary substation was being installed. The source does not state the technical cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Agree isolation, permits and emergency arrangements before maintenance or temporary equipment is installed at a substation. (2) Tell customers early how long an outage may last, and have temporary supply options ready if restoration may run overnight. (3) Coordinate with local authorities on traffic, businesses and people who need water, ice or other support during a prolonged outage.", "source_url": "https://newjersey.news12.com/2024/05/24/police-1-person-injured-in-explosion-at-sayreville-power-station-hundreds-without-power/AMbuwektDGCZsUHo1ETeA", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T09:12:42.069373+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1601", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1601/", "title": "Explosion at Kimberley substation injures four municipal workers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred at approximately 09:00 on 13 May 2024 at the Hercules Street Substation in Herlear, Kimberley. Four Sol Plaatje municipal workers were injured while attending to a cable fault. One worker sustained severe burn wounds and remained in critical condition; the other three were reported out of danger. Power was fully restored after faulty cables were repaired and a new ring main unit installed. The Department of Labour attended the site to assess the incident.", "contributing_factors": "Faulty cables were identified as the cause of the explosion.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A cable fault being worked on in a substation can escalate to an explosion that injures several people on site. (2) Confirm the circuit state and the fault location before staff work on a reported cable fault. (3) After such an explosion, repair or replace damaged equipment, including the ring main unit, before restoring supply, and preserve the scene for the labour authority.", "source_url": "https://www.ofm.co.za/article/centralsa/331688/lights-back-on-after-four-injured-in-kimberley-substation-explosion-", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T09:13:43.69831+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1602", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1602/", "title": "Eldoraigne substation fire disrupts power in Centurion areas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Plumes of smoke were seen over Eldoraigne substation in Centurion on a Saturday afternoon after a transformer caught fire. Firefighters attended and the blaze was extinguished. Power was restored to affected areas by 18:00 after repairs. The City reported extensive damage to cabling and control units, though the main transformers and panel rooms were not burnt. An alternative transformer on site was used to restore supply without overloading the system. Areas impacted included Wierdapark Ext 1, Celtisdal, Raslouw, Hennops Park and Eldoraigne.", "contributing_factors": "The City stated that cable vandalism and theft to the control cable feeding the transformer was suspected as the cause, though this remained to be confirmed by investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations require robust physical security and monitoring of control cabling to deter vandalism and theft. (2) Having an alternative transformer available on site can enable rapid load transfer and minimise outage duration. (3) Prompt assessment of damage to cabling and control units supports faster restoration while avoiding overload on remaining equipment.", "source_url": "https://iol.co.za/pretoria-news/news/2024-05-14-eldoraigne-substation-catches-fire-leaves-residents-in-the-dark/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T09:13:47.838409+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1603", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1603/", "title": "Transformer failure causes explosion and brief outage in Sheboygan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the night before a report published on 29 September 2026, the apparent failure of a power transformer near South Business Drive and Union Avenue in Sheboygan caused an explosion, according to a local news report. Witness reports said the blast set fire to the power pole holding the transformer. The noise was heard for many blocks around the site. The resulting power interruption was brief by most accounts. The cause of the failure has not been confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "The report describes an apparent transformer failure. No confirmed cause, equipment history or utility finding has been published.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported transformer boom can mean a short outage even when the noise is heard over a wide area. (2) Claims that a pole caught fire should stay marked as witness reports until the operator confirms them. (3) After power returns, crews should still inspect the transformer and pole, because a brief interruption does not show that the asset is undamaged.", "source_url": "https://whbl.com/2026/09/29/transformer-failure-behind-loud-boom-power-interruption-on-south-side/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T15:10:50.811432+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1604", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1604/", "title": "Transformer fire at substation disrupts power in Springs", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at a substation in Springs affected power supply to several suburbs, including Bakerton, Payneville, Gugulethu, Slovo Park, Springs CBD, Petersfield, Strubenvale, Casseldale, Nuffield, Edelweiss, Selection Park Ext 2, portions of Daggafontein and Largo. The City of Ekurhuleni said preliminary investigations indicated that the outage was linked to a fire involving a transformer. The fire department extinguished the fire. Technicians were on site assessing the extent of the damage and the impact on the network. An estimated restoration time was not available at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Rapid attendance by fire services can limit the spread of substation fires. (2) Immediate technical assessment following a fire supports decisions on network restoration.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/springs-advertiser/news-headlines/local-news/2026/09/29/substation-fire-cuts-power-across-several-springs-suburbs/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T15:10:52.391655+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1605", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1605/", "title": "Lithium-ion battery explosion leads to prolonged thermal event at a US solar and storage site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At about 11.40am on 22 September 2026, a fire was reported at a facility with a battery energy storage system next to a solar panel field in the United States. Local authorities reported that the fire was believed to have been caused by a lithium battery explosion. The initial fire involved one of two battery storage systems. Fire crews brought the affected unit under control and applied water to the enclosure to control temperatures while monitoring the equipment. Heat from the initial fire was reported to have damaged the adjacent battery storage system, and battery packs in that second system were reported to be entering thermal runaway. Water was applied continuously over the following days, and air quality was monitored around the perimeter. The incident did not affect operation of the associated water-treatment facility or its water supply. On 25 September, specialist personnel and firefighters began dismantling the affected equipment. Packs were disconnected and voltages reduced before handling, and cells were separated in a lay-down area. Damaged material was later removed for packaging and disposal after a cooling period. Two undamaged storage units were taken offline and de-energised. Evacuation orders and warnings were lifted after the immediate hazard had been mitigated. The cause and origin had not been established, and the investigation was ongoing.", "contributing_factors": "The cause and origin of the initial explosion and fire had not been established at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Prolonged water application and monitoring may be required to control thermal runaway in damaged battery systems. (2) Systematic disconnection, voltage reduction and physical separation of cells can mitigate remaining thermal runaway hazards during dismantling. (3) Continuous air-quality monitoring around the perimeter supports safe response operations.", "source_url": "https://www.hazardexonthenet.net/article/224247/US-Lithium-ion-battery-explosion-leads-to-prolonged-thermal-event.aspx", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T15:11:03.51944+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1606", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1606/", "title": "Explosion at Watloo Substation disrupts power in Tshwane", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred at the Watloo Substation, causing the 132kV Njala Infeed Substation to trip and leading to a major power supply interruption across several parts of Tshwane. Multiple primary substations were affected, including Watloo, Wingate, Heatherley, Mooikloof, Wapadrand, Scientia, Highlands, Willows, Lynnwood, Villieria, Koedoespoort, Pumulani, Pyramid and Mamelodi One, Two and Three. Other customers including the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research were also impacted. A technical team was sent to assess the damage and plan repairs. The operator advised residents to treat all electricity network points as live and to keep appliances unplugged until supply was restored. Updates on restoration times and exact affected areas were to be provided once assessment was complete.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure rapid dispatch of technical teams to assess substation damage after any explosion or trip event. (2) Provide timely public updates on restoration timelines and affected areas. (3) Remind customers to treat all network points as live during outages.", "source_url": "https://www.jacarandafm.com/news/news/explosion-at-substation-disrupts-power-supply-tshwane/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-29T15:11:06.687795+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1607", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1607/", "title": "Transformer fire at Pattabhiram substation prompts replacement", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "One of three 16 MVA power transformers at the Pattabhiram substation was damaged by fire on a Saturday, causing a night-long power cut in the locality. Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation commissioned a replacement transformer on the following Tuesday. Minor power disruptions were still being reported after commissioning. A Tangedco official said that, normally, it takes time for the entire load to shift to a newly installed transformer.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not report the cause of the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A multi-transformer substation can restore supply by replacing a damaged unit, but customers may still see short disruptions while load is transferred. (2) Spare transformer arrangements and a rehearsed installation plan shorten outages at urban substations. (3) After a replacement is energised, operators should monitor the load transfer and tell customers that minor disruptions may continue.", "source_url": "https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/new-transformer-installed-in-pattabhiram-substation-after-fire-accident/article68149754.ece", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T15:11:36.972478+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1608", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1608/", "title": "Fire at Empangeni substation leaves the immediate area without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 24 April 2024, a fire broke out at a substation in Empangeni, at the corner of Higgs and Segar roads. The City of uMhlathuze sent its electricity and energy team to investigate the cause. The substation was reported to have exploded, and the immediate area lost power. Municipal Fire and Rescue members attended and extinguished the blaze. The municipality said restoration of power to affected areas would be sped up. The cause, the number of customers affected, and any injuries were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause had not been reported. The municipality said an investigation was under way.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut power nearby before the cause is known, so operators should be ready to isolate the affected plant and restore supply from elsewhere. (2) Prompt fire-service attendance contained the reported event to a blaze that was extinguished. (3) Public updates should distinguish what is known about the outage from what is still under investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/zululand-observer/news-headlines/local-news/2024/04/24/watch-municipality-investigating-empangeni-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T15:11:44.125043+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1609", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1609/", "title": "Fire reported at a Lipetsk region substation during a drone attack", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "Russia", "country_code": "ru", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the night of 13 May 2024, Russian officials were reported to have said that a power substation in the Lipetsk region caught fire during a drone attack. No injuries were reported, and emergency services were said to be working at the scene. A video circulated online was described as likely showing a drone attack and a following fire, with a flash visible on the horizon. The report gives two different district spellings, so the precise site is not confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Officials were reported to have linked the fire to a drone attack. The published account does not describe the damaged equipment or confirm how the fire started beyond that report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat early video of an attack on grid equipment as unconfirmed until the site and outcome are agreed by more than one source. (2) Record conflicting place-name spellings rather than choosing one, so later reports can be matched. (3) Keep a clear note of reported injuries and emergency attendance even when the cause is an external attack.", "source_url": "https://unn.ua/en/news/video-of-a-drone-attack-in-the-lipetsk-region-where-a-substation-is-on-fire-has-emerged", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T15:11:46.999259+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1610", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1610/", "title": "Explosion at substation cuts power to thousands in Westerville", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "According to Westerville police, a transformer owned by Westerville Electric on the 700 block of McCorkle Boulevard in Westerville exploded at about 2:40 a.m. on 14 May 2024, leaving about 4,200 customers without power. Smoke was seen from the area of the substation. Residents reported a loud boom and flashing lights, and one resident reported flames and smoke near her home. Three intersections on Maxtown Road were closed while crews investigated. No injuries were reported. Westerville Electric said most of its customers had supply restored by late afternoon. A separate pole fire nearby, affecting AEP Ohio customers, is not part of this incident.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer explosion was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where the cause of a substation transformer explosion is not yet known, operators should record what failed and keep the public clear until the site is checked. (2) Coordinate with local police on road closures so crews can work without putting residents at risk. (3) Keep outage figures tied to the asset that failed, so a separate nearby fault is not mixed into the same incident.", "source_url": "https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/westerville/explosion-at-electric-substation-causes-thousands-to-lose-power-in-westerville/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T15:11:56.342717+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1611", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1611/", "title": "Wind turbine fire reported near Muirkirk", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-06", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 15 June 2023, a wind turbine near Muirkirk Line, at 20275 Duart Road, was seen on fire. A video given to local media showed the turbine already burning when lightning struck it, with thunder in the background, thick black smoke, and burning pieces falling to the ground. The published report also said the blaze followed a lightning strike, so the cause is not clear from this account. Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue attended and secured the area. Hydro One reported a small outage nearby affecting fewer than 20 customers. No injuries were reported. Damage to the turbine itself was not described.", "contributing_factors": "A thunderstorm was under way. Lightning was reported as the cause, but the filmed strike hit a turbine that was already alight, so ignition is not established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep people clear of a burning turbine until falling debris and electrical risk are controlled. (2) Do not treat one filmed lightning strike as proof of ignition if the machine is already on fire. (3) Record a nearby customer outage separately from damage to the turbine, which may not yet be known.", "source_url": "https://cknewstoday.ca/chatham/news/2023/06/15/wind-turbine-catches-fire-in-muirkirk", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T15:16:49.801175+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1612", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1612/", "title": "Fire destroys Brixton substation equipment in Johannesburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-06", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at the Brixton substation in Johannesburg reduced the station's equipment to ashes, according to City Power. City Power said the substation burnt because of overload on the transformer. The utility said it was appointing a contractor, and a contractor was on site to assess the damage and estimate repair time. The fire affected power supply and the water supply for residents served by the Brixton Reservoir and tower zones, covering Brixton, Mayfair, Hursthill, Jan Hofmeyer, Melville, Auckland Park and Helen Joseph Hospital. Johannesburg Water said a pumping unit was being organised for the hospital. The report described this as the second fire affecting Johannesburg residents' water and power in less than a week, after a fire at a City Power substation in Soweto.", "contributing_factors": "City Power attributed the Brixton fire to overload on the transformer. The source does not report further factors for the Brixton incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Monitor transformer loading so overload conditions can be detected before equipment fails. (2) Keep a route for rapid damage assessment after a substation fire, including an early estimate of restoration time. (3) Plan for water pumping that depends on the same supply, including priority sites such as hospitals, when a substation is out of service.", "source_url": "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2023-06-12-brixton-substation-fire-compounds-joburg-electricity-and-water-outage-woes/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T15:17:14.709015+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1613", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1613/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at high school in Petersburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at PORTA High School in Petersburg, Illinois, was reported to have suffered a brake-system failure, so the blades could spin freely. Specialised technicians could not work on it until the blades stopped, which would require the wind to die down or a further equipment failure. The following day the sheriff's office and the local fire department reported that the turbine had collapsed. It stood away from homes and public areas, and no one was hurt. The public was advised to stay away.", "contributing_factors": "Officials reported a failure of the brake system. Why the brake failed, and why the turbine then collapsed, were not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported brake failure that leaves blades free to spin can prevent technicians from making the turbine safe until rotation stops. (2) Sites need a plan for exclusion and specialist access when a turbine cannot be stopped at once. (3) Keeping turbines away from homes and public areas, and warning people to stay clear, limited harm in this case.", "source_url": "https://www.wcia.com/news/wind-turbine-collapses-at-petersburg-high-school/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-29T15:18:42.151117+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1614", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1614/", "title": "Fire at electricity sub-station prompts evacuation in Kilmarnock", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-11", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the night of 21 November 2022, a fire broke out at an electricity sub-station on Knockinlaw Mount in Onthank, Kilmarnock. Police Scotland said officers came across the fire at about 10.40pm. Around 20 households were evacuated as a precaution, amid fears over the fire's proximity to a gas supply. Residents were taken first to Onthank Primary School and then to local hotels, and were able to return the following afternoon. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service mobilised two appliances. There were no reported casualties. SP Energy Networks said a fire in the Kilmarnock area left about 950 customers without power, that almost 900 were restored within an hour, and that the rest were restored by the following morning. A joint investigation into the cause was ongoing.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported. Police Scotland and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said a joint investigation was ongoing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a local substation next to housing can require a precautionary evacuation and a cordon even when the cause is not yet known. (2) Restoration plans should allow most customers to be reconnected quickly while a smaller number may need supply into the next day. (3) Emergency plans for substations near homes should cover coordination with the fire service, police and the local council, including rest centres.", "source_url": "https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/ayrshire/residents-start-return-home-kilmarnock-28555585", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T20:11:40.827+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1615", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1615/", "title": "Explosion at Ripley substation leads to home evacuations", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-11", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion and fire occurred at an electricity substation at the top of Hill Street, off Butterley Hill, in Ripley. Witnesses reported a bright flash. Derbyshire Police, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue and Western Power were called out at about 05:00. A cordon was put in place and a small number of nearby homes were evacuated. People living nearby were advised to keep windows and doors closed. Firefighters put down sand banks to stop contamination from oil. Derbyshire Police gave the all clear at about 13:00 for people to return home.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A cordon and evacuation of nearby homes can limit public exposure during a substation fire. (2) Where oil may escape, crews should be ready to place containment such as sand banks; this report does not confirm how effective that was. (3) A joint response by police, fire and the network company called to the scene can support a controlled return once the scene is declared safe.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-63690096", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T20:12:01.759627+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1616", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1616/", "title": "Substation fire in southeast Portland disrupts power to thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews were sent to a substation fire along Southeast 60th Avenue and Southeast Stark Street in Portland on the evening of 4 November 2022. Portland General Electric said the fire had left at least 3,000 customers without power. Nearby streets were closed and traffic was diverted. The fire stayed inside the fenced substation and did not spread to surrounding structures. No injuries were reported. The cause was not clear.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Electrical substation fires call for a slow and cautious fire-service approach, as Portland Fire & Rescue said it would use here. (2) A fire that stays inside the substation fence can still cut supply to thousands of customers and close nearby streets. (3) Where the cause is not known in the first report, later updates should not treat that gap as a finding.", "source_url": "https://www.koin.com/local/multnomah-county/southeast-portland-sub-station-fire-knocks-out-power-for-thousands/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-29T20:13:16.585532+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1617", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1617/", "title": "Fire near transformer extinguished in Mokpo", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "According to a single report, a fire broke out at a transformer in Okam-dong, Mokpo, South Jeolla Province, around 4:00 PM on 25 September 2026. Flames among discarded boxes near the transformer were said to have created a risk of further incidents, including a possible explosion or power outage. Smoke was noticed from a nearby academy and the fire was reported. It was reported extinguished with a fire extinguisher within about five minutes, and no injuries were reported. The account has not been confirmed by a second source.", "contributing_factors": "The report says discarded boxes were stored near the transformer. No other cause has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep the area around transformers clear of combustible materials. (2) Early reporting and prompt use of an extinguisher can limit escalation. (3) Regular checks of equipment surroundings reduce fire risk.", "source_url": "https://news.sbs.co.kr/english/article.do?news_id=N1008775860", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:10:00.763569+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1618", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1618/", "title": "Cable fire interrupts supply in a Shahjahanpur street", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 29 September 2026 a cable caught fire in Teen Khamba Wali Gali, in the area served by the Bahadurganj electrical substation in Shahjahanpur, India. An electricity corporation team attended and repaired the cable. Supply in that area was reported off from 19:00 to 19:30. The same report also described a separate fault on a feeder from the Abdullahganj substation and planned work on a feeder from the Nigohi Road substation, each with its own short interruption. The cause of the cable fire and the extent of any damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the cable fire was not reported. A separate fault was reported on the Keruganj feeder from the Abdullahganj substation, described as an 11 kVA line, and planned work was reported on the Chinor-Baibagh feeder from the Nigohi Road substation. These were separate supply interruptions and were not stated as causes of the cable fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution cable fire can interrupt local supply even when the affected cable is in a street rather than inside a substation. (2) Prompt repair can restore supply quickly, but the cause and the damaged item still need to be recorded. (3) Reports that bundle faults, planned work and fires should keep each event distinct so unrelated work is not treated as a cause.", "source_url": "https://www.amarujala.com/uttar-pradesh/shahjahanpur/power-outage-due-to-a-fault-and-a-cable-fire-shahjahanpur-news-c-122-1-sbly1042-186080-2026-09-30", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:10:36.482488+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1619", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1619/", "title": "Transformer explosion reported to have knocked out power and traffic signals in Vacaville", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer explosion was reported in Vacaville and was reported to have knocked out power and traffic signals. The full report could not be read, so the extent of the outage and whether anyone was hurt or property was damaged are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer failure can take out local power and traffic signals together. (2) Operators should be ready to restore supply and work with traffic authorities when signals go dark. (3) Until a full report is available, the cause and the scale of the outage should not be assumed.", "source_url": "https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/vacaville/transformer-explosion-causes-knocked-out-power-and-traffic-signals-in-vacaville/103-cc0314fd-ade7-488e-a284-489c2958ac2a", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:10:42.148594+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1620", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1620/", "title": "Transformer explosion at new al-Farabi power station in Baghdad kills one staff member", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Iraq", "country_code": "iq", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical transformer exploded inside the state-owned new al-Farabi power station in Baghdad. The Iraqi electricity ministry said one staff member was killed while on duty performing official duties, and that three other employees were injured and taken to hospital. Civil Defence teams and other authorities attended the station and took measures. The ministry said an investigation had been opened into the circumstances and causes. The cause of the explosion was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. The ministry said concerned bodies had started an investigation. The article's wider remarks on safety enforcement and summer heat were not linked to this explosion.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a transformer failure at an occupied power station as a life-safety event and account for people on site. (2) Keep site access and first response arrangements ready so teams can act as soon as an explosion is reported. (3) Investigate the circumstances and causes of a fatal transformer explosion and share findings other operators can use.", "source_url": "https://thenewregion.com/posts/6519", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:10:45.787925+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1621", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1621/", "title": "Transformer fire causes overnight power outage in Mesquite", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire in Mesquite was reported to have cut power to more than 1,000 people overnight, officials said. The account available to the register is a headline and summary only, so the site, the operator, the cause and any injuries are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The available account does not state a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire can cut supply to a large number of customers overnight, so operators should be able to isolate the failed unit and restore neighbouring circuits quickly. (2) Early public reports may give only a headline figure for people affected; operators should keep their own outage records so later reviews are not limited to what the press published. (3) Until a fuller account is available, treat cause, injuries and damage as not reported rather than assumed.", "source_url": "https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/mesquite-power-outage-sparked-by-transformer-fire-officials-say/287-7d989ff4-c49a-4575-88f7-23b0c0eb04ea", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:10:57.547954+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1622", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1622/", "title": "Wind turbine reported to have collapsed in the Přerov region after weeks idle", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Czech Republic", "country_code": "cz", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A headline reports that a 30-metre wind turbine collapsed in the Přerov region. It says the turbine had been standing idle for weeks because of a fault. The article itself could not be read, so the exact site, any injuries, and the cause of the collapse are not known.", "contributing_factors": "The headline links the collapse to weeks of standing idle after a fault. It does not say what the fault was, or whether that fault caused the collapse.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine left idle after a fault still needs a defined inspection and isolation plan until the fault is cleared. (2) Standing idle is not evidence that a machine is structurally sound. (3) After a reported collapse, similar machines should not be restarted until the failed element is identified.", "source_url": "https://aroundprague.cz/en/news/30-metre-wind-turbine-collapses-in-p-erov-region-after-weeks-standing-idle-due-t", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:11:23.331218+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1623", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1623/", "title": "Attack on South Zawiya substation causes outage south of Zawiya", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Libya", "country_code": "ly", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The General Electricity Company of Libya said an attack on the South Zawiya substation caused a complete outage and loss of supply to wide areas south of the city of Zawiya. It said US company GE had halted all work at the Zawiya power station and withdrawn its technical teams after the latest attack, pending better security. More than 700 megawatts of the plant’s total 1,300 MW of generation capacity remained unavailable. The company did not state injuries, the exact time of the attack, or when supply would return.", "contributing_factors": "The company described the outage as caused by an attack on the substation. It said the attack followed explosive-laden drone strikes on fuel storage tanks at the nearby Zawiya oil complex. No technical failure mode was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation serving a large generation site can take wide areas off supply in a single attack, so operators should know which loads depend on that node. (2) Where security conditions force contractors to leave a power station, operators need a plan for the capacity that then stays unavailable. (3) Strikes on a nearby oil asset and an outage at the electricity asset should be logged separately until a link is confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/libyas-state-power-company-says-attack-zawiya-substation-causes-major-outage-2026-08-12/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:11:37.197788+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1624", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1624/", "title": "Crane topples on Scout Moor wind farm project", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A mobile crane came off a hillside site road on a Lancashire wind farm project at Scout Moor windfarm. Police said the eight-axle crane was travelling down the road when it struck an earth bank, left the road, toppled and trapped the driver. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The Health and Safety Executive is investigating. Why the crane left the road has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The published report does not give a cause. It records only that the crane struck an earth bank, left the road and toppled.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Large mobile cranes on wind farm site roads need a checked route, including slopes and earth banks. (2) A crane that leaves the carriageway can topple and trap the driver, so travel controls matter as well as lifting controls. (3) After a fatal crane incident, similar movements should wait on the regulator's investigation and any immediate site controls.", "source_url": "https://www.theconstructionindex.co.uk/news/view/crane-driver-killed-in-windfarm-crash", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:11:40.635141+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1625", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1625/", "title": "Transformer fire reported at a Con Edison facility in Chelsea, Manhattan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Early reports on 8 August 2026 described a transformer fire at a Con Edison facility at 7th Avenue and West 18th Street in Chelsea, Manhattan. Radio traffic referred to an active fire at a transformer in a Con Edison building and to high-voltage risk for responders and people nearby. One radio update said there were zero patients at that time. The cause, whether a feeder explosion also occurred, any damage, and the final outcome were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat early radio reports of a transformer fire as unconfirmed until the operator and fire service publish an outcome. (2) Keep responders clear of high-voltage equipment until the site is declared safe. (3) Give nearby members of the public a clear instruction while access and voltage risk are still being assessed.", "source_url": "https://citizen.com/-OzUX9OjyuZgJYVoQuAj", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:12:06.670613+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1626", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1626/", "title": "Substation explosion causes power outage in central Lviv", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "Ukraine", "country_code": "ua", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "According to preliminary information reported by Lvivoblenergo, an explosion occurred at an electrical substation in Lviv, followed by a fire. Central Lviv, the Frankivskyi district and the Novyi Lviv neighbourhood were partially left without power. Emergency crews and rescuers attended, and Luhanska Street was closed to traffic temporarily. The city council warned that outages could disrupt electric public transport. Electricity was expected to be restored within an hour; whether that happened was not confirmed in the report.", "contributing_factors": "Preliminary reports indicate the accident may have been caused by a break in a high-voltage power line, leading to the explosion and fire. Online speculation also linked the event to grid strain in hot weather; that link was not confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported high-voltage line break can precede a substation explosion and fire, so line integrity checks matter after unusual loading. (2) Early notice of possible disruption to electric public transport helps manage secondary impacts. (3) Until the cause and restoration time are confirmed, operators should treat early reports as provisional.", "source_url": "https://censor.net/en/news/4017234/part-of-lviv-loses-power-after-substation-explosion", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:12:17.795709+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1627", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1627/", "title": "Transformer fire reported to have cut power in Kato Patisia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "Greece", "country_code": "gr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported on Thursday in a power transformer belonging to DEDDIE near the railway lines, close to the intersection of Liosion Street and Stratigou Kallari Street in Kato Patisia, Athens. Fire crews responded, and DEDDIE shut off power to the area as a precaution. Traffic police diverted vehicles at the Liosion and Stratigou Kallari junction and at Liosion's intersection with Kourtidou. The cause, any injuries, and how long power stayed off were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution transformer beside a busy road and railway needs a response plan that covers both the fire and traffic diversion. (2) Operators should be able to isolate a local transformer quickly so a fire does not affect a wider area. (3) After a precautionary shutdown, crews should confirm the equipment is safe before restoring supply, and record what is still unknown about the cause.", "source_url": "https://www.tovima.com/society/fire-in-transformer-knocks-out-power-in-kato-patisia/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:12:41.069541+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1628", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1628/", "title": "Thieves damage substation causing fire and outage in Harrison", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Power was restored to more than 2,700 customers in Clare County after thieves broke into a Consumers Energy substation on Deer Lake Road in Harrison late on Friday night. Someone cut and removed metal cables, causing damage that sparked a fire and knocked out power to homes and businesses. Crews completed repairs and restored electricity to all affected customers by about 9 a.m. the following morning. Consumers Energy has asked anyone with information about the theft to contact the Clare County Sheriff's Department and has reminded the public to stay at least 25 feet away from any downed power line.", "contributing_factors": "Theft of metal cables from the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Secure substations against metal theft to prevent damage and outages. (2) Public education on the dangers of approaching electrical facilities reduces risk. (3) Rapid repair response limits customer impact from such incidents.", "source_url": "https://upnorthlive.com/news/local/power-restored-after-thieves-damage-consumers-energy-substation-harrison-clare-county-outage-metal-michigan-upnorthlive", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:12:57.418909+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1630", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1630/", "title": "Fire at Barguna REB substation leaves consumers without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "Bangladesh", "country_code": "bd", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the 33/11kV grid substation in the Khejurtala area under Gaurichanna union, Barguna Sadar upazila. An 11kV automatic circuit recloser exploded, damaging wires and other electrical components. Power supply to around 67,000 consumers in 10 unions was interrupted from approximately 10:30pm and had not been restored by midday the following day. Engineers from the Rural Electrification Board attended the site and began repairs, with a replacement component required from Patuakhali. Officials suspect an internal technical fault as the cause, which remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "An internal technical fault is suspected, although the exact cause is under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain adequate stocks of critical substation components at regional depots to reduce restoration times. (2) Review inspection and maintenance procedures for automatic circuit reclosers and similar equipment. (3) Treat a suspected internal fault as unconfirmed until the investigation is complete, and do not return the circuit to service on that assumption alone.", "source_url": "https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/fire-barguna-reb-substation-leaves-67000-consumers-without-electricity-4217886", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:13:30.7468+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1631", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1631/", "title": "Hail storm damages photovoltaic systems in Italy's Marche region", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Italy", "country_code": "it", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A hail storm this week damaged photovoltaic systems in Italy's Marche region, with thunderstorms and damaging winds also reported along the Adriatic coast. Damage was described as highly localised. Of about 200 systems under one manager, one was damaged, with losses estimated at about €80,000 to €90,000. The same account said a similar storm in early June destroyed two systems in Monteroberto, near Jesi, while a system a few hundred metres away was unaffected. A system near San Benedetto del Tronto was said to have all-risk cover under the Conto Energia scheme, and an insurance claim had been filed. Modules at that site were described as certified for mechanical resistance but still damaged. Hailstone size was not reported. Other media and social media posts were said to show further damaged systems, without further detail here.", "contributing_factors": "The account said hail damage to photovoltaic systems had been rare for many years but had increased over the past two or three years, and that recent weather had been more intense than events the modules had previously withstood. It also said many policies exclude photovoltaic systems and that newer, non-subsidised owners do not always buy dedicated cover. These points are one person's experience, not a confirmed cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Owners should check whether their policy actually covers hail damage to photovoltaic equipment, and arrange dedicated cover where a general policy excludes it. (2) Certification for mechanical resistance does not remove the need to plan for hail more severe than past events at the site. (3) Because hail can destroy one array and spare another nearby, each site still needs its own inspection after a storm.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/07/23/hail-storm-damages-pv-systems-across-italys-marche-region/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:13:32.648699+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1632", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1632/", "title": "Electrical substation fire in Feodosia leaves part of the city without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Ukraine", "country_code": "ua", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Monitors reported that, after night explosions in Feodosia, a large electrical substation on the Kerch Highway caught fire. The facility was described as the Feodosia high-voltage main power grids, a key energy asset for the city. Reports said the damage left a significant part of the city without electricity. There was no official information on the cause or on the full consequences at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "Night explosions were reported in the city before the fire. A social media message linked the fire to a strike, but the cause has not been officially confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat early monitor and social media reports of a substation fire as unconfirmed until an operator or authority statement is available. (2) Plan for a wide local outage if a high-voltage substation serving a town is damaged. (3) Keep public updates clear about what is known and what is not yet confirmed.", "source_url": "https://unn.ua/en/news/a-large-electrical-substation-is-on-fire-in-feodosia-part-of-the-city-remains-without-power-monitors", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:13:43.442186+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1633", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1633/", "title": "Substation fire in Walsall prompts a cordon; two men seriously injured", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at a substation in Walsall, and a large cordon was put in place. Two men were reported to have been left with serious injuries. The available report does not state the cause, the operator, or whether power supply was affected.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a substation fire cordon as covering electrical as well as fire risk until the scene is declared safe. (2) Serious injuries at a substation incident should prompt a check of access control and the emergency response. (3) Do not close the event until the equipment involved, and any effect on supply, are confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.expressandstar.com/news/it-was-horrible-residents-react-as-large-cordon-put-into-place-following-walsall-substation-fire-8761478", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:13:54.211532+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1634", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1634/", "title": "Transformer reported to have failed on Holmestown Road", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 21 June 2026, Horry County Fire Rescue said crews were dispatched at 8:38 a.m. to the 4000 block of Holmestown Road for a reported electrical hazard. The post said a transformer reportedly blew, with smoke visible, and that nearby power and traffic light outages were reported. It said utility crews would work to fix the damaged equipment. The extent of damage, the duration of the outage and any injuries were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The fire service post did not give a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported transformer failure with visible smoke as an electrical hazard until the utility confirms the equipment is safe. (2) Expect nearby power and traffic signals to be affected, and keep the public clear until crews have assessed the site. (3) Record what is reported and what is not yet known when the only account is a short dispatch notice.", "source_url": "https://www.facebook.com/horrycountyfirerescue/posts/electrical-hazard-holmestown-roadat-838-am-horry-county-fire-rescue-crews-were-d/1440301164789994/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:13:55.698626+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1635", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1635/", "title": "Substation fire in Ho Chi Minh City produces tall smoke column", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "Vietnam", "country_code": "vn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At about 8:30 am on 18 May 2026 a fire broke out at the 110kV substation in An Phu Dong ward, Ho Chi Minh City. Residents on Thanh Loc 16 street heard a loud continuous explosion and saw flames with black smoke rising tens of metres. Local people attempted initial firefighting, but the flames rose and that effort failed. The Fire and Rescue Team of Area 12 attended and extinguished the fire after about 20 minutes. No casualties were reported. Many assets inside the substation were burned. Two security guards on duty ran out and joined the firefighting. The cause is under investigation.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation sites need a clear way to call the fire service quickly when on-site efforts cannot hold a fire. (2) Keep access clear so fire crews can reach equipment and stop spread. (3) Do not state a cause until the investigation reports one.", "source_url": "https://news.laodong.vn/xa-hoi/chay-tram-bien-ap-o-tphcm-cot-khoi-den-cao-hang-chuc-met-1703716.ldo", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:14:54.82505+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1636", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1636/", "title": "Fires at solar plant in Ben Wheeler after hail damage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Crews from Ben Wheeler Fire & Rescue responded on a Saturday to a fire at a solar plant on FM 773 in Ben Wheeler, Texas, KLTV reported. The department said two hail storms earlier in the year had damaged the solar panels and left them prone to igniting grass beneath them. It said about eight such incidents had taken place that year, that the fires had been small and were not considered a threat to nearby properties, and that the plant had not had this fire problem before the storm damage. Injuries and the extent of damage from the fires were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The fire department said hail damage to the panels left them prone to igniting grass under the arrays, and that the fires had recurred only after the storms.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Inspect solar arrays promptly after hail so damaged equipment that can start grass fires is identified. (2) Review vegetation management where panel damage is already known. (3) Track repeated small fires so a pattern is noticed before one spreads.", "source_url": "https://www.kltv.com/2023/09/30/crews-respond-fire-solar-plant-ben-wheeler/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:16:37.123905+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1637", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1637/", "title": "Solar panels cause three-alarm fire at distribution centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A three-alarm fire broke out on 23 July 2023 at the Michael's Distribution Center in Winslow Township, New Jersey. The fire marshal attributed the fire to malfunctioning solar panels mounted on the roof. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Malfunctioning solar panels mounted on the roof.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar installations on commercial roofs require ongoing inspection to detect electrical faults. (2) Fire services should be briefed on the presence and layout of rooftop solar arrays before incidents occur. (3) Operators should verify that panel systems remain within original design parameters throughout their service life.", "source_url": "https://6abc.com/post/camden-county-nj-solar-panel-fire-winslow-township-new-jersey-michaels-distribution-center/13542326/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:18:14.437093+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1638", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1638/", "title": "Inverter fire under solar panels near Farmington", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Friday afternoon, firefighters were called at about 2:45 p.m. to a grass fire underneath solar panels on Route 116, about a quarter of a mile west of Farmington. The Farmington Community Fire Protection District reported that an inverter panel was burning. Fire department photographs showed the inverter, described as a key component of the solar array, was severely damaged. The solar panels had to be de-energised, and crews used a dry chemical extinguisher rather than water. A dollar estimate of the damage was not available.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service identified a burning inverter panel as the source of the grass fire. Why the inverter panel caught fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire under solar panels may require the array to be de-energised before crews can work. (2) Where an electrical component is involved, a dry chemical extinguisher may be used instead of water. (3) A burning inverter can start or sustain a grass fire beneath panels, so vegetation under an array is a fire-spread risk.", "source_url": "https://www.25newsnow.com/2023/06/10/crews-find-source-grass-fire-near-farmington-underneath-solar-panels/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:18:39.918357+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1640", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1640/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire on roof of a business in Franklin Township", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Solar panels on the roof of a manufacturing facility in Franklin Township, New Jersey, caught fire on 10 July 2024. Multiple calls reported black smoke from the roof. Firefighters found heavy smoke and fire spreading rapidly in the solar panels. Strong winds were reported to have worsened conditions, and the incident was upgraded to a second alarm. Firefighters extinguished the fire and ventilated the building, leaving at 8:30 p.m. No one was reported inside the building, and no injuries were reported. The cause and origin remain under investigation. An initial investigation indicated that the fire did not appear suspicious.", "contributing_factors": "Strong winds were reported to have caused conditions to deteriorate, and firefighters also described fighting extreme heat. The cause of the fire has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A rooftop solar fire can spread quickly and may need an early increase in resources, including a second alarm. (2) Wind can worsen a roof fire, so operators should agree access, isolation and ventilation arrangements with the local fire service in advance. (3) Treat an early finding that a fire does not appear suspicious as provisional until the cause and origin investigation is complete.", "source_url": "https://patch.com/new-jersey/hillsborough/solar-panels-catch-fire-atop-warehouse-franklin", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:24:00.885511+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1641", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1641/", "title": "Solar panel fire put out on Asheville Chamber of Commerce roof", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Asheville Fire Department crews responded to a fire in a single solar panel on the roof of the building at 36 Montford Avenue that houses the Asheville Chamber of Commerce and the Asheville Visitor Center. The fire was reported at about 10:30 a.m. on 15 June 2026 and was put out within minutes. No damage was reported. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire confined to one rooftop panel can still need a fire service response. (2) Rapid attendance can stop a small rooftop solar fire before it spreads to the rest of the array or the building. (3) Where the cause is not yet known, the affected array should be isolated and inspected before it is returned to service.", "source_url": "https://wlos.com/news/local/solar-panel-fire-put-out-on-roof-of-downtown-building-no-damages-reported-fire-department-visitor-center-emergency-response-contained-blaze", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:25:58.212485+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1642", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1642/", "title": "Solar panels ignite fire on roof of Olney home", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Tuesday, a fire was reported around 11:30 a.m. at a two-storey home in Olney, Montgomery County, Maryland. Crews found the fire on the roof, where the solar panels had ignited. They extinguished it before it spread to other parts of the home and deactivated the panels with a handheld product the fire service named as PVStop. The cause, and whether anyone was hurt, were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a rooftop solar fire as live electrical equipment until crews confirm the array is isolated. (2) Keep a clear roof access path so a panel fire can be reached before it spreads into the house. (3) Record how the array was made safe, including any deactivation product used, for later review.", "source_url": "https://patch.com/maryland/gaithersburg/solar-panels-ignite-blaze-montgomery-county-home", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:28:09.413794+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1643", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1643/", "title": "Brush fire near solar farm started by grass cutting", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A brush fire broke out near the OCI Solar Powr Alamo 2 Solar Farm at the corner of Binz Engleman and Woodlake Parkway in San Antonio. The fire started around noon when two employees of the plant were cutting grass. It burned 12 acres according to the San Antonio Fire Department and 20 acres according to the owner. Bexar County ESDs 9, 11 and 12 responded. No one was injured and no property was damaged. As a precaution the operator powered down the solar farm and notified CPS Energy. The site was to be re-energised once declared safe by fire officials.", "contributing_factors": "Grass cutting activity by employees at the site.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure vegetation management work near solar farms includes fire prevention measures such as adequate water or suppression equipment on site. (2) Maintain clear communication protocols with local fire services and grid operators during any on-site maintenance that could generate ignition sources. (3) Review and update site-specific risk assessments for routine maintenance tasks in dry or grassy areas.", "source_url": "https://foxsanantonio.com/newsletter-daily/brush-fire-breaks-out-near-solar-farm-from-employees-cutting-grass-local-news-near-me-crime-law-public-safety", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:30:14.545363+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1644", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1644/", "title": "Fire damages solar panels on roof in East Longmeadow", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 24 August 2025 the East Longmeadow Fire Department responded to a building fire at 80 Denslow Road. Crews found heavy smoke coming from the roof at the rear of the building. Multiple solar panels were on fire. Firefighters secured power to the array and extinguished the fire. Longmeadow, Wilbraham, Somers, Hampden and Shaker Pines fire departments assisted. No injuries were reported. Only the affected panels and sections of the roof sustained damage.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Fire services should isolate power to roof-mounted solar arrays at the earliest safe opportunity. (2) Pre-incident planning should include awareness of solar installations on commercial and residential buildings. (3) Rapid mutual aid can limit damage when multiple agencies respond to roof fires.", "source_url": "https://www.wwlp.com/news/local-news/hampden-county/crews-put-out-solar-panel-fire-in-east-longmeadow/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:30:39.950594+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1645", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1645/", "title": "Tornado damages solar farm near Wheatfield in Indiana", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report dated 11 March 2026 says an EF1 tornado tore through Wheatfield in Jasper County, Indiana, on the previous night. A solar farm on North County Road 300 East, east of State Road 10, was struck. Officials said the tornado path went through the solar field and ripped out a large number of panels. A field just east of State Road 10 was left with scraps of metal and dented solar panels. NIPSCO was working on surrounding downed power lines and fallen trees. How much of the array was lost, and whether the farm itself was taken offline, was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The report describes an EF1 tornado whose path crossed the solar field. No other cause was reported. The headline also called the tornado suspected.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a tornado warning, solar farms on the reported track need a prompt inspection, because panels can be torn out and left as debris. (2) Where the same storm downs nearby lines and trees, operators should confirm isolation and safe access with the network company before recovery work. (3) Damage records should separate modules, frames and mounts, so later design reviews are not based on a single news description.", "source_url": "https://wsbt.com/news/local/solar-farm-damaged-by-severe-storms-rain-tornado-winds-supercell-damage-wheatfield-jasper-county-indiana", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T02:35:25.157259+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1646", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1646/", "title": "Transformer explosion causes blackout in Neemuch revenue colony", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion occurred in a power transformer near the Telephone Exchange in Neemuch on a Monday night. The blast led to a total blackout in the Revenue Colony area, near Mishra Hotel. Witnesses heard crackling sounds followed by smoke, then a loud explosion and flames. Sparks flew across the road. No damage or injuries were reported. The electricity department disconnected the feeder line. Technicians replaced burnt components and restored supply late that night.", "contributing_factors": "Electricity department officials said the explosion was likely caused by high ambient temperatures and an increasing electrical load. That cause has not been independently confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Monitor load distributions on distribution transformers during periods of high temperature. (2) Ensure rapid isolation of faulted equipment to limit outage scope. (3) Maintain readiness for overnight repair crews to minimise customer impact.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/indore/explosion-in-transformer-causes-power-outage-in-neemuch-locality/articleshow/130589509.cms", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:12:05.072588+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1647", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1647/", "title": "Underground transformer failure in downtown Minneapolis causes nearby power outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In downtown Minneapolis, an underground electrical transformer failed near Ninth Street and Hennepin Avenue, and the Minneapolis Fire Department said a transformer likely exploded. Firefighters responded to reports of an explosion and smoke. Some nearby buildings lost power. The department said there was no damage and no injuries. Xcel Energy said it was working to restore power to 22 customers in the downtown area after the outage began at 4:34 p.m.", "contributing_factors": "Xcel Energy said an underground electrical transformer failed. No further cause is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat reports of explosion and smoke at urban electrical equipment as a possible transformer failure until the utility confirms the failed element. (2) Keep outage maps current so the number of customers affected and the start time are clear while restoration is under way. (3) Coordinate fire-service response with the network operator when power is lost at neighbouring buildings and no fire damage is found.", "source_url": "https://kstp.com/kstp-news/local-news/mfd-transformer-likely-exploded-in-downtown-causing-some-nearby-power-outages/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:12:06.496512+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1648", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1648/", "title": "Smoke and a reported fire at Bicchu Hirose substation in Takahashi suspend rail services", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "Japan", "country_code": "jp", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Smoke was reported at the Bicchu Hirose substation in Takahashi City at about 05:20 on 28 May 2026. A newspaper headline reported a fire at the substation. Services on the Hakubi Line were suspended for about half a day. A tree had fallen onto overhead lines between Hokoku and Ikura, and reports said this may have been the cause. The extent of any fire, injuries, and the link between the line damage and the substation are not stated in the available captions.", "contributing_factors": "A fallen tree damaging overhead lines is reported as a possible cause. No confirmed cause is given.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Vegetation near overhead lines can damage equipment and interrupt supply. (2) A line fault may affect a substation, so isolation and restoration plans should be ready. (3) Early reports may confirm smoke and service impact before the cause is known.", "source_url": "https://www.sanyonews.jp/photo/detail?article_id=1927937", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:12:18.286292+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1649", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1649/", "title": "Grass fire threatens solar panels in Bay County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A grass fire broke out at a Florida Power and Light solar facility on Linger Longer Road near Beer Creek in northern Bay County. The fire started in grass beneath the panels at about 6:30 on Tuesday evening. Bay County and State Forestry firefighters responded, and a sheriff's helicopter dropped water on the flames. The fire was put out and crews were mopping up. Forestry officials cut a fire line in case it flared again. The cause was still under investigation. The source gave no word on whether the panels were damaged, and it did not report injuries.", "contributing_factors": "Grass underneath the panels caught fire. The cause had not been established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep vegetation beneath and around solar arrays managed so it does not become a ready fuel load. (2) Plan how ground crews and aerial water drops can reach a remote array quickly. (3) After the flames are out, cut a containment line and watch for flare-ups.", "source_url": "https://www.mypanhandle.com/news/grass-fire-threatens-solar-panel-field-in-bay-county/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:12:38.634121+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1650", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1650/", "title": "Power line fire in Center City Philadelphia causes outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Wednesday night, a power line caught fire at 12th and Lombard streets in Center City, Philadelphia. Crews were working to put out a fire on the power lines and a transformer. PECO said around 1,259 customers were affected. Power appeared to have been restored in Center City by midnight. How the fire started was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire on an urban power line can interrupt supply to more than a thousand customers within hours. (2) While the cause is unknown, crews should treat the line and the nearby transformer as separate points to check before supply is confirmed restored. (3) Early notices should separate customer numbers and restoration status from cause, which may still be unknown.", "source_url": "https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/power-line-catches-fire-in-center-city-causing-power-outage-for-some/4378730/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:12:51.731174+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1651", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1651/", "title": "Vegetation fire contained at solar farm in Santa Margarita", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews responded to a vegetation fire, named the Helios Fire, at California Solar Farm in Santa Margarita. It was first reported before 9 p.m. on Sunday. Fire officials first said it was holding at about 170 acres. San Luis Obispo County Fire later said forward progress had stopped overnight and that containment was 40 per cent, with a further increase expected once control lines could be seen in daylight. Cal Fire then revised the burned area to 38 acres, with 90 per cent containment by Monday afternoon. The cause was not reported. The source does not say whether solar equipment was damaged, or whether anyone was injured.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Early acreage figures for a vegetation fire at a solar farm should be treated as provisional until crews can inspect control lines in daylight. (2) Overnight monitoring can stop forward progress even when full containment is not yet confirmed. (3) Where the cause is unknown, operators should not assume the fire began in electrical equipment, and should still inspect the site once it is safe.", "source_url": "https://www.ksby.com/news/local-news/containment-grows-on-vegetation-fire-at-california-solar-farm-in-santa-margarita", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:13:21.450786+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1652", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1652/", "title": "Small fire contained at Terra-Gen battery storage in Valley Center", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Monday evening at the Terra-Gen Energy Storage System in Valley Center, the emergency management system detected a smoke alarm in one battery storage unit. The Valley Center Fire Department and the San Diego County Hazardous Materials Division responded and remained on site monitoring the situation until 8:00 P.M. The facility safety systems contained the event to a small amount of smoke within a single unit and suppressed the fire. Terra-Gen personnel attended and coordinated with responding agencies. No threat to the public arose and no evacuation orders were issued. The incident was reported by local news with a drone image of the site.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Automated monitoring systems can provide early indication of thermal events. (2) Unit-level containment design can limit smoke and fire spread. (3) Coordination between operators and local fire and hazardous materials teams supports rapid monitoring and closure of incidents.", "source_url": "https://www.valleycenter.com/articles/another-small-fire-at-terra-gen-battery-storage/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:13:31.526232+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1653", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1653/", "title": "Strong winds tear solar panels from a house roof in Pentakomo", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Cyprus", "country_code": "cy", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Strong winds tore solar panels from the roof of a house in Pentakomo, in the Limassol district of Cyprus, causing damage. Fire Service crews were mobilised after a series of wind-related incidents in the district. The report does not say how many panels were damaged, whether anyone was hurt, or whether a fire started. Separately, five incidents were recorded in Limassol in which trees fell onto vehicles.", "contributing_factors": "Strong winds. Wind speed and any failure of the panels or their fixings are not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rooftop solar arrays should be fixed to suit local wind loads. (2) After high winds, owners should check that panels and fixings are still secure. (3) Detached panels should be treated as live electrical equipment until isolated.", "source_url": "https://en.philenews.com/local/strong-winds-damage-solar-panels-trees-limassol-live/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:13:38.36378+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1654", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1654/", "title": "Transformer explosion reported to have triggered a fire at N'ganj", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Bangladesh", "country_code": "bd", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Daily Observer reported on 14 March 2026 that a transformer explosion triggered a fire at N'ganj. The article text was not available, so the exact site, the response, any injuries and the extent of damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported transformer explosion and fire as a live electrical hazard until the equipment is isolated and made safe. (2) Do not infer cause, scale or casualties from a headline alone. (3) Record site, time and any outage or injury figures only when a fuller report confirms them.", "source_url": "https://observerbd.com/news/569631", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:13:44.919338+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1655", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1655/", "title": "Substation fire on Fadem Road in Springfield cuts power and closes Route 22 lanes", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A substation fire on Fadem Road knocked out power for residents and commuters around Springfield, News12 reported. Springfield police said the fire was on Fadem Road and asked people not to call 911 to report outages. As of 9:27 a.m. on 5 March 2026, 511nj.com reported that a power failure on Route 22 westbound, east of Springfield Avenue, had closed all lanes. A JCP&L spokesperson said crews were making emergency repairs and expected most customers to have power back within half an hour, with the rest by noon. The Union Township Police Department separately said downed lines near P.C. Richard & Son on Route 22 in Union Township were adding to traffic delays, and that PSE&G was on scene for emergency repairs. The cause of the fire, and whether power was in fact restored on that timetable, were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can close nearby roads and disrupt traffic as well as electricity supply. (2) Clear advice on where to report outages can keep emergency lines free during a widespread failure. (3) Nearby downed lines should be treated as a separate restoration task until a link to the substation fire is confirmed.", "source_url": "https://bronx.news12.com/2026/03/05/springfield-substation-fire-causes-power-loss-snarls-traffic-on-route-22/KklVGJiDREOXCvBwxjEsV", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:13:52.024504+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1656", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1656/", "title": "Wolfe Island turbine loses blade prompting shutdown of 86 turbines", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 16 March 2026 a blade detached from a turbine at the Wolfe Island Wind Farm in Ontario, Canada, after a weekend of powerful gusts. The nose cone also detached and was reported to have landed about 100 metres away. TransAlta said the site was taken offline at once and the surrounding area secured. All 86 turbines remained offline while inspections and a technical assessment were carried out. No injuries were reported. The cause of the failure had not been determined.", "contributing_factors": "Powerful gusts were reported around the time of the failure. TransAlta said the cause was still under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a blade or hub component detaches, operators should idle the affected turbines and secure the fall zone until inspections are complete. (2) A full-site shutdown is a reasonable precaution while it is unknown whether the failure is isolated. (3) A prompt technical assessment can show whether similar turbines need inspection before they return to service.", "source_url": "https://farmersforum.com/wolfe-island-turbine-loses-blade-prompting-shutdown-of-86-turbines-for-investigation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:14:10.879509+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1657", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1657/", "title": "Transformer fire causes outage for Duke Energy customers in Youngsville area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Over 1,200 Duke Energy customers in Franklin County lost power after a transformer fire on Tarboro Road just outside Youngsville, North Carolina. The utility reported that the outage began at about 11:14 p.m. on 9 February 2026 and cited an equipment failure. The fire service said nearly 2,500 customers were without electricity at one point in the greater Youngsville area. Power was reported fully restored just after 5 a.m. on 10 February.", "contributing_factors": "Duke Energy cited an equipment failure. The source does not describe how the failure led to the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire on a distribution circuit can cut supply to more than a thousand customers within minutes. (2) Peak customer counts from the fire service and the utility outage map can differ, so both should be recorded. (3) Overnight restoration plans should include a clear record of the failed equipment for later review.", "source_url": "https://www.cbs17.com/news/local-news/over-1200-duke-energy-customers-without-power-after-transformer-fire-in-franklin-county/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:14:40.937119+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1658", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1658/", "title": "Transformer fire at Old RPH station causes Kanpur outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 29 January 2026, The Times of India reported that a fire broke out in a 10 MVA power transformer at Old RPH power station in Kanpur, causing a power outage in several areas. The transformer burst into flames. Power station staff began trying to control the fire with on-site fire safety equipment, and a fire department team also attended. There were no reports of casualties. KESCO was reported to estimate the loss at about Rs 90 lakh. Repair work and efforts to restore supply in limited areas through alternative arrangements were reported to be under way, and an investigation was said to have been ordered.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a power station needs a prompt on-site response and fire service attendance while the cause is still unknown. (2) Alternative supply arrangements can restore power to some areas while a damaged transformer is repaired. (3) An ordered investigation should establish the cause before operators draw conclusions about the failure.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kanpur/fire-in-transformer-causes-power-outage-across-city/articleshow/127730930.cms", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:14:58.459326+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1659", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1659/", "title": "Transformer explosion and power line fire after shed blaze in Loudoun County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A shed fire in Loudoun County, United States, was reported to have spread to nearby high-tension power lines and a transformer on a power pole. Officials said a transformer explosion occurred during the incident because of the location of the lines. Fire crews extinguished the fire. No injuries were reported and no residents were displaced. The cause of the shed fire has not been released, and it has not been reported whether any power outage followed. The scene was secured, with any further investigation left to local authorities.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the shed fire has not been reported. Officials linked the transformer explosion to the location of the high-tension lines during the fire, not to a stated equipment fault.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire beside overhead lines can spread to a pole-mounted transformer and high-tension conductors. (2) Treat nearby lines and transformers as live until the operator confirms they are isolated. (3) Record whether supply was lost, because that outcome may not be clear in early reports.", "source_url": "https://www.fox5dc.com/news/transformer-explosion-power-line-fire-follow-shed-blaze-loudoun-county", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:14:59.676191+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1660", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1660/", "title": "Transformer explosion and fire reported in Texarkana during winter storm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer was reported to have exploded and caught fire in Texarkana during a severe winter storm. The event was said to have been caught on camera. Injuries, power cuts, the operator and the precise time of the explosion were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The report places the event during a severe winter storm. It does not say whether the weather caused the failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a filmed transformer fire as an incident even when the first report gives little operational detail. (2) Do not treat storm timing as a confirmed cause until the operator or investigators say so. (3) Recheck thin video reports for outages, injuries and the affected asset before upgrading the entry.", "source_url": "https://www.ksla.com/video/2026/01/24/transformer-explosion-fire-caught-camera-texarkana-during-winter-storm/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:15:01.085496+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1661", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1661/", "title": "Firefighters tackle a reported PG&E substation fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A December 2025 NBC Bay Area video headline says firefighters tackled a fire at a PG&E substation. The available text does not name the substation, and it does not say whether anyone was hurt, how the fire started, or whether customers lost power.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported substation fire as live electrical plant until the affected equipment is identified. (2) Record the site name and whether supply was lost, so one fire is not later confused with another. (3) Do not infer cause, injuries or the length of any power cut from a headline alone.", "source_url": "https://www.nbcbayarea.com/video/news/local/firefighters-tackle-pge-substation-fire/4001348/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:15:54.880098+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1662", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1662/", "title": "Technician falls from gangway at Dogger Bank Wind Farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A technician was transferring on foot from a service operations vessel to a transition piece at Dogger Bank Wind Farm, off the north-east coast of England, using a telescopic walk-to-work gangway about 25 to 30 metres above the sea. The gangway is reported to have retracted suddenly. The technician lost balance and fell into the sea, and was rescued after about six to eight minutes in the water. Construction at the wind farm has been ongoing since 2022. A compensation claim has been issued against the technician's former employer, GE Energy UK. The date of the fall is not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause is not established in the source. The technician alleges that he did not see a red light, hear an alarm or hear a warning before the gangway moved. It is also alleged that there was a potential fault with the gangway and that supervision and communication were lacking, so the automatic disconnection was not overridden manually.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Motion-compensated gangways should give a clear audible and visual warning before automatic retraction, or be taken out of service until they can. (2) Personnel transfers at height need clear supervision, communication and a workable manual override. (3) Operators should review gangway arrangements after safety notices on these systems.", "source_url": "https://www.stewartslaw.com/news/technician-seeks-compensation-for-injuries-sustained-after-falling-into-sea-at-worlds-largest-offshore-wind-farm/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:16:10.425098+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1663", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1663/", "title": "Explosion at Tom nan Clach wind farm south of Nairn injures worker", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A subcontractor working on the Tom nan Clach wind farm south of Nairn was injured when a power cabinet controlling 33,000 volts exploded. The worker had been carrying out maintenance on one of two cabinets at the site. An initial isolation switching programme had been changed twice, leading to confusion over which cabinet had been isolated. Power was restored to the wrong cabinet while work continued. A flashover occurred, engulfing the worker in flames. Colleagues used fire extinguishers and cold water until emergency services arrived. The worker was airlifted to a specialist burns unit and required multiple surgeries. Natural Power Services admitted health and safety breaches and was fined.", "contributing_factors": "The original isolation switching programme was not followed. Changes to the programme caused confusion over which cabinet was isolated. The cabinets were poorly labelled. Checks that the correct cabinets had been isolated were inadequate.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure isolation switching programmes are followed exactly and any changes are clearly communicated and documented. (2) Label all high-voltage cabinets clearly and unambiguously before maintenance begins. (3) Verify isolation of the correct equipment before work proceeds and before power is restored.", "source_url": "https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/wind-farm-subcontractor-was-engulfed-in-flames-after-power-c-420351/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:16:21.923526+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1664", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1664/", "title": "Turbine collapses at Halkirk 2 wind project near Castor", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-11", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Tower 33 at the Halkirk 2 wind project near Castor fell on 8 November 2024 while the recently constructed site was being brought online and introducing power to Alberta's grid. The collapse caused a complete loss of the tower and a suspension order for the entire field. An investigation by the turbine manufacturer and an independent third party found that incorrectly calibrated tools had been used to tension the tower-to-nacelle structural bolts. Site cleanup was later reported complete, with components cut or dismantled and taken for recycling or disposal, including transport to a specialised recycling facility near Brooks, Alberta. In late November 2025 the project was reported to have resumed commissioning and to be supplying power to the grid again. Commercial operation was tentatively targeted by the end of 2025, subject to weather and other factors.", "contributing_factors": "The investigation attributed the collapse to the use of out-of-tolerance tooling to tension the tower-to-nacelle structural bolts during assembly.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Verify calibration and tolerance of tooling before structural bolt tensioning on turbines. (2) Apply independent checks of critical assembly steps during commissioning. (3) Plan for investigation, safe removal and recycling or disposal of a failed turbine before the site returns to service.", "source_url": "https://reddeeradvocate.com/2025/11/28/halkirk-2-wind-project-back-on-track-following-2024-turbine-failure/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:16:23.794479+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1665", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1665/", "title": "Interenergy to rebuild Eight Rivers solar park after hurricane damage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Jamaica", "country_code": "jm", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Eight Rivers Solar Park in Westmoreland was reported to have sustained catastrophic damage from Hurricane Melissa, described as a record Category 5 storm that battered western and southern parishes. Interenergy Group said it will rebuild the facility. The published account is a short lead only, so the date, the scale of the damage and any outage length are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Hurricane Melissa, reported as a Category 5 storm. No other contributing factors are reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Solar parks in hurricane-prone regions need designs and maintenance that account for extreme wind. (2) After a major storm, operators should inspect the site, isolate damaged plant and say what is known about safety and generation. (3) Short public reports should be followed by a fuller account of damage and downtime so other operators can learn.", "source_url": "https://www.pressreader.com/jamaica/jamaica-gleaner/20251114/281874419678349", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:16:41.591484+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1666", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1666/", "title": "Drones reported to damage three turbines at Kramatorsk wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "Ukraine", "country_code": "ua", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Russian drones were reported to have struck three wind turbines, each of 4.5 MW, at the Kramatorsk Wind Farm in late October 2025. Strikes were reported on 22, 24 and 25 October. Two turbines were described as damaged or destroyed in the earlier strikes, and a third was reported hit on 25 October. The turbines were said to have been manufactured in Kramatorsk by Friendly Wind Technology LLC. No injuries, fatalities or outage figures are reported.", "contributing_factors": "The only reported cause is repeated drone strikes on the same wind farm. The source does not describe a technical fault, weather factor or operational error.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Sites facing repeated strikes need a written plan for isolation, inspection and a safe return to service after each hit. (2) Operators should record which turbine was hit, on which date, and whether it was damaged or destroyed, so later reports do not blur the outcome. (3) A common turbine make does not remove the need for spares and a restart plan if several machines are hit together.", "source_url": "https://en.interfax.com.ua/news/general/1116258.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:17:34.487716+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1667", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1667/", "title": "Blade damage reported at Pasquotank County wind turbine", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 23 November 2025, a turbine at the Amazon Wind Farm US East, also known as the Desert Wind facility, in Pasquotank County, North Carolina, was photographed with only two blades. Avangrid, which operates the 208 MW site of 104 Gamesa G114 turbines, said technicians responded to an isolated event in which a single blade was damaged. It said no one was in the immediate area, no injuries occurred, and no damage was found beyond the affected blade, and that it had taken steps to secure the turbine and any debris. How the damage occurred, whether the blade had fully detached, and whether any missing piece had been located, had not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. The same report noted that blade failures in general can follow manufacturing defects, lightning, extreme wind shear or internal stress fractures, but none of these was identified for this turbine.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A report of a damaged or apparently missing blade should prompt a prompt check of the turbine and of any debris. (2) Until the cause is known, the affected turbine should be secured and kept out of service. (3) Where turbines stand near roads, shops or homes, response plans should allow for blade pieces that may travel some distance.", "source_url": "https://albemarleobserver.news/2025/11/24/developing-story-blade-failure-at-pasquotank-county-turbine/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:17:37.11357+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1668", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1668/", "title": "Fire destroys power station on Manihiki island", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Cook Islands", "country_code": "ck", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire destroyed the power station in Tauhunu, Manihiki early on a Tuesday morning. The Office of the Prime Minister confirmed that a replacement transformer, generator and associated cabling will be required. There were no injuries or casualties. The nearby solar farm remained intact. The fire was contained by local authorities, preventing further damage to nearby storage facilities. Three portable generators supplied temporary power to the cyclone management centre. Technical assessments led by Te Aponga Uira are underway.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Pre-positioned portable generators can maintain essential services such as food storage after loss of a power station. (2) Coordinated multi-agency response supports rapid assessment and restoration planning. (3) Stocktaking of spare parts across locations aids quicker deployment of replacement equipment.", "source_url": "https://www.cookislandsnews.com/internal/national/local/outer-islands/new-generator-and-transformer-needed-after-manihiki-fire-opm/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:17:48.392228+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1669", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1669/", "title": "Substation pole fire causes citywide outage in Wadsworth", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A substation pole carrying a FirstEnergy transmission line, near the point where Wadsworth, Ohio, receives its electrical supply, caught fire at about 2 p.m. on 27 October 2025. Police said the fire was believed to have caused a citywide power outage. City officials estimated that power should be restored around midnight. By just after 10:30 p.m., a new utility pole was in place and FirstEnergy crews were framing it before coordinating with city substation crews to re-energise the line and restore circuits while managing load. The outage initially affected the city's phone systems, and most traffic signals were not functioning. Police later said 911 and non-emergency lines were back in service.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the pole fire was not reported. Police said the fire was believed to have caused the outage, and that the issue was not caused by the City of Wadsworth's electric system.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain clear protocols for coordination between transmission operators and local distribution crews during restoration after equipment failure. (2) Ensure backup communications for emergency services when primary systems are affected by power loss. (3) Provide public guidance on treating non-functioning traffic signals as four-way stops and preserving food during extended outages.", "source_url": "https://fox8.com/news/citywide-power-outage-in-wadsworth-after-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:17:52.575701+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1670", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1670/", "title": "Wind turbine blade detaches and falls in Bourne", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Boston 25 News reported video from Cape Cod showing a broken wind turbine after one blade became detached on Friday afternoon in Bourne. The available account does not name the site, the operator or any injuries, and it does not say what caused the blade to detach.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A detached blade should be treated as a structural failure until inspection shows otherwise. (2) After a blade loss, the area should be secured and nearby turbines checked. (3) Early reports may not state cause, injuries or the exact site, so those points should be confirmed before wider conclusions.", "source_url": "https://www.facebook.com/Boston25News/videos/wind-turbine-blade-snaps-and-falls-off-in-bourne/1814066429221150/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:17:57.573156+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1671", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1671/", "title": "Solar panel detaches from carport and strikes pedestrian", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A solar panel became disconnected from a steel carport structure over an outdoor parking lot at Shorecrest Towers in Brighton Beach. The detached panel was blown approximately 20 feet by the wind and struck a pedestrian on an adjacent walkway. The pedestrian was taken unconscious to hospital and later died. Access to the walkway and nearby stairs remains closed and a partial vacate order applies to the parking lot.", "contributing_factors": "The 41 inch by 87 inch panel became disconnected from the steel carport structure. Wind carried the detached panel to the walkway.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Mounting connections on elevated solar arrays must be inspected at regular intervals to detect loosening before detachment occurs. (2) Wind load design and attachment methods for carport solar installations require verification against local conditions. (3) Emergency access routes adjacent to solar structures should be assessed for risk of falling equipment.", "source_url": "https://brooklyn.news12.com/2025/10/14/woman-struck-by-solar-panel-dies-at-hospital/3BT20K7nZOTAKjgfojKaQp", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:18:09.111487+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1672", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1672/", "title": "Electrical transformer explodes in Toronto's Forest Hill area", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "CTV News reported that an electrical transformer exploded in the Forest Hill area of Toronto and that no injuries were reported. The cause, the operator, whether there was a fire or a power cut, and the extent of any damage were not reported in the available account.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline report of a transformer explosion as incomplete until cause, supply impact and damage are confirmed. (2) Record injury status separately from other harm, and do not infer outcomes the report does not state. (3) Keep the failed unit available for inspection so the failure mode can be identified when more information appears.", "source_url": "https://www.ctvnews.ca/toronto/local/article/no-injuries-reported-following-electrical-transformer-explosion-in-torontos-forest-hill-area/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:18:20.573114+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1673", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1673/", "title": "Substation explosion causes outage in Pietermaritzburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electric substation at the corner of West and Victoria streets in Pietermaritzburg exploded shortly before noon on 9 October 2025, and parts of the city lost power. The fire had already burned out when Msunduzi firefighters arrived, but smoke was still coming from the structure. Firefighters struggled to open the metal doors and used the jaws of life to force them open so they could assess the damage. A person at a nearby business said the power had gone out shortly before the explosion and that it was unclear whether the two were connected. A local councillor said residents and businesses near the substation should expect intermittent or no electricity, advised alternative arrangements for essential services while repairs were under way, and asked people to avoid the area and use other routes.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. A person at a nearby business said the substation had not had problems for some time, and speculated that difficulty opening the doors might mean maintenance was not being done properly. That view is not confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation doors and other access points should be kept workable so emergency crews can enter quickly. (2) Operators should check doors and entry mechanisms during routine inspections. (3) During an outage, operators and the local authority should tell nearby residents and businesses what is known and what is still unclear.", "source_url": "https://witness.co.za/news/2025/10/09/cbd-fire-station-explosion/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T05:18:38.623452+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1674", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1674/", "title": "Transformer fire in New Haven causes outages and a road closure", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire in New Haven, Connecticut, was reported to have cut power on the afternoon of 9 September 2026. Yale University said power was out in the area of 2 Science Park (50 Division Street) and 25 Science Park (150 Munson Street). Winchester Avenue was closed from Munson Street to Division Street. The university said power had been restored and the area was clear as of 5:10 p.m. More than 2,000 United Illuminating customers in New Haven were without power when the outage was first reported, and thirteen were still without power at 5:45 p.m. The cause of the fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Alerts that name the affected streets help nearby users and responders act quickly. (2) A short road closure around a transformer fire can keep the public clear while the fault is made safe. (3) Customer counts should be checked again after the first restoration report, because a small number of supplies can remain off.", "source_url": "https://www.wtnh.com/news/connecticut/new-haven/new-haven-transformer-fire-causes-power-outages-road-closure/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T15:13:04.850557+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1675", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1675/", "title": "Transformer fire in La Grange Park destroys cars after lines come down", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the afternoon of 4 August 2026, firefighters were called to East 31st Street in La Grange Park, Illinois, after it appeared a utility pole had come down in a parking lot behind the Arbor Animal Hospital, together with two transformers and three main power lines. Fire officials said oil from the transformers caught fire and produced a large blaze. Four cars in the parking lot of an adjacent medical office building were destroyed, and other vehicles were damaged. The animal hospital, a BP petrol station and the medical office building were evacuated. Downed lines hampered the first attempts to put the fire out. ComEd then de-energised the lines and the fire was extinguished. No injuries to people or animals were reported. ComEd restored power to the wider area within several hours and worked overnight to replace the pole, repair remaining damage and restore supply to the animal hospital and the petrol station. It also cleaned up spilled mineral oil. Fire officials reported damage to the driveway, parking pavement and some concrete.", "contributing_factors": "Officials said it appeared a utility pole had come down with transformers and power lines. The cause of the pole coming down was not reported. Oil from the transformers then caught fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Utility operators should coordinate closely with emergency services so downed lines can be de-energised quickly. (2) Fire services need procedures for incidents involving transformer oil and equipment that may still be live. (3) Prompt containment and clean-up of spilled mineral oil limits further damage to surfaces.", "source_url": "https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/la-grange-park-illinois-transformer-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T15:13:33.765002+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1676", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1676/", "title": "Transformer explosion causes outage and road closure in New Rochelle", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded near Trinity Elementary School on Pelham Road in New Rochelle, causing power cuts affecting 528 customers and closing Pelham Road from Church Street to North Avenue. Flames were seen on a pole. Power was restored by about 10:50 a.m. and the road reopened. The report says this was the second transformer fire in the same area in recent weeks; another fire delayed the start of Trinity School on 21 November.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A pole-mounted transformer failure can close a road and disrupt nearby school access even when supply is restored the same morning. (2) Utilities should be ready to restore power, reopen roads and support alternative school drop-off when a failure is next to a school. (3) A second transformer fire in the same area within weeks is a prompt to inspect nearby equipment, even when neither cause has been reported.", "source_url": "https://brooklyn.news12.com/2024/12/11/transformer-explosion-causes-power-outage-shuts-roadway-in-new-rochelle/5oh9Z1YLBV9c681w2zbVdL", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-09-30T15:14:12.36232+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1677", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1677/", "title": "Transformer explosion closes road and cuts power in Brick", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 14 October 2024, police said a transformer exploded in the area of Brick Boulevard in Brick, New Jersey, and that the road was closed from Drum Point Road to Pine Tree Road. They said there was no active fire, but wires were arcing on the road, and motorists were advised to avoid the area. Jersey Central Power & Light's website reported just under 5,000 customers in the vicinity without power. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) After a transformer failure, arcing conductors can keep a road unsafe even when there is no active fire, so isolation and traffic control should be part of the response. (2) Customer outage counts published during an incident can change as switching proceeds and should be treated as a snapshot, not a final figure. (3) Early reports may not state a cause, so failed equipment and protection records should be preserved before replacement.", "source_url": "https://www.app.com/story/news/local/emergencies/2024/10/14/brick-nj-power-out-due-to-transformer-explosion/75672808007/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T20:07:42.277699+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1678", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1678/", "title": "Fire at Pyramid substation north of Pretoria linked to reported sabotage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire gutted the Pyramid substation in the early hours, leaving parts of Rooiwal, north of Pretoria, without power and water. The City of Tshwane said the incident tripped the 132 kV Line 1 Bellom-Parktown and caused outages at Pretoria North, Wonderboom, Wolmer, Pyramid, Pumulani, Koedoespoort and parts of Waltloo, affecting the Rooiwal sewerage plant and households around the substation. A councillor who visited afterwards reported cut locks, a broken door, severed control-panel cables and a vandalised communication system, and described the damage as suspected sabotage. A local farmer said this was the third time the substation had tripped and burned, and that more than 250 smallholdings were without water and power. The article does not report injuries or a confirmed cause.", "contributing_factors": "The cause is not established. The report links the fire to suspected sabotage and to damage of equipment said to help prevent fires. A resident also alleged that theft and a failure to replace a second transformer had left the site without a spare. Those claims are not independently confirmed in the article.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a substation fire, check for forced entry and damage to protection and communication circuits, and record what is observed separately from what is alleged. (2) Plan for a spare transformer or another restoration path so one failure does not prolong an outage. (3) Do not treat suspected sabotage as a confirmed cause until an investigation is complete.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/news/fire-that-ravaged-pyramid-substation-linked-to-sabotage/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T20:08:32.130095+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1680", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1680/", "title": "Veld fires trip Prospect Substation causing Johannesburg power outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Veld fires under high-transmission lines in City Deep caused the Prospect Substation in Elandsfontein to trip on Tuesday night, as reported on 7 August 2024. The flames caused two 88 kV breakers on transformers 1 and 3 to trip. Several substations fed from Prospect lost supply, leaving multiple areas of Johannesburg without power. Restoration was partly complete by the time of the report, though Mulbarton, Mondeor and Robertsham were still without supply.", "contributing_factors": "City Power said fires under the lines in City Deep were the primary cause, and that the flames tripped the breakers. The operator has also warned that dense smoke under transmission lines can create conditions for a trip, and has cautioned residents against starting veld fires near servitudes. It is not reported whether smoke, rather than the flames, was the mechanism in this case.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep activities that can ignite veld fires away from transmission servitudes. (2) Treat fire and smoke under high-voltage lines as a known trip risk in operating procedures and protection settings. (3) After a trip at a feeding substation, identify which downstream substations remain off and restore them in a stated order.", "source_url": "https://www.news24.com/southafrica/news/parts-of-joburg-without-power-after-veld-fires-cause-a-trip-at-prospect-substation-20240807", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T20:11:06.931777+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1681", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1681/", "title": "Transformer fire triggers alert at Vogtle nuclear plant", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A small transformer fire occurred at the Alvin W. Vogtle Electric Generating Plant in Burke County, Georgia. Georgia Power Co. issued an emergency alert at 12 p.m. ET for Units 1 and 2. The fire affected a transformer supplying electricity to one of the units. The alert was lifted at 2:36 p.m. ET after the fire was extinguished. No injuries occurred and there was no risk to the reactor units or the plant.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain clear communication protocols during minor electrical incidents at generation sites. (2) Ensure rapid fire response capability for transformer equipment. (3) Verify that emergency classifications do not require public action when operating systems remain unaffected.", "source_url": "https://www.newsweek.com/transformer-fire-emergency-alert-georgia-largest-nuclear-plant-1938862", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-09-30T20:11:27.14507+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1682", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1682/", "title": "Transformer fire reported in Kartepe", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Turkey", "country_code": "tr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news report says a transformer fire in Kartepe frightened people and that emergency teams intervened quickly. The report does not say what started the fire, whether anyone was hurt, how much damage was done, or whether power was lost.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported transformer fire as a live electrical hazard until the supply is isolated and the scene is confirmed safe. (2) A rapid emergency response limits harm, but cause, damage and any supply impact still need to be recorded. (3) A headline alone is not enough to judge severity, so operators should check later reports before drawing wider conclusions.", "source_url": "https://kocaeligundem.com/haber/28904581/kartepede-trafo-yangini-korkuttu-ekipler-hizla-mudahale-etti", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:08:57.971273+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1683", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1683/", "title": "Transformer fire at Hardoi medical college substation disrupts supply", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Wednesday afternoon, a transformer at the electrical substation on the medical college campus in Hardoi caught fire. The report says a sudden increase in load was followed by smoke and flames from the transformer leads and cables. Electricity department staff began restoration work and supply to the whole college was shut off. Operations, scans and lifts stopped. Power was restored after about one and a half hours. Patients waiting for operations and tests had to wait, and some left without treatment. No injuries are reported.", "contributing_factors": "The report attributes the fire to a sudden increase in load, after which smoke and then flames were seen from the transformer cables. No further technical cause is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Monitor load on substation transformers serving critical facilities so rising demand is noticed before a fault. (2) Keep backup power arrangements for medical services during an outage. (3) Have a clear response for electrical faults at essential sites so supply can be isolated and restored quickly.", "source_url": "https://www.amarujala.com/uttar-pradesh/hardoi/fire-breaks-hardoi-news-c-213-1-hra1004-157614-2026-09-30", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:09:03.205614+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1684", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1684/", "title": "Short circuit on pole sparks fire at Ghaghsara Bazaar", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Late on Wednesday night a short circuit was reported on an electricity pole in Ghaghsara Bazaar, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. Flames and sparks came from the pole, alarming nearby shopkeepers and residents. The supply was switched off, after which the situation was brought under control. The report says no one was caught in the fire and a larger incident was avoided. The extent of damage and how long the supply stayed off were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The report attributes the fire to a short circuit on the pole. It does not describe what caused the short circuit. Local people asked the electricity department to inspect and repair poles and wires in the market.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolating supply promptly after a pole fire is reported can limit escalation. (2) Inspection and repair of distribution poles and wiring in busy market areas can reduce the chance of a repeat. (3) A clear local route to the power house helps crews cut supply before a pole fire spreads.", "source_url": "https://www.bhaskar.com/local/uttar-pradesh/gorakhpur/pali/news/ghaghsara-bazaar-electricity-pole-short-circuit-fire-incident-139203474.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:09:04.884056+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1685", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1685/", "title": "Grass fire affects Parque Solar de Río Seco near Río Seco", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Argentina", "country_code": "ar", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Tuesday afternoon, firefighters from Cuartel VIII in Río Seco attended a grass fire in the vicinity of the Parque Solar de Río Seco at kilometre 875 on Ruta Nacional 9. Using a high-pressure hose line and hand tools, crews put the fire out. It affected about one hectare of low weeds and part of the wiring for the solar panel circuit. The cause, any effect on generation, and whether the panels themselves were harmed were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A grass fire beside a solar park can reach array cabling even when the burned area is small. (2) Remote solar sites need a clear way in for local fire crews and a known method to isolate circuits. (3) After a vegetation fire, affected cabling should be inspected before equipment is returned to service.", "source_url": "https://laradiodetotoral.com.ar/un-incendio-de-pastizales-afecto-el-parque-solar-de-rio-seco/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:09:06.648837+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1686", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1686/", "title": "Fire at Husainpur Tarai electricity substation in Shamsabad cuts power to 24 villages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Wednesday morning a fire was reported in the incoming machine of the Chilsara feeder at the Husainpur Tarai electricity substation in Shamsabad, Farrukhabad, Uttar Pradesh, India. Power to 24 villages was reported to have stayed off through the day. Electricity staff reached the site, called a mechanic and began repairs. The report said supply would be restored soon; it did not confirm that supply had returned.", "contributing_factors": "Staff told the reporter that a rat entering the incoming machine caused a fault and the fire. That account has not been confirmed by a second source.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep animal barriers and housekeeping in place so rodents cannot enter live equipment. (2) Treat a single on-site account of the cause as provisional until the failed equipment is inspected. (3) Plan how a feeder can be restored quickly when one incoming machine is out of service, so a local fault does not leave many villages without power for a full day.", "source_url": "https://www.livehindustan.com/uttar-pradesh/farrukhabad-kannauj/story-power-outage-in-24-villages-due-to-fire-in-incoming-machine-201790790474388.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:09:23.782192+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1687", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1687/", "title": "Fire burns about 90 hectares at Puertollano solar plant", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "Spain", "country_code": "es", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out around 13:00 on 22 July 2026 at a photovoltaic plant in the municipality of Puertollano, central Spain, and affected around 90 hectares. The mayor said it originated in one of the large photovoltaic installations next to the N-420 highway. The company operating the plant issued the first warning. Three workers on site attempted to contain the fire. One worker suffered burns, was treated initially by a mobile intensive care unit, and was airlifted to hospital. The cause has not been reported. Authorities are to determine whether it started in electrical equipment, plant components, or from external factors. The regional minister said the fire was contained and under control by Thursday morning, and that a main aim was to keep flames from nearby industrial facilities and to protect the surrounding area. The flames did not significantly reach the forest of Dehesa Boyal park. Eight aircraft, up to 24 ground vehicles and up to 129 people took part. Ground teams remained on Thursday to cool the area and reduce the risk of flare-ups.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Prompt notification by the operating company can support a large firefighting response. (2) Staff who try to contain a plant fire may be burned, so procedures should set when to withdraw and call the emergency services. (3) Cooling after containment can reduce the risk of flare-ups near industrial sites and natural areas.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/07/28/fire-at-spanish-solar-plant-burns-90-hectares/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:10:09.973158+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1688", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1688/", "title": "Substation fire disrupts power in Kyiv’s Dniprovskyi district", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-04", "country": "Ukraine", "country_code": "ua", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at a substation in the Dniprovskyi district of Kyiv on 18 April 2026. The Kyiv City State Administration said the fire left parts of the district without power and delayed tram and trolleybus services. Emergency crews were reported to have arrived to put out the fire and start restoration. The cause, the extent of damage, and whether supply had been restored were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut local supply and electrically powered public transport at the same time. (2) Transport operators need a quick way to learn which routes have lost supply. (3) Until the cause is known, restoration time and residual risk should be treated as unconfirmed.", "source_url": "https://mezha.net/eng/news/substation_fire_disrupts/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:10:14.571975+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1689", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1689/", "title": "Engie wind farm damaged by high winds in South Dakota", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Hurricane-force winds on 29 June damaged more than 20 of the 92 turbines at the Triple H Wind farm in Hyde County, northwest of Sioux Falls. Engie North America said it was assessing the damage, and the site remained out of service. A state of emergency was declared following the storm.", "contributing_factors": "Hurricane-force winds from the 29 June storm. The precise damage to each turbine has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Extreme wind can damage many turbines at one site and take the whole farm out of service. (2) Operators should finish a structured damage assessment before returning turbines to service after hurricane-force winds. (3) Site status should be reported separately from a wider storm emergency so the asset outage is not confused with the regional declaration.", "source_url": "https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-07-02/engie-wind-farm-damaged-by-hurricane-force-gale-in-south-dakota", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:10:24.989464+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1690", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1690/", "title": "Fault at electrical cabin reported to disrupt water pumps in Mugnano", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Italy", "country_code": "it", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fault was reported at the electrical cabin that supplies power to the pumps of the water plant on via Mugnano-Melito in Mugnano, Italy. The notice linked the fault to a water shortfall in rione Zi' Peppe, via Colombo and other streets in the area. Technicians were reported to be on site. Early indications were that the problem might be cleared within about an hour. The source does not confirm the cause, the extent of the electrical fault, or that supply was restored.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault in a small electrical cabin can interrupt essential pumping even when the water plant itself is not reported to have failed. (2) Notices about power to critical pumps should separate what is known from an expected restoration time. (3) Operators should confirm that pumping power is back before treating a short disruption as closed.", "source_url": "https://www.altranotizia.com/mugnano-4/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:10:33.074852+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1691", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1691/", "title": "Koeberg nuclear station reduces output after transmission line fault", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "other", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 20 January 2026 at 16:53, both units at Koeberg Nuclear Power Station were reduced from full power to 100 MW each after a fault on the 132 kV transmission lines supplied from the Pinotage transmission substation near Stellenbosch. Eskom said the reduction was an expected response to protect the station and the national grid. The nuclear reactors were not affected, and the National Nuclear Regulator was informed. The National Transmission Company South Africa approved a start to raising output. Eskom reported no risk of loadshedding and no impact on grid stability.", "contributing_factors": "A fault on the 132 kV transmission lines supplied from the Pinotage transmission substation. The cause of that line fault was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault on lines feeding a power station can require output to be reduced to protect the station and the grid. (2) Prompt notice to the regulator supports transparency when a station changes output because of a grid fault. (3) Generation reserves can limit supply disruption when a station reduces output.", "source_url": "https://www.eskom.co.za/koeberg-nuclear-power-station-units-operated-at-reduced-power-due-to-a-line-fault-from-the-pinotage-transmission-substation-eskom-assures-safe-and-normal-operation-of-koeberg-power-station-w/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:11:05.291602+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1692", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1692/", "title": "Faulty transformer reported to cause repeated rain-related outages in Yaba", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Residents of Oyadiran estate in the Sabo area of Yaba told Vanguard News that a community transformer fails when it rains, cutting power for days at a time. They also reported sparks and noise from the transformer during rainfall. They said the distribution company, which they named as EKEDC, has made temporary repairs and that the outages return with further rain. No injury, fire or explosion is reported, and no single incident date is given.", "contributing_factors": "Residents attribute the outages to a faulty, ageing transformer that they say has been repaired rather than replaced. The distribution company has not confirmed a cause in this report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Repeated weather-related transformer trips should be treated as a recurring fault, not a one-off repair. (2) Operators should check assets that fail in rain before the wet season, and record what was found. (3) Reports of sparks or noise from a transformer near homes should be escalated and the outcome told to residents.", "source_url": "https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/10/residents-decry-incessant-power-outages-as-faulty-transformer-fails-during-rainfall/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:11:12.444681+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1693", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1693/", "title": "Wind turbine blade fails at Flyers Creek Wind Farm in NSW storm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine blade is reported to have snapped at Flyers Creek Wind Farm in New South Wales during recent storms. A published account says the blade failed about six months after installation. The cause has not been reported, and the available summary does not describe injuries or the extent of any wider damage.", "contributing_factors": "The blade failed during storms. Wind speeds at the time and the precise cause have not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Early-life blade checks remain important after installation. (2) Operators should be ready to review extreme-weather performance when a newly installed blade fails. (3) A clear investigation of blade failures helps other operators learn from the event.", "source_url": "https://www.monash.edu/engineering/about/news/articles/2025/wind-turbine-blade-fails-in-nsw-storm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:11:18.462522+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1694", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1694/", "title": "Reported explosion and fire at Luch substation during Belgorod blackout", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "Russia", "country_code": "ru", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 5 October 2025, Belgorod in Russia faced another widespread blackout, with power reported out in most districts and in an unspecified number of settlements in the region. Russian channels claimed a missile strike had allegedly hit the city's Luch substation. The substation was reported to be on fire, and photos and videos circulating online were said to show an explosion there and the resulting power loss. Some reports also pointed to water-supply problems and loss of internet in certain areas. Damage to energy infrastructure was confirmed and emergency crews were on site. This followed an earlier blackout from 28 to 30 September, when the Belgorod combined heat and power plant and the Luch substation were reported to have been targeted.", "contributing_factors": "The reported cause is a claimed missile strike on the Luch substation. That account comes from Russian channels and has not been independently confirmed in this source. Local authorities confirmed the blackout and damage to energy infrastructure and said they were still establishing what had happened.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After damage to a substation, operators should be ready to mobilise emergency crews quickly and to confirm which parts of the network are still live. (2) Alternative supply routes can limit how widely a single substation outage cuts power. (3) Outage plans should cover secondary losses such as water and communications, and keep public updates aligned with what has actually been confirmed.", "source_url": "https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/russian-belgorod-plunged-into-blackout-again-1759694898.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:11:23.963015+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1695", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1695/", "title": "Transformer explosion injures municipal electricians in Brits", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A municipal transformer in Brits, South Africa, exploded while electricians from Madibeng Municipality were working on it. Two workers sustained burns. One was intubated at the scene and flown by emergency helicopter to a specialist hospital burn unit, where he was reported to be sedated and on a ventilator after smoke inhalation. The other was treated for less serious burns at a local hospital. Days later, another substation in Brits exploded and the municipal fire service attended. The municipality did not respond to questions about the explosions or the workers' condition.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source says the workers were working on the transformer when it exploded, but it does not give a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Work on a transformer needs verified isolation and a clear emergency plan before anyone starts. (2) Burns and smoke inhalation can worsen after the scene, so injured workers need prompt specialist care and follow-up. (3) A further substation failure in the same town within days is a reason to inspect similar equipment, even when the cause of the first event is not yet known.", "source_url": "https://kormorant.co.za/madibeng-electrician-in-icu-after-transformer-explosion/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:11:52.069714+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1696", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1696/", "title": "Man killed after fall from wind turbine near Enid", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A man fell about 80 feet from a wind turbine at a Blattner Energy construction site near Enid and was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency crews responded at about 9 pm to the area of 150th and Phillips after reports of the fall. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating. The fall is believed to have been an accident, and the cause has not been established. NextEra Energy Resources said it was working with Blattner Energy on the construction and was aware of the incident but gave no further detail.", "contributing_factors": "It was reported that the man was wearing a safety harness. Whether it had been used improperly was not known. A wind project had been under development in the area for a few months. No cause has been established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check that fall-protection equipment is correctly fitted and attached before work at height on a turbine. (2) Do not treat the presence of a harness as proof that it was used correctly; attachment and rescue practice still need checking. (3) Keep falls during construction on a clear path to the safety regulator while the cause remains unknown.", "source_url": "https://www.koco.com/article/enid-man-killed-falling-wind-turbine/65844092", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:11:57.91265+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1697", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1697/", "title": "Fire damages transformer at Egbin substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Transmission Company of Nigeria said a fire at Egbin Power Plc at about 6:30 a.m. on a Tuesday affected its 150MVA 330/132/33kV Inter-Bus Transformer II at the Egbin Transmission Substation. The fire started in a service transformer owned by Egbin Power and connected to the 33kV side of that transformer. Preliminary investigations traced the fire to a faulty 33kV instrument transformer (CT/VT) installed by Egbin Power. The incident damaged the TCN transformer, with oil leaking from a tear in its main tank. A load of 47MW was affected. Bulk supply was temporarily reduced to the Ikorodu and Odogunyan 132/33kV substations and to Sagamu Lines 1 and 2 and Maryland Line 2 in Lagos State. The load was diverted to the substation's second 150MVA transformer, which was reported to be operating under strain, and load-shedding followed.", "contributing_factors": "TCN said preliminary investigations traced the fire to a faulty 33kV instrument transformer (CT/VT) installed by Egbin Power. The full cause has not been independently confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Instrument transformers on the lower-voltage side of inter-bus transformers need regular inspection, because a fault there can damage the main transformer. (2) Isolation and protection between a power station's service transformers and transmission assets should be checked so a station-side fault does not cascade. (3) Spare capacity or a rapid replacement plan for a critical substation transformer limits how long customers face load-shedding.", "source_url": "https://gazettengr.com/tcn-confirms-fire-at-egbin-substation-says-150mva-transformer-damaged/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:12:01.096366+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1698", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1698/", "title": "Fire at Telford electrical substation attended by one crew", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "One crew from Shropshire Fire and Rescue was mobilised from Telford Central fire station at around 18:44 on 7 August 2025 after a call reporting a fire at an electricity substation on Hinkshay Road, Telford. Personnel from Western Power were at the scene. The crew assisted Western Power with its investigation. A stop message was issued at 19:41 and the fire service left the scene. The extent of damage and any effect on supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported substation fire as a live electrical incident and keep the network company involved before crews close in. (2) A stop message shows only that the fire service stood down; operators should still record damage, cause and any supply effect. (3) Keep a joint record of the fire service and network investigation so the initial call classification is not the only account.", "source_url": "https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/telford/one-crew-mobilised-following-fire-at-telford-electrical-substation-5677932", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:12:03.416627+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1699", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1699/", "title": "Fire at Novaya substation leaves residents without power in Makhachkala", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Russia", "country_code": "ru", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Novaya substation operated by Rosseti North Caucasus in Makhachkala, Daghestan, on a Saturday morning. Officials said a technical failure followed overloaded power lines, damaging 23 cable lines and leaving more than 86,500 residents without electricity. More than 45 emergency teams, with 159 workers and 71 units of equipment, were sent to the site. Authorities said power had been restored to nearly half of those affected and later reported that full supply had been reinstated, while repair work to replace damaged cables continued.", "contributing_factors": "Officials said overloaded power lines caused the technical failure. The regional prime minister said the energy system had been overloaded beyond capacity six times in the previous two weeks, and that 199 emergency power cuts occurred in the republic from 1 to 24 July, 75 of them in Makhachkala. The report also describes ageing infrastructure, high household demand and repeated outages, but does not independently establish those as the cause of this fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Monitor and manage grid loading against actual capacity during peak demand. (2) Replace ageing cables and substation equipment before repeated overloads become failures. (3) Keep affected communities informed while repairs continue after supply is reported restored.", "source_url": "https://oc-media.org/nearly-90-000-left-without-power-in-makhachkala-due-to-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:12:49.994747+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1700", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1700/", "title": "Blown transformer causes fire and outage at Hartford Public Library / City Hall", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 17 June 2025, firefighters were called to the Hartford Public Library on Main Street just after 9:30 a.m. after smoke was reported in the basement following a loud explosion. They found a fire in the library's electric vault. Crews coordinated with the power company to de-energise the equipment, then put the fire out with CO2 extinguishers. The incident was brought under control just before 10:45 a.m., leaving the library and City Hall without power. City officials later said a City of Hartford-owned transformer in the basement of one of the buildings had blown and started the fire. They had first said, incorrectly, that the transformer belonged to the power company. The power company said an investigation found that customer-owned equipment had failed, and that its own transformers were not on fire and remained operational.", "contributing_factors": "The power company said customer-owned equipment failed. The precise failure mode was not reported. Early statements about who owned the transformer were later corrected.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep clear records of who owns and is responsible for transformers on customer premises. (2) Coordinate quickly between fire services and the utility when customer-owned equipment fails, including de-energising before firefighting. (3) Check ownership promptly after an incident so response and public statements are not based on a wrong assumption.", "source_url": "https://www.courant.com/2025/06/17/blown-transformer-sparks-fire-leads-to-power-outage-at-hartford-city-hall-library/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:13:16.84781+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1701", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1701/", "title": "Solar panels and roof catch fire at SimTech Supply Chain Management in West Lorne", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews responded to a blaze at SimTech Supply Chain Management at 215 Gilbert St, West Lorne, Ontario, Canada. Multiple departments attended after reports of smoke and flames from the rooftop. The fire involved the roof structure and solar panels installed on the roof. Crews used hoses and an aerial ladder to apply water and brought the fire under control quickly. No building contents were involved and there were no injuries. Electrical and utility isolation was carried out on site. An investigation continued the following day.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain ready access to hydrants and mutual aid agreements for rapid response to rooftop fires. (2) Coordinate early with utility providers to isolate power during incidents involving solar installations. (3) Confirm the extent of involvement of roof-mounted equipment before declaring a fire under control.", "source_url": "https://www.ctvnews.ca/london/article/multiple-fire-crews-battle-roof-and-solar-panel-blaze-in-west-lorne-ont/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:13:18.28763+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1702", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1702/", "title": "Transformer fire in Gates causes power cut for residents", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire broke out on Lyell Road and Hickory Manor Drive in Gates, New York, around 6.50 p.m. on Wednesday. The Gates fire chief said mineral-based oil leaking from the transformer caused a fire on the ground involving a catch basin. RG&E cut power to the transformer. Earlier in the evening more than 1,500 people in the area were without power. The utility said new automation tools helped restore supply to all affected residents by 8 p.m. The cause of the transformer fire itself was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The fire chief said mineral-based oil leaking from the transformer caused the ground fire at a catch basin. Why the transformer caught fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Oil leaking from a transformer can start a fire on the ground, including at a drain or catch basin, so leaked oil should be treated as a fire risk. (2) Isolating the affected transformer by cutting its supply is a reported step in stopping the event. (3) Automated switching can help restore customers quickly after a local transformer fault, as reported here.", "source_url": "https://www.whec.com/top-news/flames-and-smoke-transformer-fire-in-gates-leads-to-power-outage/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:13:29.64849+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1703", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1703/", "title": "SEB team reported to have quelled a transformer fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Malaysia", "country_code": "my", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Sarawak Tribune headline dated 13 June 2024 said an SEB team took swift action to quell a transformer fire. The article text was not available, so the place, the type of site, the cause, any injuries and any effect on supply were not reported in the source used here.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The headline does not give a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a utility report of a quelled transformer fire as an incident to log, even when the first public notice is only a headline. (2) Do not infer the site, cause or supply impact until a full report is available. (3) After a transformer fire, confirm isolation and nearby equipment before the circuit is returned to service.", "source_url": "https://www.sarawaktribune.com/swift-action-by-seb-team-quells-transformer-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:15:12.032543+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1705", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1705/", "title": "Transformer explosion at Sector 52 causes Gurugram outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-06", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded at the Sector 52 power house in Gurugram on 1 June 2024, causing power outages in several parts of the city. The distribution company said the areas worst affected were Sector 45, Sector 52, Ardee City and Wazirabad. Emergency teams were sent to the site and began restoring supply by shifting load to adjoining feeders and substations. Power was restored in some areas that way. A residents’ association in Sector 45 said many households there were without electricity for more than eight hours. The company said tests to establish the cause were under way, with results expected the next day. The outage was reported during peak summer and disrupted households, businesses and essential services.", "contributing_factors": "The cause had not been established at the time of reporting. Resident associations said supply planning had not kept pace with housing growth; that view is not confirmed by the utility’s investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Distribution operators should maintain contingency plans that allow rapid load transfer between feeders during substation equipment failures. (2) Regular condition monitoring and testing of transformers can reduce the risk of in-service explosions. (3) Infrastructure planning should take account of projected demand growth from new housing so that peak-season capacity is not left short.", "source_url": "https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/others/transformer-explosion-at-sector-52-leads-to-power-outages-in-gurugram-101717264699655.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:16:01.903615+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1706", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1706/", "title": "Apparent transformer fire sends smoke and flames from a street in Lowell", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 20 May 2024, heavy smoke and flames were seen coming from the street in downtown Lowell, Massachusetts, in what was reported as an apparent transformer fire around 2:45 p.m. Aerial video showed large clouds of black smoke and heavy flames from what appeared to be a transformer or a dumpster in the area of Warren Street. Firefighters had just arrived. A spokesperson said National Grid was investigating the cause and had cut power to the transformer to make the scene safe for first responders. National Grid said about 120 customers were left without power. The cause and the exact equipment involved were not confirmed in the report.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source did not establish whether the fire started in a transformer or in nearby material.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat street-level smoke and flame near electrical equipment as a possible grid incident until the operator confirms what is involved. (2) Isolating the affected equipment before firefighters work close to it reduces electrical risk. (3) Early reports may not distinguish a transformer fire from nearby burning material, so the asset and cause should be confirmed before they are stated as fact.", "source_url": "https://www.nbcboston.com/news/local/heavy-smoke-flames-seen-pouring-from-street-in-lowell-watch-live/3374623/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T02:16:35.458645+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1707", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1707/", "title": "Solar panel fault reported in rooftop fire at Tashkent store", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "Uzbekistan", "country_code": "uz", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 15 May 2025 at 10:15, the Tashkent Department of Emergency Situations was told of a fire on the roof of the Havas store on Kipchak Street in the Sergeli district. Four firefighting and rescue crews attended. The fire was localised by 11:00 and extinguished by 11:04. Store representatives said the fire was caused by a solar panel installed on the roof by the building owner. No casualties or injuries were reported. No technical finding on the panel is given.", "contributing_factors": "The published account says store representatives attributed the fire to a rooftop solar panel. A malfunction is stated in the headline, but no inspection of the panel, isolator or cabling is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) On an occupied commercial roof, staff and the fire service need a known way to isolate rooftop solar before and during a fire. (2) A short, recorded response timeline helps show whether a roof fire stayed on the roof. (3) An occupant’s account of cause should stay provisional until the panel and its wiring are examined.", "source_url": "https://kun.uz/en/news/2025/05/15/solar-panel-malfunction-causes-rooftop-fire-in-tashkent", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:11:35.145137+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1708", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1708/", "title": "Substation fire in Exeter causes smoke and a power warning", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire and rescue service was called shortly after 6am on Sunday to a fire at an electrical substation in Exeter. The service said the fire was causing a lot of smoke and advised nearby residents to keep windows and doors closed. It also warned that some properties might lose power. The cause has not been confirmed, and it is not reported whether supply was in fact disrupted or whether the fire was later extinguished.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The fire service said the cause had not been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire in a town centre can produce heavy smoke, so nearby residents may need clear advice to close windows and doors. (2) While crews are still tackling the fire, warn properties of possible supply disruption rather than stating that power has been lost. (3) Do not assign a cause until it is confirmed; early public reports may only establish that a substation is involved.", "source_url": "https://www.northnorfolknews.co.uk/news/national/25153652.residents-warned-power-supply-disruption-substation-fire-tackled/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:11:45.987229+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1709", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1709/", "title": "Fire crews reported rushing to a solar farm blaze near Gladstone", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Townsville Bulletin headline reported that multiple fire crews were rushing to a blaze at a solar farm near Gladstone in Central Queensland. The article text was not available, so it is not known what burned, whether solar equipment was damaged, or whether anyone was hurt.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline about a solar farm fire as incomplete until the operator or fire service confirms what burned. (2) Keep site access, isolation points and panel layout ready for fire crews before an incident. (3) Be ready to correct public reports quickly when a fire is linked to a named solar site.", "source_url": "https://www.townsvillebulletin.com.au/news/queensland/gladstone/police-courts/multiple-fire-crews-rushing-to-solar-farm-blaze-near-gladstone/news-story/3241ef70d3103f3d54ea599bcd3286e9", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:11:47.57209+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1711", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1711/", "title": "Support vessel collides with turbine at Hollandse Kust Zuid", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Wind Power Monthly reported that two crew members on an offshore wind support vessel were injured after the vessel collided with the base of a wind turbine at the Hollandse Kust Zuid offshore wind farm in the Dutch North Sea. The extent of damage to the turbine, the cause of the collision and whether anyone else was hurt have not been reported in the text available to the register.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Approach procedures for support vessels should keep a defined clearance from turbine foundations and allow for sea state. (2) Crews should be briefed on collision response and medical evacuation from the vessel. (3) Operators should record collisions and near misses so approach risks can be reviewed.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1914885/updated-offshore-wind-support-vessel-crashes-turbine-injuring-two-crew-members", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:12:25.88216+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1712", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1712/", "title": "Substation fault leaves thousands without power in Padiham", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fault reported at 09:40 BST affected about 5,000 properties in the BB12 area of Padiham. Electricity North West said an unexpected incident on the high-voltage cable had caused widespread damage to its substation. Engineers attended with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, and generators were ordered, with work expected to continue until 22:00. Most customers were restored just before midday, but a further fault was then found and supplies were switched off remotely while the fire service attended for safety. Power was later restored to 4,000 properties, with work continuing on the remainder.", "contributing_factors": "The operator said the outage followed an unexpected incident on the high-voltage cable and that a major incident had caused widespread damage to the substation. A second fault was found after most supplies had been restored. No independent cause has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault on a high-voltage cable can damage the substation it feeds and leave thousands of customers off supply. (2) Restoring most customers does not close the incident if a further fault is found; remote isolation while the fire service attends is a recognised safety step. (3) Operators should plan temporary generation and a clear restoration window when substation damage is widespread.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cpq7e509e14o", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:12:39.665691+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1713", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1713/", "title": "Grid collapse causes power cut in Dhaka", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Bangladesh", "country_code": "bd", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report dated 11 March 2025 said a grid collapse caused a power cut in Dhaka. Only the headline was available. The part of the grid involved, how long the cut lasted, how many customers were affected and why the grid collapsed were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the collapse was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A city-wide power cut can follow a grid collapse before the failed element is known. (2) Early notices should say what is confirmed and what is not, including duration and the area affected. (3) Operators should be ready to restore supply and update the public once the failed equipment is identified.", "source_url": "https://www.newagebd.net/post/country/259849/grid-collapse-causes-power-cut-in-dhaka", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:13:17.264525+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1714", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1714/", "title": "Voltage transformer explosion at Njala Substation causes outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-02", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The City of Tshwane said that on 18 February 2025 a voltage transformer exploded at the Njala Substation in Pretoria, and that a fire followed. The city reported a 132kV outage affecting multiple substations and areas, mostly in the east of Pretoria, and said technicians and emergency services had been sent to put out the fire, assess damage and investigate. The cause, the extent of damage and how long power was off are not stated in this short report.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The city said technicians had been sent to investigate.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A failure at a 132kV substation can interrupt supply at several downstream substations, so contingency plans should cover that spread. (2) Early public updates on the areas affected, and prompt dispatch of technical and emergency crews, help customers and the response. (3) Do not treat the failed component as the root cause until the investigation is reported.", "source_url": "https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/news-in-a-minute-pretoria-substation-explosion-led-to-power-outages-video/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:13:42.087746+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1715", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1715/", "title": "Fire at Tesla battery storage facility in Tilburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a Tesla battery storage facility in Tilburg. The incident involved smouldering batteries in a storage warehouse on Asteriastraat in the Vossenberg industrial area. The fire department brought the fire under control within an hour by moving the batteries outside and placing them in a water-filled dunk tank to cool them. The building's sprinkler system helped prevent further spread. The warehouse was evacuated and all personnel were accounted for with no injuries reported. The cause is unknown and remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported and is under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Specialised cooling methods such as dunk tanks can help control battery fires. (2) Sprinkler systems can limit fire spread inside storage buildings. (3) Prompt evacuation procedures protect personnel during energy storage incidents.", "source_url": "https://nltimes.nl/2024/12/29/fire-breaks-tesla-battery-storage-facility-tilburg", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:14:10.727814+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1716", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1716/", "title": "Estlink 2 interconnector out of service between Finland and Estonia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-12", "country": "Finland", "country_code": "fi", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Estlink 2 interconnector between Finland and Estonia suffered a sudden power outage on 25 December 2024. Finland's transmission system operator Fingrid reported a possible failure of the electricity cable. Authorities are investigating the chain of events, including whether a foreign cargo ship was involved. The link is out of service until the fault is located and repair can start. Fingrid said the failure did not endanger electricity system operation in Finland.", "contributing_factors": "A possible role for a foreign cargo ship is under investigation. The fault location and cause have not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported fault on a cross-border cable needs prompt joint investigation by the operators and the authorities. (2) A suspected external cause should not be treated as established until the fault is located. (3) System planning should allow supply to continue if one interconnector is lost.", "source_url": "https://www.offshore-energy.biz/finland-estonia-interconnector-down-again-due-to-damage-foreign-ships-role-under-investigation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:14:20.52015+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1717", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1717/", "title": "Transformer explosion injures nine at Matla power station", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-12", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer explosion occurred at Matla Power Station in Mpumalanga, South Africa, on the afternoon of 12 December 2024, affecting Unit 6. Unit 5 was taken offline as a precautionary measure. Initial reports indicate nine employees were injured, with one in critical condition. Eskom activated all emergency protocols and technical teams assessed the situation on site. The suspension of loadshedding remained unchanged.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Activate emergency protocols immediately after any explosion or major equipment failure. (2) Take adjacent units offline promptly when safety risks are identified. (3) Ensure on-site technical assessment continues through the night following an incident.", "source_url": "https://www.eskom.co.za/transformer-explosion-at-matla-power-station-unit-6-initial-reports-indicate-9-people-injured-one-critically/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:14:23.714096+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1718", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1718/", "title": "Transformer explosion leaves thousands without power in York County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded near Loucks Road in Manchester Township, York County, Pennsylvania, on 13 September 2024. Emergency dispatch confirmed the explosion. A Met-Ed outage map showed more than 4,000 customers without power. No fire or injuries were reported. Met-Ed stated that power would be restored at 1 p.m. the same day; whether that time was met is not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A single transformer failure can cut supply to thousands of customers, so operators should keep spare capacity and a clear restoration plan. (2) Early confirmation from dispatch and the outage map helps separate an explosion from a fire or injury event. (3) Published restoration times should be treated as estimates until crews confirm supply is back.", "source_url": "https://local21news.com/news/local/thousands-without-power-after-transformer-explodes-in-york-county", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:15:01.392991+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1719", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1719/", "title": "Lightning reported to explode a transformer in south Co Galway", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "Ireland", "country_code": "ie", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A thunderstorm brought very large numbers of lightning strikes across Ireland from Sunday evening into Monday morning, and Met Éireann issued weather alerts. Many areas, including Co Galway, were left without power, though the source does not link those outages to one asset. A photographer told Galway Beo that a transformer in the south of the county was struck by lightning, exploded, and that a fire could then be seen from some distance. Photo captions also describe strikes near Gort and a strike on a nearby power station, but the operator, the exact site and any damage or outage from this event are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The only reported factor is a lightning strike on a transformer during a severe thunderstorm. Protection performance, asset condition and the cause of the wider outages are not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat lightning on exposed grid equipment as a credible ignition and explosion risk during severe storms. (2) Do not infer a site outage or a wider blackout from a distant photograph alone. (3) Keep storm contingency plans ready when alerts cover large areas, even if individual asset damage is not yet confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.galwaybeo.ie/news/ireland-news/gallery/irish-thunderstorm-stunning-images-show-9477101", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:15:21.141817+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1720", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1720/", "title": "Snake reported in transformer in Mohali, with explosion and power cut", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 13 July 2024, residents of Mohali were reported to have lost power after a snake got into a power transformer, which was reported to have exploded. A senior official of the Power Corporation told the outlet that inspection found a snake inside the transformer and that the animal was dead. How the snake entered, and the extent of the outage, were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports that a snake was found inside the transformer after the explosion. No further contributing factors were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check transformer enclosures for openings that could let animals in. (2) Consider barriers at vents and cable entries where animal access is a known risk. (3) Record animal-intrusion events so prevention can be improved.", "source_url": "https://www.babushahi.com/view-news.php?id=187739", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:15:53.889799+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1721", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1721/", "title": "Grass fire at Kellam Solar Farm near Ben Wheeler", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire departments responded to an eight-acre grass fire at a solar farm near Ben Wheeler, Texas, on 16 October 2024. The fire started at about 11:30 a.m. at the Kellam Solar Farm and burned eight acres. A preliminary investigation indicated that the fire could have started from a power unit that controls the solar panels, and a fire marshal was called to the scene. The fire reportedly spread to neighbouring property and was brought under control.", "contributing_factors": "A preliminary investigation indicated that the fire could have started from a power unit that controls the solar panels. The cause had not been confirmed when the report was published. Dry conditions were noted locally, although Van Zandt County was not under a burn ban.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grass at a solar farm can carry fire onto neighbouring property, so vegetation around arrays should be managed before dry spells. (2) Treat any early link to a panel power unit as provisional until the fire investigation is complete. (3) Record the start time, area burned and whether the fire left the site so similar grass fires can be compared.", "source_url": "https://www.ketk.com/news/fire/8-acre-grass-fire-breaks-out-at-solar-farm-in-ben-wheeler/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:15:58.836787+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1722", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1722/", "title": "Current transformer explosion at Jebba substation disturbs Nigeria's national grid", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 19 October 2024 at 08:15, the bus section of a current transformer exploded at the 330 kV Jebba Transmission Substation. The Transmission Company of Nigeria said protection opened the busbars, preventing fire and further damage to adjacent equipment, and described the result as a temporary grid disturbance. National supply fell from 3,041.72 MW at 08:00 to 47 MW by 09:00, with seven of 11 distribution companies reported to have zero load allocation. The regulator said the explosion triggered a cascade of power plant shutdowns and that supply had been significantly restored in 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory by 13:00. A separate report of vandalism on the Shiroro-Kaduna lines was also published; it was not identified as the cause of this explosion.", "contributing_factors": "The reported trigger was the explosion of a current transformer. The cause of that explosion was not stated. Protection isolated the fault but also disturbed the grid and was followed by a cascade of plant shutdowns.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Protection that isolates a failed current transformer can prevent fire, but the same trip can disturb a tightly coupled grid. (2) After a busbar trip, operators need a rehearsed way to reconfigure and restore supply without waiting for the failed unit to return. (3) A single substation fault can cascade into widespread loss of load, so contingency arrangements should limit how far one trip takes generation offline.", "source_url": "https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/10/national-grid-collapses-third-time-in-one-week/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:16:23.827772+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1723", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1723/", "title": "Brush fire damages solar equipment at FPL Palm Bay site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 11 May 2024, Palm Bay firefighters responded to a brush fire at the FPL Palm Bay Solar Energy Center on Centerlane Road in Palm Bay, Florida. The fire was reported just before 1 p.m. Crews arrived to a 68-acre fire that had grown to around 70 acres by the time it was put out about seven and a half hours later. Solar equipment made the fire hard to deal with. Crews chased hot spots that started new fires as variable winds continued to fuel them. The fire was under control by 6:15 p.m. and fully extinguished around 8:30 p.m. Heat and fire damaged some solar equipment. No other property was reported damaged or lost. The cause was still under investigation. A burn ban was in place in Palm Bay because of worsening drought. The Florida Forest Service also attended.", "contributing_factors": "The cause had not been established. The fire department said variable winds kept fuelling new fires from hot spots, and solar equipment made the fire hard to handle. A burn ban was in place because of drought, but the source does not say that drought started the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure vegetation management plans account for drought and wind conditions at solar sites. (2) Pre-plan firefighting access routes that avoid live electrical equipment. (3) Maintain close coordination with local fire services and forest agencies during high-risk periods.", "source_url": "https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2024/05/11/brush-fire-at-solar-farm-in-palm-bay-firefighters-say/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:16:53.250761+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1724", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1724/", "title": "Fire reported at a Bryansk substation, with power loss at military facilities", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Russia", "country_code": "ru", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 16 April 2024, Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate reported that a substation in Bryansk, Russia, had burned, with a transformer at a power substation described in the report as 110 kW destroyed. The report said military unit No. 33149, the 111th military plant and the 192nd Central Military Plant were left without power. The date of the fire, its cause, any injuries and the duration of the outage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The account attributes the outage to destruction of a transformer, but does not say how or why that occurred.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A single transformer failure can remove supply from several connected loads. (2) Reports from one party should be treated as unconfirmed until an operator or a second source corroborates them. (3) Outage extent, cause and restoration time should be recorded before any wider conclusion is drawn.", "source_url": "https://english.nv.ua/nation/hur-reported-that-substation-fire-caused-blackout-at-several-russian-military-facilities-50410501.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:17:07.672767+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1725", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1725/", "title": "Transformer explodes on hydro pole at Palmer Rapids residence", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Early on a Sunday morning, hydro lines caught fire near Palmer Rapids after a transformer exploded at a residence in the area of Cottage Lane and Wishman Road. The local fire service was called after residents heard an explosion, but the fire continued until Hydro One arrived just after 10 a.m. and isolated the supply. The fire was out by 10.40 a.m. Hydro One said one household was affected and that the cause of the faulty transformer was not known.", "contributing_factors": "Hydro One said it did not know why the transformer failed. No other contributing factor was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution transformer on a pole can fail explosively and set fire to the lines, even when local crews regard the failure as uncommon. (2) Crews should not apply water to energised lines; the network operator must isolate supply before firefighting. (3) The failed unit should be investigated promptly, because a single affected household can still leave the cause unknown at the time of the fire.", "source_url": "https://www.mybancroftnow.com/60723/featured/ive-never-seen-that-before-hydro-pole-transformer-explodes-at-palmer-rapids-residence-early-sunday/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:17:24.07582+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1726", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1726/", "title": "Dispatchers report substation fire and power outages in Calhoun County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Dispatchers told a local news outlet that a large power outage in Calhoun County, Michigan, on 12 April 2024 was the result of a fire at an electrical substation, and that the fire was out by about 5:20 p.m. Consumers Energy had been notified. The utility's outage map showed about 10,200 customers in Calhoun County and about 3,400 in neighbouring Eaton County without power, with outages around Marshall, Battle Creek, Olivet and Bellevue reported around 4:40 p.m. The report does not name the substation or give a cause. Elsewhere in West Michigan the same day, tens of thousands of Consumers Energy customers were without power amid strong wind gusts, so it is not clear how many of the mapped outages were due to the fire.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. Strong wind gusts were affecting West Michigan the same day, but the source does not link them to the substation fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat early dispatcher reports of a substation fire as an indication only until the operator confirms the asset, the cause and who was affected. (2) Where severe weather and a reported substation fire occur on the same day, separate weather-related outages from those tied to the asset before stating impact figures. (3) An outage map shows customers without power; it does not by itself identify which substation failed.", "source_url": "https://www.woodtv.com/news/calhoun-county/calhoun-county-dispatchers-substation-fire-causes-power-outages/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:17:35.855177+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1727", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1727/", "title": "Mooikloof Substation Fire in Pretoria After External Line Fault", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion at the Mooikloof substation in Pretoria on a Wednesday night was reported to have been due to a fault on one of the 11 kV power lines outside the substation operated by City of Tshwane. The subsequent fire damaged Transformer B and the 11 kV panels. Technical teams were still investigating the root cause and testing equipment, and no restoration time had been given.", "contributing_factors": "A fault on an 11 kV power line outside the substation was reported as the cause of the explosion. The root cause of the fire was still under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault on a line outside a substation can still damage transformers and panels inside. (2) Restoration planning should wait on equipment testing and cleanup rather than an estimated return time. (3) Public updates should name the affected areas and say clearly when a restoration time is not yet known.", "source_url": "https://www.jacarandafm.com/news/news/mooikloof-substation-fire-caused-power-line-fault/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T05:18:23.506209+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1728", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1728/", "title": "Fire reported at DTE substation in downtown Detroit", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Officials were reported to be investigating a fire that broke out on a Friday afternoon at a DTE Energy substation in downtown Detroit, in the 600 block of Howard Street near Third. City fire crews and DTE officials responded, and police blocked nearby ends of Howard. Staff at the Cambria Hotel next door were reported to have heard a loud boom and to have lost electricity in the building. DTE Energy said it shut off electricity at the facility for the safety of crews, first responders and people nearby, that service to nearby buildings was rerouted, and that no nearby outages were related to the incident. The cause, the extent of damage and whether anyone was injured were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolate a substation fire and reroute supply where the network allows, so a local event does not become a wider outage. (2) Coordinate the utility with the fire service and control access around the site while the cause is unknown. (3) Treat an early report as incomplete until the operator and fire service confirm damage, injuries and cause.", "source_url": "https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/detroit-city/2024/04/12/fire-dte-substation-downtown-detroit/73305586007/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:09:00.24091+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1729", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1729/", "title": "Molten salt storage burst at Noor III in Morocco", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "other", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Morocco", "country_code": "ma", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Recharge News reported that a container holding superheated salt used to store energy burst at the Noor III solar power facility in Morocco operated by ACWA Power. The report said the leak caused an outage lasting until November and would cost the owner ACWA Power $47 million. The date of the leak, the cause, and whether anyone was injured were not reported in the material available to the register.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High-temperature salt storage vessels need inspection and leak detection suited to long outages. (2) Operators of thermal storage plants should plan for extended loss of the storage system. (3) Financial exposure from a storage-fluid release should be estimated before an event, not only after one.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/energy-transition/superhot-molten-salts-leak-at-giant-solar-plant-to-cost-owner-47m/2-1-1617305", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:09:11.597365+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1730", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1730/", "title": "Transformer fires trigger emergency shutdown at Waterford 3 nuclear plant", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Two transformers caught fire in the main transformer yard at Entergy's Waterford 3 nuclear generating plant in Killona. According to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the fires led to an emergency SCRAM, a rapid shutdown of the reactor by insertion of its control rods, and the plant's emergency director declared an unusual event, the lowest emergency classification, at 12:09 a.m. on a Friday. A local fire department responded, but the plant's own fire brigade put the fire out. The unusual event ended at 2:21 a.m. after the fire was extinguished. The generator had not restarted at the time of reporting, and Entergy said the related work should take several weeks. Plant officials notified the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Louisiana emergency officials. The NRC said the fire was contained on site, there was no danger of a radiation release, and no public notification was required because the event did not pose a threat to public health and safety.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not report why the transformers caught fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep an on-site fire brigade able to extinguish electrical fires in a main transformer yard, including when an outside fire service also responds. (2) For a low-level nuclear emergency, record clearly which regulators and emergency officials were notified and why no public warning was required. (3) Plan for the plant to remain in a safe shutdown for several weeks while main-yard transformer repairs are scheduled.", "source_url": "https://www.nola.com/news/business/transformer-fires-trigger-waterford-3-nuclear-plant-shutdown/article_aa890c5a-eaf3-11ee-82b6-ff7683e8c575.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:09:23.644962+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1731", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1731/", "title": "Crane collapses during load tests on Orion at Rostock harbour", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-05", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 2 May 2020 the crane on the offshore installation vessel Orion collapsed during load tests at the Liebherr yard in Rostock harbour, Germany. The vessel, owned by Cosco Offshore and operated by Deme, was under construction, moored at the quayside, and was intended for later use at the Moray East offshore wind farm. The hull was damaged and the crane suffered significant damage. Several minor injuries were reported. The cause was not stated, and investigations were said to be ongoing. The collapse was captured on video.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not identify a cause. It states only that the crane was undergoing load tests, and that the vessel was under construction and moored at the quayside.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A crane failure during load testing can damage the crane and the vessel and injure people, so the test plan should treat collapse as a credible outcome. (2) After a load-test failure, the owner and any project expecting the vessel should check what is known before assuming the planned entry into service. (3) While an investigation is still open, early accounts should not be treated as a finding of why the crane failed.", "source_url": "https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/watch-wind-farm-crane-ship-off-caithness-coast-was-involved-346771/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:09:27.79938+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1732", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1732/", "title": "Transformer blast causes fire at 220 kV grid station at Majra", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-03", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A high-intensity explosion occurred in a heavy-duty transformer at the 220 kV grid station at Majra in New Chandigarh at about 6.15am on a Monday. Flames could be seen from five miles away. The grid station belonged to Punjab State Transmission. Fire officers said they received a call at 6.20am, and it took about two and a half hours to put the fire out. A fire brigade official said the main reason for the fire could be sparking. No injuries or outage figures were reported.", "contributing_factors": "A fire brigade official said sparking could be the main reason for the fire. The source does not confirm a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a transmission grid station can be visible over a wide area and may take hours to extinguish, so response plans should cover that scale. (2) Operators should record the alarm time and the time the fire is out so response performance can be reviewed. (3) A possible cause such as sparking should not be treated as established until the failed transformer has been investigated.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/transformer-blast-at-220-kv-grid-station-in-mohali-causes-panic/articleshow/108416680.cms", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:09:42.709891+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1733", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1733/", "title": "Fires damage transformers at Parkview substation and Forest Town substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-02", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer at Parkview substation caught fire on the morning of 27 February 2024, partially burning the breakers and cutting power in Parkview. City Power crews found the blaze already contained by the fire service. The damage was described as extensive and was expected to need replacement of the transformer with a mini-substation and a ring main unit. Partial supply was restored, with full repairs estimated at up to 48 hours once materials arrived. While crews were at Parkview they were told of another fire at Forest Town substation, where only breakers were damaged and a few streets were affected. Restoration there was expected by 18:00 if work went to plan. The cause of the Parkview fire was not reported as established. Customers were advised to unplug appliances so a surge would not trip the supply when it returned.", "contributing_factors": "City Power said the cause was unclear and that an investigation was under way. A ward councillor said a line had tripped after load shedding the previous day and that, during restoration, a transformer was suspected to have flashed from overload or inrush, possibly igniting oil. That account was not confirmed in the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat restoration after load shedding as a period of stress on local transformers, and check loading and protection before and during re-energisation. (2) Keep replacement mini-substations, ring main units and cables available so a burnt transformer can be swapped without waiting on materials. (3) Tell customers to unplug appliances during an outage so a surge does not trip the restored supply.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/rosebank-killarney-gazette/news-headlines/2024/03/05/city-power-attends-to-burnt-and-damaged-transformers-in-parkview-and-forrest-town-2/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:09:48.101645+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1734", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1734/", "title": "Transformer explosion damages Lynnwood substation in Pretoria", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded at an electrical substation in Lynnwood, Pretoria, South Africa, and a fire followed. The City of Tshwane’s electricity department was probing the extent of the damage. Tshwane Emergency Services doused the blaze on Saturday night. The cause of the explosion had not been determined. City officials were set to begin repairs soon.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion has not yet been determined.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer explosion can start a substation fire even when the cause is still unknown. (2) Emergency access and a prompt fire response limit damage while the cause is investigated. (3) Repairs should follow an assessment of the damage, and the cause should not be assumed before the investigation reports.", "source_url": "https://www.ewn.co.za/2024/03/03/blaze-causes-damage-at-lynnwood-substation-in-pretoria", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:09:50.502768+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1735", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1735/", "title": "Attempted fires at PSEG substations used to distract responders", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Police said two men attempted to set fires at PSEG substations on Long Island, New York, to distract first responders while burglaries were committed at nearby businesses in Suffolk County. LIPA and PSEG said the attempts did not cause power outages and that security at the sites had been increased. Police also said nine burglaries took place over six months at delis, laundromats and petrol stations. The defendants pleaded not guilty.", "contributing_factors": "Police described the substation fires as an attempt to divert emergency services from the burglaries. The utilities said the attempts did not interrupt supply.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation sites should have intrusion detection and rapid response protocols to deter arson attempts. (2) Utilities should share intelligence with law enforcement on patterns of substation tampering linked to other crimes. (3) Operators should maintain contingency plans for community services that rely on continuous supply.", "source_url": "https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/pseg-substation-fires-atm-burglaries-long-island/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:10:13.380915+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1736", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1736/", "title": "Fires reported at three PSEG substations on Long Island", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fires were reported at three PSEG substations on Long Island between August 2023 and February 2024. The first was reported at the substation on Nesconset Highway in Setauket on 20 August 2023, the second at the substation on Middle County Road in Centereach on 16 September 2023, and the third at the Medford/Yaphank substation on Manor Road on 5 February 2024. A prosecutor said the alleged acts caused extensive damage and put residents and first responders at risk. Whether the fires caused power outages was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Prosecutors alleged that the fires were set deliberately, and that the first was intended to cause nearby power outages and distract law enforcement during a series of burglaries. These points come from charging allegations in a single news report, not from an independent technical investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation perimeters require robust physical security to deter unauthorised access. (2) Coordinated monitoring of multiple sites can help detect patterns of interference early. (3) Restoration planning should allow for incidents at more than one site.", "source_url": "https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/2-indicted-after-string-of-burglaries-and-fires-at-pseg-substations-on-long-island-da/5175847/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:10:22.618352+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1737", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1737/", "title": "Brush fire damages solar panels at Green Power Mountain Bennington site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 27 February 2024, multiple fire agencies responded to a rapidly spreading brush fire in a cornfield near a solar array off West Road in Bennington. Dozens of panels were in the path of the fire, and several sustained fire damage. Crews contained the fire before it spread to more panels. Green Power Mountain was asked to turn off solar power feeding nearby homes. The fire also led to evacuation of an adjacent electronics manufacturing facility. A resident used a bulldozer to cut a fire line. About two acres of field were burned. No one was injured. The cause remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The fire chief believes the fire started in a cornfield near the solar array. He said it was coming down a hill and that crews were concerned about a neighbouring building. The cause is under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain clear vegetation management zones around solar arrays to reduce ignition risk from external fires. (2) Establish rapid isolation procedures with the operator to de-energise arrays during nearby fires. (3) Pre-plan access for heavy equipment to create firebreaks on rural solar sites.", "source_url": "https://cbs6albany.com/news/local/rapid-brush-fire-threatens-bennington-solar-farm-nearby-manufacturing-factory-evacuated-solar-panels-damaged-bennington-rural-fire-department-vermont-cornfield-evacuations", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:10:27.96831+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1738", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1738/", "title": "Explosion damages Lunar substation in Lenasia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "City Power said an explosion caused extensive damage at the Lunar substation in Lenasia. Supply was off from 17 February 2024 and was reported restored on 25 February 2024 to Lenasia South, Finetown, Mountain View and surrounding areas. Teams replaced equipment, installed cables and carried out tests. On the morning of 25 February the incomer was still tripping; City Power later said that fault had been rectified. One distributor serving Magson Manor remained offline, which City Power attributed to cable theft and vandalism. The cause of the explosion was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion was not reported. Cable theft and vandalism were cited only for the distributor that stayed offline.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After substation damage, replacement, cable work and testing may all be needed before customers can be restored. (2) An incomer that keeps tripping can delay restoration even after repair work has begun. (3) Theft and vandalism can leave part of a network offline after the main supply returns, so cable and distributor security needs its own checks.", "source_url": "https://iol.co.za/news/energy/2024-02-25-power-restored-to-lenasia-residents-after--damaged-substation-gets-fixed/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:10:39.570021+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1739", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1739/", "title": "Fire at 220 kV substation in Siddipet after an explosion", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Wednesday evening in February 2024, a fire broke out at a 220 kV substation in Siddipet town, Telangana, after an explosion. Four fire engines were deployed, and firefighters had been working for more than three hours. At the time of reporting the fire was not yet under control, and no casualties had been reported. A request was made to state officials to take steps to restore power. The cause of the explosion, the extent of damage and whether power was lost were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports that the fire followed an explosion. It does not state what caused the explosion or the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire after an explosion can still be burning hours after the first alarm, so mutual aid from nearby fire stations should be requested early. (2) Grid operators should be told at once so restoration can be planned while the site is still unsafe. (3) Casualty and damage figures should be treated as provisional until the fire is out and the site has been checked.", "source_url": "https://www.indiatoday.in/india/telangana/story/telangana-siddipet-substation-fire-mla-harish-rao-2505398-2024-02-22", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:10:52.906879+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1740", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1740/", "title": "Fire at Tshwane K3 substation disrupts power in Rosslyn", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-02", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the K3 substation in Rosslyn, belonging to the City of Tshwane, following an attempted theft of an 11kv cable. The blaze caused severe damage to the substation’s switchgear panels. This led to a disruption in power supply to several factories and residential areas in the vicinity, including Nkwe Estate, Rosslyn Gardens, factories on Tungsten and Platina streets, and the offices of the Automotive Industrial Development Corporation. Technicians assessed the damage and explored options to restore power. The City of Tshwane expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by this incident of vandalism to the city’s infrastructure.", "contributing_factors": "Attempted theft of an 11kv cable.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Physical security measures at substations should be reviewed to deter cable theft attempts. (2) Rapid damage assessment and material sourcing procedures can reduce restoration times after vandalism incidents. (3) Clear communication of estimated restoration times helps manage customer expectations during unplanned outages.", "source_url": "https://www.sapeople.com/news/tshwane-k3-substation-fire-power-disruption-in-certain-areas/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:11:31.669231+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1741", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1741/", "title": "Rentel export cable damaged but wind farm continues operation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Belgium", "country_code": "be", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The export cable running from the Rentel offshore wind farm platform to the Belgian mainland was reported damaged. The 309 MW wind farm continued to feed electricity into the grid through an alternative route via the Modular Offshore Grid offshore power hub, which Elia operates. The cause of the cable damage has not been reported and was still being investigated. Rentel has two export cables, one of which was interrupted. The meshed grid connection allowed continued generation, unlike earlier Belgian offshore wind farms. To avoid overloading the hub cables, generation from the four connected wind farms was temporarily limited in high winds.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported. Elia said the cable incident was still being investigated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Meshed offshore grid connections can maintain power export after damage to a single export cable. (2) Temporary limits on generation may be needed in high winds so that an alternative route is not overloaded. (3) Continued generation through a second export path should not be treated as evidence that the damaged cable is back in service.", "source_url": "https://offshorewind.biz/2024/01/29/belgian-meshed-grid-to-the-rescue-as-rentel-export-cable-gets-damaged", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:11:54.319285+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1742", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1742/", "title": "Wind turbine catches fire and explodes at Blaen Bowi", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine at Blaen Bowi Wind Farm on Moelfra Hill near Newcastle Emlyn caught fire shortly before midday on 28 January 2024. Fire crews from Newcastle Emlyn and Carmarthen were called at 11.46 and found the turbine well alight, with pieces of debris falling nearby. Onlookers reported that the top section burst into flames, dropped off while still burning and exploded when it hit the ground. Crews monitored the debris and took no further action. The landowner continued to watch for fire spread and falling debris. Crews left at 13.03. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. The article does not say which part failed or why the fire started.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A burning turbine top can detach and fall while still alight, so the exclusion area needs to cover falling debris as well as the tower. (2) Where a turbine fire cannot be fought directly, crews may need to monitor debris and fire spread, and the landowner may need to continue that watch after crews leave. (3) With no cause reported, operators should still identify the failed unit and preserve debris so the failure can be investigated.", "source_url": "https://www.tivysideadvertiser.co.uk/news/24080916.wind-turbine-catches-fire-explodes-blaen-bowi/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:11:57.301149+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1743", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1743/", "title": "Transformer fire causes power outage in Woodside, Queens", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer at 58th Street and Laurel Hill Boulevard in Woodside, Queens, caught fire around 2:30 a.m. and knocked out power to nearly 1,200 Con Edison customers. Neighbours said they heard an explosion before the outage. Some lights on the nearby Brooklyn Queens Expressway also went out. Con Edison restored power to the affected customers around 7 a.m. The cause was not reported, and authorities had begun an investigation.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer failure near a major road can affect nearby lighting as well as customer supply. (2) Neighbour reports of an explosion can be an early sign of a transformer incident. (3) Operators should be ready to restore supply quickly while the cause is still unknown.", "source_url": "https://abc7ny.com/post/transformer-fire-con-edison-power-outage-queens/14362174/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:12:03.275852+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1744", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1744/", "title": "Explosive fire at Cobb EMC substation on County Services Road in Marietta", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical fire broke out at about 12:30 a.m. at the Cobb EMC substation on County Services Road in Marietta. The fire lit the night sky and explosions were reported. Cobb County Emergency Management said more than 6,000 people were without power at one point. Fire crews surveyed the area and waited until Cobb EMC personnel said it was safe before fighting the fire inside the substation. Cobb EMC said power for customers served through that substation was rerouted and restored by 2 a.m.", "contributing_factors": "Cobb EMC described the event as a major equipment failure. The company said the cause was not yet known and that an investigation was under way, with insurance and manufacturing representatives expected to help identify the root cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can produce explosions and bright flames that lead nearby residents to leave before the hazard is clear, so early public information matters. (2) Fire crews may need the operator to confirm it is safe to enter a live substation before they fight the fire. (3) Where the failed equipment is not yet identified, supply can be restored by rerouting while the investigation continues.", "source_url": "https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2024/01/25/explosive-fire-electrical-substation-cobb-county-causes-panic/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:12:19.036036+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1745", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1745/", "title": "Squirrel reported to cause blast at Webster Co. substation in Webster County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A 14 News headline reported that a squirrel caused a blast at Webster Co. substation in Webster County, Indiana, and that the blast was caught on camera. The available text does not name the state, the date of the blast, any injury, any outage, or the equipment involved.", "contributing_factors": "The headline attributes the blast to a squirrel. It does not say how the animal reached the equipment or which part of the substation was involved.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wildlife can start faults at substations, so animal guards and barriers should be kept under review. (2) Camera footage should be checked against equipment records before a cause is treated as confirmed. (3) A headline alone does not establish injuries, damage or loss of supply, so those outcomes should not be stated until they are reported.", "source_url": "https://www.14news.com/video/2024/01/26/caught-cam-squirrel-causes-blast-webster-co-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:12:32.168692+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1746", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1746/", "title": "Zesco bulk substation catches fire in Northmead, Lusaka", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "Zambia", "country_code": "zm", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "ZESCO said its bulk substation in the Northmead area of Lusaka caught fire under unknown circumstances. The company said the 33/11 kV Dublin Substation caught fire around 09:30 hours and that supply was adversely affected in several parts of Lusaka, including Garden Chilulu, Thornpark, Northmead, Rhodespark, part of Emmasdale, part of Chaisa and part of Fairview. ZESCO confirmed the incident and said investigations had been launched to establish the cause. The published report is behind a membership wall after that statement, so later findings are not in this entry.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not stated. ZESCO said the fire started under unknown circumstances and that investigations had been launched.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a 33/11 kV distribution substation can cut supply across several districts at once, so operators should keep switching and restoration plans ready for that class of site. (2) If the cause is not known when the first public statement is issued, say so and record that an investigation is under way rather than speculate. (3) Early notices should list the areas affected so customers and neighbouring operators can plan.", "source_url": "https://diggers.news/local/2024/01/18/zesco-substation-catches-fire-in-lsks-northmead/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:12:47.831494+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1747", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1747/", "title": "One Energy turbine blade falls in Allen Township Ohio", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 22 January 2024, just before noon, a blade on a wind turbine in Allen Township, Ohio, fell to the ground. One Energy said the turbine belongs to the company and that the blade fell at 11:55 a.m., directly below the turbine, with no further damage and no injuries. Company personnel were on the site within minutes to inspect the site and the turbine. Officials said one blade is about 140 feet long. The company said all wind turbines it owns had been shut down while an investigation was under way. The cause had not been reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should be able to inspect a turbine promptly after a blade detachment. (2) Shutting down similar machines while the cause is unknown can limit further risk. (3) Public updates during an investigation help nearby residents understand what is known and what is not.", "source_url": "https://www.13abc.com/2024/01/23/all-one-energy-wind-turbines-shut-down-after-blade-falls-off-turbine-findlay/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:12:50.801302+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1748", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1748/", "title": "Fire reported at Vladivostok substations leaves homes without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "Russia", "country_code": "ru", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 23 January 2024, explosions and fires were reported in Vladivostok, and hundreds of homes were left without power. Local reports said substations on Novozhilova Street and in Tikhaya Bukhta Bay were on fire, and media reported that more than 250 houses in Tikhaya Bukhta were de-energised. The Far East Distribution Network Company said that at about 19:00 two transformers were shut down at the Zagorodnaya substation in the Borisenko district, and that a fire was recorded in a closed distribution unit, not in the transformers. It is not clear from this report whether that account describes the same sites named by residents. Power engineers and firefighters attended. The cause, any injuries, and how long the outage lasted were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. Local accounts of explosions and the company's account of a fire in a closed distribution unit have not been reconciled in this report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Early public accounts of which substations are on fire should be checked against the network operator before sites are treated as confirmed. (2) A fire in a closed distribution unit can take transformers out of service even when the transformers themselves are not alight, so isolation and restoration plans should cover the switchgear as well as the transformers. (3) Outage figures from residents and from the operator may differ, so operators should issue one early statement of the sites involved and the customers affected.", "source_url": "https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2024/01/23/7438503/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:12:51.873851+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1749", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1749/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses at North Fork Ridge Wind Farm, Barton County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In January 2024 a wind turbine collapsed at Liberty's North Fork Ridge Wind Farm in Barton County, Missouri. The company told KOAM it was still assessing the turbine and could not estimate how long that work would take. It said the wind farm stayed online and that generation was not affected. A later report on a separate collapse at the same farm said the 2024 collapse also caused no injuries. The cause of the 2024 collapse was not stated.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The operator said it was still assessing what happened to the turbine.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a turbine collapse, say clearly whether the rest of the farm is still generating and whether anyone was hurt, and keep that update separate from later events at the same site. (2) Do not treat an open assessment as a known cause. Publish the structural or weather findings only when they are actually reported. (3) Record each collapse on its own date so a later failure at the same farm is not written up as the earlier one.", "source_url": "https://www.koamnewsnow.com/news/local-news/wind-farm-generation-not-impacted-after-turbine-collapse/article_972b8250-b18c-11ee-9733-63ed2aec4a6d.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:12:54.60684+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1750", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1750/", "title": "Transformer fire disrupts Windsor city hall services", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire broke out at around 7 a.m. near City Hall Square in Windsor. The fire caused a power outage that shut down services at 350 and 400 City Hall Square for the day. Affected services included Service Canada, Service Ontario, the Ontario Court of Justice, social services, development services and tax payments. The city has a backup generator but it supplies only emergency power, leaving no elevators or operational outlets. The 311 contact centre operated at reduced capacity with some remote working. Officials worked to restore power but no timeline was given. The fire occurred away from buildings and caused no further damage.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure clear communication of outage impacts and alternative service channels to the public. (2) Review backup power provisions for full operational continuity beyond emergency supply. (3) Maintain rapid response protocols for transformer faults to minimise service disruption.", "source_url": "https://windsorstar.com/news/transformer-fire-closes-windsor-city-hall-square-buildings/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:12:56.178355+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1751", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1751/", "title": "Storm floods LIPA substation on Fire Island causing outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A coastal storm overnight on Tuesday led to flooding at a LIPA substation at Ocean Beach on Fire Island. PSEG turned off power to the station just after 10 a.m. on Wednesday, affecting about 1,700 customers. A crew was ferried to the island and inspected the substation. The utility said the inspection found no lasting damage. The substation was re-energised and power was restored by 2:30 p.m. the same day.", "contributing_factors": "The source attributes the flooding at the substation to the coastal storm. It also reports high winds and storm surge elsewhere on Fire Island, but it does not state that those effects flooded the station.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations in coastal or flood-prone locations need flood protection and a clear decision to de-energise if water reaches the site. (2) Pre-planned access, including ferry access to barrier islands, supports a prompt inspection after a storm. (3) A short outage can still affect a large number of customers, so restoration plans should be ready before the inspection is finished.", "source_url": "https://www.newsday.com/news/weather/lipa-substation-breach-fire-island-outage-ikr83wn9", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:13:37.195507+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1752", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1752/", "title": "Blade section detaches at Humber Gateway off Holderness", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In late December, a section of one turbine blade at Humber Gateway, 8 km off Holderness, East Yorkshire, United Kingdom, detached and fell into the sea. A Notice to Mariners issued on 8 January said the section, about 20 metres long, was unaccounted for and likely adrift or submerged. Drift analysis indicated that it had likely drifted offshore in a westerly direction, and no further deterioration of the blade itself was expected. The turbine was shut down, authorities were alerted, and no one was injured or in the area. The section had not been retrieved and the cause was still under investigation. RWE said a blade replacement campaign was planned and that the affected turbine would be replaced when a component and a jack-up were available.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was still under investigation and has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Issue a notice to mariners promptly when a blade section from an offshore turbine enters the sea and remains unaccounted for. (2) Keep the affected turbine shut down and continue to monitor the site while debris may still be adrift or submerged. (3) Plan component and vessel availability for blade replacement while the cause is still being investigated.", "source_url": "https://www.offshorewind.biz/2024/01/09/part-of-damaged-blade-mia-at-humber-gateway-offshore-wind-farm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:13:44.908922+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1753", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1753/", "title": "Fire at PPL substation reported to light up sky in Allentown", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at a PPL substation in Allentown was reported to have lit up the evening sky. The published headline included a description of a big ball of electricity in the air. The report is dated 28 December 2023. Cause, damage, injuries, any effect on supply, and the emergency response were not stated in the available source.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A reported substation fire should be treated as a live electrical hazard until the operator confirms the equipment is isolated. (2) Early public reports should be logged even when cause, damage and supply impact are not yet known. (3) Operators should be ready to say whether customers lost power once a substation fire is reported.", "source_url": "https://www.wfmz.com/news/area/lehighvalley/just-a-big-ball-of-electricity-in-the-air-fire-at-ppl-substation-lights-up/article_baf8d85a-a50b-11ee-ba6f-0fec93f96528.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:13:53.860088+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1754", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1754/", "title": "Substation fire in Algiers leaves thousands without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "More than 9,000 Algiers residents lost power after a fire at an Entergy substation on 5 January 2024. The cause was still under investigation. Power was fully restored just before 1pm. Sewer pumping stations on the West Bank lost supply, and flow to the West Bank wastewater plant stopped. The report says these stations do not have backup power on site. The Sewerage and Water Board asked residents to limit water use until power returned to the pumps at around 1pm, after which normal use resumed.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported and remained under investigation. The sewer pumping stations affected by the outage were reported to have no on-site backup power.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wastewater pumping stations can stop during a substation outage if they have no on-site backup supply. (2) Customer notices should say which critical services are affected and when normal use can resume. (3) Until investigators report a cause, operators should not treat a substation fire as explained.", "source_url": "https://www.nola.com/news/over-9000-without-power-in-algiers-after-fire-at-substation/article_6269d412-abde-11ee-a391-47b0c29b8c0d.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:13:56.855452+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1755", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1755/", "title": "Transformer fire at Con Edison substation cuts power in Dongan Hills, Staten Island", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 20 December 2023, a transformer fire at a Con Edison substation in the Dongan Hills section of Staten Island left roughly 3,700 customers without power. The FDNY responded to reports of smoke. About 60 firefighters and EMS personnel attended. No injuries were reported. Con Edison restored power. The cause has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a distribution substation can cut power to thousands of customers even when no injuries are reported. (2) Where the cause is not known after the initial response, operators should preserve evidence and publish findings when they are established. (3) Restoration planning should assume a large emergency-service attendance and a need to re-energise customers without knowing the failure mode on the day.", "source_url": "https://abc7ny.com/post/staten-island-power-outage-transformer-fire-con-edison/14207605/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:14:15.022937+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1756", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1756/", "title": "Explosion at Taylorsville substation creates mushroom cloud", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 22 December 2023, an explosion at a power substation in Taylorsville, Utah, was reported to have produced a large mushroom cloud near Salt Lake Community College. One local report said the explosion took out the entire substation, and that the cause had not been made available. Salt Lake Community College's Redwood Campus was reported, via social media, to have closed for the day after losing power. Injuries and the precise extent of equipment damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation explosion can interrupt nearby institutional loads at short notice, so operators should keep outage contacts current. (2) Where video shows a large release but the initiating fault is unknown, preserve recordings and protection data for later review. (3) Public updates should separate what is confirmed from what is only reported on social media.", "source_url": "https://www.abc4.com/news/wasatch-front/watch-taylorsville-substation-explosion-creates-huge-mushroom-cloud/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:14:44.295429+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1757", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1757/", "title": "Fire at TCN substation in Maryland, Lagos, put out with no casualties reported", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Transmission Company of Nigeria power substation at Maryland Junction, Maryland, Lagos, at about 20:06 on a Saturday, as reported on 17 December 2023. The Ilupeju crew of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service attended and put the fire out. No casualties were recorded. An investigation into the cause, and an enumeration of valuables affected, was reported as ongoing.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. An investigation was said to be ongoing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can be extinguished without casualties, but the extent of damage may still be unknown until equipment and valuables are enumerated. (2) Until the cause is established, operators should treat the event as unexplained and preserve evidence for the investigation. (3) Fire-service attendance times and the outcome should be recorded so later reports can be checked against the first official account.", "source_url": "https://www.thecable.ng/no-loss-of-life-fire-breaks-out-at-tcn-lagos-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:14:47.112024+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1758", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1758/", "title": "Explosion at a substation reported to cause power outages in Greater Manchester", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Sky News reported a 'big bang' explosion and a 'fireball' at a substation in Greater Manchester, which it said caused power outages. The available source is a headline only. The site, the operator, the cause, any injuries, the damage and how long the outages lasted were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation explosion can interrupt supply over a wide area, so operators should be ready to isolate the fault and restore power by other routes. (2) Early reports may not identify the failed equipment. Confirm the asset, the cause and the outage extent before drawing operational conclusions. (3) After an explosive failure, inspect neighbouring equipment before it is returned to service.", "source_url": "https://news.sky.com/story/greater-manchester-fireball-big-bang-explosion-at-substation-causes-power-outages-13029599", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:15:40.772722+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1759", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1759/", "title": "Vinegar Hill substation flash causes brief Brooklyn outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A high-voltage transformer failure occurred at Vinegar Hill substation in Vinegar Hill, Brooklyn, United States. The failure caused a flash and smoke at the facility around midnight. The resulting outage lasted less than one-tenth of one second and affected the surrounding region as a voltage dip. Automatic breakers isolated the short-circuited transformer. Redundancy measures prevented wider disruption. The root cause remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Automatic isolation systems can limit the duration and scope of electrical faults. (2) Redundant transformer capacity helps maintain supply during single-unit failures. (3) Even very brief voltage dips can be noticed by customers across interconnected networks.", "source_url": "https://www.politico.com/news/2023/12/15/con-ed-transformer-flash-in-brooklyn-causes-brief-outage-00132051", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:15:51.582514+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1760", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1760/", "title": "Wind turbine blade breaks at Blood Hill in Somerton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Part of a wind turbine blade broke off and landed in a field amid strong winds during Storm Elin. The turbine is one of a pair built in 2015 at Blood Hill in Somerton near Great Yarmouth. The detached section landed about 20m from the tower on a Saturday, and the blade showed signs of damage. Blood Hill was the first wind farm built in Norfolk and was among the first operational in England in 1992. Three other blades lying near the tower were covered in green algae, with long grass around them. The turbine was managed by E.on until 2012, when it was sold. The report does not name the current owner.", "contributing_factors": "Strong winds during Storm Elin. No other cause is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a named storm, check blades and the ground around towers for detached fragments. (2) Distinguish newly failed parts from older blades already stored near a tower, so the failed element is correctly identified. (3) Where a site has changed hands, keep a clear record of who is responsible for inspection and repair.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-norfolk-67684408", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:15:54.033695+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1761", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1761/", "title": "Substation reported to have exploded in stormy weather, with Torrensville named in the report address", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 11 December 2023 Adelaide Now reported a substation explosion in stormy weather and described the cause as a mystery. The story address refers to footage of an explosion after a lightning strike in Torrensville. The article text was not available, so it is not known what equipment failed, whether anyone was hurt, or whether supply was lost.", "contributing_factors": "Stormy weather was reported. A lightning strike is suggested only by the story address and is not confirmed by the headline.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Storms can coincide with substation explosions, so operators should check protection and remote alarms when severe weather is forecast. (2) An early report that calls the cause a mystery should not be treated as a confirmed root cause. (3) Video of an explosion does not replace a site inspection and an outage record.", "source_url": "https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/storm-brings-the-boom-with-footage-showing-explosion-after-lightning-strike-in-torrensville/news-story/9da4a06c7b8a214d14f01e6557c46677", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T09:16:14.804655+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1762", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1762/", "title": "Transformer fire causes outages for thousands in Alexandria", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Alexandria Fire Department was reported to have responded to a transformer fire at Mount Vernon Avenue and E. Nelson Avenue just before 7 a.m. on 8 September 2026. Dominion Energy customers peaked at more than 6,900 without power, mainly around Richmond Highway in Potomac Yard and Del Ray and in Old Town North. Most of those outages were reported resolved around 9 a.m. Later that morning, more than 4,300 customers were without power in North Ridge, Fairlington/Bradlee, Seminary Hill, Taylor Run, Rosemont and Del Ray. Dominion Energy attributed that later outage to a circuit being out and estimated restoration between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Whether the two outages had the same cause was not confirmed in the report.", "contributing_factors": "A blown transformer on Mount Vernon Avenue was reported as the likely cause of the earlier outage. The fire service response was to a transformer fire at that location. No confirmed failure mechanism was published.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rapid identification and isolation of failed distribution equipment limits the duration of customer outages. (2) Coordinated response between fire services and the network operator supports timely restoration. (3) Public communication of estimated restoration times helps manage customer expectations during unplanned events.", "source_url": "https://www.alxnow.com/2026/09/08/blown-transformer-likely-behind-power-outages-for-thousands-along-route-1-in-alexandria/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T15:10:08.140696+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1764", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1764/", "title": "Transformer explosion at Industrial Park substation in Corning Iowa", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Dispatch took a report of an explosion at the Industrial Park substation in Corning, Iowa, United States at 2:18 p.m. on Wednesday. The report was published on 12 August 2026. A witness said a transformer had exploded. The item was headlined as a substation explosion. No injuries were reported. Damage, cause and any effect on supply were not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep an early dispatch report separate from what responders have confirmed on site. (2) Record a witness account of the asset and the failed equipment without treating it as a finished finding. (3) Do not describe an outage or a damage outcome until those facts are reported.", "source_url": "https://westerniowatoday.com/2026/08/12/sub-station-explosion-reported-at-industrial-park-in-adams-county/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T15:10:50.078545+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1765", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1765/", "title": "Transformer fire disrupts downtown power in Berkeley Springs", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Damage to a transformer at the downtown Berkeley Springs power substation on Harrison Avenue cut electricity in the central part of Berkeley Springs for a few hours on a Friday. People nearby saw flames on the power equipment. Potomac Edison restored power sooner than expected. The published report is incomplete, and the cause is not described in the available text.", "contributing_factors": "The headline attributes the incident to a regulator. The available article text does not say how, or confirm a failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation transformer fire can cut power to a town centre for several hours. (2) Do not treat a headline cause as established until the report describes it. (3) Operators should be ready to restore supply and tell nearby businesses when service is back.", "source_url": "https://www.morganmessenger.com/2026/08/04/transformer-fire-that-cut-downtown-power-due-to-regulator/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T15:11:46.075467+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1766", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1766/", "title": "Transformer fire in Brighton cuts power to more than 1,200 RG&E customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer caught fire in Brighton, New York, on a Wednesday morning, and more than 1,200 homes or businesses, mostly in Brighton, lost power. News crews saw utility crews making repairs on French Road at about 5:30 a.m. The Brighton Fire Department confirmed that crews were working to repair a transformer. That scene later cleared and the road reopened. Power was restored, and RG&E's outage tracker showed no remaining outages. RG&E said the cause of the fire was under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. RG&E said the cause of the fire was under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A single transformer fire can interrupt supply to more than a thousand customers until crews complete repairs. (2) Traffic controls around a utility repair should stay in place until the scene is clear and the road can reopen safely. (3) Restoring supply does not close the event: the cause should still be investigated and shared with operators of similar equipment.", "source_url": "https://www.whec.com/top-news/1200-rge-customers-mostly-in-brighton-without-power-on-wednesday-morning/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T15:11:52.29406+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1767", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1767/", "title": "Transformer explosion on Charter Oak Avenue in Hartford cuts power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 2 February 2026, Hartford fire crews were called at about 12:45 p.m. to a reported fire on the 100 block of Wyllys Street. They found that an exterior transformer on Charter Oak Avenue had failed and exploded. The incident was quickly brought under control. Eversource's outage map initially showed about 1,250 outages in the area, falling to about 230 by 4:22 p.m. An Eversource spokesperson said the transformer issue cut power to about 500 customers and that all but two of those customers were restored within an hour. One person working in a nearby building was taken to hospital for checks over possible hearing effects from the explosion. No other injuries were reported. The cause remained under investigation by the Hartford Fire Marshal's Office with Eversource.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer malfunction had not been reported. Eversource said it was still investigating why the unit failed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An exterior transformer failure in a street can affect people in nearby buildings, so a rapid check for blast and hearing effects should sit alongside fire control. (2) Outage-map totals and the utility's customer count can differ; public figures should state which count is being used. (3) Isolation of the failed unit and a joint fire-marshal and network investigation should be finished before similar equipment is treated as understood.", "source_url": "https://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/article/hartford-transformer-explosion-power-outages-21329464.php", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-01T20:09:44.972344+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1768", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1768/", "title": "Nizhnohirskyi substation damage causes outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-10", "country": "Ukraine", "country_code": "ua", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Nizhnohirskyi substation was reported to have been attacked. The 110/35/10 kV facility, which has transformers with a combined rating of 50 MVA, supplies the Nizhnohirskyi district. Outages were reported in part of the village and surrounding areas. In Nizhnohirskyi, electricity and water supplies were reported to have stopped. Krymenergo, the power company under the occupation authorities, acknowledged that a power facility had been attacked.", "contributing_factors": "Reports attribute the damage to an attack on the substation. No further technical cause is stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grid operators should keep contingency plans for isolating a damaged substation so that outages do not spread further than necessary. (2) Where water supply depends on continuous electricity, pumping sites need a backup supply. (3) Clear public information on which areas are affected, and on what is not yet known about restoration, reduces uncertainty for communities.", "source_url": "https://mezha.net/jp/news/4732ca04_power_substation_hit/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:08:39.936937+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1769", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1769/", "title": "Hailstorm damages solar panels in Mohmand and Khyber districts", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Pakistan", "country_code": "pk", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Heavy rain and an intense hailstorm, with egg-sized hailstones, struck areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Mohmand and Khyber districts overnight. The storm damaged standing crops, solar panels and other property. Several solar panels installed on rooftops and agricultural land were damaged. No casualties were reported.", "contributing_factors": "Severe hailstorm with large hailstones. The number of panels damaged and the extent of the damage were not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Assess hail risk and consider protective measures for solar installations in hail-prone regions. (2) Include weather-related damage in asset resilience planning. (3) Establish rapid loss assessment processes after extreme weather events.", "source_url": "https://bloompakistan.com/egg-sized-hailstorm-hits-kp-wrecks-tomato-crops-and-solar-panels/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:08:50.046563+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1770", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1770/", "title": "Fire damages Summerstrand substation and disrupts supply in Summerstrand", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An out-of-control fire near Summerstrand substation in Summerstrand, Gqeberha, damaged the substation and disrupted supply in the area. The fire spread rapidly. Residents used garden hoses and basic equipment while emergency services responded. The fire at the substation was later extinguished, although surrounding fire activity continued. Engineers from the electricity department were to assess the damage once it was safe to enter. Boreholes could not be used during the incident, which affected access to water. Firefighters, neighbourhood watch members, traffic officials, metro police and ward committee representatives took part in the response, including road closures and monitoring of hot spots. One resident later reported that electricity had been restored in their home. The extent of restoration across the area was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports that an out-of-control fire near the substation spread rapidly. It does not state how the fire started or why it reached the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An external fire near a substation can interrupt supply even when the fire does not start in the equipment. (2) Loss of power to boreholes during a fire can reduce the water available to residents and responders. (3) Treat restoration reports from individual customers as partial until the operator confirms the wider supply and the equipment has been assessed.", "source_url": "https://novanews.co.za/peexpress/community-mobilises-as-fire-damages-summerstrand-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:09:39.47814+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1771", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1771/", "title": "Drone debris reported to cause fire at Frolovskaya power substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-11", "country": "Russia", "country_code": "ru", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported on the territory of the Frolovskaya power substation in Russia's Volgograd region and was attributed to falling drone debris. Forces were said to have been sent to deal with the consequences. As of 23:30, no casualties or major destruction were reported. It was not reported whether the fire had been put out, what equipment was damaged, or whether power supply was affected.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was attributed to falling drone debris during a reported attack. No further technical cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations should have a plan for external impact and debris, including how to isolate affected equipment. (2) Early statements should record the time, casualties and the extent of damage so later reports can be checked. (3) Operators should confirm whether supply was interrupted, which was not reported here.", "source_url": "https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-ato/4054785-massive-drone-attack-reported-in-russias-volgograd-region-power-substation-catches-fire.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:09:56.066204+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1772", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1772/", "title": "Transformer fire at Mead Substation fills sky with smoke", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the evening of 29 August 2024, the City of Boulder City reported a large transformer fire at the Mead Substation, at Interstate 11 and mile marker nine. Black smoke was visible across the Las Vegas Valley. Boulder City Fire, assisted by Henderson Fire, later said the situation was under control. Officials reported no injuries and no power outages. Residents were asked to avoid the area, and people with respiratory concerns were advised to take care outdoors because of smoke. Western Area Power, which owns the transformers, provided a statement, but the report did not reproduce it. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire can send heavy smoke well beyond the site, so public advice should separate smoke caution from any claim about injuries or supply. (2) Confirm early which organisation owns the equipment and whether customers have lost power, to avoid confusion during a visible fire. (3) Neighbouring fire services can support a substation fire, but the duration and cause may still be unknown after the fire is brought under control.", "source_url": "https://www.fox5vegas.com/2024/08/30/large-transformer-fire-fills-las-vegas-valley-sky-with-black-smoke/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:10:36.010951+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1773", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1773/", "title": "Transformer explosion cuts power in Katy, Texas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Severe thunderstorms with wind gusts up to 75 mph struck Katy, Texas on 28 May 2024. A transformer exploded and a power line set a tree on fire. The explosion caused a partial loss of electricity at a local junior high school. CenterPoint Energy reported around 325,000 customers without power across the region. The school was on summer break but administrative and maintenance staff were present. Power was later restored.", "contributing_factors": "High winds and severe thunderstorms affected overhead lines and transformers in the area.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Grid operators should review the resilience of overhead lines and transformers to extreme wind events. (2) Schools and other critical facilities should confirm backup power availability before adverse weather. (3) Rapid restoration planning reduces disruption when distribution assets fail.", "source_url": "https://coveringkaty.com/news/katy/transformer-explosion-knocks-out-power-to-seven-lakes-junior/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:10:37.221717+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1774", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1774/", "title": "Fire at BGE Frederick Road substation leaves about 800 people without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At about 9:45 p.m. on 15 April 2024, BGE said an equipment failure at the BGE Frederick Rd. substation caused a fire. BGE crews were on site when the equipment failed and notified the Baltimore County Fire Department, which attended. About 800 people were without power. BGE said its crews would remain on site to carry out repairs and restore supply as quickly and safely as possible.", "contributing_factors": "BGE reported an equipment failure. The source does not describe the failed equipment or why it failed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) When crews are already on site, they should be able to raise the alarm with the fire service at once. (2) Notification arrangements with the local fire service should be clear before an equipment failure. (3) Restoration should wait until damaged equipment can be worked on safely.", "source_url": "https://foxbaltimore.com/news/local/800-people-with-no-power-due-to-substation-fire-according-to-bge", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:10:55.729473+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1775", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1775/", "title": "Fire at Fordsburg substation cable leaves Johannesburg without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 1 May 2024, a fire left parts of Johannesburg without power and forced some roads to close. Reporting described a blaze linked to the Fordsburg substation and said underground cables had caught fire. City Power said it was on site and that preliminary findings indicated the fire had affected the cable from the Fordsburg substation. Emergency services reported an underground fire and said no injuries had been reported. The precise point of origin had not been established.", "contributing_factors": "It was reported that the fire was believed to have been caused by cable theft. Emergency services said the cause remained subject to investigation, so theft has not been established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault on a cable between substations can cut supply over a wide area and disrupt roads above the route, so operators should be ready to isolate the feeder and restore supply by other circuits. (2) Suspected cable theft should stay marked as unconfirmed until investigators finish their work, and the scene should be preserved. (3) Utilities and emergency services should share early notice when an underground cable fire is under a major road, so traffic can be diverted safely.", "source_url": "https://www.enca.com/news/substation-fire-leaves-parts-joburg-dark", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:11:05.542046+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1776", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1776/", "title": "Sunshine Coast Solar Panel Fire Prompts Court Action", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A May 2024 news headline reports a couple's dispute with a solar company after fire damage put at about $500,000 at Sunshine Coast, Australia. The report's web address describes a solar panel fire and court action. The article text was not available, so the place, date, cause and how far the panels were involved are not confirmed.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported fire at a solar installation as a safety event even when the first public account is a legal dispute. (2) Keep installation and maintenance records so damage and cause can be checked after a fire. (3) Do not infer cause or fault from a headline or a court filing alone.", "source_url": "https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/sunshine-coast/police-courts/jennifer-currie-raymond-smith-take-sps-energy-to-court-after-solar-panel-fire/news-story/cffa7044ff1f121f94bafe4b173c0918", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:11:23.83146+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1777", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1777/", "title": "Hail-damaged solar array near Scottsbluff returns to service", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A hail storm in June 2023 near Scottsbluff, Nebraska, heavily damaged a community solar array. Softball- and baseball-sized hail was reported. Nebraska Public Power District later announced that the facility had been repaired, recommissioned and returned to operation, and credited partnerships with Sol Systems and GenPro. The Scottsbluff Star-Herald, as cited in that report, said a 17-member crew carried out the repairs. The exact site name, capacity and dates of damage and return to service were not stated.", "contributing_factors": "An exceptionally intense hail storm with softball- and baseball-sized hail was reported. No other cause was stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Large hail can put a community solar array out of service until panels are replaced. (2) Spare modules and contractor capacity should be planned before the local hail season so a damaged array can be recommissioned. (3) After severe hail, confirm the array is safe to return to supply before it is brought back online.", "source_url": "https://okenergytoday.com/2024/01/hail-damaged-solar-system-in-nebraska-back-online/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:11:42.508771+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1778", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1778/", "title": "Engineer Loses Arm During Repair at North Sea Siemens Gamesa Turbine", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In 2018, an engineer lost most of an arm while repairing a turbine blade at a Siemens Gamesa offshore wind farm in the North Sea. Reporting of a later court case said he had started the work believing the power was off, and that a blade sliced through his arm. A High Court judge was reported to have found the employer mostly responsible and the engineer partly responsible for not double-checking that the power was off. The employer was reported to have updated its equipment and procedures afterwards. The wind farm itself was not named.", "contributing_factors": "The engineer was reported to have begun the repair thinking the power was off. The court was reported to have said he should have double-checked isolation, and also to have found the employer mostly responsible. The report does not set out the technical detail of the isolation failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolation should be verified before work starts on a turbine blade, not assumed from an earlier check. (2) Maintenance procedures should require a further check that power is off before a repair begins. (3) After a serious maintenance injury, equipment and procedures should be reviewed promptly.", "source_url": "https://www.insideedition.com/mr-safety-engineer-who-lost-arm-in-wind-turbine-freak-work-accident-wins-lawsuit-84894", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:12:05.427051+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1779", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1779/", "title": "Explosion at Lytkarino substation cuts power to settlements", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-11", "country": "Russia", "country_code": "ru", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion and a small fire were reported at a local electric substation in Lytkarino, near Moscow, on the night of 22-23 November 2023. Residents reported a bright flash at about 01:00, after which power was lost across the district. Early reports said more than 10 settlements in Moscow Oblast were cut off. The cause, any injuries and the extent of damage have not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported. The account relies on early reports from local residents, relayed by Russian Telegram channels.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault at one substation can interrupt supply to many settlements at once, so isolation and restoration plans should be ready before the cause is known. (2) Early reports of a flash and fire should be treated as unconfirmed until the operator or the emergency services publish what happened. (3) Night-time outages need a prompt public update on which areas are affected and when supply is expected back.", "source_url": "https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2023/11/23/7429984/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:12:06.518095+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1780", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1780/", "title": "Transformer explosion causes fire at Medford power station", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Crews responded to a fire at a power station off North OR-99 on Lynn Street in northwest Medford after a transformer exploded. Pacific Power assisted with the transformer. The Medford Fire Department also assisted and blocked traffic on Lynn Street. Crews focused on high-voltage electrical equipment and reduced the fire significantly. There were no power outages at the time of the report. It was uncertain whether nearby businesses and homes would lose power later, and the fire was expected to have little or no impact on the community.", "contributing_factors": "The fire was reported to have started after a transformer exploded. Why the transformer exploded was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer explosion at a power station can start a fire that needs a joint response from the fire service and the utility, including traffic control. (2) High-voltage equipment should be treated as live until it is confirmed safe to approach. (3) Early reports may not show later effects on nearby customers, so supply should be monitored after the fire is reduced.", "source_url": "https://www.kdrv.com/news/top-stories/fire-breaks-out-at-power-station-on-lynn-street-in-medford/article_a74218de-8cca-11ee-adaf-7bc6ca3b3141.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:12:07.932071+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1781", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1781/", "title": "Engineer reported to have lost an arm on a North Sea wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A Windpower Monthly report states that the High Court in London ruled that Siemens Gamesa's breaches of duty led to an engineer losing his arm while working on a wind farm in the North Sea. The text available to the register does not name the wind farm, give the date of the accident, or describe how the injury happened.", "contributing_factors": "The published report says the court found breaches of duty. The available text does not describe the task, the equipment or the sequence of events.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Serious injury reports should record the site, date, task and equipment so other operators can learn from them. (2) Work on offshore turbines should be controlled so people cannot be injured by moving parts. (3) A reported court finding of duty breaches is a prompt to review how contractor work is planned and supervised, without treating the short report as a full account.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1850181/engineer-sues-siemens-gamesa-arm-guillotined-offshore-wind-accident", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:12:11.231647+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1782", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1782/", "title": "Fire at Observatory Substation cuts power east of Johannesburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-12", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the early hours of Saturday 2 December 2023, a blaze extensively damaged the Observatory Substation in Observatory, Johannesburg, South Africa. City Power said equipment inside the control room was damaged. The fire left several suburbs east of Johannesburg without power. By 3 December, City Power said technicians had made progress with repairs. Officials said full restoration could take 5 to 7, but the available report does not state the unit. The cause was still under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The cause had not been reported. The account says only that the fire was being investigated and that equipment in the control room was damaged.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in substation control-room equipment can interrupt supply across several suburbs at once. (2) Say clearly what is known and what is not, including any restoration figure whose unit has not been confirmed. (3) Check water sites that depend on the same supply after a substation fire.", "source_url": "https://www.enca.com/top-stories-videos/observatory-substation-fire-repairs-restore-power-underway", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:12:12.293252+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1783", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1783/", "title": "Wind turbine collapse and serious casualty reported in China, with a local shutdown ordered", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "China", "country_code": "cn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report dated 21 November 2023 said a wind turbine collapse in China, described as involving a serious casualty, had prompted an order for a day-long local shutdown. The available text does not name the site, the operator or the town, and it does not say whether the casualty was fatal. A photograph of a wind farm in northern China was captioned as not among the sites covered by the safety notice.", "contributing_factors": "Officials were reported to have claimed that energy sector companies were putting deadlines ahead of safety. The available text does not give a cause for the collapse, so that claim is not treated as established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a reported turbine collapse with a serious casualty, nearby work should stop until the scene is confirmed safe. (2) A claim that schedule pressure is competing with safety should be checked against the work controls, not treated as the cause until it is investigated. (3) Do not infer which site was affected from a photograph that the report says is unrelated.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/chinese-turbine-collapse-and-serious-casualty-prompts-order-for-day-long-local-shutdown/2-1-1551474", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:12:35.741443+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1784", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1784/", "title": "Transformer explosion causes outage in Harrisburg, Dauphin County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer exploded overnight in the 1200 block of Paxton Street in Harrisburg, cutting power to part of Dauphin County, including UPMC Harrisburg Hospital. The hospital ran on a generator. A county spokesperson said a pickup truck hit a pole at about 10:45 on Saturday night. Officials said the transformer explosion caused the outage. The source does not state that the collision caused the explosion. Paxton Street stayed closed between 13th and 16th streets until Sunday morning. PPL was replacing the transformer early on Sunday.", "contributing_factors": "A pickup truck struck a utility pole in the same area shortly before the outage. The source does not say whether that strike damaged the transformer or caused it to explode.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a nearby vehicle strike on a pole as a prompt to check associated equipment before assuming the outage cause. (2) Keep tested backup power available at hospitals and other critical sites. (3) Plan for prompt replacement of a failed transformer so a local outage is not extended.", "source_url": "https://www.wgal.com/article/transformer-explosion-causes-power-outage-part-dauphin-county/45812832", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T02:13:05.79396+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1786", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1786/", "title": "Kenya Power transformer explodes at Eastleigh junction in Nairobi", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-11", "country": "Kenya", "country_code": "ke", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 1 November 2023 a Kenya Power transformer exploded at the junction of Muratina and Waudo streets in Eastleigh, Nairobi. The blast produced sparks, and witnesses described darkness and smoke afterwards. Residents, boda boda riders and pedestrians nearby panicked and ran for cover. Kenya Power had not issued an official statement at the time of the report. Injuries, the cause, and whether supply was lost beyond the immediate darkness, were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer at a busy street junction can fail without warning, so operators should be ready to isolate the equipment and make the area safe. (2) Prompt public information after a loud failure helps limit alarm when the cause and any ongoing risk are not yet known. (3) Reports of sparks, darkness and smoke should be followed up to confirm whether supply was lost and whether anyone was hurt.", "source_url": "https://eastleighvoice.co.ke/news/1775/eastleigh-residents-in-panic-as-kenya-power-transformer-explodes", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:10:36.684292+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1787", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1787/", "title": "Fire damages KwaThema substation and disrupts power supply", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-11", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the KwaThema substation in the early hours of 5 November 2023. City of Ekurhuleni disaster and emergency services attended and extinguished the fire. The substation building and switchgear panels were damaged. Nearby residents were moved to a safe area to avoid smoke inhalation. No fatalities or injuries were reported. Areas were without power while the City of Ekurhuleni assessed the cause, the extent of damage and what would be needed to restore the facility. A restoration time had not been given.", "contributing_factors": "The cause had not been established. City of Ekurhuleni said it was still assessing the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can damage the building and switchgear and cut supply before the extent of the damage is known. (2) People living nearby may need to be moved clear of smoke while the fire is fought. (3) Restoration times should wait until the damage and the work required are known, and affected residents should be kept informed.", "source_url": "https://www.ekurhuleni.gov.za/press-releases/service-delivery/dems/kwathema-substation-on-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:10:38.266038+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1788", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1788/", "title": "Fire at a Lebanon County substation leads to early school dismissal", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Thursday 9 November 2023, a fire broke out at a substation in the area of 16th and Lehman Streets in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. The fire caused a power outage, and Northwest Elementary School sent about 600 students home in the morning, according to the school district. Pictures sent to the news outlet showed tall flames coming from the substation. The cause had not been reported, and no injuries had been reported. The account was described as a developing story.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut supply to nearby public buildings and force an early closure, so operators should keep school and emergency contacts current. (2) Early public statements should separate what is confirmed from what is still unknown, including the cause. (3) Pictures of flames do not identify the failed equipment; operators should preserve the site for later examination.", "source_url": "https://www.abc27.com/local-news/lebanon/fire-breaks-out-at-lebanon-county-substation-causes-school-dismissal/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:10:39.767968+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1789", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1789/", "title": "Fire at underground electrical vaults near California Street and Front Street", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At least four underground electrical vaults in San Francisco's Financial District caught fire or erupted on the morning of 1 October 2026, after smoke was reported from vaults near California Street and Front Street. The San Francisco Fire Department responded with about 70 personnel, and Pacific Gas and Electric crews were on site. A shelter-in-place order covered parts of those streets, with road closures and heavy traffic during the morning commute. Police said the order was lifted just after 11 a.m. and that emergency crews had left, with residual delays expected. No injuries were reported. Pacific Gas and Electric later said the cause was an issue related to an underground cable. An earlier Pacific Gas and Electric statement had said the cause was not yet known and that there were no customer outages associated with the incident at that time.", "contributing_factors": "Pacific Gas and Electric later attributed the fire to an issue related to an underground cable. A fire department spokesperson said that, in the past, vault fires have been sparked by equipment malfunction or trash near equipment, but the source does not confirm either of those for this incident.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Coordinate isolation of live underground equipment between the fire service and the network operator before and during firefighting. (2) Plan traffic management for vault fires in dense city centres, where street closures can gridlock the morning commute. (3) Update the public promptly when a shelter-in-place order is lifted, and say what is still unknown about outages and cause.", "source_url": "https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/sf-financial-district-fire-22457908.php", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:10:54.608556+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1790", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1790/", "title": "Wind turbine destroyed by fire in Adair County, Iowa", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine in a field in Adair County, Iowa, near Stuart, was destroyed by fire. The fire, which began on the morning of 17 October 2023, consumed the nacelle, and one blade fell to the ground. The fire spread to nearby cornfields and produced a large plume of smoke visible for miles, including from near the Dexter exit on I-80. Emergency crews from Adair County and surrounding areas could not reach the top of the turbine and could only watch. Officials said the field had already been harvested, and reporting said it had been freshly ploughed, which limited further spread. MidAmerican Energy said it did not have a cause and was investigating.", "contributing_factors": "A local resident noted dry and windy weather. Emergency responders had no equipment tall enough to reach the nacelle. The cause of the fire has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should agree turbine-fire plans with local emergency services, including what can be done when crews cannot reach the nacelle. (2) Harvested ground and managed vegetation around turbines can limit spread to surrounding land. (3) An early statement that the cause is still under investigation avoids unsupported conclusions after a nacelle fire.", "source_url": "https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/2023/10/18/fire-destroys-wind-turbine-central-iowa/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:11:20.70745+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1791", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1791/", "title": "Transformer fire and explosion reported to have killed residents in Jos North", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Residents of Kabong community, in Gada Biyu District, Jos North Local Council, Plateau State, Nigeria, said a nearby power transformer caught fire and exploded at about 2:00am after supply was restored following an outage the previous evening. They said the voltage was too high when power returned. The blast and fire damaged houses and shops, with property losses described as worth millions of naira. A vigilante group spokesman told The Guardian Nigeria that no fewer than 10 people had been electrocuted and that more bodies might yet be found. Other people were taken to nearby hospitals with burns and electrical shocks. The exact death toll and the technical cause have not been independently confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Residents said power had been off from about 10pm the previous evening and that voltage was too high when it was restored at about 2:00am. That account has not been confirmed by the utility or by a technical investigation in this report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After an outage, distribution supplies should be restored only with voltage and protection checked, because residents linked this explosion to high voltage on restoration. (2) A faulted distribution transformer in a dense residential area needs rapid isolation, because fire and shock can affect several homes at once. (3) Early casualty figures after a transformer fire should be treated as incomplete until searches and hospital records are reconciled.", "source_url": "https://guardian.ng/news/transformer-bursts-into-flames-electrocutes-10-in-plateau/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:11:52.015647+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1792", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1792/", "title": "Home battery storage explosion linked to wall collapse in Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "At about 2 p.m., the fire safety department in the Wernges district was alerted to smoke from a two-family house. When police arrived, local firefighters were already there and could not detect a fire. An explosion had occurred and the home's eastern wall had collapsed. The explosion has been linked to a 30 kWh storage unit in the basement. Preliminary findings suggested a technical defect may have caused it. The homeowners left the house on their own. Police reported minor injuries to three people: the homeowner, a resident and a neighbour. Damage was estimated in the mid-six-figure range and the house was then uninhabitable. Firefighters fenced the area and supported the building against further collapse. The battery manufacturer was not disclosed.", "contributing_factors": "Police said preliminary findings suggested a technical defect may have caused the explosion. No manufacturer was named, and no confirmed cause has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A home storage unit can be linked to a structural explosion even when responders find no active fire on arrival. (2) Occupants may have to leave before firefighters arrive, so a clear way out matters. (3) After a suspected storage explosion, the building may need temporary support and may be uninhabitable.", "source_url": "https://www.greenbuildingafrica.co.za/30-kwh-battery-explosion-destroys-home-in-germany/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:12:06.187972+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1793", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1793/", "title": "Substation fire reported to have cut power to more than 9,000 Grant PUD customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-10", "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 25 October 2023, Grant PUD reported a widespread outage affecting 9,303 customers in East Quincy, Winchester, Central Ephrata, Columbia Ridge, North Ephrata and Soap Lake, including schools, businesses and homes. The utility said there were reports of a fire at the Soap Lake substation, believed to be linked to the loss of supply, and that several pole fires had further contributed to the outages. The exact cause of the substation fire was not known. Crews were on site, and power had been restored to nearly all customers by 2:48 p.m.", "contributing_factors": "The exact cause of the Soap Lake substation fire was not reported. Several pole fires were reported to have compounded the outages.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at one substation can interrupt supply across several areas, so operators should be ready to isolate the site and restore neighbouring feeders. (2) Related pole or line fires can extend an outage, so restoration crews should check for further damage while supply is being returned. (3) Early figures on who is off supply, a clear restoration update, and a warning to stay clear of downed lines help customers while the cause is still unknown.", "source_url": "https://www.yoursourceone.com/columbia_basin/large-area-power-outage-affects-over-9-000-grant-pud-customers-due-to-substation-fire/article_5386b3b2-737f-11ee-a654-db46a826f2e9.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:12:18.191014+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1794", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1794/", "title": "Multiple solar battery fires reported at homes in Germany and Austria", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "hybrid_colocated", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany and Austria", "country_code": null, "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the second half of September 2023, pv magazine reported five fires involving batteries connected to residential photovoltaic systems: three in Germany and two in Austria. On 29 September in Kleinkahl, a fire service report said a technical malfunction blew up the power storage unit of a photovoltaic system in a single-family home. The room housing the unit was affected. Firefighters put out the fire, cooled the battery in a container and used fans to clear smoke. Nobody was injured, but the home was uninhabitable because of smoke and soot. Images were said to suggest the battery may have been an LG unit; that was not confirmed in the fire service account. On 19 September in Kochel am See, firefighters found a heavily smoking battery in a basement technical room, described as presumably from a photovoltaic system. It was disconnected, taken outside and cooled in water. Residents were away and nobody was harmed. On 26 September in Ehrenfriedersdorf, the fire service gave medical care to two people and a nearby highway was closed. It did not disclose the origin of the storage unit. On 24 September in Altach, Austria, a shelter and an attached building in an allotment garden, with an agricultural vehicle inside, were fully alight. No injuries were reported. The cause was reported as a defective photovoltaic battery storage unit at the rear of a caravan. The same day in Feldkirchen, Carinthia, a cellar fire followed a loud bang. A local report suggested a short circuit in a photovoltaic system may have ignited the batteries. The storage model was not clear, and one resident was taken to hospital with smoke inhalation.", "contributing_factors": "The reported factors differ by incident and are not all confirmed. Kleinkahl was described as a technical malfunction of the storage unit, and Altach was attributed to a defective photovoltaic battery. Feldkirchen was only suggested as a possible short circuit. The origin of the Ehrenfriedersdorf unit was not disclosed. Any link to LG rests on images from one scene and is not established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A residential storage fire can leave a home uninhabitable through smoke and soot even when nobody is hurt. (2) Where crews identified the unit, they isolated it and cooled it outdoors in a container to limit reignition. (3) Product identity and cause were not established for every fire in this cluster, so a headline link to one maker should not be treated as a finding.", "source_url": "https://www.pv-magazine-australia.com/2023/10/12/germany-austria-hit-by-multiple-solar-battery-fires-linked-to-lg/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:12:34.654131+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1795", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1795/", "title": "Lightning sets fire at temporary Pyramid substation in Pretoria", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the early hours of a Wednesday morning, a fire broke out at the temporary Pyramid substation in Pretoria, South Africa. The asset is owned and operated by City of Tshwane. A City of Tshwane utilities official said the fire followed lightning during unprecedented storms in the northern part of the city, burning a transformer and a container before spreading into the high-tension yard. The fire was contained. Technicians were still investigating and assessing the full scale of the damage.", "contributing_factors": "A temporary investigation attributed the fire to lightning during storms. The full assessment had not been completed when the report was published.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat lightning during storms as a credible ignition path at temporary substations, and keep protection in service while the asset is in use. (2) A transformer or container fire can spread into the high-tension yard, so separation and containment should be reviewed before fire reaches adjacent equipment. (3) After a storm-related substation fire, finish and share the damage assessment before treating the cause and the extent of loss as settled.", "source_url": "https://transformer-magazine.com/news/lightning-strike-sets-substation-on-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:12:43.240204+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1796", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1796/", "title": "Fire at Witkoppie substation disrupts power in northern Boksburg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Witkoppie substation in Boksburg in the early hours of 20 September 2023. The municipality said preliminary investigations indicated that a cable fault downstream may have caused the fire, which then damaged critical electrical components inside the substation. Thousands of residents in northern Boksburg and surrounding areas lost power. Some areas were expected to be without power for about a week. Restoration of Anderbolt, Yaldwyn and Witfield substations was anticipated the same evening, while areas supplied from the 11 kV board, including Witkoppie Ridge, Impala Park, Atlasville, Bardene, Beyers Park and surroundings, were expected to take up to seven days while affected cables and mini-subs were replaced.", "contributing_factors": "The municipality said preliminary investigations indicated that a cable fault downstream may have caused the fire. That finding was described as preliminary.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault on a downstream cable can lead to a fire that damages equipment inside a substation and interrupts supply over a wide area. (2) Restoration planning should separate circuits that can be returned with available capacity from those that need cables and mini-subs replaced. (3) While repairs continue, the public should be told to treat electrical networks as live.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/boksburg-advertiser/news-headlines/local-news/2023/09/20/substation-fire-large-parts-of-boksburg-face-power-outage-of-up-to-seven-days/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:12:46.654702+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1797", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1797/", "title": "Fire damages TCN substation in Birnin Kebbi", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Transmission Company of Nigeria 330 kV transmission substation in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, on the night of 14 September 2023. The blaze was reported to have engulfed the facility and to have gutted critical power supply infrastructure at the Transmission Works Centre. Kaduna Electric said the incident caused power outages in parts of Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara states, and that TCN was assessing the damage before repairs. The report said the fire came barely 24 hours after a national grid collapse linked to a separate fire outbreak. The cause of this fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Substation operators should be ready to assess fire damage quickly so repairs can start. (2) Distribution companies should tell affected customers the cause of an outage as soon as it is known. (3) A second fire so soon after a grid event is a prompt to check whether nearby assets need extra watch, without assuming a shared cause.", "source_url": "https://www.channelstv.com/2023/09/15/just-in-fire-guts-tcn-transmission-substation-in-kebbi/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:13:05.681759+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1798", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1798/", "title": "Transformer failure causes fire at substation near Reno", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Sunday afternoon, a 345 kV substation transformer near the Tracy Generating Station, east of Patrick and outside Reno, had an internal failure that started a fire, NV Energy told local news. Fire crews and NV Energy crews extinguished the fire about three hours later. The utility said there was no direct impact on customers.", "contributing_factors": "NV Energy attributed the fire to an internal failure of the transformer. The source does not describe why that failure occurred.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A failed high-voltage transformer can ignite even when customer supply is not interrupted, so crews should treat the unit as a fire risk from the first alarm. (2) Joint utility and fire response can limit a substation transformer fire to a few hours when the failed unit can be isolated. (3) Record failure time, extinguishment time and whether supply was affected, so a short news report is not the only account.", "source_url": "https://www.kolotv.com/2023/09/18/transformer-failure-causes-fire-near-reno/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:13:06.653648+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1799", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1799/", "title": "Substation fire causes outage affecting 17 postcodes in Inverness", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 15 September 2023, homes and businesses near Clachnaharry, Raigmore and Inverness city centre were without power after a reported fire at an electrical substation. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said crews were called at 3.30am to a building fire at Waterloo Place affecting a single-storey plant room. Two appliances attended, brought the blaze under control, and were stood down at 6am. Scottish & Southern Electricity Networks confirmed an unplanned outage and said supply across 17 postcodes would be affected until 6pm.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire and of the network fault was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in a substation plant room can cut supply across many postcodes even when crews bring it under control within a few hours. (2) Network operators should state which areas are affected and when supply is expected back. (3) Fire crews and network engineers should keep the site safe before restoration work continues.", "source_url": "https://www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk/news/17-postcodes-affected-by-power-outage-in-highland-capital-af-326549/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:13:08.763389+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1800", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1800/", "title": "Teenager injured in electric substation fire in Sandakan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "Malaysia", "country_code": "my", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electric substation was reported to have caught fire in Sandakan district on 6 September 2023, at about 1pm. A 14-year-old sustained burns to the face, body, arms and legs. The cause of the fire, and how the teenager came to be at the substation, were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where a member of the public is hurt at a substation, access control and public warnings should be reviewed, without assuming how the person came to be there. (2) A substation fire can cause serious burns even when only one injury is reported. (3) Early reports often omit the cause, so operators should confirm isolation, access and injury facts before drawing conclusions.", "source_url": "https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/09/06/teen-hurt-in-electric-substation-fire-in-sandakan", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:13:29.6955+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1801", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1801/", "title": "Substation fire leaves customers without power in Toms River", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire started late on 20 August 2023 at the substation on Silverton Road in Toms River, New Jersey. The incident interrupted supply to about 9,900 customers served by Jersey Central Power & Light, including customers in Toms River and Lakewood. By 1:30 p.m. on 21 August most customers had been restored, but about 1,600 remained without power while repairs continued. The company estimated service would be restored by about 8 p.m. that day. The cause of the fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Damaged substation equipment may have to be isolated before repairs, and that work can interrupt service to customers who have already been restored. (2) When restoration is expected to take most of a day, operators should say which areas remain off supply and when parts are expected to arrive. (3) If the cause of a substation fire is not known at the time of the outage, the investigation should still be completed after supply is restored.", "source_url": "https://patch.com/new-jersey/tomsriver/power-outages-linger-toms-river-lakewood-after-substation-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:13:45.469297+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1802", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1802/", "title": "Wind turbine collapses in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern after storm damage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, was filmed snapping and collapsing onto a field, with blade fragments scattered on the ground. Reporting citing Norddeutscher Rundfunk said residents had heard unusual noises since a thunderstorm about a week earlier. Witnesses said a five-metre section of blade broke off after that storm and that the turbine kept spinning, which left it unbalanced. When strong winds hit the region on the Tuesday of the collapse, the turbine snapped and fell. A farmer told reporters he had seen lightning strike the turbine during the earlier storm. A renewable energies official said a lightning strike would not significantly affect a turbine because the strike would be discharged into the ground, but that technical issues could on rare occasions have caused a collapse. Injuries, the site name and the operator were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Witnesses linked earlier storm damage, including a reported lightning strike, to a five-metre blade section breaking off. The remaining rotor kept turning, which was reported to have caused imbalance. The damaged turbine then failed when strong winds hit the region.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Inspect turbines promptly after storms or lightning events even when protection systems appear to have operated. (2) Remove from service any turbine showing unusual noise or vibration until a full assessment is completed. (3) Verify blade integrity after partial damage before allowing continued operation in high winds.", "source_url": "https://www.foxweather.com/extreme-weather/wind-turbine-collapses-video-germany", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:14:17.509713+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1803", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1803/", "title": "Fire at Al-Bakr substation causes southern Iraq power outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-07", "country": "Iraq", "country_code": "iq", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire occurred at the 132 kV Al-Bakr substation in Basra on 30 July 2023 at about 12:40. The Ministry of Electricity said the fire disconnected transmission lines between the southern and central regions, caused frequency oscillations and tripped generation units, and led to a complete power outage in the southern region. Restoration was reported to be under way, with normal operation expected within a few hours. The technical cause of the fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The ministry said the power system was already under stress from fuel shortages, high demand and extreme heat. It did not state that these conditions caused the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a single transmission substation can separate regions and trip generation across a stressed grid. (2) Operators should plan rapid restoration of tripped units and reconnection of lines after a regional separation. (3) Heat, fuel shortage and high demand raise the consequence of an unexpected technical incident and should be treated in contingency plans.", "source_url": "https://en.964media.com/506/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:14:21.179434+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1804", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1804/", "title": "Wind turbine reported to have collapsed after a wind gust in Rostock, Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published headline reported that a wind turbine collapsed after a wind gust in Rostock, Germany, and that video of the collapse had circulated. The article text could not be retrieved, so the site, the operator, any injuries and the exact cause are not known.", "contributing_factors": "The headline attributes the collapse to a wind gust. No independent account of the weather, the turbine condition or the failure mode is available.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline report of a turbine collapse as unconfirmed until an operator or an official source states what failed. (2) After high winds, inspect turbines for structural damage before returning them to service. (3) Keep a record of gust conditions and any video so a later check can test the reported trigger.", "source_url": "https://www.latestly.com/socially/world/wind-turbine-collapses-after-wind-gust-in-germanys-rostock-chilling-video-emerges-5326556.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:14:26.904899+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1805", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1805/", "title": "Substation explosion reported in Morganfield, Kentucky", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical substation was reported to have exploded near the intersection of Crutcher Blvd and North Rhea Street in Morganfield, Union County, Kentucky. The source says 10 agencies responded, including Morganfield Fire, KSP and Kentucky Utilities, and that crews stayed out until 3:30 a.m. restoring services to nearby homes. No injuries were reported. The cause, the extent of damage and whether supply was fully restored were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation explosion can require a multi-agency response and interrupt supply to nearby homes even when no injuries are reported. (2) Operators should plan for overnight restoration and should confirm when supply is back. (3) Early reports often omit cause and damage; those facts should be checked before any wider conclusion.", "source_url": "https://www.14news.com/2023/07/29/morganfield-officials-deal-with-substation-explosion/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:14:36.824608+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1806", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1806/", "title": "Fire at Cleco substation disrupts power in Covington", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Covington Fire Department responded to a fire at Cleco's Ramsey Substation near Phillip Drive and Ronald Reagan Highway in Covington. Preliminary reports put the start of the fire at about 7:20 p.m. on Tuesday night. At one point 17,000 people lost power. Supply was later fully restored. The official cause remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "No contributing factor has been reported. The official cause remains under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can interrupt supply to a large number of customers even when power is later restored. (2) Until an investigation reports a cause, treat the initiating failure as unknown rather than assuming a single component. (3) Early updates on the scale of the outage and on restoration help customers while the cause is still unknown.", "source_url": "https://www.wdsu.com/article/covington-power-outage-fire/44643764", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:15:09.757359+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1807", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1807/", "title": "Wind turbine catches fire and loses blade in Binh Thuan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-07", "country": "Vietnam", "country_code": "vn", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on a wind turbine in Tuy Phong District, Binh Thuan Province, south-central Vietnam, on the morning of 26 July 2023. The turbine had a generating capacity of 1.5 megawatts and was one of 20 turbines in the first phase of a wind power project. The fire destroyed the turbine, and one of its three blades fell off shortly afterwards. Authorities carried out firefighting and are working with the project investor to identify the cause. No injuries were reported, and no damage to nearby property was reported aside from the turbine. The same plant had a separate turbine fire in January 2020, which the report said caused substantial financial loss.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported. Authorities were still working with the project investor to identify it.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should review fire detection and suppression provisions on existing turbine fleets. (2) Rapid coordination between site owners and local emergency services limits escalation. (3) Earlier fires at the same plant warrant targeted inspection of similar machines.", "source_url": "https://news.tuoitre.vn/wind-turbine-catches-fire-loses-blade-in-south-central-vietnam-10374622.htm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:15:10.979062+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1808", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1808/", "title": "Shunt reactor reported as cause of fire at Brunot Island substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported a fire at the Brunot Island substation operated by Duquesne Light and described a shunt reactor as the cause. The available source is a headline only. The date of the fire, the extent of damage, any power outage and the emergency response are not stated in the text provided.", "contributing_factors": "The headline identifies a shunt reactor as the cause. No other contributing factors are reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Shunt reactors at substations can fail in a way that starts a fire, so operators should treat them as fire-risk equipment and keep isolation and access clear. (2) A headline does not establish the sequence, damage or any outage, so the record should be updated when a full account is available. (3) After a reactor fire, check neighbouring equipment before returning the substation to service.", "source_url": "https://www.post-gazette.com/business/powersource/2023/07/25/shunt-reactor-brunot-island-substation-fire-duquesne-light/stories/202307250127", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T05:15:19.063568+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1809", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1809/", "title": "Substation fire causes outage for thousands in Wildwood", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at the Lake Avenue substation in Wildwood led to a power outage affecting more than 24,000 customers in Wildwood and Wildwood Crest on Friday. Atlantic City Electric said the substation was de-energised. Power was restored to approximately 16,200 customers by 5 a.m. the next day, with full restoration expected by 3 p.m. Saturday. The fire was contained and the cause is not yet known. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should be ready to reroute supply and give a clear restoration estimate while equipment damage is still being assessed. (2) Outage plans should cover people who depend on electricity for medical equipment, including relocation if needed. (3) Public updates on who is affected and when power is expected back help manage community impact.", "source_url": "https://whyy.org/articles/wildwood-new-jersey-power-outage-substation-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:09:33.019453+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1810", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1810/", "title": "Wind turbine at Cargill Hull factory damaged by fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The wind turbine at the Cargill factory in Hull caught fire in August 2022. The incident prompted a large emergency response. The turbine, built in 2008 and standing 125 m tall beside the River Hull, had been part of the skyline for over 15 years. In June 2023 the blades were being taken down by a large mechanical arm. Cargill said a specialist contractor was dismantling the rest of the tower, with work aimed at completion by mid-July 2023. The company said the cause remained under investigation until the turbine was dismantled and fully assessed.", "contributing_factors": "Reporting said the fire was thought likely to have been triggered by an electrical or mechanical fault. Cargill said the cause was still under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a turbine fire, treat the cause as unknown until the damaged structure has been dismantled and assessed. (2) Taking down a tall fire-damaged turbine needs specialist contractors and close work with the safety regulator. (3) Operators should plan for a long gap between the fire and safe removal, and keep nearby parties informed while that work continues.", "source_url": "https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/news/hull-east-yorkshire-news/extreme-caution-hulls-first-large-8575591", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:09:34.946563+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1811", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1811/", "title": "Wind turbine reported to have snapped and collapsed into a field in north-west Germany", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report published on 6 July 2023 said a wind turbine had snapped and collapsed into a field in north-west Germany. The operator was reported to have blamed a strong, very sudden gust for the damage. The text that could be read does not name the site, the operator or the turbine, and does not say when the collapse happened, whether anyone was hurt, or what else was damaged.", "contributing_factors": "The operator reportedly attributed the damage to a strong, very sudden gust. No independent finding on the cause is available in the text that could be read.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An early claim that a gust caused a collapse should be checked against site wind data and the failed structure before it is treated as the cause. (2) A turbine that falls into a field can leave debris beyond the pad, so exclusion and recovery plans should cover neighbouring land. (3) Where only a short public report is available, operators should keep the investigation open rather than close it on the first explanation.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1829082/german-wind-turbine-snaps-collapses-field", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:10:12.464773+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1812", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1812/", "title": "Koedoespoort substation fire disrupts power in Tshwane", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-06", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Koedoespoort substation in East Lynne, east of Pretoria, on 16 June 2023. The blaze caused power outages in Queenswood, Moregloed, Kilner Park, East Lynne, Waverley and surrounding areas. Emergency services attended. Firefighters extinguished the fire and cooled the substation while utility services assessed the damage. Officials said a restoration timeline could not be given until that assessment was complete. A post included in the report said some routes had been closed.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was suspected to be a veld fire. Officials said further investigation was needed to confirm the exact reason.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations need protection against external fire risks such as nearby vegetation. (2) A rapid emergency response can limit damage at electrical infrastructure. (3) Clear communication on restoration timelines supports affected communities during outages.", "source_url": "https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2023-06-16-koedoespoort-substation-fire-causes-blackouts-in-tshwane/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:10:29.522533+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1813", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1813/", "title": "Transformer fire affects substation at Midvalley Megamall", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-05", "country": "Malaysia", "country_code": "my", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An initial investigation by the Energy Commission found that a fire in the Midvalley Megamall main entrance substation room on 17 May 2023 was caused by a TX2 transformer which caught fire. The supply system fed from that substation was affected. The same initial investigation found that the cable system for the transformer at the substation was also affected because the cable was close to the fire.", "contributing_factors": "The initial investigation linked cable damage to the cable being close to the fire. It did not report why the TX2 transformer caught fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in one transformer can interrupt the whole supply fed from that substation. (2) Cables routed close to a transformer can be damaged by a nearby fire, so separation and protection of cable routes matter. (3) Treat an initial official finding as preliminary until the full investigation is published.", "source_url": "https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/05/19/transformer-source-of-fire-in-midvalley-says-energy-commission", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:11:08.471627+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1814", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1814/", "title": "Electrical explosion at Ryde substation cuts power to homes and businesses", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 24 May 2023, an electrical explosion was reported at the substation on Quarry Road in Ryde, Isle of Wight, United Kingdom. It is thought that two explosions occurred, and a local resident is reported to have filmed the second. Power was lost to around 2,000 homes and businesses. Live power cables fell across allotments on Quarry Road, and a cordon was erected. The cause, any injuries and the operator were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source does not say what started the explosion or why the cables fell.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation explosion with fallen live cables needs an immediate cordon until the network operator confirms the area is safe. (2) Outage figures from a single local report should be checked with the network operator before they are treated as final. (3) Where the cause is not yet known, similar sites should not assume the event is isolated until the failed equipment has been identified.", "source_url": "https://www.islandecho.co.uk/moment-power-line-explodes-at-substation-in-ryde/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:11:09.938707+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1815", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1815/", "title": "Fire at TNB substation closes Mid Valley City", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Malaysia", "country_code": "my", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published headline reports that a fire broke out at a TNB substation and that Mid Valley City was closed until further notice. The cause, the equipment involved, any injuries and how long the closure lasted are not reported in the available text.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can force nearby commercial areas to close until the site is made safe. (2) Operators should be ready to isolate a failed substation and restore supply by other routes. (3) Early public updates should say what is known and what is still being checked.", "source_url": "https://soyacincau.com/2023/05/17/mid-valley-city-closed-until-further-notice-after-fire-broke-out-at-tnb-substation-xrs/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:11:28.596204+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1816", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1816/", "title": "Transformer fire cuts power to nearly 4,000 people in Lawton", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 10 May 2023, the Lawton Fire Department responded at about 11:00 to a transformer fire on the west side of Lawton, Oklahoma. The transformer reportedly blew on the 100 block of SW 67th Street. An outage map from the Public Service Company of Oklahoma showed three main outages affecting around 3,780 people, concentrated on the west side of the city. A spokesperson for the company said all Lawton customers had power restored by 11:42 that morning. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A single transformer fire can interrupt supply to several thousand people within a neighbourhood. (2) Outage maps help crews and the public see how many separate interruptions follow one failure. (3) Rapid restoration, here within about an hour, still leaves the failed equipment and the cause to be checked before the circuit is treated as fully recovered.", "source_url": "https://www.kswo.com/2023/05/10/nearly-4000-people-without-power-after-lawton-transformer-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:11:46.857639+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1817", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1817/", "title": "Fire at Stockbridge substation causes blackout for thousands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at the Stockbridge power substation was reported to have caused a blackout for thousands of residents. The cause, any injuries, and how long the outage lasted were not reported in the available headline.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a substation can cut supply to a large number of customers. (2) Operators should be ready to restore supply and tell the public what is known when a substation fire is reported. (3) Cause and outage duration were not reported, so no equipment-specific lesson should be drawn yet.", "source_url": "https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/fire-stockbridge-power-substation/85-3fc4eed5-50bf-4bc2-80da-e61ce8654f2b", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:11:52.638125+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1818", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1818/", "title": "Fire at Mahikeng substation causes extended power outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Mahikeng substation in North West, South Africa, and badly burnt the medium voltage control room, where cables from the high voltage side connect to supply suburbs and villages. At the time of reporting, several areas had been without electricity for more than seven days. Eskom said it had sourced mobile switchgear to stand in for the structure destroyed by the fire and was working to connect it as a temporary measure. The utility said the line to Leopard Park substation was not affected, so Leopard Park, the Crossing and some neighbouring areas would have electricity, and that some adjoining villages could be supplied from alternative sources. The cost of the damage had not been determined. Police and Eskom investigations were under way, and Eskom said it could not rule out human tampering.", "contributing_factors": "Eskom said human tampering could not be ruled out. The cause had not been confirmed, and further investigation was still to follow.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep contingency plans, including mobile switchgear, so supply can be restored after damage to a substation control room. (2) Identify unaffected circuits and alternative feeds early, so some customers can be supplied while repairs continue. (3) Involve the police promptly where tampering at critical infrastructure cannot be ruled out, and tell customers if restoration slips.", "source_url": "https://www.news24.com/southafrica/news/fire-at-mahikeng-substation-leaves-parts-of-north-west-without-electricity-20230506", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:11:56.412588+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1819", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1819/", "title": "Wind turbine blade damaged at Irish Creek Wind near Frankfort", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine blade on an Irish Creek Wind tower was damaged on 14 April 2023, sending pieces of the blade into fields below. The turbine is about six miles south and two miles west of Frankfort along Bobcat Lane. Clean-up continued several miles southwest of Frankfort. Debris was spread about 800 feet from the tower. NextEra Energy said the cause was under investigation and described the event as isolated. A thunderstorm passed through the area that night, and the National Weather Service in Topeka recorded 12 lightning events between 10:21 and 10:47 p.m. A county commissioner said landowners would be compensated and that replacing the blade depended on finding a similar-weighted blade; otherwise all three blades might need to be replaced.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported. A thunderstorm with lightning passed through the area on the night of the blade damage.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After severe weather, prompt drone and ground checks can show whether a blade has failed and how far debris has spread. (2) Agreed waste-handling rules with local authorities can keep turbine debris out of public landfill. (3) Recovery can depend on finding a blade of similar weight; if none is available, all three blades may have to be replaced.", "source_url": "https://www.marysvilleonline.net/news/wind-turbine-blade-damaged-cleanup-continues/article_10254c3c-e950-11ed-98fe-e30ef7dc18ea.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:12:16.491148+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1820", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1820/", "title": "Fire at electricity substation leaves Rosyth residents without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire crews attended a blaze at an electricity substation near Torridon Place in Rosyth, Fife, at 8.39pm on 25 April 2023. Two fire engines remained at the scene. Thick smoke was reported. Scottish Power said a power cut was affecting the KY11 postcode area of Rosyth, that it became aware of the outage at 8.57pm, and that it expected supply to be restored by 11pm. No injuries were reported. Police Scotland said they assisted at a fire in Viking Way, Rosyth, and that inquiries into the cause were ongoing.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported. Police said inquiries were ongoing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut supply across a postcode area with little warning, so control rooms should be ready to try remote restoration and to send engineers. (2) Location reports can differ between the fire service and the police, so operators should confirm the exact site before crews enter. (3) Even where no injuries are reported, the public should be kept clear of smoke until the fire is out and restoration is confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/residents-scots-town-left-no-29810702", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:12:21.779431+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1821", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1821/", "title": "Explosion at Coega substation in Nelson Mandela Bay", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-03", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 11 March 2023 Coega substation in the Coega Industrial Development Zone, Nelson Mandela Bay exploded. The blast was reported to have caused widespread water outages, left factories and businesses without power, and caused damage estimated at R40 million. Early speculation was that cable thieves or vandalism were involved, and extra security was deployed. A later forensic investigation was reported to have found alleged irregularities, fraud and corruption in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro's Electricity and Energy Directorate. Seven officials were placed on precautionary suspension, and the Hawks and the Special Investigating Unit were asked to investigate further. The source does not state what caused the explosion.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion was not reported. Early accounts raised cable theft or vandalism as possibilities. A later investigation alleged fraud and corruption in electricity supply-chain contracts, but the source does not say that this compromised the substation or caused the blast.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep the cause of a substation explosion unconfirmed until investigation separates equipment failure, vandalism and other factors. (2) Preserve procurement and contract records so they can be reviewed independently after a major grid failure. (3) Involve specialist investigators where irregularities are alleged around critical electricity assets.", "source_url": "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2023-04-18-seven-officials-suspended-for-alleged-supply-chain-corruption-after-explosion-at-nelson-mandela-bay-substation/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:12:37.92361+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1822", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1822/", "title": "Transformer fire closes part of Payne Avenue in Rockland, Maine", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 13 April 2023, Rockland Fire Department was called at 5.10pm to a transformer on fire on a utility pole outside Maritime Energy on Park Street in Rockland. Flames at the top of the pole dropped sparks to the ground. Fire crews closed part of the road between Park Street and Payne Avenue and waited for Central Maine Power linesmen. The first linesman to reach the pole by bucket ladder could not put the flames out with an extinguisher. A second linesman, working from another angle, smothered the fire with a different extinguisher. Firefighters returned to station at 6.20pm. Power outages were reported near the Walmart junction in Thomaston; the account said the Rockland fire might have been the cause, which is not confirmed here.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A pole-mounted transformer fire can drop sparks and force a road closure until the utility can reach the equipment. (2) The first extinguisher applied from a bucket may not put the fire out; a second approach should be ready. (3) Outages reported some distance away should be treated as possibly related until the utility confirms the link.", "source_url": "https://www.penbaypilot.com/article/traffic-lanes-reopen-after-transformer-fire-closes-rockland-s-payne-avenue-park-stree/172604", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:12:51.815709+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1823", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1823/", "title": "Fire at Hathazari Grid Transformer in Chattogram", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "Bangladesh", "country_code": "bd", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A small transformer on the national grid of Bangladesh Power Grid in Hathazari, Chattogram, caught fire on 15 April 2023. The fire was put out at once. An hour-long power cut was reported in parts of the city, with temporary load shedding in various places in Chattogram. No damage was reported, and supply was later described as almost back to normal.", "contributing_factors": "A distribution official told the newspaper that a current transformer used to measure national-grid voltage caught fire after an explosion linked to transformer load. That account has not been independently confirmed, and no further technical findings were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Current transformers can fail suddenly and should be watched for abnormal electrical or thermal stress. (2) A rapid local response can limit how long a transformer fire interrupts supply. (3) After a short outage, operators should check that protection and nearby equipment were not affected before treating the network as restored.", "source_url": "https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/fire-breaks-out-national-grid-transformer-hathazari-617070", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:12:57.918973+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1824", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1824/", "title": "Two men electrocuted at Georgia Power substation during break-in", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Two men died after they were electrocuted while breaking into a Georgia Power Co. substation in an industrial area south of downtown Gainesville. The deaths happened before dawn on a Monday. Emergency crews were called to an explosion and a possible fire and could not recover the bodies for hours because of the danger from the electricity. Police said the men had entered a fenced area and were trying to steal something, possibly copper wiring. A neighbouring business owner described the substation as securely fenced and well-marked.", "contributing_factors": "Police reported unauthorised entry into a fenced high-voltage substation while the men were trying to remove materials.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should check that perimeter fencing, gates and signage around substations meet current security standards. (2) Regular checks of industrial substation sites can help identify and deter trespass. (3) Emergency plans should allow time to make circuits safe before recovery work begins.", "source_url": "https://www.wyff4.com/article/georgia-men-die-by-electrocution-substation-break-in/43508848", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:13:09.565457+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1825", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1825/", "title": "Harvard Substation explosion cuts power across Bloemfontein", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-03", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An explosion was reported at the Harvard Substation in Bloemfontein on the night of Monday 20 March 2023. Centlec said both 132 kV incomers had tripped on the supply and that this affected the entire city. The report described most of Bloemfontein as left in darkness. Hospitals were reported to be running on generators. Centlec said the restoration time could not be estimated until the fault was assessed, and the cause had not been identified at the time of reporting.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion had not been identified when the report was published. Centlec said both 132 kV incomers had tripped.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Loss of both incoming feeds at a city supply substation can black out a wide area, so operators should know how critical sites will be supplied if that happens. (2) Public notices should say what is known and should not give a restoration time before the fault has been assessed. (3) Hospitals and other essential sites need an alternative supply that can start without delay when the city feed is lost.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/news/bloemfontein-substation-explosion-march-2023/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:13:18.450031+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1826", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1826/", "title": "Explosion at Peter Road substation in Roodepoort disrupts electricity supply", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-03", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Some residents of Roodepoort in Gauteng were entering a second day without electricity after an explosion at the Peter Road substation early on Sunday morning. City Power reported substantial damage. Cable theft may have caused the explosion, though that has not been confirmed. Repairs began on Sunday, and by Monday morning about 40% of customers served by the substation had power restored. A distributor that had been restored overnight then tripped at about 02:00 because of a suspected fault. City Power said it aimed to restore most or all remaining customers by Monday evening. Whether that was achieved is not reported.", "contributing_factors": "City Power said cable theft may have caused the explosion. The same report describes repeated theft and vandalism of mini substations in Johannesburg, with Roodepoort among the areas hardest hit, but it does not confirm that as the cause here.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat cable theft as a possible cause of substation explosions, and keep physical security under review where theft is already reported. (2) Hold spares for protection and other substation equipment so repairs are not delayed by stock shortages. (3) After partial restoration, retest circuits before treating supply as stable, because a restored distributor can trip again on a suspected fault.", "source_url": "https://www.news24.com/southafrica/news/second-day-without-electricity-for-joburg-residents-after-roodepoort-substation-explodes-20230313", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:13:40.408926+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1827", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1827/", "title": "Transformer vault fire prompts evacuations in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An underground transformer vault fire at about 3:30 a.m. on 9 March 2023 in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, left a block of Brigham Street without power. Con Edison said about 53 customers were affected. High carbon monoxide readings led to the temporary evacuation of about a dozen homes. Levels began to fall a couple of hours later. The report did not say when power would be fully restored.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) An underground transformer vault fire can raise carbon monoxide in nearby homes, so indoor air should be checked as well as the electrical fault. (2) A short outage on one block can still require evacuation, and restoration time should be stated only when it is known. (3) Operators should treat a vault fire beside dwellings as both an electrical and an indoor-air hazard.", "source_url": "https://abc7ny.com/post/carbon-monoxide-transformer-fire-sheepshead-bay-brooklyn/12932763/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:13:53.440323+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1829", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1829/", "title": "Arc flash damages battery cabinet at Cyxtera BOS1 in Waltham", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 14 February 2023, firefighters were called to an electrical equipment fire at Cyxtera BOS1 in Waltham, Massachusetts. An explosion and arc flash in a battery cabinet damaged that cabinet and adjacent cabinets when panels were blown off. Smoke detectors and the fire alarm operated. Fire services evacuated the building, had power shut down, and ventilated the premises after hazardous levels of carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide were found. One person was taken to hospital with possible smoke inhalation. The building was reported undamaged, and fire services later allowed operations to resume the same day.", "contributing_factors": "The fire department report states that the cause is undetermined. Investigators considered it most likely that an unspecified electrical event tripped a breaker under load, after which generator power automatically back-fed the main breaker and caused it to arc and burn inside the cabinet. Work on another electrical service in the same room was reported as appearing unrelated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check that standby generators cannot back-feed a breaker that has tripped under fault, and test that protection. (2) Keep the recorded cause open when investigators say it is undetermined, even if a most-likely electrical sequence is described. (3) Do not allow re-entry until ventilation has reduced carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide after a battery-cabinet arc event.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/cyxtera-fire-in-boston-was-caused-by-electrical-fault-which-blew-the-doors-off-a-battery-cabinet/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:14:21.236699+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1830", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1830/", "title": "Transformer fire at Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital forces patient transfers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer fire broke out shortly before 8 a.m. in the basement of Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital in Brockton, Massachusetts. Fire officials later said there was severe damage to the main electrical room serving the hospital. The fire prompted a 10-alarm response involving 31 fire engines, seven ladder trucks and 77 ambulances. Electricity was shut off. The fire was extinguished by 9:25 a.m., while evacuation continued into the afternoon. In the end, 160 patients were transferred to other facilities, with no injuries or deaths reported. Power remained off through at least the following morning, and signs stated that the hospital was closed. Elective procedures were cancelled through at least 10 February. The cause is under investigation; the state fire marshal said there was no reason to believe the fire was anything but accidental.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Large-scale patient evacuation from healthcare facilities requires pre-planned mutual aid agreements with multiple ambulance providers. (2) Rapid isolation of grid supply by the distribution operator is essential before firefighting proceeds in electrical rooms. (3) Hospitals should maintain clear procedures for extended loss of grid and generator power during emergencies.", "source_url": "https://www.enterprisenews.com/story/news/fire/2023/02/07/signature-healthcare-brockton-hospital-fire-evacuations-transformer-centre-street/69880018007/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:14:30.1619+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1831", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1831/", "title": "Fire at an overloaded substation in Odesa leaves nearly 500,000 without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Ukraine", "country_code": "ua", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Saturday reported in early February 2023, a fire broke out at an overloaded substation in the port city of Odesa, Ukraine. Reporting said nearly 500,000 people were left without electricity. Power was later restored to critical infrastructure. It is not reported whether supply was restored to all affected customers, or what damage the fire caused.", "contributing_factors": "The source describes the substation as overloaded. Wider strain on Ukraine's grid was reported at the time, but it is not established as the cause of this fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An overloaded substation can fail by fire and interrupt supply to a very large number of customers. (2) Restoration plans should prioritise critical infrastructure and state clearly what has and has not been restored. (3) Early public reports should keep the cause, the extent of damage and the number still without power separate until they are confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.scmp.com/news/world/russia-central-asia/article/3209136/ukraine-restores-power-after-fire-wipes-out-odesa-substation-beats-back-bakhmut-attack", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T09:15:13.579841+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1832", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1832/", "title": "Transformer explosion kills two students in Narayanganj", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Bangladesh", "country_code": "bd", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Saturday evening, a transformer on a nearby power line exploded and fell onto the rooftop of the three-storey Mahela Khatun Mohila Madrasa in the Hajipara area of Fatullah, Narayanganj, while five students were playing there. All five were burnt and taken to the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery. Two later died while receiving treatment. Of the other three, one was reported still in a critical condition in intensive care, and the other two were under observation and not yet out of danger. The source does not say why the transformer failed.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A distribution transformer on an overhead line beside an occupied rooftop can fail by falling onto people below, so clearance and physical separation matter as well as electrical protection. (2) Sites where children use rooftops next to power lines should be checked for equipment that could drop onto those roofs if it fails. (3) Casualty figures from a multi-burn electrical incident can rise after the first hospital admission, so early reports should not be treated as the final toll.", "source_url": "https://www.jagonews24.com/en/national/news/96606", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T15:09:26.531185+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1833", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1833/", "title": "Fire reported at electrical substation in Bletchley", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the early hours of 28 July 2025, firefighters were called to an electrical substation in Bletchley, Milton Keynes. The same report also says a fire broke out at 12.50am in a two-storey disused warehouse, measuring ten metres by twenty metres, on Denbigh Road. It does not explain how the warehouse and the substation relate. Two fire crews were called to a blaze said to be within the substation, involving an 11,000 volt unit described as a ringman unit and a high voltage transformer. Firefighters used one main jet. National Grid isolated the supply and Thames Valley Police attended. The cause, the extent of damage and whether customers lost power were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a short report that mixes a building fire with substation equipment as incomplete until the affected plant is confirmed. (2) Isolation of the supply should be coordinated with the fire service before crews work near high-voltage equipment. (3) After a fire said to involve a ring main or transformer, record what was damaged and whether customers lost supply before closing the incident.", "source_url": "https://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/news/people/firefighters-called-to-blaze-at-milton-keynes-electrical-substation-5245906", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T15:10:52.509472+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1834", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1834/", "title": "Generator fire at WebNX data centre causes outage in Ogden", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Backup generators", "what_happened": "An emergency generator at a WebNX data centre in Ogden, Utah, experienced a catastrophic failure and caught fire on a Sunday afternoon over the Easter weekend in 2021, after city power was disrupted and backup generators switched on. Fire officials cut power to the building. The company said no fire damage was inflicted on customer servers, but servers in one main bay were exposed to water and a small number may have been damaged while crews fought the fire. By the following Wednesday many servers were back online, while some were expected to remain offline for several weeks pending inspection.", "contributing_factors": "The generator failed during automatic switchover after city power was disrupted. The company said the unit had been recently tested and benchmarked for that situation. The precise mechanical cause of the failure is not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Recent testing does not remove the need to check how backup generators behave during a real utility-to-generator transition. (2) Plan for water reaching nearby equipment when a generator fire is fought, even if the fire itself stays in the plant. (3) Keep customers informed and stage inspection and restart when suppression or firefighting may have wet servers.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterfrontier.com/colocation/article/11428287/generator-catches-fire-causes-lengthy-data-center-outage-at-webnx", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:02:13.727342+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1837", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1837/", "title": "Power outage at Docklands IBX LD8 data centre in London", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "Equinix's Docklands IBX LD8 data centre in London experienced a power outage on 18 August 2020. Reporting written while the outage was still ongoing at midday said it appeared to have started early that morning and affected customers at the site and their network services. Equinix said engineers had diagnosed a faulty UPS system as the root cause. A customer reported losing both A and B feeds to one of two racks at about 4.23am, and said reports from Equinix indicated that the UPS failure then triggered the fire alarm. The customer said its equipment was dual-fed and suspected a lack of resiliency. Equinix said it was allowing more flexible site access under Covid-19 restrictions while working to limit the impact.", "contributing_factors": "Equinix attributed the outage to a faulty UPS system. A customer suspected that the diverse A and B feeds did not remain independent under that fault. The fire-alarm sequence was reported only via that customer account.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A UPS fault can take customer loads offline even where dual feeds are provided, so operators should understand how those feeds depend on shared UPS equipment. (2) Customers should check that A and B feeds stay independent under a single UPS fault. (3) Prompt notice of the diagnosed cause and of access arrangements helps customers manage network impact.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/equinix-ld8-data-center-experiences-major-outage/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:06:09.515864+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1838", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1838/", "title": "Power lines start holiday fire in Goleta", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Electrical wires owned by Southern California Edison, combined with high winds and tree branches, started a fire on 6 July 2018 at around 8:30 pm in the Goleta foothills. Sundowner winds reached 30 mph as temperatures rose during the evening. The fire destroyed 10 homes and 13 other structures, damaged three homes and burned 113 acres, forcing evacuation of much of the foothills and a wildlife rescue. Trees and poles stood on private property at the top of Fairview Avenue. Neighbours reported a bright flash, fire climbing a power pole and power fluctuations. Amperage fluctuations began at 8:17 pm with power lost at 8:41 pm. The first fire call came at 8:38 pm. Investigators ruled out lightning, camping, cigarettes and other human causes. Vegetation clearance around the wires had last been performed in April 2018.", "contributing_factors": "High winds of 30 to 40 mph, low humidity around 9 percent, temperatures of 100 to 108 degrees and tree branches close to the wires contributed to ignition. Previous vegetation maintenance occurred on 3 April 2018.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain greater clearance between overhead lines and vegetation in high-wind areas. (2) Monitor real-time amperage and smart-meter data for early detection of anomalies. (3) Review vegetation management frequency after extreme heat and wind events.", "source_url": "https://www.independent.com/2020/03/21/power-lines-started-holiday-fire-in-goleta/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:06:46.190356+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1839", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1839/", "title": "Wind turbine reported to have suffered fire damage at Locust Ridge Wind Farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A news headline dated 1 October 2019 reported that a windmill at Locust Ridge Wind Farm had suffered fire damage. The article text was not available, so the cause, the extent of damage, any injuries, the emergency response and any effect on operations were not reported. The headline does not state the town, the date the damage occurred, or which turbine was involved.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The available source is a headline only.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat an early report of fire damage on a turbine as incomplete until the unit, the damage and the response are confirmed. (2) Do not infer cause, injuries or downtime from a headline that does not state them. (3) Keep turbine fire plans ready so crews can assess a reported nacelle or blade fire without assuming the full picture.", "source_url": "https://www.wfmz.com/news/windmill-suffers-fire-damage-at-locust-ridge-wind-farm/article_c539c322-975f-500e-bf6a-1ead65b89486.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:06:57.907402+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1840", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1840/", "title": "Squirrel contact downs power line and starts brush fire in Pocatello", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A squirrel contacted a power line on a ridge just east of Valleyview Drive in Pocatello, causing the line to fall to the ground. The incident occurred around 12:45 p.m. The fallen line ignited a brush fire that scorched about a quarter-acre of land behind houses. Residents used garden hoses to limit spread until the Pocatello Fire Department arrived and extinguished the fire in about five minutes. The outage affected approximately 1,060 customers on the city's west bench. Idaho Power restored supply to all customers by 2:30 p.m. No injuries occurred, no structures were damaged and no evacuations were required.", "contributing_factors": "Wildlife contact with overhead line equipment.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wildlife contact with an overhead line can drop a conductor and start a vegetation fire as well as an outage. (2) A rapid utility response can keep a distribution outage short; here supply was restored the same afternoon. (3) A downed-line fire can stay small when fire services arrive quickly, but members of the public should not be treated as the means of controlling a fire started by a live conductor.", "source_url": "https://www.idahostatejournal.com/news/local/squirrel-causes-downed-power-line-that-ignites-brush-fire-and-triggers-large-power-outage-in/article_21d63374-05e2-5565-80a9-aa22770c6a7d.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:07:13.193118+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1841", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1841/", "title": "Power outage disrupts Nissan services from Denver data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A power outage at a data centre in Denver interrupted online services for Nissan North America dealers across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Systems for ordering vehicles and parts, handling recalls and processing warranty claims were affected. Power was restored quickly but business applications remained unavailable for several days. Production was also disrupted. Nissan stated that customer data was not compromised and offered to waive late payment penalties for affected users. Some dealers continued operations using manual processes.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure data centre power systems have adequate redundancy and tested failover. (2) Maintain clear communication plans for extended application outages. (3) Prepare manual fallback procedures for critical business functions.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/power-outage-denver-data-center-took-down-services-nissan-north-america/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:07:22.367409+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1842", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1842/", "title": "Smoke detection causes data centre power shutdown at Wells Fargo", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Wells Fargo said smoke detected during routine maintenance at one of its main data centre facilities triggered an automatic power shutdown. Applications were re-routed to back-up data centres. Online banking, mobile services and debit cards were affected, while some ATM services and branches remained operational. The company said the outage was not a cybersecurity event. A separate report said the fire department attended a Wells Fargo data centre in Minnesota after a suppression system was tripped and found no fire, but the source does not establish that this was the same event.", "contributing_factors": "The company said routine maintenance created a smoke condition that triggered the automatic shutdown. It did not describe the equipment or the maintenance task.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Routine maintenance in data centres can produce conditions that activate safety shutdowns. (2) Automatic power shutdowns need tested failover if customer services are to continue. (3) Operators should say clearly which site was affected and what is still unknown.", "source_url": "https://www.businessinsider.com/wells-fargo-outage-caused-by-power-outage-at-data-center-after-smoke-detected-2019-2", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:07:32.380647+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1843", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1843/", "title": "Power outage at data centre postpones hospital surgeries in Oregon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2019, "incident_month": "2019-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms; Backup generators", "what_happened": "On 7 February 2019, OneNeck's The Vault data centre in Bend, Oregon had a power failure of both its main and backup power systems, a company spokesperson told the Bend Bulletin, as reported by Data Center Dynamics. The report describes a 45-minute fault. Services for most customers were restored within 45 minutes to one hour, and local provider BendBroadband was back within 20 minutes. St Charles Health System saw a network outage at 7:30am, used downtime procedures and postponed elective surgeries, which resumed when its systems came back up at 2pm. OneNeck said it would look into why the redundant system failed and gave no further cause. The site is described as Tier III and LEED certified, with a flywheel UPS, two 1.2MW generators and a 750kW critical load.", "contributing_factors": "The operator reported that both main and backup power failed. Why the redundant system failed has not been reported. A flywheel UPS and on-site generators are described for the site, but the source does not link them to the failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Main and backup power at a data centre can fail together, so dependent operators still need their own downtime procedures. (2) Recovery can differ by customer: some services returned within minutes while a hospital system stayed down for several hours. (3) After a dual supply failure, the operator should investigate common-mode causes and tell customers what is known and what is not.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/power-outage-tier-iii-facility-postpones-surgery-oregon-hospital/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:08:21.761148+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1844", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1844/", "title": "Electrical fire at power switch disrupts AT&T data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical fire started at a power switch and burned primary and backup electrical systems at the 1666 Firman Drive data centre in Richardson, Texas. Two fire brigades attended to put out the fire. Internet and TV services for AT&T U-verse customers in the Dallas Fort Worth area were disrupted. A local report said services had been restored later the same day, though outage reports continued into the evening.", "contributing_factors": "A lightning strike may have caused the incident, though this was not confirmed by the operator.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where a fire can affect both primary and backup electrical systems, operators should review separation, detection and isolation so one event does not take out both paths. (2) Rapid detection and isolation of electrical faults can reduce the duration of customer service outages. (3) Clear public updates on restoration status help customers during a widespread outage, including when later outage reports still appear.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/power-switch-fire-service-outage-t-data-center-may-have-been-caused-lightning-strike/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:08:23.335635+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1845", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1845/", "title": "Power outage brings down British Airways data centre near Heathrow", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "On 27 May 2017, a power outage apparently brought down a British Airways data centre near Heathrow that was operated by CBRE. British Airways had two data centres close to Heathrow, Boadicea House and Comet House. Backup systems evidently failed to cope, and the disruption lasted three days. British Airways cancelled 672 flights over a Bank Holiday weekend, at an estimated cost of £58 million. Early reports suggested that a UPS issue shut Boadicea House, but no published explanation has said how that happened or why Comet House also failed. Eighteen months later there was still no agreement on the cause.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been agreed. Early reports suggested a power-supply or UPS issue at one site, and that backup systems did not keep operations going. Those reports have not been confirmed, and it is not known why the second site also failed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators of paired data centres should test whether a supply or UPS fault at one site can take that site offline and whether the other site can carry the load. (2) Early reports of cause should be treated as unconfirmed until a root-cause finding is published. (3) Failover between sites should be exercised so that a fault at one facility does not become a multi-day loss of service.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/ba-to-sue-cbre-over-58m-outage/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:08:29.496154+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1846", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1846/", "title": "Fire at Windstream data center disrupts 911 services in Lincoln", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms; Backup generators; Transformers and substations", "what_happened": "On 2 September 2023, a fire at the Windstream data center in Lincoln, Nebraska, was said to have caused a transformer to short and explode, cutting power to the two main switches. The backup generator started and then failed, leaving the site reliant on battery power. As that power ran down, a switch supplying connectivity to 911 services in Gage, Otoe, Saunders and Adams counties was shut down. Other counties may also have been affected. Services were reported to be running again by Sunday morning.", "contributing_factors": "Lincoln Fire and Rescue said the fire was caused by a water leak that reached electrical equipment.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Sites that carry emergency communications need layered backup power that is tested under load. (2) Water paths near electrical equipment should be inspected so a leak cannot reach live gear. (3) Operators should plan how public-safety connectivity will be kept if primary power and the generator are both lost.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/fire-at-lincoln-data-center-brings-down-911-services-in-southeast-nebraska/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:11:45.513041+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1847", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1847/", "title": "Fire destroys data centres and internet gateways in Dhaka tower", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-10", "country": "Bangladesh", "country_code": "bd", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on the 13th floor of the 14-storey Khawaja Tower in the Mohakhali district of Dhaka on 26 October 2023 at 16:58. The blaze was brought under control by 19:30 the same day and fully extinguished the following morning. Multiple international internet gateways, exchanges and data centres in the building were reported to have been destroyed. Around 40 percent of the country's broadband users and 20 percent of mobile internet users experienced outages. The fire service attended with 12 units and criticised the lack of fire precautions in the building.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service said there was no fire safety plan. It reported that some extinguishers were working, but that the fire spread because a large amount of flammable material was present. The cause has not been announced.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Data centre and gateway facilities should keep and audit a fire safety plan. (2) Buildings housing critical internet infrastructure should limit flammable materials and maintain compartmentation. (3) Operators need a clear route back into a damaged site, or a way to move equipment, if service is to be restored without a long outage.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/data-center-fire-in-dhaka-bangladesh-kills-three-takes-millions-offline/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:11:46.437652+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1848", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1848/", "title": "OVHcloud data centre fire destroys SBG2 in Strasbourg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-03", "country": "France", "country_code": "fr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "At about 00:40 on 10 March 2021 a fire broke out in the power supply room of the SBG2 data centre on the OVHcloud site in Strasbourg. Firefighters reported electrical arcs, and power could not be isolated promptly, which the reporting links to the fire spreading. The building and about 30,000 servers were destroyed, and the adjacent SBG1 was terminally damaged. No one was hurt. A second, smaller fire later affected the battery room of SBG1.", "contributing_factors": "Reporting of the firefighter and industrial-risk investigations notes high moisture readings near an inverter before the fire, recent maintenance on a UPS, a wooden ceiling and floors, uninsulated electrical ducts, and power that remained live after isolation attempts, including automatic start of backup generators. The fire was apparently not impeded by sprinklers or other suppression, and the free-cooling airflow is described as having acted like a chimney once the fire was established. The exact ignition source has not been confirmed in the available reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Data centre designs that use natural ventilation need fire-stop measures so airflow does not accelerate fire spread. (2) Power isolation and backup-generator controls need to allow a rapid, reliable shutdown during an electrical fire. (3) Fire compartmentation and suppression should be checked against the actual materials and layout, not assumed performance.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/analysis/ovhcloud-fire-france-data-center/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:11:50.228588+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1849", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1849/", "title": "Fire at Proximus data centre disrupts emergency calls in Belgium", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "Belgium", "country_code": "be", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Local press reported a fire in a Proximus data centre at its Brussels buildings in Evere. The fire was detected around 9am and prompted a brief evacuation of staff. Belgian federal police said emergency numbers 112, 101 and 100 were unavailable. Numbers 112 and 101 were unreachable for less than half an hour on Wednesday morning. Normal operations resumed by around 10:30am. The cause of the outage was still being investigated.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported. Proximus was still investigating the cause of the outage.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Data centre operators should maintain redundant pathways for critical public services such as emergency communications. (2) Rapid detection and response can limit the duration of service outages. (3) Alternative contact methods for emergency services should be pre-planned and communicated during incidents.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/fire-in-proximus-data-center-knocks-belgian-emergency-services-numbers-offline/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:11:58.608608+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1850", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1850/", "title": "Reported backup power fire disrupts Zenith Bank data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-05", "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 3 May 2023, TechCabal reported that Zenith Bank, described as Nigeria’s biggest bank by market capitalisation, was suffering a total infrastructure downtime after a fire incident linked to its primary data centre. Sources told the outlet that the downtime began around 7 a.m. after a backup power system caught fire and cut power to the data centre. At the time of the report the bank had not confirmed the incident: a communications contact said they could neither confirm nor deny it, and customers had not been told on social media. Sources said the bank was trying to move to disaster recovery infrastructure, and that the switch was delayed because not all services were running active-active and had to be switched manually. One source said the bank expected services to be back before the end of the day. Whether that happened was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Sources cited in the report said not all banking services were in an active-active deployment, so recovery had to be switched manually. The report does not say why the backup power system caught fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Arrange critical services so that loss of the primary site does not depend on a slow manual switch. (2) Test disaster recovery under realistic failure conditions, including loss of power at the primary site. (3) Treat backup power plant as a fire risk that needs detection, isolation and a practised response.", "source_url": "https://techcabal.com/2023/05/03/zenith-bank-downtime/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:12:10.620972+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1851", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1851/", "title": "Fire and flood disrupt Google Cloud at Paris data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "France", "country_code": "fr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "A cooling system water pump failure at the Global Switch data centre in Clichy released water into the battery room in the early hours of 25 April 2023. The water affected battery components and caused a fire. Emergency services attended and contained the fire after it had burned for some time. The incident led to a multi-cluster failure and an extended outage affecting Google Cloud's europe-west9 region, with more than 100 services affected at first. Air conditioning systems were restored later that day, but fire teams cooled external walls rather than entering the battery room. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "A failure in the air conditioning systems led to an unexpected water release into the battery room. Water then affected battery components and started the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Data centre operators should ensure battery rooms are protected from water ingress from adjacent systems. (2) Fire suppression and response procedures must account for safe access delays after battery fires. (3) Cloud regions should be designed so that a single facility event does not take down every availability zone.", "source_url": "https://www.itpro.com/infrastructure/data-centres/google-cloud-deep-into-second-day-of-fire-and-flood-data-center-fiasco", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:12:27.299855+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1852", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1852/", "title": "Electrical fire disrupts Glenside Data Centre in Adelaide", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical fire was reported at Glenside Data Centre in Adelaide, Australia, starting at 9:45am local time on 19 April 2023. It was put out before fire services arrived. The site is the South Australian state government's primary data centre. An official said the cooling system was affected by an electrical incident and that power was expected to be returned to cooling overnight. The electronic medical records system for state hospitals, and some other government ICT services, were disrupted. Systems were still reported offline at 5pm local time. The state health service said it was moving systems and applications to a data centre at another location. The exact cause has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cooling system was reported to have been affected by an electrical incident. The exact cause has not been established in the reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Data centres supporting critical public services should plan for loss of cooling after an electrical fault, including how long the IT load can be sustained. (2) A tested move to an alternate facility can limit how long essential records stay unavailable. (3) An internal response that puts out a fire before the fire service arrives still needs a clear record of which equipment was affected.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/fire-breaks-out-at-glenside-data-centre-in-adelaide-australia/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:12:45.572889+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1853", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1853/", "title": "Arc flash injures three workers at Google data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An arc flash occurred at the Google data centre in Council Bluffs, Iowa when three workers were accessing an electrical cabinet. The workers sustained injuries and were taken to a local hospital, where they were reported in stable condition. Google stated that it was aware of the electrical incident and was working with partners and local authorities to investigate. An arc flash is an electrical explosion capable of generating extreme heat that can damage equipment and endanger personnel. The data centre is one of the largest campuses operated by the company. No further details on equipment damage or operational impact were reported in the source.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain strict protocols for working on or near energised electrical equipment in data centres. (2) Ensure regular training and adherence to arc flash safety standards such as NFPA 70E. (3) Investigate all electrical incidents promptly to identify and mitigate recurring hazards.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterfrontier.com/featured/article/11427156/incident-at-google-data-center-highlights-risks-of-arc-flash", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:13:22.428877+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1854", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1854/", "title": "Roof fire at QTS data centre in Piscataway", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire broke out on the roof of a QTS data centre at 101 Possumtown Road, Piscataway, New Jersey, in the early hours of 23 November 2022. It was reported at 02:45 and extinguished by 05:00 with a heavy water stream from an aerial platform. No injuries were reported. The cause was not reported, and it was not reported whether water entered the data hall or affected cooling or power systems. The operator had not, at the time of the report, confirmed any service outage. Satellite images were reported to suggest extensive solar panels on the roof, and one fire-service image may show panels damaged by the fire, but that has not been confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. Firefighters spent extra time on overhaul because flammable roofing materials, including tar, were stored on site for a two-storey extension. It is not known whether those materials, the roof equipment, or anything else started the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep stored flammable construction materials segregated from an operating data centre and tell the fire service where they are. (2) After a roof fire fought with heavy water, check whether water reached power or cooling equipment before treating the site as unaffected. (3) If solar arrays are present on a data centre roof, include them in the fire risk assessment and in information given to responding crews.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/roof-fire-hits-qts-data-center-in-new-jersey/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:13:29.26965+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1855", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1855/", "title": "Transformer fire at Hoover Dam in Boulder City", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On Tuesday morning, an explosion and fire were reported at the Hoover Dam in Boulder City. The Bureau of Reclamation said the A5 transformer caught fire at about 10 a.m. PDT and that the Reclamation/Hoover fire brigade extinguished it at about 10:30 a.m. PDT. Newsweek, citing KLAS-TV, reported that the dam's own fire personnel had the blaze under control before the local fire department arrived. The Bureau said there were no injuries to visitors or employees, that power was still being generated, and that there was no risk to the power grid. Tours were paused for about 30 minutes.", "contributing_factors": "Newsweek reported that the cause was a faulty transformer that exploded. In the same article, the Bureau of Reclamation said it was still investigating the cause of the fire. No further cause has been reported here.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A site fire brigade can limit a transformer fire before the local fire service arrives. (2) Visible smoke at a powerhouse does not by itself mean generation or the wider grid has been lost; operators should confirm both. (3) Early public statements should separate what failed from what is still under investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.newsweek.com/hoover-dam-explosion-cause-blown-transformer-1726111", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:15:07.842426+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1856", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1856/", "title": "Fire at Judiciary Data Center in the Supreme Court, Manila", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-04", "country": "Philippines", "country_code": "ph", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the morning of 12 April 2022, a fire broke out in the Judiciary Data Center Room on the ground floor of the Supreme Court along Padre Faura Street in Manila. The Bureau of Fire Protection declared a first alarm at 6:05 a.m. The fire was reported under control at 7:47 a.m. and extinguished at 7:55 a.m., and was said to have been confined to the data centre in the SC Centennial Building. A court spokesperson said he had been told that an uninterruptible power supply in the data centre caught fire. The fire service had not yet released a cause.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported. The Bureau of Fire Protection said it was investigating.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat an early report of which component failed as provisional until the fire service confirms it. (2) A UPS in a data centre should sit in a space where detection and suppression can limit an electrical fire. (3) Prompt alarm and fire service attendance can keep a small data centre fire from spreading.", "source_url": "https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1581792/fire-hits-sc-data-center-is-put-under-control", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:15:48.221548+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1857", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1857/", "title": "Data centre fire reported to disrupt internet services in Iran", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "Iran", "country_code": "ir", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published report of 5 March 2022 said that Iranian authorities had stated a fire at a data centre caused internet disruption. The available summary does not name the site, the operator, the town, the cause, any injuries, or how long services were affected.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available summary.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a data centre can interrupt communications well beyond the building. (2) Operators should plan how to isolate failed power and communications equipment so a local fire does not become a wider outage. (3) Early notices should say what is confirmed and what is still unknown.", "source_url": "https://borneobulletin.com.bn/iran-says-data-centre-fire-causes-internet-disruption/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:16:02.050407+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1858", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1858/", "title": "Small fire in power room at Equinix MD2 data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-01", "country": "Spain", "country_code": "es", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Switchgear and electrical rooms; Transformers and substations", "what_happened": "In the early hours of 30 January 2022, Equinix security systems detected smoke from a power room at the company's MD2 data centre in Alcobendas, Madrid. The Madrid emergency service sent seven fire crews to a small fire in a basement area where transformers are located, on Calle de Valgrande. The company said the fire was contained to the power room and swiftly extinguished, with no injuries. Firefighters ventilated the building and did not affect the main floors. Equinix reported a brief interruption in power supply only. Data Center Dynamics reported no signs of customer service outages. Police and an ambulance also attended. The company said a full investigation into the cause was under way.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. Equinix said a full investigation was being made.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat smoke detection in a data centre power room as a trigger for an immediate emergency response. (2) Plan so that smoke from a basement plant area can be contained and ventilated without affecting occupied floors. (3) After a contained power-room fire, confirm whether a brief supply interruption reached customers and record that outcome.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/small-fire-at-equinix-madrid-data-center-no-injuries/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:16:07.046743+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1859", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1859/", "title": "Fatal smoke inhalation after server explosion at Cyber 1 data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2021, "incident_month": "2021-12", "country": "Indonesia", "country_code": "id", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Cyber 1 data centre in Mampang, South Jakarta, Indonesia, when servers exploded on the second floor. Thick smoke filled the building. The Jakarta Fire Service responded with 22 fire trucks and 100 firefighters and brought the fire under control within half an hour. Three people were trapped; two died from smoke inhalation. One death occurred on site and the second occurred on the way to hospital. The fire caused a temporary power outage affecting several IT services, including mobile phone registration and other digital platforms. Government data stored elsewhere in the building was reported as unaffected. An earlier fire had occurred in the same building in 2015.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been definitively established. A short circuit was suggested as a possible factor, and smoking was ruled out.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Server rooms need early smoke detection and a clear escape route, because smoke rather than flame can kill occupants within minutes. (2) Operators on other floors should have a rehearsed plan to isolate power and check equipment after a fire above or below them. (3) Until an inspection reports, treat a server-room fire as an electrical event of unknown cause and do not assume a single trigger.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/two-killed-in-fire-at-cyber-1-data-center-in-jakarta-indonesia/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:16:19.456163+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1860", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1860/", "title": "Fire at Digicel data centre power plant in Haiti", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "Haiti", "country_code": "ht", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Backup generators", "what_happened": "Early on Sunday 26 August 2018, a fire was reported in the power plant that feeds the Digicel data centre in Haiti. Some customer internet and phone services were affected. Digicel said the fire was brought under control with help from firefighters from Pétion-Ville, that a backup generator had been installed so affected services could resume, and that technicians were working to restore full service. The cause, the extent of damage and whether service was fully restored are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in the power plant that feeds a data centre can interrupt customer internet and voice services even when the data hall itself is not reported as involved. (2) A ready backup generator and a clear restoration plan can limit how long those services stay down. (3) Early coordination with the local fire service helps bring a power-plant fire under control so recovery can start.", "source_url": "https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-25358-haiti-flash-fire-of-the-power-plant-of-digicel-data-center.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:16:53.969813+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1861", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1861/", "title": "Fatal fire reported at an AWS data centre in Tokyo", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "Japan", "country_code": "jp", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report dated 3 August 2018 said a fatal fire had occurred at an AWS data centre in Tokyo. Only the headline is available. It does not say how the fire started, which part of the site was involved, how many people died, or whether power equipment was affected.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a headline report of a fatal data centre fire as an open incident until the cause and the equipment involved are confirmed. (2) Keep fire detection, emergency access and evacuation arrangements under review at data centre sites. (3) Do not infer a root cause from a headline alone.", "source_url": "https://www.techerati.com/the-stack-archive/data-centre/2018/08/03/fatal-fire-in-aws-tokyo-data-centre/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:16:58.521019+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1862", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1862/", "title": "Blown transformer sparks power pole fire in Winter Park", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A power pole caught fire in a parking lot in Winter Park, Florida, near the intersection of Lee Road and North Orlando Avenue. Officials said a blown transformer sparked the fire. The incident caused a power outage in the area, and Winter Park Utilities said that as of 8:35 p.m. the power was still out. The report does not say how many customers or businesses were affected, whether anyone was injured, or why the transformer failed.", "contributing_factors": "Officials said a blown transformer sparked the fire. The source does not say why the transformer failed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A failed pole-mounted transformer can ignite the pole and interrupt local supply. (2) Operators should confirm the outage footprint quickly, because early reports may not say how many customers are affected. (3) Nearby premises should not be treated as affected until the utility confirms who lost power.", "source_url": "https://mynews13.com/fl/orlando/news/2018/05/13/blown-transformer-sparks-power-pole-fire-in-winter-park", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:17:25.883436+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1863", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1863/", "title": "Fire suppression fault closes Nordic Nasdaq for hours", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "gas_release", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": "2018-04", "country": "Sweden", "country_code": "se", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A gas-based fire suppression system was triggered at the DigiPlex data centre in Väsby, about 30 km north of Stockholm, and took one data hall offline. There was no fire, and DigiPlex said no other customers were affected. Trading on Nasdaq Nordic was halted in Copenhagen, Helsinki, Reykjavik, Riga, Stockholm, Tallinn and Vilnius, and Helsinki's exchange stayed closed until 4pm. The facility's backup did not take over at once, and connectivity was slow to return.", "contributing_factors": "A company spokesperson described the cause as an errant fire extinguisher system that led to connectivity issues. The backup system, which was expected to respond immediately, took some time to do so. The cause of that delay was still under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire suppression system can take a data hall offline even when there is no fire, so operators should plan for service interruption after a suppression trip. (2) Backup systems expected to take over at once should be tested so a suppression event does not leave connectivity down for a prolonged period. (3) A delayed failover should be investigated, and the findings used to improve the response.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/fire-suppression-failure-at-digiplex-brings-down-nordic-nasdaq/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:17:29.524772+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1864", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1864/", "title": "Fire at Port Melbourne data centre disrupts UniSuper services", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": null, "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at an unspecified data centre in Port Melbourne was reported to have triggered a partial system shutdown affecting UniSuper. The company said the direct impact on members was limited to an outage of its telephony system and MemberOnline portal. UniSuper provides superannuation services to more than 400,000 people; how many of them could not use those services was not reported. No data was reported lost or compromised. The company said services were back online the following day. It declined to name the data centre provider, and the cause of the fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The company said it was still waiting to hear what had happened in the facility. No cause was reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a hosted data centre can take customer telephony and online portals offline even when stored data is not lost. (2) Other operators can only judge their own exposure if the facility and the systems affected are identified. (3) Restoring service is not the same as understanding the fire, where the cause has not yet been reported.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/australian-data-center-fire-knocks-out-unisuper/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:17:32.345155+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1865", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1865/", "title": "Fire at Lotte data centre in Daejeon linked to UPS battery", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a data centre operated by Lotte in Daejeon, South Korea, at about 4.59am on a Thursday. Officials believe it started in the uninterruptible power supply on the second floor, and that a battery in the UPS may have been involved, though an investigation is ongoing. Twenty-one vehicles and 62 firefighters attended, and the fire was extinguished by 5.38am. No injuries were reported. It is not known whether Lotte's services were affected. This follows a separate fire the previous week at a government data centre in the same city.", "contributing_factors": "Officials believe the fire started in the UPS and that a battery may have been to blame. The precise cause has not been established, and an investigation is ongoing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should inspect and maintain UPS battery systems in data centres. (2) A practised emergency response can limit how long a data centre fire burns. (3) Repeated fires at different sites in the same city are a reason for operators to share what investigations find.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/second-data-center-in-a-week-catches-fire-in-daejeon-south-korea/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:20:07.228981+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1866", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1866/", "title": "UPS fire at Centron data centre in Hallstadt, Bamberg", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "Germany", "country_code": "de", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "On 9 October 2025, at about 19:42, a fire broke out at the Centron data centre in the Hallstadt area of Bamberg after maintenance work. The operator said the incident involved the main low-voltage distribution and the associated UPS system. The local fire service put the fire out quickly, and Centron said no one was harmed. Centron said redundant infrastructure kept services online, while also apologising for temporary interruptions or connection issues with some services. The size of the fire and how long it burned are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Centron said its own analysis found the disorder was due to human misconduct related to maintenance work. That finding has not been independently confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Work on UPS systems and low-voltage distribution needs a second check before equipment is returned to service. (2) A binding checklist before recommissioning can catch steps missed after maintenance. (3) Extra training and quality checks after an incident can reduce the chance of a repeat, even where redundancy limits the effect on services.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/german-msp-centron-suffers-ups-fire-at-data-center-outside-nuremberg/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:20:17.235593+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1867", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1867/", "title": "Fire at Telecom Egypt data centre kills four and injures 26", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-07", "country": "Egypt", "country_code": "eg", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "Switchgear and electrical rooms", "what_happened": "On 7 July 2025 a fire broke out in an equipment room at the Ramses switchboard of Telecom Egypt, on the seventh floor of a 10-storey building in the Ramses area of Cairo. The fire lasted for hours. Four workers died and 26 people were injured. The cause has not been reported. Fixed internet, mobile networks and some other services, including online payments and air traffic, were disrupted for a time. An outage tracker reported connectivity at 62 percent of normal levels. The fire was later brought under control and fixed internet traffic was transferred to an interchange centre at Al-Rawda Central.", "contributing_factors": "It was reported that the building's fire suppression system was overwhelmed by the intensity of the flames. The cause of the fire has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Fire suppression in multi-storey telecom and data centre buildings should be matched to the fire load in equipment rooms, because an intense fire can overwhelm a system. (2) Operators of national interconnection hubs should keep tested plans to reroute circuits quickly if one building is lost. (3) After a fatal equipment-room fire, the cause should be established and shared so other operators can check similar rooms.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/fire-at-telecom-egypt-data-center-kills-four-people-injures-26/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:20:36.367584+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1868", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1868/", "title": "Transformer catches fire in Cambridge", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "CTV News reported that a transformer caught fire in Cambridge on Sunday, and published video of the fire. The available text does not say whether anyone was hurt, whether power was lost, or what caused the fire.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a reported transformer fire as an electrical hazard until the supply is confirmed isolated. (2) Early reports may confirm only that a fire occurred; record time, place, equipment and any outage as soon as they are known. (3) Video of a fire is not a substitute for a later technical review of cause.", "source_url": "https://www.ctvnews.ca/kitchener/article/transformer-catches-fire-in-cambridge/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:20:41.646869+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1869", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1869/", "title": "Construction worker electrocuted at QTS data centre in Fayette County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-06", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A construction employee was reported to have been electrocuted while working at the QTS Data Center in Fayette County. The account, published on 29 June 2025, says this was on Saturday morning. Fire crews found medical staff performing CPR. Advanced life support was given and the employee was taken to Piedmont Fayette Hospital, where spontaneous circulation was restored. The later condition, and the equipment or supply involved, were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. It is not known whether the shock involved a temporary construction supply or the data centre’s own power systems.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat electrical work at a data centre under construction as live until isolation is proved, and keep permit-to-work and lock-out controls in place. (2) Keep first aid and a clear route to emergency care on site, because early CPR and rapid transfer can restore circulation. (3) Record which circuit or piece of equipment was involved before drawing conclusions about site supplies, switchgear or other power systems.", "source_url": "https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/construction-worker-electrocuted-fayette-county-data-center", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:21:27.32938+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1870", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1870/", "title": "Gas leak reported at QTS data centre site near Manassas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "gas_release", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A major gas leak was reported at a QTS data centre site at 9540 Godwin Drive, just outside Manassas, Virginia, on 9 April 2025. Prince William County Fire and Rescue were dispatched after the leak was reported at 2:10pm local time. A fire service spokesman said it involved an 8-inch gas line and that leaks of that size take time to isolate and secure. The cause has not been reported, and it is not clear whether the line served an operating hall or a building still under development. No injuries or evacuations were known when the report was published. Traffic was affected on Route 28, Freedom Center Boulevard and Rixlew Lane.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the leak has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Large gas lines at data centre sites need isolation arrangements that emergency services can use without delay. (2) Operators should be ready to support road management and public updates when a utility leak affects neighbouring roads. (3) Until the cause is known, a reported site gas leak should be treated as an open investigation, not a confirmed equipment failure.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/major-gas-leak-at-qts-data-center-near-manassas-virginia/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:22:06.872712+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1871", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1871/", "title": "Fire at SBN AWS Building 104 in New Carlisle injures two workers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Two workers were taken to hospital after a reported fire at the construction site of a new Amazon data centre in New Carlisle, Indiana. The incident was on a Thursday morning at the site on Edison Road. Firefighters were called after reports of injuries in a construction accident, and crews were then told that SBN AWS Building 104 was filled with smoke. A New Carlisle Fire Department spokesperson told WNDU that firefighters found a significant amount of smoke in the building and the surrounding area. The area had been evacuated. Two workers were airlifted to hospital. Fire crews found no active fire and were investigating the cause. An AWS spokesperson said a small fire at the construction site of a non-operational facility was quickly contained.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported. Fire crews found no active fire and said they were investigating. The company account describes a small fire that was contained; how that relates to the smoke found by crews is not stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat smoke in a building on a data centre construction site as a possible fire until the fire service confirms otherwise. (2) Large construction campuses need evacuation and medical plans that can move injured workers off site quickly, including by air. (3) Public statements should stay consistent with the fire service account while the cause is still under investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/two-people-hospitalized-after-fire-at-aws-data-center-construction-site-in-new-carlisle-indiana/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:22:20.229743+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1872", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1872/", "title": "Fire in customer electrical equipment at Equinix SP4 data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "Brazil", "country_code": "br", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A small fire occurred at Equinix IBX SP4 data centre in the Tamboré business park, Barueri, near São Paulo, at 12:34 local time on 30 March 2025. Equinix said the isolated incident involved a customer's electrical equipment in one rack. A status update indicated the fire was in an unnamed dark fibre provider's cage. The site was evacuated in an orderly way and water was discharged to contain the fire. Some Equinix Fabric circuits and virtual connections with OCI and GCP were disrupted. Affected circuits were moved to another path and those services were restored by 20:56 UTC the same day. The fibre path between SP1 and SP4 was reported restored from 08:20 UTC on 31 March, while a path between SP2 and SP4 was still being restored. Only one data hall was partly affected. Equinix said the facility was operating normally and that the cause was still under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "A separate report suggested packaging left in recently arrived equipment that had been switched on. Equinix did not confirm that account. The cause has not been established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check newly delivered customer equipment for packaging and other foreign material before it is energised. Do not treat an unconfirmed packaging theory as the cause until the investigation reports. (2) Keep diverse network paths so affected customer circuits can be moved quickly. (3) Keep evacuation arrangements and coordination with the fire service clear and practised.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/equinixs-sp4-data-center-in-s%C3%A3o-paulo-suffers-fire-over-weekend/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:22:23.414289+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1873", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1873/", "title": "Fire at data centre in Chai Chee sends one to hospital", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "Singapore", "country_code": "sg", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at a data centre at 750C Chai Chee Road, Chai Chee, in the early hours of 14 March 2025. The Singapore Civil Defence Force was alerted at about 6am. It said the fire involved a server rack and was put out with a dry powder extinguisher, and that the sprinkler system also activated. One person was taken to Singapore General Hospital for smoke inhalation. SG.GS, which leases rack space at the facility, said the data centre is owned by WebSatMedia and that the fire did not start in an SG.GS system. All SG.GS staff in the building were evacuated and were later cleared to re-enter. An SG.GS e-mail said initial checks showed servers were still in service, but that recovery would take time. The cause is under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been established. An SG.GS e-mail referred to an explosion as having caused the fire. SCDF said the fire involved a server rack and that the cause was still being investigated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A server-rack fire can activate suppression and still produce smoke that needs immediate evacuation and medical assessment. (2) Tenants should state clearly who owns the facility and which systems were involved, so clients are not given a wrong picture of the fault. (3) Early notices that mention an explosion should be treated as unverified until the fire service completes its investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/one-taken-to-hospital-after-fire-at-data-centre-in-chai-chee", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:22:27.63128+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1874", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1874/", "title": "Fuel line burst sparks fire at San Antonio data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Backup generators; Fuel systems", "what_happened": "A fire occurred at a data centre on the West Side of San Antonio, Texas, near Potranco and Ingram Road. The incident began around 2 p.m. when a fuel line split during diesel refuelling of generators. Fuel contacted hot exhaust components and ignited. The fire spread rapidly, damaging generator tanks and a trailer. One person inhaled smoke and was evaluated by emergency services. The facility was evacuated as a precaution. No further injuries were reported. Hazmat teams attended to clean spilled fuel.", "contributing_factors": "Fuel line failure during active refuelling released diesel onto hot exhaust surfaces.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Inspect fuel lines and connections before starting generator refuelling. (2) Maintain clear separation between fuel transfer points and hot exhaust components. (3) Ensure immediate shutdown capability and spill containment are available during fuel handling operations.", "source_url": "https://news4sanantonio.com/news/local/fuel-line-burst-sparks-fire-at-local-data-center-on-west-side-san-antonio-texas-tanks-trailer-fuel-exhaust-spread-quickly-damage", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:23:11.317508+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1875", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1875/", "title": "Fire reported at a Reliance Jio data centre during an India-wide network outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-09", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 17 September 2024, Reuters reported that a source with direct knowledge said a fire at a data centre of Reliance Jio caused a nationwide network outage for its users. Downdetector showed more than 10,000 user reports, with more than half relating to the mobile network and others to mobile internet or broadband. A Reliance Jio spokesperson said some users had problems that morning because of minor technical issues, which had been resolved, with services fully restored by 15:40 IST. Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea told Reuters they had no similar disruptions. The data centre location and the equipment involved were not reported, and the operator did not confirm a fire.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The anonymous account of a fire and the operator's account of minor technical issues have not been reconciled.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault at one data centre can disrupt a national network, so operators should be able to move traffic away from a single site. (2) Public statements should say clearly what is known and what is not, including whether a fire occurred. (3) User outage reports can show the scale of impact while the cause is still unconfirmed.", "source_url": "https://sg.finance.yahoo.com/news/reliance-jio-users-report-network-082418282.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:23:43.034006+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1876", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1876/", "title": "Fire on roof at Chicago data centre during generator test", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Backup generators", "what_happened": "A small fire broke out on the roof of the data centre at 350 East Cermak Road in Chicago, Illinois, on 15 August 2024. A ColoHouse spokesperson said the incident happened during a routine generator test, when hot smoke led to roof debris catching fire. Firefighters attended and extinguished the fire quickly, with minimal damage reported. Digital Realty said reports of a carpet fire inside the building were unfounded, that there was no downtime, that no customers were affected, and that no injuries were reported. The fire service did not order a mandatory evacuation.", "contributing_factors": "According to the ColoHouse spokesperson, hot smoke during a routine generator test ignited roof debris. The cause of the smoke itself was not further described.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Generator tests should include a check that hot exhaust cannot ignite roof debris or other nearby material. (2) A rapid fire-service response can limit a roof fire to minor damage. (3) Operators should distinguish confirmed internal fires from unfounded reports so customers are not misled about service impact.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/fire-breaks-out-at-350-cermak-data-center-in-chicago/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:24:29.951899+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1877", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1877/", "title": "Fire at Ford World Headquarters Shuts Data Centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "A fire occurred in the electrical sub-station in the basement of the Ford World Headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, United States. More than 1,500 employees were evacuated. Power was lost to the on-site data centre used by the company and its dealers for sales reporting and tracking. Battery backups protected stored data but the data centre could not operate without full power. Remote facilities handled some load but sales data reporting was interrupted for most of the business day. The monthly sales report was delayed. The headquarters was already undergoing a major upgrade that includes a new data centre.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure backup power arrangements allow continued operation of critical data systems during substation failures. (2) Test failover to remote facilities before incidents occur. (3) Coordinate data centre power resilience with site electrical infrastructure upgrades.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/fire-at-ford-hq-shuts-down-on-site-data-center/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:24:49.529706+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1878", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1878/", "title": "Fire at Samsung data centre in Gwacheon causes global outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2014, "incident_month": "2014-04", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In April 2014, a major fire was reported at Samsung's data centre in Gwacheon, South Korea. A secondary account, citing Data Center Knowledge, described it as a fully involved building fire rather than a smoke event. It was reported to cause several hours of downtime and a global service outage for users of Samsung TVs, smartphones and tablets. The cause, any injuries, and whether power equipment was involved were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The available account does not identify how the fire started or which systems were involved.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A data centre fire can interrupt customer services well beyond the site, so operators should plan for multi-hour loss of the facility. (2) Early public reports may not distinguish a smoke event from a fully involved fire; confirm the scale before treating the incident as minor. (3) Until the origin is known, review detection, suppression and backup arrangements rather than assuming a single failed component.", "source_url": "https://www.acronis.com/en/blog/posts/samsungs-data-center-fire-evolving-role-cio-weekly-roundup/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:24:58.257311+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1879", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1879/", "title": "Power failure disrupts Internet Archive data centre services", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-07", "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 7 July 2024 the Internet Archive reported a brief power outage at one of its data centres. It said environmental factors then took effect, the Wayback Machine was down and Archive.org was unstable. The data centre location was not reported. A later account said some users were still having problems. How long the disruption lasted was not stated.", "contributing_factors": "The organisation attributed the disruption to a brief power outage followed by environmental factors. What those factors were, and whether the outage was on the site power system or the wider supply, was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A short loss of power at a data centre can be followed by environmental conditions that extend a service outage. (2) Early public notices should say what is known and what is not yet known. (3) Until the failed element is identified, operators should not treat a power-outage report as a complete account of the power path.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/data-center-power-failure-causes-internet-archive-outage/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:25:00.07624+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1880", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1880/", "title": "Burning smell leads to evacuation and a small fire at a data centre in Watford", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": "2016-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 20 September 2016, staff were evacuated from The Chess Building in Watford Business Park after a strong smell of burning was reported from one of the computer suites and the fire alarm sounded. Two crews from Watford attended at about 1pm and extinguished a fire. The fire service believed the fire was accidental. Staff of Digital Realty, described in the report as a data centre provider, were among those evacuated. What caught fire, and whether anyone was hurt, was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The only stated view is that the fire was believed to be accidental, and that the smell came from a computer suite.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a burning smell in a computer suite as a fire event and evacuate until the space has been checked. (2) Keep routes clear so fire crews can reach computer suites quickly. (3) Record what was burning so a later review can tell a power-system fault from other equipment.", "source_url": "https://www.watfordobserver.co.uk/news/14753608.staff-evacuated-from-digital-realty-in-watford-following-reports-of-strong-burning-smell/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:25:13.337973+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1881", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1881/", "title": "Transformer fire forces Martin's Creek plant offline", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": "2016-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 11 September 2016, a fire broke out in a transformer yard next to Talen Energy's Martin's Creek Power Plant in Mount Bethel Township, Pennsylvania. Local firefighters put the fire out after about three hours. The plant itself was not damaged and no plant staff were injured. The following morning Talen took the plant offline as a precaution while the cause was investigated. A company spokesperson told local media the plant would be offline for a few weeks.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer fire had not been established when this account was published. No contributing factors were reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in a transformer yard beside a generating plant can still force a precautionary shutdown when the plant itself is undamaged. (2) Return to service should wait until the cause of a yard fire has been investigated and isolation of the affected equipment is confirmed. (3) Where the cause is unknown, operators should treat the length of the outage as uncertain and say so plainly.", "source_url": "https://www.powermag.com/transformer-fire-forces-martins-creek-plant-offline/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:25:14.394693+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1882", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1882/", "title": "Small fire at Delta data centre in Atlanta follows electrical failure", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": "2016-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Transformers and substations", "what_happened": "In August 2016, a piece of electrical equipment at Delta Air Lines Delta data centre in Atlanta failed and shut down the transformer supplying its data centre. The system moved to backup power, but not all servers were connected, and Delta Air Lines reported a cascading computer outage. The equipment failure also started a small fire, which Delta Air Lines said was put out immediately without calling the fire service. Delta Air Lines reported more than 2,100 flight cancellations that week while systems were disrupted; it did not say how far the fire itself contributed.", "contributing_factors": "An electrical component at the Delta data centre in Atlanta failed and took down the transformer feeding the data centre. Not all servers were connected to the backup supply. Delta Air Lines did not describe the failed part or how the fire was extinguished.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Check that every critical server is actually fed from the backup supply, not only that a backup path exists. (2) Treat the supply into a data centre as a single point of failure and test what happens if the upstream transformer trips. (3) Record what failed, how any fire was put out, and what else was damaged, so later analysis is not left to press statements.", "source_url": "https://www.mprnews.org/story/2016/08/11/delta-outage-included-small-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:25:40.318691+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1883", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1883/", "title": "Lightning reported to disrupt Google data centre in Belgium", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": null, "country": "Belgium", "country_code": "be", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "A 2015 report said one of Google's data centres in Belgium was hit by four lightning strikes and lost some data. The report said the incident affected the Google Compute Engine service. Automatic auxiliary systems were said to have restored power quickly, and storage systems had battery backup, but some recently written data was on systems more susceptible to power failure from extended or repeated battery drain. Google was reported to have said the outage was its own responsibility, that the loss affected only 0.000001% of disk space, and that most persistent disk storage already used hardware less vulnerable to power failures. Which clients were affected, and what data was lost, were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The report linked the disruption to repeated lightning strikes and to storage systems that were more susceptible to power failure when batteries were drained for an extended or repeated period.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Storage hardware should be able to tolerate repeated power interruptions and battery drain. (2) Auxiliary power and battery backup should be reviewed for multiple external events such as lightning. (3) Users should be told, as far as is known, what service was affected and what remains unknown.", "source_url": "https://www.bisinfotech.com/lightning-wrecks-google-data-center-0-000001-data-lost/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:25:47.342883+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1884", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1884/", "title": "Worker killed in explosion at Boulder Creek hydro project", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "other", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-11", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A worker was killed in an explosion while handling explosives at the Boulder Creek Hydroelectric project, about 50 kilometres north of Pemberton, Canada. A second person was seriously injured and taken to a hospital in the Lower Mainland. WorkSafeBC and the RCMP are investigating. Innergex, the company handling the project, said it is cooperating with the authorities. The cause of the explosion has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source says only that the worker was killed while handling explosives.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Blasting and explosives work at a remote generation site needs a written plan, exclusion zones and a competent person in charge before work starts. (2) Plan emergency medical access from a remote site before explosives are handled, because a second person was seriously injured. (3) Preserve the scene and cooperate with the safety regulator and police while the cause is still under investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.ctvnews.ca/vancouver/article/worker-killed-in-explosion-at-hydro-project-near-pemberton/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:26:07.423012+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1885", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1885/", "title": "Small fire at May Street data centre disrupts internet in Belfast", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-06", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 24 June 2015 a small fire at a key British Telecom building in May Street, Belfast, described in the report as a BT data centre, was followed by widespread internet disruption across Northern Ireland. Firefighters were at the scene in May Street. The cause, any injuries, and how long services were affected were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A small fire at a communications building can disrupt internet services across a wide area. (2) Operators should be able to isolate a fire and keep essential connectivity on other routes. (3) Early public updates should say what is known about the fire and service impact, and what is not yet known.", "source_url": "https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/fire-in-bt-data-centre-leads-to-internet-disruption/a/118472411.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:26:19.539526+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1886", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1886/", "title": "Roof fire reported at Apple data centre site in Mesa, Arizona", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-05", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 26 May 2015 a fire was reported at Apple's data centre site in Mesa, Arizona, a former factory being converted for use as a data centre. Local reporting, as relayed by Data Center Dynamics, said the fire appeared to have started on rooftop solar panels. Crews were also dealing with another blaze inside the building. Fire crews from Mesa, Gilbert and Superstition attended, and the local report said the fire was extinguished within 35 minutes. No injuries were reported. The cause was still being investigated.", "contributing_factors": "The local report said the fire appeared to have started on the rooftop solar panels. It was not reported whether the fire inside the building was linked to the roof fire, and the cause had not been established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Large rooftop solar arrays should be arranged so crews can isolate the array and reach the roof without delay. (2) A roof fire and a fire inside the same building should be treated as possibly unrelated until a link is confirmed. (3) During conversion of an industrial building, both rooftop solar equipment and internal spaces need active monitoring so a small fire is found early.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/fire-rages-through-apples-data-center-hq-in-mesa-arizona/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:26:34.074976+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1887", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1887/", "title": "Fire at Almere data centre causes power loss and outages", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-05", "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A large fire broke out at the NorthC data centre on Rondebeltweg in Almere on 7 May. Emergency services responded with multiple appliances and ladder trucks. The fire affected the rear of the building where technical facilities are located. The building was evacuated with no injuries reported. Power was lost to equipment and servers, causing service outages for educational institutions, public transport and government agencies. The fire was brought under control after about 12 hours. Partial access was restored later that evening. Smoke remained limited due to compartmentation. Restoration work including temporary power supplies was expected to take up to 72 hours.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure robust fire compartmentation to limit smoke spread in technical areas. (2) Maintain redundant power paths and rapid temporary supply procedures for data centre facilities. (3) Coordinate closely with local fire services on access and safety protocols during incidents.", "source_url": "https://www.thefpa.co.uk/fire-and-risk-management-journal/news/dutch-data-centre-disrupted-by-fire", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:28:46.031289+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1889", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1889/", "title": "Fire limited to batteries at east London data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-01", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters attended a small fire at a 13-storey commercial building housing a data centre on Nutmeg Lane in Blackwall, east London, in the early hours of Saturday. The London Fire Brigade said the fire was limited to a string of lead acid batteries in a basement battery room, with no further damage to the building and no injuries reported. Crews were mobilised at 4:52 GMT because the building was high-rise, and the fire was brought under control by 6:43.", "contributing_factors": "The brigade said the fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by the failure of one of the lead acid batteries. Other reports also said the cause had not been determined.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A battery-room fire in a high-rise can require a large multi-station attendance even when the fire is described as small and limited. (2) Lead-acid battery strings can be the seat of a fire that damages the battery room while leaving the rest of the building undamaged. (3) A single battery failure should be treated as a credible ignition source, with detection and isolation arrangements kept under review.", "source_url": "https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cq84gegjxk1o", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:29:13.274727+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1890", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1890/", "title": "Switchgear fire forces shutdown at Greenidge Generation Dresden facility", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Switchgear and electrical rooms", "what_happened": "On 23 November 2025, a fire at the 106 MW Dresden facility of Greenidge Generation in New York state was reported, in a company filing, to have followed an electrical switchgear failure. The fire was contained, and automated safety protocols required the site to be fully de-energised. The company said its Bitcoin miners were not damaged and that it expected operations to resume in the next few weeks. The underlying cause was reported as still under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The company attributed the fire to an electrical switchgear failure. The underlying cause has not been reported and was said to remain under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A switchgear fault can force a full site shutdown even when computing equipment is not itself damaged. (2) Automated de-energisation can contain an electrical fire and protect other plant. (3) The stated failure mode and the underlying cause should be kept separate until an investigation is complete.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/greenidge-generation-cryptomine-offline-after-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:29:36.207615+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1891", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1891/", "title": "Fire damages two buildings at Bitdeer Massillon site", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-11", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out on 11 November 2025 at the construction site of a planned Bitcoin mining data centre at 1115 Industrial Avenue SW in Massillon, Ohio. Firefighters put the blaze out. Two of the 24 buildings under construction were damaged. No servers or specialised equipment had been installed in either structure. The fire started in a building at the south-east corner of the site and wind carried flames to an adjoining building. No injuries were reported. Investigators found no signs of arson and were looking at whether construction activity started the fire. The company said it was still assessing the effect on construction progress.", "contributing_factors": "A company statement attributed the fire to welding during construction. That has not been confirmed by investigators, who were still examining how construction work may have started the fire. Wind then spread flames from the first building to an adjoining one.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Hot work such as welding on a multi-building construction site needs a permit, a fire watch and ready extinguishing means. (2) Wind can carry fire between adjoining unfinished buildings, so temporary separation and fire breaks should be planned before hot work. (3) After a construction fire, check any electrical plant already on site, including transformers, before judging what can be reused and before work restarts.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/fire-damages-two-building-at-bitdeers-ohio-bitcoin-mine-construction-site/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:29:56.497538+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1892", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1892/", "title": "Fire damages ISRO data centre in Ahmedabad", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported on 24 October 2025 at the IT server building inside the Indian Space Research Organisation campus in Ahmedabad. The blaze is believed to have started on the third floor of a building near the campus outer gate at about 3 am. It gutted computers, networking devices and other IT equipment, and officials described substantial infrastructure loss. There is concern that data on damaged servers may have been lost. Four fire tenders from the Ahmedabad Fire and Emergency Services attended and brought the fire under control after several hours. No injuries or deaths were reported. ISRO has opened an internal inquiry into the damage and whether stored data was affected.", "contributing_factors": "Fire officials suspect a short circuit, but a detailed investigation is still under way. The extent of damage to data centre systems, and whether any stored data was lost, had not been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Ensure regular inspection and maintenance of electrical systems in data centre facilities. (2) Maintain up-to-date backups of critical and mission data in geographically separate locations. (3) Review fire detection and suppression coverage on all floors of server buildings.", "source_url": "https://www.bhaskarenglish.in/local/gujarat/ahmedabad/news/fire-breaks-out-at-isros-it-data-centre-in-ahmedabad-major-infra-data-loss-suspected-four-tenders-control-fire-136242677.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:29:59.241932+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1893", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1893/", "title": "Lithium-ion battery explosion causes data centre fire in Daejeon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "South Korea", "country_code": "kr", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "A lithium-ion battery exploded in a server room on the fifth floor of the National Information Resources Service facility in Daejeon on 26 September 2025, starting a fire that was completely extinguished the following day. The source reports that 96 systems were directly damaged. As a precaution, 647 online government systems were shut down, of which 436 were public services and 211 were internal systems. By 6 p.m. on 7 October, 163 of those systems had been restored, a reported restoration rate of 25.2 percent.", "contributing_factors": "The source says the fire began after a lithium-ion battery exploded. It does not report why the battery failed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A battery explosion in a data-centre server room can damage systems on site and force a much wider precautionary shutdown of dependent services. (2) Restoration plans should distinguish systems destroyed in the fire from systems shut down only as a precaution, and should be able to move destroyed systems to another facility. (3) Operators should track public and internal services separately so the scale and pace of recovery are clear.", "source_url": "https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/society/20251007/163-online-govt-services-restored-after-data-center-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:30:57.200208+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1894", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1894/", "title": "Multiple battery fires prompt full replacement at Chesterfield data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms", "what_happened": "Four fire incidents were reported at the CTP-01 facility operated by Chirisa Technology Parks in Chesterfield County, Virginia. The company said the latest fire, on the Monday before a 12 September 2025 report, was caused by a single battery that caught fire. It said the fire was contained within the battery cabinet by a suppression system and did not spread to the battery room or the building. Earlier calls were reported on 5 December, 10 June and 20 August; the source does not give the years. Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to each call. The operator said it would immediately remove and replace all batteries with units from a different manufacturer.", "contributing_factors": "The operator said it believed a manufacturing defect caused the latest fire. Fire officials said the company was working with the fire marshal's office on the root cause. No independent finding is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators should monitor battery performance closely when several thermal events occur at the same facility. (2) Replacing an entire battery population may be warranted when a manufacturing defect is suspected and not yet confirmed. (3) Close cooperation with local fire authorities helps identify and reduce future risks.", "source_url": "https://www.wtvr.com/news/local-news/chesterfield-data-center-fires-sept-12-2025", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:33:50.103501+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1895", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1895/", "title": "Fire at a data centre reported to disrupt Ministry of Corporate Affairs services", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at a data centre was reported to have affected services of India's Ministry of Corporate Affairs, including its online portal. Only a headline and short feed summary are available, so the data centre, its location, the cause of the fire and how long services were affected are not known.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Public service operators should know which data centre hosts their systems and how a fire there would be reported. (2) A headline alone does not identify the failed equipment, so do not infer a cause until a fuller report exists. (3) Service owners should have a tested way to tell users when a hosting site is unavailable.", "source_url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/india/fire-ministry-of-corporate-affairs-mca-portal-services-down-data-centre-10743049/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:37:07.631509+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1896", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1896/", "title": "Fire at Amazon data centre in UAE disrupts services", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-03", "country": "United Arab Emirates", "country_code": "ae", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Backup generators", "what_happened": "Objects struck an Amazon Web Services data centre in the UAE, creating sparks and a fire, the company said. The fire department shut off power to the facility and to generators while putting out the fire. Connectivity and power issues affected APIs and instances in a single Availability Zone (mec1-az2) in the ME-CENTRAL-1 Region. Other Availability Zones in the region were reported to be operating normally. Power restoration was delayed while the company awaited permission to turn power back on, and no restoration time had been given in the updates reported.", "contributing_factors": "The company said objects striking the facility created sparks and a fire. What the objects were, and why they struck the site, was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An external impact can force both site power and generators to be isolated while a fire is fought. (2) Customers of a multi-zone region need a workable path to other zones or regions when one zone loses power. (3) Power should not be restored until the fire service has given permission, and customers should be told when that timing is still unknown.", "source_url": "https://www.khaleejtimes.com/business/tech/amazon-data-centre-uae-fire-incident-services-impacted", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:38:58.716253+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1897", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1897/", "title": "Reported fire at an AWS data centre in Bahrain after alleged attack", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Bahrain", "country_code": "bh", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 1 April 2026, Bahrain's interior minister said the defence force was extinguishing a fire at a company facility as a result of what the minister called Iranian aggression, without naming the company. Data Center Dynamics, citing a Financial Times report and a person familiar with the matter, reported that the facility was an Amazon Web Services data centre in Bahrain. AWS declined to comment. It is not reported what equipment burned, whether anyone was hurt, or how services were affected. The same report refers to earlier attacks on AWS data centres in the UAE and Bahrain, which are separate from this event.", "contributing_factors": "The public account links the fire to an external attack in the Iran-US conflict. That link, and the identification of the site as AWS, rest on a single report and have not been confirmed by the operator.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators in conflict zones should keep physical protection and emergency response plans current. (2) Redundancy and customer communication plans should be ready before an external threat materialises. (3) Public statements should distinguish what an authority has confirmed from what is only alleged.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/fire-at-aws-data-center-in-bahrain-after-iranian-attack-report/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:39:08.846104+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1899", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1899/", "title": "Fire damages Crystal City site, Zavala County data centre of NFN8 Group", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published report says the Crystal City site, Zavala County data centre in Crystal City, Texas, United States operated by NFN8 Group, one of three sites leased by the operator, was damaged by a fire in the week between Christmas and New Year at the end of 2025. The company said mining capacity and revenue were halved and that it was seeking insurance payments, with the timing uncertain. The cause, the equipment involved, any injuries and the fire service response are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A short public mention of a data centre fire should be treated as incomplete until the failed equipment, extent of damage and any casualties are confirmed. (2) Operators should keep insurance and recovery timelines separate from claims about how much capacity was lost. (3) Business filings can flag a site fire early, but they are not a substitute for an incident report.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/cryptominer-nfn8-files-for-bankruptcy-following-data-center-fire-and-bitcoin-price-crash/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:42:26.541014+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1900", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1900/", "title": "Three-alarm fire reported at a data centre in Ashburn", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A local news headline reported that a three-alarm fire at a data centre in Ashburn had been brought under control. The article text was not available, so the cause, the equipment involved, any injuries and any effect on operations were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a multi-alarm fire at a data centre as a site emergency until it is clear whether batteries, generators, switchgear or other power equipment were involved. (2) Be ready to account for people on site and for backup power if electrical rooms are affected. (3) Do not infer a cause from an early headline; confirm the failed component before changing procedures.", "source_url": "https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/ashburn-data-center-3-alarm-fire-under-control/65-203624648", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T19:43:29.649109+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1901", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1901/", "title": "Substation fire in Govan leaves homes without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Police were called to Taransay Street in Govan, Glasgow, at about 10.30pm on 30 April 2025 after reports that a fire had spread to an electrical substation. The fire was later extinguished. There were no reports of injuries and no threat to the wider public. Residents reported a loss of power. Scottish Power said electricity had been restored to homes in the area. Police enquiries into the circumstances were ongoing.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. Police said enquiries were continuing.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire that spreads to a substation can interrupt local supplies even if the substation was not the starting point. (2) Restoration should be confirmed with the public once supplies are back. (3) Until enquiries finish, the origin of the fire should be treated as unknown.", "source_url": "https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/glasgow-news/plumes-smoke-spotted-above-govan-31548025", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T20:08:16.248991+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1902", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1902/", "title": "Fire at Waltloo substation causes power outages in Tshwane", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Waltloo Substation in Tshwane early on 24 April 2025. The City of Tshwane said the Waltloo Transformer 1B caught fire just after midnight, and that this led to power trips in the supply areas of the Rooiwal, Pyramid, Phumulani, Waltloo and Koedoespoort substations. Emergency services attended and extinguished the fire. The cause was not reported. Technicians were sent to assess the damage before repairs, and restoration times were not known.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at one substation can trip supply to several neighbouring substations, so operators should plan for a wide outage from a single site. (2) Tell the public promptly which areas are off supply, and say when restoration times are not yet known. (3) Assess damage and materials before committing to a repair time, and update customers as that assessment changes.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/rekord/news-headlines/2025/04/24/watch-waltloo-substation-fire-sparks-major-power-outages/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-02T20:08:22.014496+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1903", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1903/", "title": "Offshore supply vessel Glomar Venture strikes turbine base off Callantsoog, injuring two", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-04", "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 20 April 2025, the offshore supply vessel Glomar Venture struck the base of an offshore wind turbine about 15 miles offshore from Callantsoog in the Dutch North Sea. Two crew members were injured. The Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Institution received a call for a medical evacuation at about 7 am local time. The crew members were taken to Den Helder and transferred to hospital by ambulance. The vessel, which had a crew of eight, was later escorted to the Port of Den Helder. An official investigation is under way. Damage to the turbine has not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been reported. An official investigation is under way to establish what led to the collision.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Vessel movements close to offshore turbine foundations should be planned and watched, because a strike on the base can injure crew even when no turbine failure is reported. (2) Offshore sites need a clear medical evacuation route to a shore hospital, including early contact with rescue services. (3) Voyage and approach records should be kept for the official investigation, because the cause of this collision has not yet been established.", "source_url": "https://www.offshorewind.biz/2025/04/22/two-injured-as-osv-glomar-venture-hits-offshore-wind-turbine-in-dutch-north-sea", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T20:08:25.996205+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1905", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1905/", "title": "Transformer explosion cuts power to Hart Bridge in Jacksonville", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A news report said a tower camera showed a transformer explosion that knocked out power to the Hart Bridge in Jacksonville as Helene rolled in. The full report could not be read, so the cause, how long power was out, and whether anyone was hurt were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The report places the explosion as Helene rolled in. It does not say whether the storm caused the failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer failure can cut power to a major bridge and the roads that depend on it. (2) Severe weather is a time to check spare capacity and restoration plans for critical crossings. (3) A headline and a camera view do not establish the failure mode; that still needs a utility report.", "source_url": "https://www.firstcoastnews.com/video/weather/hurricane/tower-cam-shows-transformer-explosion-knocking-out-power-to-jacksonvilles-hart-bridge/77-264ecd1d-d59b-46dc-952c-93d79ad5c38b", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T20:09:13.845431+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1906", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1906/", "title": "Transformer fire in Midway interrupts power to hundreds of customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 23 April 2024, a transformer fire was reported near 800 Murray Street in Midway, British Columbia. FortisBC said the fire started at 6:50 a.m. and knocked out power to about 1,000 customers between Rock Creek and Greenwood. By late morning the utility said the fire was out and power had been restored to all but 340 customers. Crews from the Okanagan and Castlegar were reported to be on the way to help the Grand Forks team. Later that afternoon FortisBC said crews were clearing damage and putting a temporary transformer in place, hoped to restore power by midnight, and warned that customers might see intermittent outages during the work. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire can interrupt supply over a wide area and leave a residual group of customers off supply after the fire is out. (2) Damage assessment with the fire service, and a temporary transformer, may be needed before the last customers can be restored. (3) Restoration times should be given as estimates, and customers should be told that further short interruptions may occur while repairs are made.", "source_url": "https://www.castanet.net/news/BC/483628/Power-out-to-340-homes-in-Boundary-region-after-transformer-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-02T20:09:31.420434+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1907", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1907/", "title": "Fire on house roof caused by solar panel short circuit in Gouda", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-10", "country": "Netherlands", "country_code": "nl", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the afternoon of 2 October 2026 a fire occurred on the roof of a house in Snoystraat, Gouda. Residents noticed smoke at the solar panels and isolated the supply. On arrival the fire service initially saw nothing. Using an aerial platform, a panel was removed and a short circuit was found at the rear of the panel, which had led to the fire. The fire service deployed two pump appliances, a small-scale water supply, an officer and an aerial ladder to control the incident.", "contributing_factors": "A short circuit at the rear of a solar panel, as reported after the panel was removed. The source does not identify the component that shorted.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolate a rooftop solar system promptly when smoke is seen at the panels. (2) Do not treat an unseen fire as out: smoke reported at panels may only become clear once a panel is lifted from an aerial platform. (3) Plan aerial access and isolation before crews handle the rear of a panel.", "source_url": "https://goudsdagblad.nl/Lokaal/brand-op-dak-woning-door-kortsluiting-zonnepanelen-in-gouda", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:06:40.625971+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1908", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1908/", "title": "Transformer explosion reported to have interrupted Cuban television news", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "Cuba", "country_code": "cu", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 7 September 2026 a power outage interrupted the National News of Cuban Television. The signal was cut and other content was broadcast for several minutes. Reports from people near the studios said an electrical transformer had exploded in the vicinity. The utility has not been reported as confirming that cause. The interruption came on a day of widespread shortages on the national system.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of this outage has not been officially confirmed. The same report said that, separately, many distribution transformers in Havana are damaged or overloaded and that explosions of distribution equipment have become frequent. It is not reported whether those conditions applied to the unit near the studios.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Sites that depend on a continuous supply should plan for local distribution failures when the wider system is short of generation. (2) A reported transformer explosion should be checked with the network operator before it is treated as the confirmed cause. (3) Where distribution equipment is known to be overloaded, inspection should be prioritised so a local failure does not take essential services off supply without warning.", "source_url": "https://en.cibercuba.com/noticias/2026-09-09-u1-e43231-s27061-nid339904-apagon-interrumpe-noticiero-television-cubana-tras", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:06:59.375254+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1909", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1909/", "title": "Fire damages auxiliary transformer at Brahmanbaria substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "Bangladesh", "country_code": "bd", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at an old power substation in the Datiara area of Brahmanbaria around 5:30am on 29 August 2026 and damaged an auxiliary transformer. Firefighters brought the blaze under control within about 15 minutes. No casualties were reported. Supply to several areas was suspended while repairs were under way. The cause had not been determined.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An auxiliary transformer fire at an older substation can force supply to be suspended even when the blaze is put out quickly. (2) Until the cause is known, operators should treat similar plant as needing inspection before it is returned to service. (3) A short outage plan should cover how supply will be restored if one auxiliary transformer is badly damaged.", "source_url": "https://viewsbangladesh.com/fire-at-brahmanbaria-power-substation-disrupts-electricity-supply-in-several-areas/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:07:01.26017+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1910", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1910/", "title": "Solar panel on Sudarshan Setu bridge catches fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A minor fire broke out on a solar panel on the Sudarshan Setu bridge connecting Okha with Bet Dwarka. Smoke and sparks were seen from a panel mounted on the bridge. Firefighters brought the blaze under control within minutes and it did not spread. No injuries were reported and traffic continued uninterrupted. Authorities are assessing the damage; a technical inspection of the solar power system is expected and the cause has not been confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Preliminary inquiries suggest a short circuit, possibly linked to heavy rain. That has not been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After heavy rain, check exposed solar equipment on bridges and other open structures. (2) Keep a way to isolate panels on transport infrastructure so a small fire can be contained quickly. (3) Plan how traffic will be managed if a minor fire occurs on a bridge.", "source_url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/rajkot/sudarshan-setu-solar-panel-catches-fire/articleshow/132795843.cms", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:07:12.192214+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1911", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1911/", "title": "Line fault leads data centres to switch to backup power in Northern Virginia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "RTO Insider, citing PJM and Yes Energy data, reported that about 3 GW of load dropped off the grid between 7:55 and 8 a.m. It said about 3 GW of data centre load in Northern Virginia automatically switched to backup power after a transmission line fault. Dominion Energy was reported as saying that lights flickered in the area but there was no loss of power. The sudden load loss led to a spike in PJM's area control error. The available text does not give the calendar date of the fault, name the line, or say whether any data centre equipment failed.", "contributing_factors": "A transmission line fault was reported. Its cause was not stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transmission fault can make a very large block of data centre load leave the grid and transfer to backup power at once. (2) Grid operators should watch area control error when load drops suddenly. (3) A report of flickering without a loss of supply still needs a clear account of what transferred and what did not.", "source_url": "https://www.rtoinsider.com/137301-line-fault-causes-3-gw-in-data-center-load-to-drop-in-virginia/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:07:23.017051+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1912", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1912/", "title": "High voltage transformer catches fire at Manali substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-12", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Early on Sunday morning, a fault occurred in a high-voltage transformer at the Manali 400/230 kV substation, which supplies power to the city. Maintenance staff switched on the transformer's safety devices and isolated it from the distribution system. Heat from the fault started a small fire. Fire and rescue services helped bring it under control and stop it spreading to other equipment. A larger fire was reported to have been averted. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports a fault in the high-voltage transformer. Heat from that fault started a small fire. The underlying cause of the fault was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a fault on high-voltage equipment, isolate the affected plant promptly using the installed protection. (2) Treat residual heat as a fire risk even after isolation, and keep adjacent equipment under watch. (3) Call the fire and rescue service early so a small fire does not spread to neighbouring plant.", "source_url": "https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/high-voltage-transformer-catches-fire-at-manali-substation/article70395876.ece", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:07:58.292051+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1913", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1913/", "title": "Solar panels catch fire at GC America in Alsip", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Four solar panels on the roof of GC America in Alsip caught fire on a Saturday afternoon. The fire was reported just after 12.30 pm at the site in the 3700 block of W 127th Street. The panels and part of the roof were involved. Fire crews put the fire out and stopped it spreading. No injuries were reported. The cause was still under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The cause had not been established at the time of reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in a small number of rooftop panels can still involve the roof covering, so isolation points and safe roof access should be known before an incident. (2) Early detection and a prompt fire-service response limited spread here; occupied commercial roofs need a clear way to raise the alarm. (3) While the cause is under investigation, do not assume a single component failed, and keep the scene and records available to investigators.", "source_url": "https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/solar-panels-spark-blaze-dental-manufacturing-company-in-alsip", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:09:04.219052+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1914", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1914/", "title": "Transformer fire at Air Liquide plant in Harris County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 18 August 2024, authorities responded to a transformer fire at the Air Liquide plant in the 11700 block of Bay Area Blvd, in southeast Harris County, Texas. The road was closed from Fairmont Parkway to Choate Road. By 6:40 p.m., the La Porte Office of Emergency Management said the fire was mostly out and responders were suppressing remaining hot spots. At 7:11 p.m., Air Liquide said the fire had been extinguished. Because of the loss of power, residents might notice increased flaring at other facilities. Air monitoring was being conducted; the source does not report the results.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at an industrial site can cut power and lead nearby facilities to flare, so operators should plan for effects beyond the site fence. (2) Tell the public what is known about air monitoring and do not imply a clear result before one is reported. (3) Keep road closures and an emergency presence in place until hot spots are suppressed and the incident is over.", "source_url": "https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2024/08/18/transformer-fire-at-harris-county-gas-plant-shuts-down-part-of-bay-area-blvd/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:09:05.530453+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1915", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1915/", "title": "Substation fire in Kryvyi Rih after a drone strike", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-02", "country": "Ukraine", "country_code": "ua", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A drone attack caused a fire at a Ukrenergo substation in the Dnipropetrovsk region and damaged equipment there and on two high-voltage overhead lines serving Kryvyi Rih. The report said this was the third strike that night with Shahed drones on energy infrastructure in the Dnipro region, and that shelling and falling drone debris caused the damage. As of 07:30, about 7,500 residential and industrial customers in Kryvyi Rih were without electricity. Ukrenergo began emergency repairs after the air alarm ended, and the report said customers were being supplied with power.", "contributing_factors": "The source attributes the fire and the damage to a drone attack, including shelling and falling drone debris. No equipment fault is described.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A strike can damage substation equipment and nearby overhead lines in the same event, so restoration planning should cover both. (2) Repair work may have to wait until an air alarm ends, which delays the start of recovery. (3) Outage figures should be tied to a stated time, because supply can begin to return while repairs are still under way.", "source_url": "https://unn.ua/en/news/a-substation-caught-fire-in-kryvyi-rih-due-to-an-enemy-attack", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:09:10.607398+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1916", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1916/", "title": "Heat build-up at thermal energy storage plant in Tomago", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "other", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-10", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Fire and Rescue NSW crews responded to a dangerous heat build-up at a thermal energy storage plant in Laverick Avenue, Tomago, in the Hunter Valley, just after 5.15 in the morning on 6 October 2023. Three employees reached safety. An 800 metre exclusion zone was established and 15 neighbouring businesses were evacuated. Firefighters sprayed carbon dioxide from a bulk tanker brought from Sydney onto overheated machinery reported as 14 by 3 metres, because water could not be used owing to the risk of explosion. Dry chemical powder extinguishers were used on burning electrical cables. The scene was later deemed to be in a steady state and the emergency was scaled down. A hazardous materials crew was to remain for a day or two to monitor the site.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Where water cooling could cause an explosion, crews need a planned alternative such as carbon dioxide or dry chemical for overheated plant and burning cables. (2) An exclusion zone and evacuation of neighbouring premises should be set early when heat build-up cannot be cooled in the usual way. (3) After the emergency is scaled down, monitoring should continue until the plant is confirmed stable.", "source_url": "https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/media/news/2023/20231006-firefighters-stabilise-thermal-energy-storage-facility", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:09:34.643923+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1917", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1917/", "title": "Fire at Houtkoppen substation disrupts northern Johannesburg supply", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the Houtkoppen substation, north of Johannesburg, on the night of 5 September 2023. Residents in Block 10, including Witkoppen, North Riding and Kya Sands, were left without power. City Power said preliminary investigations suggested a jumper broke shortly before 8:30 pm, just before load shedding restoration, and that a spark started the fire. The fire was reported to be on the Eskom side of the site. Firefighters attended and the fire was out, but no estimated restoration time was given and investigations into the cause and extent were continuing.", "contributing_factors": "Preliminary investigations suggested a jumper broke and produced a spark. The cause and extent had not been confirmed. The fire was said to be on the Eskom side of the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Inspect jumpers and connections at substations before they fail in service. (2) Agree in advance how adjacent network operators will coordinate when a fire affects a shared or neighbouring site. (3) Tell affected customers promptly when no restoration time can yet be given, and update them as the assessment proceeds.", "source_url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/news/fire-houtkoppen-substation-northern-joburg-dark/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:09:50.246845+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1918", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1918/", "title": "Lightning strike explodes transformer at CJ Hammer Pump & Machinery facility in Visalia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "During a storm with heavy rain, workers at the CJ Hammer Pump & Machinery facility in Visalia, California, recorded a Southern California Edison transformer exploding after a lightning strike. The report says power was not affected and that no one was injured. It does not say whether the transformer stood on that facility's site or nearby, and it does not describe a utility crew response to this event.", "contributing_factors": "A lightning strike during a thunderstorm with heavy rain. The report does not describe the condition of the transformer before the strike.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Lightning can cause a transformer to explode even when strikes on transformers are described as uncommon. (2) An explosion may not interrupt supply, so the asset should still be checked after a nearby strike. (3) People who see a transformer explosion should keep clear rather than approach to look.", "source_url": "https://abc30.com/post/lightning-strike-visalia-workers-transformer-explosion-caught-on-camera/12662204/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:10:24.688347+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1919", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1919/", "title": "Transformer fires at BGE station Northwind Road Carney", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-01", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Multiple transformer fires were reported at the BGE station along Northwind Road in Carney, Maryland at around 4 a.m. on 23 January 2023. Witnesses reported three or four loud booms, after which fire trucks and Baltimore Gas and Electric vehicles arrived. Power was lost to several neighbourhoods in Carney and the Seven Courts community. Most outages were later reported as restored, though the source does not say when. Baltimore Gas and Electric had not stated a cause.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Station operators should be ready to respond quickly when transformer equipment fails. (2) Restoration claims should be checked with the operator before they are treated as complete. (3) Where the cause is not yet known, public accounts should say so rather than infer a failure mode.", "source_url": "https://nottinghammd.com/2023/01/23/overnight-transformer-fires-knock-out-power-in-carney/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:10:26.694399+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1920", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1920/", "title": "Wind turbine reported on fire in northern LaSalle County", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 6 January 2023, NBC 5 Chicago published a video whose title says it shows a wind turbine burning in northern LaSalle County. The text available to the register is the headline only. The date of the fire, the site, the operator, the cause, any injuries, and the extent of damage or operational impact are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A video title can show that a turbine fire was reported, but missing detail is not evidence that there was no damage or no response. (2) Until a fuller account exists, the location, time and outcome of a reported turbine fire should be treated as unknown rather than assumed. (3) Footage of a burning turbine is a prompt to ask whether debris, access and neighbouring assets were affected, which this report does not say.", "source_url": "https://www.nbcchicago.com/video/top-videos-home/turbine-on-fire-video-shows-wind-turbine-in-northern-lasalle-county-burning/3038674/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:10:28.395232+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1921", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1921/", "title": "Substation transformer fire disrupts power in Cape Girardeau", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In the early hours of 23 December 2022, power went out in Cape Girardeau between midnight and 1:30 a.m. The Cape Girardeau Fire Department was dispatched around 1:35 a.m. to the intersection of N. Silver Springs Road and Independence Street for a transformer fire at the Ameren UE substation. The fire department said the fire caused outages on the west and north sides of the city. It was contained just after 3 a.m., after which Ameren crews assessed the damage and began repairs. A power line near Mt. Auburn Road was also reported down. Repairs were expected to take at least four hours and possibly longer because of the weather and the extent of the damage. Power was restored to the remaining customers late that night.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer fire is not reported. Ameren crews said weather and the extent of the damage could lengthen repairs. A generator problem at one proposed warming site is also reported, but it is not linked to the substation fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation transformer fire can interrupt supply across large parts of a city until the fire is contained and the damage assessed. (2) Repair times should be treated as uncertain when weather and the scale of damage are both still being assessed. (3) Sites offered as shelter during an outage should be checked for a working generator before residents are sent there.", "source_url": "https://www.kfvs12.com/2022/12/23/more-than-2k-without-power-cape-girardeau/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:10:39.351297+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1922", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1922/", "title": "Electrical fault causes fire at Watford Gap services substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-11", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical fault caused a fire at a substation at the M1 Watford Gap services in Northamptonshire on 24 November 2022. Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service was called shortly before 11am to reports of smoke and found the substation well alight. Power had been lost at the northbound services and buildings were being evacuated. National Highways closed the entrance, and crews requested National Grid. After the electrics were isolated, two firefighters in breathing apparatus used a hose reel jet, with thermal imaging and a cooling spray. The fire was out around 1pm. Staff were allowed back once temperatures were judged safe, and the fire service left the scene with National Grid shortly before 2pm. Roadchef said both north and south services were temporarily closed.", "contributing_factors": "The fire service attributed the blaze to an electrical fault. How the fault started is not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Isolate electrical equipment before crews enter a substation fire. (2) Use thermal imaging to check temperatures before people re-enter. (3) Coordinate early with the grid operator and the highways authority on access, cordons and evacuation.", "source_url": "https://www.northantslive.news/news/northamptonshire-news/blaze-shut-m1-watford-gap-7862407", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:10:43.908613+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1923", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1923/", "title": "Wind turbine fire near Williamsburg, Iowa sparks secondary blaze", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters responded at 12:39 a.m. on 24 October to a rural address south of Interstate 80 near Williamsburg, Iowa. On arrival they found a wind turbine with its head fully engulfed. Flaming debris caused a secondary fire in the surrounding field. The Williamsburg Fire Department secured the area and extinguished the flames. MidAmerican Energy personnel took over operations at 3:01 a.m.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the turbine fire is under investigation by MidAmerican Energy and Vestas-American Wind Technology.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Wind turbine fires need planned access and exclusion zones because of falling debris and blades overhead. (2) Debris from a turbine fire can start a secondary fire in the surrounding field, so the initial size-up should include the ground around the turbine. (3) Operators should have a clear handover with the fire service once the site is made safe.", "source_url": "https://www.firehouse.com/operations-training/video/21284978/williamsburg-ia-firefighters-find-blazing-turbine-sparking-other-fires", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:11:01.343475+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1924", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1924/", "title": "Abnormal voltage issue causes transformer fires in Waltham", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An abnormal voltage issue affected two substations in Waltham, Massachusetts, on 15 October 2022. Police reported transformer fires, traffic light failures and smoke in buildings across the city, and meters and wiring were damaged. Eversource Energy said a high voltage and equipment issue began affecting its Pine Street and Main Street substations at about 2:30 p.m. Residents near 1117 Main Street reported hearing a transformer blow or an explosion before a fire started at the rear of a home there. The company later said crews were working at about 30 locations where meters and wiring had been damaged by an abnormal voltage issue caused by a substation event. Some customers needed an electrician to inspect their homes and make further repairs before supply could be restored. Eversource said it was still investigating the root cause.", "contributing_factors": "Eversource said a high voltage and equipment issue affected the Pine Street and Main Street substations, and later described an abnormal voltage issue caused by a substation event. The root cause had not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation voltage event can damage meters and wiring at many customer locations at once, so restoration should include inspection before supply is returned. (2) Transformer fires, traffic signal failures and smoke in buildings may be linked to one grid event and should be treated as a city-wide response, not isolated faults. (3) Customers should be told clearly when an electrician must check a property before power can be restored, while the utility continues to investigate the cause.", "source_url": "https://www.wcvb.com/article/waltham-massachusetts-electrical-surgers-fires/41631568", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:11:14.102586+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1925", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1925/", "title": "Explosion at Klaarwater substation disrupts Durban electricity supply", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On a Tuesday night in October 2022, an explosion at the 275 kilovolt Klaarwater substation, described as a key electricity supply point to Durban from Eskom, left much of the city of eThekwini without power. Outages affected the northern, western and southern regions. By the time of the report, power had been restored in most affected areas, except Shallcross, where teams were still working. The municipality apologised for the outage. The cause was under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the explosion was not reported and was said to be under investigation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A failure at a key supply substation can cut power across several parts of a city at once, so restoration plans should cover wide, simultaneous outages. (2) After the main restoration, operators should identify and prioritise areas that remain without supply. (3) Until the cause is known, similar equipment should be checked before it is treated as unaffected.", "source_url": "https://www.mosselbayadvertiser.com/News/Article/National-News/power-restored-to-durban-after-substation-explosion-202210120813", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:11:28.004309+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1926", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1926/", "title": "Transformer explosion at Purok Malipayon Barangay 35 Bacolod City", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-10", "country": "Philippines", "country_code": "ph", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer was reported to have exploded in Purok Malipayon, Barangay 35, Bacolod City, early on Saturday 15 October 2022. The report said the explosion was alleged to have caused blackouts that began at 12:57 am and affected Panay Island and parts of Negros Occidental. The National Grid Corp. of the Philippines said the Panay and Negros sub-grids lost power after an isolated incident that affected its Bacolod-Kabankalan and Bacolod-Cadiz 138 kV line, and that restoration efforts were ongoing. This report does not confirm that the barangay explosion and the line incident were the same event.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep a reported local transformer explosion and a wider transmission trip as separate facts until the grid operator confirms they are the same event. (2) State which lines and areas are affected, and update the public only as restoration is confirmed. (3) Make clear in public statements what is alleged and what the operator has confirmed.", "source_url": "https://www.facebook.com/DailyGuardianPH/posts/look-a-massive-explosion-of-a-transformer-in-purok-malipayon-barangay-35-in-baco/6018748334811748/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:11:55.012436+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1927", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1927/", "title": "Explosion at Scottsdene substation leaves communities without power for over a week", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A medium-voltage breaker explosion at the Eskom Scottsdene substation left about 21,000 customers without electricity. Feeders supplying Northpine, Scottsdene and part of Wallacedene were repaired and power was restored there. Three MV breakers supplying Bloekombos, Wallacedene and surrounding farms were severely damaged and could not be repaired. Those communities had been without power for more than a week when the report was published. Eskom said a gas leak on a newly installed main breaker delayed the work, and that there was still no exact time for supply to return, though teams were trying to restore it by Friday 7 October.", "contributing_factors": "Eskom said attempted cable theft and vandalism at the substation also partly led to the unplanned outage. A gas leak on a newly installed main breaker delayed restoration. The cause of that leak was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Substations need physical security that can deter cable theft and vandalism. (2) During a long outage, tell affected communities directly what is known and what is not, including when no restoration time can yet be given. (3) Check newly installed equipment, including for gas leaks, before it is relied on to restore supply.", "source_url": "https://iol.co.za/capeargus/news/2022-10-05-over-a-week-with-no-power-for-communities-after-scottsdene-substation-explosion/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:12:30.108693+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1928", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1928/", "title": "Hail damages panels at Fighting Jays solar farm near Houston", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A large solar farm about an hour southwest of Houston, the Fighting Jays Solar project, suffered extensive panel damage in a severe hailstorm on 15 March 2024, a spokesperson for Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners told the Houston Chronicle. The project spans 3,300 acres and can produce 350 megawatts. The spokesperson said the farm continued to operate safely at reduced capacity while the owners assessed the impact on generation, and that no risk to the local community or the environment had been identified. The project website states that insurance is in place for catastrophic events such as a large hailstorm; expected insurance losses were not reported. The storm was reported to produce hail as large as golf balls, about 1.7 inches across, above the roughly one-inch minimum hail size panels are built to withstand. Residents near Needville raised concerns about contamination from shattered panels. Industry representatives said the project's silicon-based panels do not contain enough hazardous material to pose that risk. Disposal of damaged panels must follow Environmental Protection Agency rules if they meet a hazardous-waste determination. The state environmental agency said it had no investigation or testing planned at the time of the report.", "contributing_factors": "A severe hailstorm, reported to produce hail up to about 1.7 inches across, above the minimum hail size of about one inch that solar panels are built to withstand. Whether this array used a higher rating, thicker glass or a hail-stow position was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) In hail-prone regions, operators can reduce glass damage by specifying a higher hail rating, thicker glass, or turning panels steeply when hail is forecast. (2) Catastrophic-weather cover should be reviewed as severe hail has become a larger share of solar losses. (3) Clear information on panel materials can answer community questions about contamination after broken glass.", "source_url": "https://www.houstonchronicle.com/business/energy/article/large-houston-solar-farm-suffers-extensive-hail-19371591.php", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:13:39.1149+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1929", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1929/", "title": "KSEB transformer explosion near Pettah Police Station Thiruvananthapuram", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-02", "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A KSEB transformer near Pettah Police Station on the Pallimukku-Kannamoola road in Thiruvananthapuram caught fire after a loud explosion at about 11 pm. The fire spread to two nearby cars and gutted both. Residents reported intermittent power failures and sparks earlier that day, and an inspection was carried out in the morning after complaints. Smoke was reported at about 10 pm. The transformer then exploded and burned, and power supply in the area was disrupted. Local institutions, including ration shops, were reported to have been affected by the outage.", "contributing_factors": "The preliminary conclusion reported is a short circuit. Residents said there had been intermittent failures and sparks earlier that day, and smoke before the explosion. The cause has not been confirmed beyond that preliminary view.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat reports of sparks, smoke or repeated failures on a transformer as a reason to isolate and inspect the equipment before it fails. (2) Keep a clear record of inspections and of what was told to people who report distress on the network. (3) Plan for fire spread to vehicles and other property close to pole and roadside transformers.", "source_url": "https://keralakaumudi.com/en/kerala/general/power-outage-in-thiruvananthapurams-pettah-after-transformer-explosion-two-vehicles-gutted-in-fire-1257989", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:13:39.583024+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1930", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1930/", "title": "Transformer explosion causes fire and traffic-light outages in Palm Beach", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "According to the Palm Beach Police Department, a transformer blew up in the town of Palm Beach, Florida, on 19 February 2024, causing power outages to traffic lights and a structure fire. Palm Beach County Fire Rescue responded and put the fire out. Police said Chilean Avenue was closed while crews worked. Town officials said emergency vehicles had to operate near County Road and South Ocean Boulevard, between Chilean and Worth Avenue, which delayed traffic. Officials said the area had reopened by 8.38 pm and traffic was moving again. The cause of the failure, any injuries, and the extent of damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer failure can start a nearby structure fire and knock out traffic signals at the same time. (2) Road closures around the scene should be coordinated so emergency access and traffic can be restored once the fire is out. (3) Operators should treat an unexplained transformer failure as an event that needs a prompt cause review, even when early public reports give few technical details.", "source_url": "https://cbs12.com/news/local/transformer-blew-palm-beach-explosion-disrupts-palm-beach-county-fire-rescue-palm-beach-police-department-florida-february-19-2024", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:14:20.982163+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1932", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1932/", "title": "Fault at Farragut Substation causes brief New York power flicker", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-12", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the night of 14 December 2023, a fault in a Con Edison transmission line at the Farragut Substation on John Street, near the Brooklyn waterfront, caused lights to flicker for about a second across New York City, with reports also from Long Island and New Jersey, before voltage recovered. Witnesses described an explosion and smoke at the substation, and a brief flash was reported. Fire alarms were set off. Elevators and escalators were affected, including in the transit system, and some people were trapped and later freed. Subway service between Grand Central Terminal and Wall Street was halted. Officials said the equipment involved was damaged and that redundant transformers kept supply on.", "contributing_factors": "The source says Con Edison employees were restoring a transmission line when a piece of high-voltage electrical equipment failed and a voltage dip occurred. No further cause is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Work to restore a transmission line can coincide with failure of high-voltage equipment and a short voltage dip. (2) Redundant transformers can keep supply on after a single equipment failure. (3) Elevators, alarms and transit equipment can trip on a flicker lasting about a second, so reset and rescue arrangements matter even when the grid recovers quickly.", "source_url": "https://abc7ny.com/post/power-outage-nyc-con-edison-electrical/14187118/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T02:16:05.942456+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1934", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1934/", "title": "Solar inverter explodes and burns at Ruleville solar farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters responded to a call for an explosion at Sunflower Solar on Highway 49 in Ruleville. On arrival they found a solar inverter burning heavily. The fire department and solar farm management decided to let the fire burn itself out. Units remained on scene monitoring the situation for about three hours. No injuries were reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Coordinate response decisions with site management when electrical equipment is involved. (2) Plan for extended monitoring when a fire in an inverter is left to burn out. (3) Record why the fire was not actively extinguished, including any isolation limits, so the decision can be reviewed later.", "source_url": "https://darkhorsepressnow.com/news/top-story/2022-09-23/ruleville-firefighters-handle-solar-inverter-explosion-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:11:58.781049+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1935", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1935/", "title": "Amazon reported to shut down rooftop solar after fires and electrical explosions", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A published headline reports that Amazon shut down rooftop solar after fires and electrical explosions. The material available to the register does not say where this happened, how many sites were involved, what equipment failed, or whether anyone was injured.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a fire or electrical event on rooftop solar, operators should be able to isolate the affected systems promptly. (2) More than one similar event should prompt a wider check before systems are returned to service. (3) A headline about a shutdown does not by itself establish the cause.", "source_url": "https://mybroadband.co.za/news/energy/458969-amazon-forced-to-shut-down-rooftop-solar-after-fires-and-electrical-explosions.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:14:00.837921+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1936", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1936/", "title": "Transformer fault cuts power to Binghamton apartment tower", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Early on 31 August 2022, electric service to a 15-floor, 144-unit apartment building at 100 Chenango Place in Binghamton was lost after a reported blast on Chenango Street near the bus station. Residents said they heard a loud boom shortly after midnight. The utility said the outage was caused by a faulted elbow connecting a conductor to an underground transformer. An on-site generator provided limited power and kept one of the building's two elevators running. The utility said 639 customers were affected at first, later reduced to 173 after crews sectionalised the fault. Some Chenango Street customers were still without power early that afternoon.", "contributing_factors": "The utility attributed the outage to a faulted elbow on an underground transformer. The article does not report why the elbow failed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Underground transformer connections should be inspected and maintained so a single elbow fault does not take a high-rise off supply. (2) Operators should be able to sectionalise quickly so a local underground fault does not leave a wide set of customers off for longer than necessary. (3) Buildings that depend on a single utility feed should test backup generation and lift supplies so limited emergency power is available after a street-level fault.", "source_url": "https://wnbf.com/15-story-binghamton-tower-without-power-transformer-blast/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:14:53.623654+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1937", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1937/", "title": "Solar panel catches fire at Kenwood Golf and Country Club", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service responded to a fire on the roof of a two-storey building at the Kenwood Golf and Country Club in Bethesda. A solar panel on the roof caught fire. The building, which houses the country fitness centre, was evacuated. Firefighters extinguished the fire at the building. One solar panel was damaged. No smoke or fire was reported inside the building. A cause has not been released.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A single rooftop panel fire can still require evacuation of the building below. (2) Crews should confirm whether smoke or fire has entered the interior, not only whether the roof fire is out. (3) Where the cause is not yet released, operators should preserve the damaged panel and nearby wiring for investigation.", "source_url": "https://patch.com/maryland/bethesda-chevychase/solar-panel-catches-fire-kenwood-golf-country-club-fire-official", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:15:00.17114+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1938", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1938/", "title": "Solar panels affect suppression of New Bedford house fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters responded to a house fire at 47 Garrison Rd in New Bedford after multiple 911 calls on a Sunday evening in August 2022. On arrival, crews reported a large volume of fire coming through the roof at the back of the one-storey ranch house. The fire department said solar panels at the front of the house played a role in the behaviour of the fire and in how it was suppressed. The fire chief later said the panels did not contribute to the cause. The sole occupant had already left with a dog, was assessed by EMS at the scene, and did not need hospital treatment. No firefighters were injured. The fire investigation unit determined the cause to be accidental.", "contributing_factors": "The chief said solar installations are almost always energised, so they present an electrical shock hazard during suppression. The panels add dead load to the roof. In this fire the roof used lightweight wood trusses, which the chief said increased collapse risk during interior attack. The panels' position on the roof also limited vertical ventilation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Firefighters must treat solar arrays as energised and adjust suppression tactics to avoid shock hazards. (2) Roof load assessments should include the weight of solar installations when evaluating collapse risk on lightweight construction. (3) Standard vertical ventilation procedures require modification when panels occupy roof area.", "source_url": "https://wbsm.com/solar-panels-role-new-bedford-house-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:15:46.027397+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1939", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1939/", "title": "Fire reported at Three Rivers substation in Vereeniging", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-08", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire was reported at a substation in Three Rivers, Vereeniging, on the morning of 18 August 2022. Emfuleni Local Municipality said a 10 MVA unit had caught fire and that Three Rivers was without power. A team was on site to assess the damage and the work needed to restore supply. No estimate of restoration time, and no description of how far the fire had spread, had been given when this was reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut supply before the extent of damage is known, so customers need a clear statement when restoration time is not yet available. (2) A unit rating in MVA is not the same as a megawatt capacity figure and should not be recorded as one. (3) Early reports often give no cause. Site teams should record what failed and what they found so later review is not limited to the first statement.", "source_url": "https://www.ofm.co.za/article/centralsa/317615/three-rivers-substation-damaged-by-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:15:59.388735+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1940", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1940/", "title": "Wind turbine reported bent in half and on fire in Oklahoma", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A New York Post headline dated 10 August 2022 described an Oklahoma wind turbine as bent in half and on fire, with video. The article text is not available, so the town, site, operator, cause, injuries and any effect on generation are not known. It is also not known whether 10 August 2022 was the date of the incident or only the date of the report.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The available source is a headline only and does not give a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A headline that a turbine has bent and caught fire should be logged early, with place and date treated as unconfirmed until a full report is read. (2) Operators should be ready to isolate a burning or structurally failed turbine and keep people clear of falling parts and debris. (3) Follow-up should seek the site name, weather, and whether the fire started before or after the structural failure.", "source_url": "https://nypost.com/2022/08/10/oklahoma-wind-turbine-bent-in-half-on-fire-in-wild-video/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:16:09.54838+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1941", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1941/", "title": "Transformer fire at New Idumagbo injection substation in Lagos", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-08", "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 9 August 2022, a 15MVA power transformer at the New Idumagbo Injection Substation, operated by Eko Electricity Distribution Company in the Idumagbo area of Lagos Island, caught fire at about 3:00 p.m. The report described the fire as destroying the substation. The company said firefighters responded quickly and stopped the fire from spreading and causing further damage. Supply to customers in the Idumagbo and Ajele areas was affected. The cause had not been established.", "contributing_factors": "The company said its technical and safety teams were investigating the cause. No contributing factor has been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A prompt call to the fire service can limit a transformer fire before it spreads to other plant in an injection substation. (2) Even a contained transformer fire can interrupt supply to neighbouring districts, so operators need a clear plan for affected customers. (3) The failed unit should not be returned to service until the cause is established and similar transformers have been checked.", "source_url": "https://www.ripplesnigeria.com/fire-destroys-power-substation-in-lagos/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:16:35.925156+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1942", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1942/", "title": "Substation fire leaves thousands without power in Royal Oak and Madison Heights", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at a DTE electrical substation in the area of 12 Mile and Stephenson, in southern Oakland County, left more than 7,300 homes in and around Royal Oak and Madison Heights without power. Reporting dated 9 August 2022 said the fire appeared to have started on the Monday evening. Firefighters responded and were reported to have brought the fire under control quickly. Some witnesses said they saw an explosion after the fire had started. No injuries were reported. DTE initially had no restoration time because of safety issues at the substation, and later hoped to restore power by the end of Tuesday.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can cut supply to thousands of homes even when the fire is brought under control quickly. (2) Restoration times should stay unset until the site is safe to enter and the equipment can be assessed. (3) A reported explosion after a fire starts is a reason to keep people clear and confirm equipment condition before supply is restored.", "source_url": "https://www.fox2detroit.com/news/thousands-without-power-in-royal-oak-and-madison-heights-after-substation-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:16:51.463727+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1943", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1943/", "title": "Transformer explodes in Lexington creating large fireball", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A step-down transformer exploded in the area of Main Street in Lexington, Massachusetts, producing a large fireball. The explosion was reported just before 6 p.m. on a hot day. Firefighters went to three alarms, in part because of the heat and the need to rotate crews. The utility said it was assessing the damage and would remain on site to make repairs. It also said there were no power outages associated with the fire. Investigators and the utility remained on scene into the night trying to determine the cause.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. High ambient heat was reported to have made firefighting more difficult.", "lessons_learned": "(1) High ambient heat can make a transformer fire harder to fight and may require extra crews for rotation. (2) A failed transformer does not always interrupt supply, so customer impact should be checked rather than assumed. (3) Where the cause is not yet known, keep the scene available for a joint fire and utility investigation.", "source_url": "https://www.boston25news.com/news/local/major-transformer-lexington-explodes-creating-massive-fireball/7CXZSOEQQFG3VP2RUCZY2IDTTM/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:17:22.290299+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1944", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1944/", "title": "Grass fire contained at solar farm near Barry", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Volunteer fire departments contained and extinguished a grass fire at the solar farm off FM 744, just southeast of Barry, according to the Navarro County Office of Emergency Management. The fire burned from about 4:25 p.m. to 7:55 p.m. on Sunday and was estimated at 17 acres. Aerial images showed firefighters working between rows of solar panels and extinguishing the fire by hand with ground tools. Departments from Blooming Grove, Barry, Emhouse, Corbet Oak Valley, Frost and Mertens responded, as did the Red Cross and the Navarro County Office of Emergency Management. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Vegetation fires at solar farms can require crews to work between panel rows with hand tools, so access and coordination should be planned before an incident. (2) A response may draw several volunteer departments plus emergency management, so contact lists and a shared operating picture matter. (3) Official estimates of area and duration should be recorded, because the cause and any damage to equipment may not be known at first.", "source_url": "https://www.corsicanadailysun.com/news/vfds-contain-extinguish-solar-farm-fire/article_8f969e12-175a-11ed-90db-f357812dce2d.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:18:12.606333+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1946", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1946/", "title": "Wind turbine fire sends black smoke across Hull", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-08", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters attended a wind turbine on Oak Road fields, between Clough Road and Sutton Fields in Hull, after it caught fire at around 7am on 3 August 2022. Thick smoke, described in the report as black, billowed across the city. Images shared on social media were reported to show a blaze in the gearbox at the centre of the 125m turbine, with parts of the blades also alight. Humberside Fire and Rescue said it had received multiple calls and that crews were in attendance. The turbine was approved in 2007 and was described as the oldest in the city. It can generate 2MW and had helped to power a nearby chemical plant. The cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire in the nacelle or gearbox of an onshore turbine can spread to the blades and send a large smoke plume over a city, so access for the fire service and early public information should be planned in advance. (2) Early social media images can suggest where a fire is burning, but the failure point should be treated as unconfirmed until the fire service or operator says so. (3) Planning approval and age are not a cause; operators of older turbines should keep inspection records so an investigation can separate age from other factors.", "source_url": "https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2022/08/03/spectacular-wind-turbine-fire-sends-clouds-black-smoke-across/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:19:57.239843+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1948", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1948/", "title": "Fire at Leesburg substation leaves residents without power", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 2 August 2022, a fire broke out at about 7:30 p.m. at the east power substation on North Boulevard in Leesburg, Florida. Local residents lost power. Crews were working to restore supply that evening. No estimate of when power would return was given. Lightning was reported as a possible cause, but that had not been confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "Lightning was mentioned as a possible cause. It had not been confirmed at the time of the report.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat an unconfirmed lightning strike as a working hypothesis until the investigation is finished. (2) Give customers a clear restoration update even when the time to restore supply is not yet known. (3) After a substation fire, check protection and earthing before returning the site to service.", "source_url": "https://www.wesh.com/article/leesburg-power-outage/40788942", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:20:43.438511+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1949", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1949/", "title": "Electrical fire at Yong Peng substation causes Peninsular Malaysia outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-07", "country": "Malaysia", "country_code": "my", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical fire occurred at the Yong Peng North substation operated by Tenaga Nasional Bhd in Johor, Malaysia. The disruption caused a loss of 2.2 gigawatts, about 10% of demand in Peninsular Malaysia, and affected supply in areas including the Klang Valley, Penang and Pahang. Tenaga Nasional Bhd said electricity was restored to affected areas by 3.02pm, with many supplies back within 20 minutes. A technical cause beyond the electrical fire was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source does not report a technical cause beyond an electrical fire at the substation.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fault at one transmission substation can remove a large share of system demand, so operators should test protection and security for the loss of a single site. (2) Prepared switching plans and an available technical team can restore many areas within minutes of a major disruption. (3) Prompt confirmation of the failed site and the lost load helps distinguish a local fire from a wider system event.", "source_url": "https://www.thevibes.com/articles/news/66951/electrical-fire-in-yong-peng-tnb-substation-cause-of-national-outage", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:21:45.756245+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1950", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1950/", "title": "Transformer trips at Sebokeng substation during repairs", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-07", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A transformer tripped at the Sebokeng substation around 21:00 on 26 July 2022 while Eskom was repairing and replacing equipment damaged in a fire at the substation on 18 July 2022. Essential services in Sebokeng, in the Vaal, were without supply. Eskom was supplying some areas, including Polokong and parts of Sebokeng, on a rotational basis, but said it could not supply Golden Gardens because of how the network is configured. Restoration was then estimated for 29 July 2022, later than an earlier estimate of three to four days, because of the scale of the damage.", "contributing_factors": "The trip occurred while repairs and replacement of equipment damaged by the 18 July 2022 fire were still under way. The cause of the trip itself is not stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Plan contingency supply routes before major substation work begins. (2) Assess network configuration limits when alternative feeds are needed. (3) Update restoration timelines promptly when the scope of damage increases.", "source_url": "https://www.eskom.co.za/transformer-trips-amid-repairs-at-the-sebokeng-substation-causing-supply-interruption/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:22:00.681114+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1951", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1951/", "title": "Investigation begins after turbine fire at Ardrossan wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire destroyed one of the 15 wind turbines at Ardrossan Wind Farm, near Ardrossan in North Ayrshire. The turbine was seen engulfed in flames late on Friday afternoon, 22 July 2022, sending thick black smoke across the sky. The site has been operational since 2004 and is run by Ventient Energy; each turbine is 60m high and rated at 2 MW. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted at 4.55pm and sent two appliances. Crews worked with onsite personnel to make the area safe. The operator said the fire was extinguished in the early hours of Saturday, that the damaged turbine was isolated and disconnected from the system, and that access was closed with a 24-hour security team. No injuries or land damage were reported. An investigation into the cause has started, with further inspections under way.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Coordinate immediately with emergency services and site staff to isolate an affected turbine. (2) Restrict access and deploy security after a turbine fire until the site is made safe. (3) Start a cause investigation and further inspections while evidence is still available.", "source_url": "https://www.ardrossanherald.com/news/20520071.ardrossan-wind-farm-turbine-fire-investigation-way/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:22:31.907278+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1952", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1952/", "title": "Blade partly detaches from GE Cypress turbine at Björkvattnet", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "Sweden", "country_code": "se", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A July 2022 report says GE was investigating after a blade became partially detached from one of its Cypress turbines at a wind farm in central Sweden. The report names the Björkvattnet project and describes it as Google-contracted. It says this was the second blade failure the manufacturer had suffered at that project. The date of the failure, the extent of damage and whether anyone was hurt are not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The manufacturer was said to be investigating.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat a partial blade detachment as a serious mechanical event until the extent of damage is known. (2) After a blade failure, check exclusion arrangements and inspect nearby turbines of the same type. (3) A further blade failure at the same project should prompt a review of similar turbines, without assuming a cause before the investigation reports.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1793896/ge-probes-new-blade-failure-google-contracted-swedish-onshore-wind-farm", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:23:35.042492+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1953", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1953/", "title": "Solar panels and heat linked to Quincy house fire", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Firefighters responded to a house fire in Quincy, Massachusetts, on a Friday afternoon. The fire was confined to the roof after a quick response. One solar panel on the roof appeared to have exploded. Smoke was present underneath the roof sheathing and smouldering under the panels themselves. No residents were home at the time. The cause remained under investigation but extreme heat was noted as a possible factor.", "contributing_factors": "Extreme heat conditions affecting solar panels on the roof.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Review solar panel installations for performance under high temperatures. (2) Maintain rapid response capability for roof fires involving solar arrays. (3) Monitor reports of similar incidents in other regions during heat waves.", "source_url": "https://whdh.com/news/solar-panels-and-extreme-heat-likely-to-blame-for-quincy-house-fire/", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:23:42.069698+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1954", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1954/", "title": "Fire at electrical substation spreads to trees in Folkestone", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Kent Fire and Rescue Service sent four fire engines to an electrical substation in Park Farm Road, Folkestone, after a blaze understood to have started at around 2.30pm on 22 July 2022. The fire spread to surrounding trees. Smoke was seen from the site, which is close to Folkestone Academy and The Beacon school. No casualties were reported. The road was closed while the fire was put out and had reopened by 7.20pm. Main firefighting operations were complete at 8.08pm, with one fire engine remaining to keep the scene safe.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) A substation fire can spread to nearby trees, so vegetation close to the asset and a prompt multi-engine response matter. (2) Where a substation is near schools, road closures and a clear public-safety message should be arranged early. (3) After the fire is out, coordination with the network company, police and environmental agencies helps make the scene safe.", "source_url": "https://www.kentonline.co.uk/folkestone/news/substation-fire-spreads-to-trees-270731/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:24:28.235687+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1955", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1955/", "title": "Turbine collapse and oil spill at Nysäter wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": null, "country": "Sweden", "country_code": "se", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A wind turbine collapsed at the Nysäter wind farm in Sweden, and an oil spill was reported. The incident closed the Nordex-equipped project, described as one of Europe's largest and newest wind farms, weeks after a ribbon-cutting by RWE. The cause, any injuries and the exact date have not been reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the collapse has not been reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A turbine collapse can release oil and may require the wider site to be shut until the area is made safe. (2) A failure soon after commissioning should be investigated before similar machines are returned to service. (3) Operators should plan for containing oil if a tower or nacelle fails.", "source_url": "https://www.rechargenews.com/wind/turbine-down-collapse-and-oil-spill-shuts-one-of-europes-largest-and-newest-wind-farms/2-1-1262141", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T05:26:55.868883+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1956", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1956/", "title": "Fire forces shutdown of University of Lagos data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-08", "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The University of Lagos temporarily shut down one of its data centres after an early-morning fire at the facility on 10 August 2026. The institution said the shutdown was to allow safety assessments, technical inspections, repairs and other remedial works. Internet connectivity and some other e-services were to remain unavailable until the affected infrastructure had been assessed and it was safe to restore them. The university said it was working with technical teams to restore services as soon as possible, and that further updates would be issued through official channels. No injuries, cause or extent of damage were reported.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) After a fire at a data centre, keep the affected facility shut until safety assessments and technical inspections are complete. (2) Plan for loss of connectivity and related services while damaged infrastructure is assessed. (3) Restore services only when it is safe to do so, and keep users informed through official channels.", "source_url": "https://gazettengr.com/unilag-shuts-down-data-centre-as-fire-blazes-through-facility/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T19:48:35.103687+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1957", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1957/", "title": "Fire reported at Lake Mariner data centre in Somerset", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A resident writing in the Buffalo News reported a recent fire at the Lake Mariner Data Center in Somerset, New York, on the site of a former coal-fired power plant where TeraWulf is developing an artificial intelligence project. The column said the fire added to existing local concerns. The date, the equipment involved, any injuries and the scale of damage were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The column raised questions about stored chemicals, water supply and fire service readiness, but those points are one writer's account and have not been confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Treat an early community report of a data centre fire as a prompt to confirm the facts, not as a completed investigation. (2) Share what is known about the fire, the equipment involved and any remaining hazard with the local fire service and residents. (3) Check that emergency plans cover the electrical equipment on site and the water and kit the fire service may need.", "source_url": "https://buffalonews.com/opinion/article_5460540f-244a-48a9-8a28-54c16aa2f19d.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T19:48:44.850103+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1958", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1958/", "title": "Fire reported at an Amazon data centre site in Jerome Township, Ohio", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "In April 2025, a two-alarm fire at an Amazon data centre site on Industrial Parkway in Jerome Township, Ohio, was reported to have occupied firefighters for about 30 hours and caused an estimated $50 million in damage. The same secondary report says two Amazon data centres under construction in the township had generated 84 emergency calls since 2021, often with a lights-and-sirens response, and that facility security can hold crews at the gate for up to an hour while entry is authorised. What burned, whether anyone was hurt, and how many of the calls were fires are not stated.", "contributing_factors": "The report says crews can be delayed at the gate, and it describes wider concerns that operators may withhold on-site power plant plans and that local services fund responses despite tax abatements. None of this is confirmed as a cause of the April 2025 fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Agree site access with the fire service before an emergency, including out of hours. (2) Share enough layout and hazard information for crews to plan a response. (3) Match local training and equipment to the hazards expected at a large data centre, including electrical plant.", "source_url": "https://www.yahoo.com/news/us/articles/amazon-data-centers-keep-catching-143821124.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T19:49:50.885565+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1959", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1959/", "title": "Fire at data centre causes Google Cloud outage in India", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "India", "country_code": "in", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire at a third-party data centre triggered an emergency power shutdown of networking equipment. The incident isolated a local point of presence in Delhi and reduced network capacity across the metropolitan area. Google Cloud reported intermittent network disruptions for some customers in India, with elevated latency affecting traffic from Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai and nearby regions. The company stated there was no workaround during restoration efforts.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Emergency power shutdowns at data centres can isolate points of presence and reduce regional network capacity. (2) Cloud providers should maintain diversified routing to limit the impact of single-facility power events. (3) Rapid communication on status pages helps customers understand the scope of service degradation.", "source_url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/business/2026/06/10/data-centre-fire-triggers-google-cloud-outage-in-india", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-03T19:49:59.330515+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1960", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1960/", "title": "Vehicle strikes utility pole sparking transformer explosions in Hatfield Township", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": null, "country_code": null, "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A single-vehicle crash into a utility pole in the 3200 block of Advance Lane in Hatfield Township was reported around 8:30 p.m. on the night covered by the report. The impact left the pole on fire, and a transformer was reported to explode intermittently as crews arrived. The vehicle was unoccupied. Police searched the area for a person believed to have left the scene. A secondary report, linked by dispatch to the crash, described electrical wires on the exterior of a building in the 300 block of Bethlehem Pike on fire and arcing, also with intermittent explosions. Several fire companies and the police responded while live electrical hazards continued. Injuries, and the identity of anyone who left the scene, were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The source reports that a vehicle struck the utility pole and that the electrical hazard on Bethlehem Pike followed that crash. Why the vehicle left the road, and the precise failure path in the transformer and wiring, were not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A vehicle strike on a pole can leave a transformer and conductors live and arcing; crews should treat the scene as energised until the utility confirms isolation. (2) One crash can be followed by a separate wire or building fire nearby; dispatch should check for related electrical calls rather than treating them as unrelated. (3) Searching for a missing driver should not delay making the electrical hazard safe, and injury status should be confirmed before the incident is closed.", "source_url": "https://northpennnow.com/news/public-safety/driver-strikes-utility-pole-sparking-fires-and-transformer-explosions-in-hatfield-township/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-03T19:51:24.362384+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1961", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1961/", "title": "Blade damage at 大彰化西北離岸風場 in Changhua Taiwan", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_offshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-10", "country": "Taiwan", "country_code": "tw", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An offshore wind turbine at the 大彰化西北離岸風場 suffered blade damage on 2 October. No personnel were working on the turbine at the time and no vessels were in the safety zone. No injuries or fatalities were reported. 沃旭能源 notified regulators and implemented sea area safety controls. The turbine remains under warranty with 西門子歌美颯.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain continuous remote monitoring of turbines to detect damage promptly. (2) Ensure pre-positioned emergency response vessels for rapid intervention when required. (3) Keep all relevant authorities and stakeholders informed immediately after an incident.", "source_url": "https://today.line.me/tw/v3/article/Kw7O1wo", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-04T02:49:49.519922+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1962", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1962/", "title": "Wind turbine blade falls onto farmland at Biglow Canyon", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A report dated 3 October 2026 said that on 1 February a blade described as 11 storeys high broke off a turbine at the Biglow Canyon wind farm in Sherman County, Oregon, and fell into a field. The report does not give the year of that date or the cause. It said Pacific Gas and Electric stopped the turbines for a time and, after inspections, began returning them to service in stages. People farming on the site were reported to have raised safety concerns.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Where farming continues under turbines, a blade leaving the rotor can put people on the ground at risk, so exclusion and notification arrangements should be ready before a failure. (2) A detached blade should lead to a shutdown and inspection before turbines are returned to service. (3) A staged return after inspection limits the chance that a similar defect remains in service.", "source_url": "https://www.egealternatif.com/haber/ruzgar-turbini-kanadi-tarla-uzerinde-ciddi-hasara-yol-acti_95611/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T02:50:08.391958+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1963", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1963/", "title": "Inverter fire at Kayak Energy Storage Center in Florida", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "bess", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-10", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Holt Fire District responded to the Kayak Energy Storage Center on Trawick Creek Road in Okaloosa County, Florida, after a report of a small brush fire. Crews found a fire involving a power inverter inside the battery storage field. A thermal reading from about 300 feet showed temperatures up to 932 degrees. Baker and Harold Fire Districts were called but later stood down once the fire was confirmed contained to one inverter, with no extension to nearby equipment. Florida Power & Light isolated power to the field. Holt Fire District remained on scene for several hours and, once access was safe, applied foam to extinguish remaining smouldering material.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the inverter fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An early thermal reading from a safe distance can help crews decide whether a reported brush fire is in fact equipment fire at a battery site. (2) Calling neighbouring districts early, then standing them down once containment is confirmed, matches the risk from nearby containers and inverters. (3) Isolating site power before close approach, and keeping foam available for smouldering inverter material, supports a safer extended watch.", "source_url": "https://www.fox10tv.com/2026/10/03/okaloosa-county-fire-department-responds-power-inverter-fire/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T02:50:40.268686+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1964", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1964/", "title": "Fire damages solar panels at Verwood farm during heatwave", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at Verwood Solar Farm near St Michael's Road in Verwood, Dorset, on 11 July 2022 shortly before 3pm. The 113-acre site contains more than 80,000 solar panels. A grassy area, reportedly about 500ft by 330ft, burned for at least three hours, and a number of panels were damaged. About 20 firefighters attended. The Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said poorly parked cars blocked nearby roads, so crews had to reverse appliances along Margards Lane and Howe Lane and find another way in. The service said the delay allowed the fire to spread further. The cause was under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "Poor parking blocked fire-service access, according to the fire service. The fire occurred during a UK heatwave, with temperatures reported as nudging 35C in many areas. No site temperature or ignition cause was stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Rural energy sites need emergency access routes that stay usable when nearby roads are blocked by parked vehicles. (2) Hot, dry weather raises the chance that a grass fire will spread across a solar farm before crews arrive. (3) Motorists near energy sites should park so they do not block fire access points.", "source_url": "https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/news/dorset-solar-farm-fire-verwood-b2121279.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T02:51:11.086421+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1965", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1965/", "title": "Transformer fire causes explosions and panic in Bursa", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-10", "country": "Turkey", "country_code": "tr", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out for a reason not yet determined at a transformer on Ata Bulvarı in Işıktepe Mahallesi, Nilüfer, Bursa. Explosions occurred during the fire and nearby people were briefly alarmed. Fire crews brought the fire under control and extinguished it. An investigation was started to find the cause.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire can produce repeated explosions and alarm people nearby, so a cordon and clear public messaging matter. (2) Where the cause is not known when the fire is out, an investigation should start as soon as the scene is safe. (3) A prompt fire-service response can keep a local transformer fire from spreading.", "source_url": "https://www.bugunkocaeli.com.tr/trafo-yangini-patlamalar-panige-neden-oldu", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T02:51:12.424403+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1966", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1966/", "title": "Explosion and fire at Banco Plaza in El Vigía linked to solar inverter battery overload", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "solar_pv", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-10", "country": "Venezuela", "country_code": "ve", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 3 October 2026, an explosion and fire were reported at Banco Plaza on Avenida Bolívar in El Vigía, Mérida state. Emergency services said an overload in the battery of a solar inverter is believed to have ruptured the battery and released gas, leading to a deflagration and fire inside the bank. Firefighters said about 60 per cent of the premises was damaged. Two fire units attended and about 500 litres of water were used. A person passing through the area was injured by the blast wave and taken to hospital. The available report does not say how the overload arose, and it does not report any deaths.", "contributing_factors": "Emergency services attributed the event to overload of a solar inverter battery, followed by rupture and gas release. The account does not explain the mechanism of the overload.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Commercial solar installations with inverter batteries need overload protection and monitoring that staff can act on. (2) Battery equipment at occupied premises should be sited and separated so a rupture or gas release is less likely to affect people nearby. (3) Site information given to fire crews should include the presence and location of solar batteries.", "source_url": "https://primeraedicioncol.com/explosion-en-banco-plaza-de-el-vigia-fue-causada-por-sobrecarga-de-una-bateria-de-inversor-solar/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T02:51:14.292499+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1967", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1967/", "title": "Fire at Southside substation causes outage for nearly 5000 customers", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-07", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out at the CPS Energy substation at Pyron and Huff in San Antonio on 11 July 2022. The incident occurred shortly after 5:30 p.m. and left 4908 customers in the Harlandale and Mission San Jose areas without power. Customers were taken offline as a safety precaution while the fire was extinguished. Power was restored by 7:03 p.m. after 48 minutes.", "contributing_factors": "The cause has not been fully determined. Extreme heat was ruled out. The utility's initial assessment points to equipment failure from ongoing use.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Electrical equipment failures can occur during normal operation and should be anticipated in maintenance planning. (2) Safety protocols that isolate customers during substation incidents limit risk to responders and the public. (3) Prompt communication from operators can reduce public concern during localised events unrelated to wider grid conditions.", "source_url": "https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/article/southside-fire-cps-outages-san-antonio-17299783.php", "provisional": "no", "published_at": "2026-10-04T02:51:22.069556+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1968", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1968/", "title": "Suspected cable theft linked to fire at Johannesburg Central Substation", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-09", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "City Power reported an underground fire in late September 2026 in tunnels carrying cables connected to the Central Substation in Johannesburg's central business district. The utility's preliminary view was that the blaze was ignited during a suspected attempt to cut and steal copper cable. Reporting described it as the sixth fire at the facility since January 2026 and the third that month. Power to businesses, healthcare facilities and transport was disrupted a day after supply had been restored from an earlier outage. Heat, reported as estimated above 200 degrees Celsius, and toxic smoke kept technicians out of the chambers for more than a day. Emergency services held a perimeter, and City Power later began staged restoration. The same account said a suspected thief was severely injured, and that security staff exchanged gunfire with armed people trying to reach the tunnels. It is not reported which equipment this fire itself damaged.", "contributing_factors": "City Power said preliminary investigations pointed to a deliberate attempt to sever and steal copper cable, suspected to be linked to organised theft. The utility also said no police officers were initially at the scene. No confirmed cause beyond that preliminary account has been independently reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Repeated fires at one substation should trigger a fresh check of tunnel access, cable routes and how fast the site can be made safe. (2) Where theft is suspected, utilities should agree in advance who secures the site so repair crews are not left to manage a violent scene. (3) Restoration plans should assume access may be delayed by heat and smoke, and should state clearly what is not yet known about damage.", "source_url": "https://streamlinefeed.co.ke/news/johannesburg-cbd-plunged-into-darkness-as-cable-thieves-ignite-sixth-central-substation-fire", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T11:06:16.233582+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1969", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1969/", "title": "33kV transformer fire at Achimota Bulk Supply Point in Accra", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-01", "country": "Ghana", "country_code": "gh", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 23 January 2023 a 33kV transformer, described in the report as an earthen transformer, was destroyed by fire at the Electricity Company of Ghana Achimota Bulk Supply Point in Abelemkpe, Accra. The fire started at about 3:55 pm. An eyewitness reported a loud blast followed by flames. Personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service at Abelemkpe put the fire out and stopped it spreading to other installations at the station. No casualties were reported. Some parts of the city were left without power, and the Electricity Company of Ghana was working to restore supply. This is a separate event from the April 2025 fire at the same site.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not established. The report said investigations were under way.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer fire at a bulk supply point can interrupt supply across a city even when the fire is confined to one unit. (2) A rapid fire-service response can limit spread to neighbouring installations. (3) Until the cause is known, operators should treat the event as under investigation and not assume a single failure mode.", "source_url": "https://www.modernghana.com/news/1207566/ecgs-33kv-transformer-destroyed-by-fire-at-achimo.html", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T11:06:54.217778+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1970", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1970/", "title": "Fire reported at Maryland Transmission Substation in Lagos", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-12", "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A headline dated 15 June 2023 reported that a fire had gutted Maryland Transmission Substation, a Transmission Company of Nigeria substation in Lagos, and that a blackout loomed. The full article was not available. Damage, the cause, casualties and whether supply was actually interrupted were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A fire at a transmission substation can put supply at risk before the scale of damage is known. (2) Operators should isolate the affected equipment and check whether load can be transferred. (3) Cause, casualties and outage figures should not be assumed until the site has been inspected.", "source_url": "https://www.westernpost.ng/blackout-looms-as-fire-guts-tcn-substation-in-lagos/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T11:13:24.032829+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1971", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1971/", "title": "Underground transformer fire disrupts power in San Francisco", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A KTVU report dated 26 April 2023 said an underground transformer had caught fire the previous night, around 9 p.m., at Clay Street near Montgomery in San Francisco. Pacific Gas & Electric said the fire burned electrical wiring and circuits underground and cut power to nearly 10,000 customers in the Financial District, Marina, Russian Hill and parts of Chinatown. Some customers were restored overnight. As many as 6,000 were still without power early the next morning, and nearly 500 remained off supply late that afternoon. The city's Emergency Operations Center was activated and was working with PG&E. The utility had hoped to restore power by noon; its outage map that evening indicated some locations might not be restored until 11 p.m. the following night.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An underground transformer fire can damage nearby wiring and circuits and leave thousands of customers without power well into the next day. (2) Early restoration times should be treated as estimates until the extent of underground damage is known. (3) Utilities and city emergency centres should share outage extent and expected restoration times with affected districts.", "source_url": "https://www.ktvu.com/news/power-outage-affects-san-franciscos-north-beach-nob-hill-chinatown-and-financial-district", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T11:14:17.399634+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1972", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1972/", "title": "Underground transformer fire causes outage in downtown San Francisco", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-04", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Pacific Gas & Electric said an underground transformer fire on Clay Street near Montgomery, in downtown San Francisco, knocked out power at about 9 p.m. on the Wednesday night described in reporting dated 26 April 2023. The transformer burned electrical wiring and circuits underground. Nearly 10,000 customers lost supply. Power was restored to some customers overnight, but as many as 6,000 were still without electricity early the next morning, and nearly 500 remained without power late that afternoon. The reported outage areas were the Financial District, Marina, Russian Hill and parts of Chinatown. The city's emergency operations centre was activated and worked with the company. The company had hoped to restore power by noon; its outage map later indicated that some locations might not be restored until 11 p.m. the following night.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the transformer fire was not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) An underground transformer fire can damage nearby wiring and circuits and leave thousands of customers without supply well into the next day. (2) Early restoration times should be checked against later outage information, because repairs underground can take longer than first expected. (3) Coordination between the network operator and the city emergency operations centre helps establish how far an underground fault has spread.", "source_url": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMitgFBVV95cUxPSE1KMlozZk9BRFdGaDFXNWVZMVVzcGY5VVVTYktvc2x2c2drNXYxblZRVjZWS3pMellubDRKRHhEcVZzb3VBZjQ0a1JsVU9wUExwM1NMS1ZHT0pXWW9mWnBKNHJFeUtkZ0ltaE5MaU40ekZsUmV2WEwtQXh0MzRLNlI0d2pibnQ3Vk1PNlZwZUJQLVZxTkRabTFSSGJlaEhFT3NRVU9MSmllNzRMMzFZU3l5bXFlQQ?oc=5", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T11:14:39.788786+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1973", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1973/", "title": "Transformer explosion injures four during maintenance in Salmiya", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Kuwait", "country_code": "kw", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Kuwait’s Ministry of Electricity and Water said an explosion occurred at a main electrical transformer in Salmiya during periodical maintenance. The blast caused a fire and injured four people, and it led to a partial power outage nearby. Emergency teams brought the fire under control. The injured people were treated at hospital. Power supply resumed later the same day. The Ministry said the facility was being checked to find the cause. The exact date, the station name and whether anyone died were not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The explosion happened during periodical maintenance. The technical cause was not reported; the Ministry said the site was still being examined.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintenance on a main transformer needs a clear isolation and permit plan, because a blast can injure people on site and start a fire. (2) A transformer fire can cut power nearby, so operators should plan how to make the site safe and restore supply. (3) Until an investigation reports a cause, other operators should treat the failure mode as unknown.", "source_url": "https://transformer-magazine.com/news/transformer-blast-injures-4-in-kuwait/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T11:14:48.871062+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1974", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1974/", "title": "Power reported restored after an interconnector trip, with a nationwide cut named only in the article address", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-02", "country": "Malta", "country_code": "mt", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Times of Malta reported on 10 February 2023 that power had been restored after an interconnector tripped. The article address refers to a nationwide power cut. The available text does not say which interconnector tripped, whether that trip caused the cut, how long supply was lost, or whether anyone was hurt.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported in the available headline.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A trip on an interconnector can remove a large share of supply on a small system, so restoration plans should be ready before the cause is known. (2) Early public reports should say which link tripped and how long customers were without power. (3) Operators should keep trip records separate from later findings of damage, so repeat events are not mixed up.", "source_url": "https://timesofmalta.com/article/nationwide-powercut-interconnector-trips.1012872", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T11:15:26.647902+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1975", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1975/", "title": "Malfunctioning sensor reported to have caused GE Vernova turbine collapse at Akmene wind farm", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "wind_onshore", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": null, "country": "Lithuania", "country_code": "lt", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Windpower Monthly reported on 23 October 2023 that a malfunctioning sensor caused a GE Vernova turbine to collapse at Akmene wind farm in Akmene, Lithuania earlier that year. The report says the wind farm's developer and owner, Enefit Green, had reached that conclusion. Only the headline and opening sentence were available. The site name, the date of the collapse, any injuries, and the extent of damage are not stated in that text.", "contributing_factors": "The published lead attributes the collapse to a malfunctioning sensor. It does not say which sensor failed, or how the fault led to the collapse.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A sensor fault that can affect turbine control should be detected and the machine taken out of service before it is left running. (2) After a collapse is attributed to a sensor, operators should check the same sensors on similar turbines. (3) A cause given in a short report should be treated as provisional until the full investigation is available.", "source_url": "https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1844757/malfunctioning-sensor-caused-ge-wind-turbine-collapse-%E2%80%93-enefit", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T11:16:24.260569+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1976", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1976/", "title": "Diesel fuel leak from a storage tank at Equinix data centre in Secaucus", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "other", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Backup generators; Fuel systems", "what_happened": "More than 5,000 gallons of diesel fuel leaked from a storage tank at the Equinix Data Center in Secaucus, New Jersey. Officials said fuel reached Anderson Creek, a tributary of the Hackensack River, though as of Monday it was not clear how many gallons had entered the creek. The leak was reported on Friday, and local, state and federal authorities were notified. Containment and clean-up crews started work quickly. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection said the diesel was contained in the creek and did not reach the Hackensack River. About 3,500 gallons had been recovered. No water intakes in the area could have been contaminated, and no impacts to wildlife were reported. Clean-up was expected to continue for several days.", "contributing_factors": "A local official said the leak seemed to have been caused by a computer glitch. That cause is not confirmed in the reporting.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Prompt notice to local, state and federal authorities can let containment of a fuel spill start quickly. (2) Bulk fuel storage at a data centre should not depend on a single control path, and a loss of containment should be detectable by other means. (3) Rapid deployment of containment and clean-up crews can limit spread from a data centre fuel leak into nearby water.", "source_url": "https://www.nbcnewyork.com/new-jersey/data-center-leak-spills-diesel-fuel-secaucus/6547622/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:11:30.670061+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1977", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1977/", "title": "Vehicle collision downs hydro pole and cuts power in London, Ontario", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-10", "country": "Canada", "country_code": "ca", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On the afternoon of 27 October 2025, a single vehicle struck a hydro pole on Dundas Street in the Old East Village area of London, Ontario. The pole was knocked down at about 2:20 p.m. More than 400 people were left without hydro. Police closed Dundas Street in both directions near McCormick Boulevard. The road was expected to stay closed for several hours while London Hydro repaired the downed pole. It was the second hydro pole crash reported in the city that day.", "contributing_factors": "A single vehicle collision with the pole. No other cause is reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Review placement and protection of distribution poles beside busy roads. (2) Keep a rapid response ready for pole strikes so outages and road closures are not prolonged. (3) Tell the public promptly about road closures and how long restoration is expected to take.", "source_url": "https://www.ctvnews.ca/london/article/power-outage-after-single-vehicle-collision-knocks-down-hydro-pole-on-dundas-street/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:11:43.69152+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1978", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1978/", "title": "Noise and black smoke reported from generators at a data centre in Clondalkin", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": null, "country": "Ireland", "country_code": "ie", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms; Backup generators", "what_happened": "Residents near the Echelon Data Centre in Clondalkin Industrial Estate reported intrusive noise during repeated night-time start-ups, loud enough to be heard through double glazing. Witnesses also reported thick black smoke from generator chimneys. A resident described that smoke as incomplete combustion and emission problems on site, but the operator and the regulator had not confirmed any failure. The environmental health office confirmed that the site is licensed by the Environmental Protection Agency and that noise complaints should be sent to the EPA. The report said the operator had been asked for comment and had not yet replied. The report did not mention injuries, fire or evacuation.", "contributing_factors": "The report describes repeated generator start-ups after midnight. The cause of the noise and smoke was not established. A resident's link to incomplete combustion remains unconfirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Backup generators near homes can prompt noise and smoke reports, so operators should be able to explain what the plant was doing. (2) Complaints about a licensed site need a clear route to the correct regulator. (3) Until the operator or regulator confirms a cause, reports of smoke should be treated as unverified.", "source_url": "https://www.echo.ie/noise-and-black-smoke-coming-from-data-centre/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:11:44.815012+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1979", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1979/", "title": "Short circuit injures three workers at Tseung Kwan O data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": null, "country": "Hong Kong", "country_code": "hk", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "maintenance", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Three workers were injured by a suspected short circuit while inspecting electrical wiring installations in an electricity meter room at the MegaPlus data centre in Tseung Kwan O. The incident occurred around 10am. Firefighters found smoke on arrival. About 20 people had already left the building on their own. One worker with burns was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Two others, one with burns to the head and right hand and one with an injury to the corner of the eye, were taken to Tseung Kwan O Hospital. The case has been classified as an industrial accident and the cause remains under investigation.", "contributing_factors": "The source says the suspected short circuit occurred during an inspection of electrical wiring installations. It does not identify a confirmed cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Inspections of electrical wiring in meter rooms need controls that keep a short circuit from injuring the people doing the work. (2) People on site need a clear way to leave if smoke appears in a data centre. (3) Treat the cause as unconfirmed until the investigation reports.", "source_url": "https://www.thestandard.com.hk/news/article/314048/Three-workers-injured-after-electrical-short-circuit-at-TKO-data-center", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:12:09.439866+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1980", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1980/", "title": "Substation fire disrupts power to thousands in north Austin", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-09", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "Early on 9 September 2024, a small fire broke out at an Austin Energy substation at 9800 Middle Fiskville Road in north Austin. Austin Energy said the fire was reported at 3:41 a.m. and caused outages affecting around 6,500 people and businesses in northeast Austin. The Austin Fire Department put the fire out just before 5 a.m. About 30 minutes later, Austin Energy's outage map showed the problem had been fixed, and power was restored to thousands of customers. Austin Energy said it was investigating the cause and had a temporary solution in place until lasting repairs were complete. The report's headline also referred to road closures; the article does not describe them further.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. Austin Energy said it was investigating.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A small substation fire can still interrupt supply to thousands of customers. (2) Operators should be ready to restore supply through a temporary arrangement while the failed equipment is repaired and the cause is still unknown. (3) Public updates should give the time of the fire, who was affected, and when supply returned, and should say clearly when the cause is not yet known.", "source_url": "https://cbsaustin.com/news/local/austin-energy-grid-fire-leads-to-widespread-outages-road-closures", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:12:34.57412+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1981", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1981/", "title": "Delivery drone contacts power lines in Brisbane and an outage follows", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-09", "country": "Australia", "country_code": "au", "region": "apac", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A food delivery drone operated by Wing came to rest on overhead power lines in Brisbane and caught fire. Energex said the drone landed on an 11,000-volt line and did not immediately take out power, but that voltage tracked across the drone, which then caught fire and fell. Energex shut the network down to respond. About 2,000 people were without electricity for around 45 minutes, and 300 customers had no power for three hours. Energex said the network was not damaged. Wing said the aircraft made a precautionary controlled landing, that it reported the incident, and that an outage occurred about two hours later during retrieval.", "contributing_factors": "The cause of the landing was not confirmed. Possible equipment malfunction or human error was suggested. Voltage tracking across the drone was reported to have led to the fire.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Operators of aerial devices should keep clear of overhead lines. (2) Prompt reporting to the network operator supports isolation and restoration. (3) Retrieval near live lines needs coordination so that recovery does not itself interrupt supply.", "source_url": "https://www.theverge.com/2022/9/30/23380044/food-delivery-drone-knocks-out-power-australia-wing", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:12:43.955324+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1982", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1982/", "title": "Electrocution at Morgan Stanley Heathrow data center leads to fines", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2010, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "commissioning", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "An electrical worker was electrocuted during live load testing of new power distribution units at the Morgan Stanley Heathrow data center in Hounslow. The units were being tested with live supplies because of last-minute modifications required before connection to existing infrastructure. Balfour Beatty Engineering Services and Norland Managed Services were found guilty of safety breaches. The court issued fines totalling £380,000.", "contributing_factors": "A succession of failures and breakdown of communication and health and safety management on the project. Norland issued a permit to work without ensuring isolation of a supply not under its control.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Live testing of new distribution equipment must be avoided through proper planning and isolation procedures. (2) Clear communication and defined responsibilities between contractors are essential when multiple parties control power sources. (3) Permits to work must confirm isolation of all possible supply paths before energised work begins.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterknowledge.com/energy-power-supply/contractors-fined-after-electrocution-death-at-morgan-stanley-data-center", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:13:04.792891+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1983", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1983/", "title": "Power failure at MTN Uganda data centre causes network outage", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-07", "country": "Uganda", "country_code": "ug", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "MTN Uganda said a power failure at one of its primary data centres triggered an outage on 5 July 2026. The company said the outage severely affected voice, data and mobile money services across its network, and that services were later fully restored. It apologised and said it would keep investing in network infrastructure. The report does not say what caused the power failure, or whether it was on the incoming supply or inside the data centre.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The company attributed the outage to a power failure at a primary data centre, but gave no further cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A power failure at one data centre can take down voice, data and payment services together, so operators should know which services depend on each site. (2) After a data centre power loss, restoration should be checked service by service, not assumed from a single status update. (3) Public notices should say what failed and what is still unknown, including whether backup power was available.", "source_url": "https://www.telecompaper.com/news/mtn-uganda-apologises-after-data-centre-power-failure-results-in-major-network-outage--1576430", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:53:18.052337+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1984", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1984/", "title": "Transformer explosion near Vantage Data Centers injures worker in San Antonio", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2026, "incident_month": "2026-02", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": null, "part_named": "Transformers and substations", "what_happened": "A transformer explosion was reported at about 10:20 p.m. on Friday 27 February 2026 near Wiseman Boulevard and Luckenbach Road in San Antonio, close to Vantage Data Centers. Police said one construction worker was found with critical injuries. The transformer was near a gas tank, and a nearby apartment complex was evacuated. It has not been reported whether the transformer belonged to the data centre.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A transformer beside fuel storage should be treated as a combined fire and evacuation risk until the scene is made safe. (2) Do not describe a nearby explosion as a data centre failure until ownership of the equipment is confirmed. (3) Plan for nearby housing when electrical plant sits close to homes.", "source_url": "https://news4sanantonio.com/news/local/transformer-explosion-near-vantage-data-centers-injures-construction-worker-injury-san-antonio", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:53:31.099917+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1985", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1985/", "title": "Power outage at MainOne data centre affected Nigerian banks", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-10", "country": "Nigeria", "country_code": "ng", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Backup generators; Switchgear and electrical rooms", "what_happened": "On 9 October 2024, MainOne suffered a one-hour power outage at its MDXi II data centre in Lekki, Nigeria, TechCabal reported. The outage took several Nigerian banks offline. The report said millions of customers could not access banking services, and that a person familiar with the matter said at least three tier-1 banks were affected. A person with direct knowledge told TechCabal that a faulty circuit breaker caused the outage. MainOne did not comment. The same report says MDXi Lagos has a power capacity of 600 kW and uses utility supply and diesel generators. It also said a person familiar with the matter claimed redundancy had been set up to avoid a repeat. That claim is not confirmed.", "contributing_factors": "TechCabal reported that a person with direct knowledge said a faulty circuit breaker caused the outage. MainOne did not comment, and the cause is not independently confirmed.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A short power failure at a data centre can take client online services offline even where utility supply and generators are part of the site design. (2) Operators should be able to show how backup power paths respond if a circuit breaker fails, and should test that response. (3) Clients that rely on one data centre or connectivity provider should plan for a brief power loss that interrupts customer services.", "source_url": "https://techcabal.com/2024/10/28/mainone-power-outage-nigerian-banks/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:53:33.354843+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1986", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1986/", "title": "UPS failure caused Google Cloud outage in Columbus", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms; Backup generators", "what_happened": "On 29 March 2025 a loss of utility power occurred in the us-east5-c zone of Google's US East cloud region in Columbus, Ohio. As reported from Google's incident report, the outage lasted six hours and ten minutes. The power loss caused a cascading failure in the UPS system, which is meant to bridge the gap until generators start and which experienced a critical battery failure, leaving it unable to keep supply. Virtual machine instances in the zone lost power. Secondary effects included packet loss in the zone and some storage disks being brought down. More than 20 services had degraded performance or were unavailable. Engineers bypassed the failed UPS and restored power from a generator just under two hours after notification. Most services recovered then, though some needed manual actions.", "contributing_factors": "Utility power loss exposed a battery failure inside the UPS that prevented it from maintaining supply until generators engaged.", "lessons_learned": "(1) UPS battery systems need monitoring and maintenance so they can bridge a utility outage until generators start. (2) Power-failure recovery paths should be hardened against cascading effects. (3) Operators should work with UPS vendors to understand and remediate battery backup faults.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/ups-issue-caused-google-clouds-march-outage/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:53:36.18564+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1987", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1987/", "title": "Fire contained at Chirisa Technology Parks data centre in Virginia", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "thermal", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2025, "incident_month": "2025-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A fire broke out in a room at the Chirisa Technology Parks data centre at 1401 Meadowville Technology Park, Chesterfield County, Virginia. The incident began at 8am on 20 August 2025. Chesterfield County Fire and EMS reported that the fire was contained to the room and that no one was injured. The source does not say which equipment was involved.", "contributing_factors": "Not reported. The source does not give a cause.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Record which room and which systems were involved so other operators can judge whether similar equipment needs checking. (2) Early containment kept this fire to one room, with no injuries reported, which shows the value of detection and a clear response with the fire service. (3) Until a cause is known, inspect neighbouring electrical equipment before the room returns to service.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/fire-at-chirisa-technology-parks-data-center-in-virginia/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:53:38.288108+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1988", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1988/", "title": "Power outage affects Defra data centre services", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-05", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The Automatic Licence Verification System was unavailable from 7.46am on 11 May until 8.50pm on 14 May after a power outage at a privately owned data centre used by Defra. Several Defra digital services were affected over the weekend. Business continuity plans were activated and contingency arrangements were used for clearance of affected vehicles and consignments at the border.", "contributing_factors": null, "lessons_learned": "(1) Maintain tested backup power arrangements and failover paths for critical data centre services. (2) Ensure cross-agency data sharing platforms have documented contingency procedures that can be activated immediately. (3) Verify that border clearance processes can continue without digital system support for several days.", "source_url": "https://www.civilserviceworld.com/professions/article/power-cut-at-defra-data-centre-caused-no-significant-border-delays-minister-says", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:54:06.653697+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1989", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1989/", "title": "Data centre power outage affects Cloudflare facility in Portland", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "major", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": "2024-03", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Switchgear and electrical rooms", "what_happened": "On 26 March 2024 at 14:58 UTC the PDX01 data centre in the Portland, Oregon region lost all power to Cloudflare's equipment. Cloudflare reported that four Flexential-owned and operated switchboards failed at the same time, so both primary and redundant power paths were lost. After the switchboards were reset and settings adjusted, the data centre cold start took roughly ten hours. The control plane recovered automatically within about seven minutes using capacity in other Portland facilities. Analytics services were not fully restored until later that day. The data plane handling customer traffic was unaffected.", "contributing_factors": "An initial assessment pointed to breaker coordination settings on the four circuit switch boards being set too low relative to downstream loads, which can cause nuisance tripping and, in this case, was reported to have led to a cascading failure. Cloudflare said it did not know when those settings were established.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Pre-provision redundant capacity and test automatic failover of control-plane services before a major facility loss occurs. (2) Move configuration databases to a highly available topology across multiple facilities with weekly cut tests. (3) Review breaker coordination settings and operational procedures at all critical data centre facilities on a recurring basis.", "source_url": "https://blog.cloudflare.com/major-data-center-power-failure-again-cloudflare-code-orange-tested/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:54:07.626338+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1990", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1990/", "title": "Power outage at an Equinix data centre disrupts AWS Direct Connect in Ashburn", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2018, "incident_month": null, "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "A north-easter knocked out utility power in the region, and Equinix said weather affected power at a property it leases in Ashburn, Virginia. Contingency plans were activated, but some customers still lost service. Amazon reported that AWS Direct Connect lost connectivity to Equinix facilities DC1 to DC6 and DC10 to DC12, which sit on one Ashburn campus, from about 6:20 am Eastern on 2 March for close to four hours. It is not reported whether power was lost across the whole campus or at one building. CoreSite said VA1 and VA2 in Reston did not lose power, although Direct Connect links to those sites also dropped.", "contributing_factors": "Widespread utility outages from the north-easter, including about 15,000 customers without power in Loudoun County, as reported by Dominion Energy. Equinix said its contingency actions did not prevent an interruption for some customers. Why links to the CoreSite sites dropped was not explained.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Keep redundant private cloud links, and use fast failure detection so traffic can move when a link drops. (2) Test contingency plans for utility loss in severe weather, including whether one site holds links used by a whole campus. (3) Give critical cloud connections more than one region, because a regional weather event can affect several facilities at once.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterknowledge.com/outages/equinix-power-outage-one-reason-behind-aws-cloud-disruption", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:54:08.532467+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1991", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1991/", "title": "Circuit breaker trip at Chatty substation cuts power to Nelson Mandela Bay industrial areas", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "grid_infrastructure", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2023, "incident_month": "2023-06", "country": "South Africa", "country_code": "za", "region": "other", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "On 27 June 2023, as heavy rain fell in Nelson Mandela Bay, a 133kV circuit breaker at Chatty substation tripped. The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality confirmed that the industrial areas of Perseverance, Deal Party and Struandale were without power from mid-morning until after 5pm. The cause of the trip was not stated. The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber said it had recorded 36 power failures in the metro's industrial areas since the start of the year, none of them because of rolling blackouts.", "contributing_factors": "The municipality and the Business Chamber described recurring outages as linked to aged infrastructure that had not been regularly maintained, frequent load-shedding switching across about 3,000 substations, failing switchgear, vandalism of cables and substations, and too few experienced electricians. These points were not confirmed as the cause of this trip.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A confirmed breaker trip should be recorded with the affected circuits and restoration time, even when the cause is not yet known. (2) Repeated unplanned trips on the same network are a prompt to inspect switchgear before the next failure. (3) Where frequent switching, vandalism or staff shortages are already reported, restoration plans should allow for longer outages.", "source_url": "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2023-06-27-nelson-mandela-bay-businesses-feel-the-pinch-after-substation-failure-knocks-out-electricity-for-hours/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:54:12.076884+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1992", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1992/", "title": "UPS cable fault causes data centre outage in London Docklands", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2024, "incident_month": null, "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms; Backup generators; Switchgear and electrical rooms", "what_happened": "A power interruption lasting 222 milliseconds was reported at the Global Switch data centre in the London Docklands. It was traced to a fault in a high-voltage cable end box on a circuit breaker of one diesel rotary UPS unit. All customers of one managed hosting provider lost access to services hosted there. Staff waited several hours before restarting hardware. By about 5 pm that day, about 85 percent of that provider's services had been restored, and at least one customer took two days to recover fully. Damaged parts were replaced and cable terminations on the remaining units were checked. The article date and the 10 September date in the text do not agree, so the year is not clear from this source.", "contributing_factors": "The report attributes the interruption to a fault in the high-voltage cable end box of a circuit breaker on a diesel rotary UPS unit. Why that box failed is not stated.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A power interruption of a fraction of a second can still force a long recovery for hosted services. (2) After a high-voltage cable fault, confirm that power is stable before restarting customer equipment. (3) Check cable terminations on the remaining UPS units before normal operation resumes.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterknowledge.com/outages/ups-cable-fault-blamed-for-global-switch-data-center-outage", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:54:19.553142+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1993", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1993/", "title": "Power outage at Telehouse North disrupts UK internet services", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2020, "incident_month": "2020-02", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Switchgear and electrical rooms", "what_happened": "On the morning of 6 February 2020, a power failure was reported on the third floor of Telehouse North in London, beginning at about 7.45am. Reporting linked the disruption to BT Broadband customers and ISPs that rely on BT Openreach. Telehouse said a circuit breaker had tripped and that a specific and limited group of customers in the building was affected. The company later said an equipment failure had led to the disruption, and that all services were fully restored by 1.30pm.", "contributing_factors": "Telehouse reported a tripped circuit breaker and, separately, an equipment failure. It did not state which piece of equipment failed, or that the equipment failure caused the breaker to trip.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Data centre operators should maintain redundant power paths so that a single circuit trip does not cut service to dependent networks. (2) A clear restoration sequence, agreed with customers, shortens disruption when only part of a building is affected. (3) Timely updates to carriers and ISPs help them coordinate recovery for their own customers.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/telehouse-north-power-outage-causes-uk-internet-failures-impacts-bt-openreach/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:54:43.043528+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1994", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1994/", "title": "Power outage hits Interxion data centre in London", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2022, "incident_month": "2022-01", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Backup generators; Switchgear and electrical rooms", "what_happened": "On 10 January 2022, Interxion reported a critical power interruption at its Hanbury Street facility (LON1) in east London. The company said the interruption affected some mains control equipment and caused outages across services at the site, and that a full investigation into the root cause was under way. Contemporary reporting said the outage appeared to affect the first floor and that switchgear may not have transferred supply to on-site generators despite redundant feeds. Interxion said services began returning from 1945 and the facility was back to operational status at 2230. Electronic trading at the London Metal Exchange was unavailable for about five hours overnight, while phone trading continued. Cloud provider Vultr and other customers also reported loss of service.", "contributing_factors": "The operator said the interruption affected some mains control equipment. Separate reporting suggested that redundant power feeds and transfer to backup generators may also have failed. The root cause had not been published when the report appeared.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Test switchgear and transfer systems so a loss of mains supply does not also block backup generation. (2) Keep customer communication channels that still work if site power and support systems fail. (3) Give affected customers timely updates, including what is not yet known about restoration.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/outage-at-interxion-facility-in-london-takes-down-metals-exchange/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:54:44.17459+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1995", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1995/", "title": "Brief power outage hits tenth floor of London data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "minor", "incident_year": 2017, "incident_month": "2017-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "", "what_happened": "The tenth floor of Global Switch’s GS2 data centre in London suffered a brief power outage on 10 July 2017 that temporarily affected services for customers of EX Networks. Power returned after a short period, network services came back online, and EX Networks said customer PDUs had been powered back on. Interoute reported a short power interruption in a third-party London data centre; the report treated this as the same event, though Interoute did not name the facility. The outage came less than a year after a high-voltage fault at the site in September 2016, and after another short outage in June 2016. The cause of the July outage was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "The cause was not reported. EX Networks said the outage appeared to be isolated to the tenth-floor suite.", "lessons_learned": "(1) Floor-level power distribution can fail while other floors stay online, so operators should be able to isolate and restore a single suite without assuming a site-wide loss. (2) Timed customer updates during a short outage help affected parties know when power and services have returned. (3) A further short outage at a site that has already had recent interruptions is a prompt for root-cause work beyond restoring supply.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/global-switch-suffers-short-power-outage-in-london/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:54:54.573718+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1996", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1996/", "title": "High voltage fault causes outage at Global Switch 2 data centre", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": "2016-09", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "europe", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Backup generators; Switchgear and electrical rooms", "what_happened": "On 10 September 2016, a high voltage fault in the cable end box of the output circuit breaker for one on-site diesel rotary uninterruptible power supply at the Global Switch 2 data centre in London interrupted power for 222 milliseconds. All customers lost access to services based in the facility, and the fault affected the supply feeding the Claranet suite. The Register reported that one customer was knocked offline for two days. Claranet said power was cut just before 11.00am, hardware was powered up by 1.30pm, and 85 per cent of its customer services were restored by 5.10pm. Damaged components were replaced and cable terminations on the remaining DRUPS units were checked. This was the second outage at the site in three months. A June outage was thought to have been triggered by a lightning strike.", "contributing_factors": "A high voltage fault within the HV cable end box of the output circuit breaker for one DRUPS unit. Global Switch said one of four power stations experienced a 222 millisecond switching event, while the site infrastructure protected supplies.", "lessons_learned": "(1) After a high voltage fault on one DRUPS unit, check cable terminations on the remaining units before normal operation resumes. (2) Plan controlled restoration after even a very short supply interruption, because customer services may take far longer to recover than the electrical event itself. (3) Keep affected customers informed while power and services are brought back in stages.", "source_url": "https://www.theregister.com/on-prem/2016/09/20/electrical-box-fault-blamed-for-gs2-data-centre-outage/1429657", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:55:05.959798+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1997", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1997/", "title": "Power failure at Telehouse North data centre disrupts BT broadband", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "electrical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2016, "incident_month": "2016-07", "country": "United Kingdom", "country_code": "gb", "region": "uk", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "UPS and battery rooms; Switchgear and electrical rooms", "what_happened": "On 21 July 2016, Telehouse North, a data centre in London's Docklands and an internet connection partner of BT, suffered a substantial power failure. Telehouse said a circuit breaker had tripped and that this affected a specific and limited group of customers in the building. BT said it was redirecting traffic and that the issue was then affecting less than five percent of customers' internet usage. Engineers were on site. Telehouse said the problem had been investigated, a solution identified, and engineers were working with customers. It was not reported whether service had been fully restored. The previous day, Equinix reported a separate brief power outage at the former Telecity LD8 site in London, which it attributed to a faulty UPS system, and said service there was promptly restored. BT had said up to ten percent of its customers were affected by that earlier outage. The source reported no direct link between the two incidents.", "contributing_factors": "Telehouse reported that a circuit breaker tripped inside Telehouse North. The cause of that trip was not reported. The faulty UPS at the former Telecity LD8 site the day before is a separate event and is not a reported cause of this failure.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A circuit breaker trip in a shared data centre power system can disrupt connectivity for customers of more than one network provider. (2) Traffic rerouting can reduce, but not remove, customer impact while engineers are still working on site. (3) Successive outages at neighbouring sites should be treated as separate events until a common cause is established.", "source_url": "https://www.silicon.co.uk/networks/bt-broadband-suffers-second-day-of-outages-195376", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:55:29.424759+00:00" }, { "reference": "EIR-1998", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/incident/eir-1998/", "title": "Generator explosion disrupts Los Angeles data centres", "entry_type": "case_study", "asset_type": "data_centre", "incident_category": "mechanical", "severity": "significant", "incident_year": 2015, "incident_month": "2015-08", "country": "United States", "country_code": "us", "region": "north_america", "lifecycle_stage": "normal_operation", "part_named": "Backup generators", "what_happened": "An explosion in the basement of 811 Wilshire Boulevard in downtown Los Angeles started a fire that firefighters put out. The blast is believed to have started in the building’s generator. It took out an on-site power station, briefly left twelve buildings without electricity, and caused power and network outages nearby. At least two data centres lost utility power: Equinix LA1, one block away on West 7th Street, and CoreSite’s LA1 in the One Wilshire building. Both failed over to generator power until utility supply returned. Level 3 Communications, located in the Equinix data centre, had some disruption that affected its local customers. Internap, also at the Equinix site, and some of its customers were affected. Customers at One Wilshire were reported to have had no network trouble. Two people were injured. The precise cause was not reported.", "contributing_factors": "Reporting says the blast is believed to have started in the office building’s generator and that the fire took out an on-site power station. Why the generator failed, and how supply to the nearby data centres was lost, were not reported.", "lessons_learned": "(1) A failure in a nearby building’s power plant can remove utility supply from data centres even when their own plant is sound. (2) A tested switch to on-site generation can keep a site running through a short utility outage. (3) Network services in a facility can still be disrupted when a power event affects carriers, so that risk should be planned for separately from site power.", "source_url": "https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/los-angeles-explosion-disrupts-data-centers/", "provisional": "yes", "published_at": "2026-10-04T13:55:36.556517+00:00" } ], "dataset": "Energy Incident Register, public entries", "url": "https://energyincidentregister.com/data/", "generated": "2026-10-04", "count": 1569, "licence": "https://energyincidentregister.com/terms.html", "credit": "Energy Incident Register, energyincidentregister.com, and the entry reference" }