Solar panels catch fire at Kian Teck Road factory in Singapore

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 was alerted and attended the scene. Firefighters found the panels on fire and used two water jets to contain it and stop it spreading. The fire was fully extinguished within 20 minutes. Seventy-six staff had already evacuated the premises before the fire service arrived. Preliminary investigations indicated the fire was likely of electrical origin from the solar panels. No injuries were reported.

Contributing factors

Preliminary investigations indicate the fire was likely of electrical origin from the solar panels. The failed component has not been reported.

Lessons learned

1. Rooftop solar arrays need clear evacuation routes and responder briefings because staff left before the fire service arrived.
2. Preserve the full array and connections after an electrical fire until the failed part is identified.
3. Quick containment stops rooftop fires spreading to the building structure when two water jets were used.

Not yet known

• Failed component in the solar array
• Model and age of the solar panels
• Cost of damage to the roof

This entry is updated when these are reported. Get an alert for the next one like it.

Source

mustsharenews.com