Energy Save Victoria (ESV) and Solar Victoria and reminding Victorians to ensure the safety of their solar systems by having them serviced every two years.

The agencies launched the ‘Show Your Solar Some Love’ campaign last year, highlighting the risk of solar PV system fire and/or failure when not serviced regularly by a licensed A-Grade electrician.

Hot and cold temperatures, wind, rain and other extreme weather events can cause damage and wear to solar installations. Servicing mitigates this risk, ensuring they are working safely and efficiently.

In 2022, Energy Safe investigated 44 solar system fires, the majority of which occurred in systems that had not been serviced within the previous two years.

Energy Safe audits have found a major cause of solar PV system fires was moisture impacting DC isolators – a switch that stops electricity flowing through the system in emergency situations.

Victorian Government research shows that fewer than half of Victorians are aware of the importance of servicing their solar PV systems. Servicing involves electrical testing of the components that make up a solar panel system, as well as a thorough visual inspection to ensure the integrity of equipment and cabling.

It also includes the clearing of debris or leaf litter under the solar panels and around the inverter.‌

ESV chief executive Leanne Hughson says solar systems needed to be maintained the same way cars needed to be serviced, to ensure they always run safely: “Unfortunately, Energy Safe regularly investigates fires that could have been prevented if the solar PV system had undergone regular servicing.

“We encourage Victorians using solar to ensure their systems are serviced by a licensed A-Grade electrician at least once every two years.”