Solar PV electricity is a trivial form of energy in New Jersey, just like everywhere else on the planet.
However it is claimed that New Jersey - where I live - has the second most solar PV installations after California. I have personal knowledge of four or five solar installations around here, but like I say, they are next to useless.
But nevertheless the few that are here have raised saftey concerns:
As I had mentioned at this past Monday’s Twp. Chief’s meeting, I went to the presentation put on by the State of NJ last night at Amwell Valley Fire concerning solar panels and the danger they present to the Fire Service.
The presentation lasted for about 2 1/2 hours and was what I believe time well spent. It really opened my eyes to the potential danger and problems they will be for us for any dwelling fire we will encounter where they are present. I’m going to attempt to give everyone a quick snapshot of what was covered.
The thing to know with solar panels are that they cannot be shut down - they are ALWAYS ENERGIZED. And they are energized with up to 600 volts of DC current...
...The final question which was asked really put things in prospective - someone asked that since Califorina is number one when it comes to Solar Panel Syatem installations, “…what do their Firefighters do when a structure fire involves these systems?” Answer was “… they let it burn!”
Please, I’m not suggesting that we adopt this strategy. But the reality is - I really don’t have an answer and it seems as if the Fire Service industry, nor the Solar Panel Companies, don’t either.
Just - please be aware and please be careful if you roll up to a structure where a solar panel system is installed - bottom line, if can kill you.
Solar Panel System Dangers.Of course, all of the anti-nukes here live off grid on their solar PV systems, which is why their here every
night to tell us how great the solar PV life is.
Their houses never burn down, so solar PV is great and the fire guy in Florence township is well, a scare monger.
