The Pros and Cons of Solar Panels
Many clubs have now taken the step toward green energy by investing in solar panels. There are now multiple funding options open to businesses who wish to install solar panels. These suppliers promote cost savings on bills and a positive return-on-investment. Many clubs see solar panels as not only financially beneficially, but also a benefit to the brand image, demonstrating eco-responsibility.
The return on investment is estimated at 3 to 5 years, which includes the cost of installation, maintenance and government incentives. It however does not include the impact solar panels may have on your insurance premium. Solar panels will need to be declared on a club’s building insurance, because of their expense and high risk of fire.
At Club Insure we have many clubs who have either installed solar panels previously, or are looking into their viability. We often answer questions related to the installation and the posed risks, which is why we have put together the bellow information, hoping to inform club managers of the essential safeguards commonly included in building insurance cover.
Can solar panels cause fires?
Yes there is a fire risk related to solar panel systems. Incidents across the UK have become more frequent with the gradual uptake of solar panel usage.
The fire risk does not arise from the panels themselves, but from the system that supports it. Poor installation can increase the risk of electrical faults. Unsuitable roofing materials will cause a fire due to the excess heat. Any interference with the wiring or system will also need to be prevented. Also, an inspection upon installation will be required, as will regular annual inspections. If the club’s chosen system involves a controller, inverter and battery bank, these need to be stored in secure areas.
Yet, when installed correctly and checked regularly, the electrical system supporting solar panels should remain safe, secure and effective.
Tips to ensuring safe installation and compliance
As a broker, it is Club Insure’s responsibility to inform sports club and social club manager tips on how to promote safe installation and good compliance. When installing solar panels, clubs may choose to buy the panels and then acquire the services of a third party installer in order to save money. This should only be done if the installer is qualified and has worked on solar panel installation before. A club manager’s duties of ensuring all safety procedures are followed still persist.
Secure Fixing – Solar panels must be mechanically fitted. They must be fitted to the structure of the building’s roof. This is to ensure they are properly secure and not detach in the wind or have the fixings deteriorate.
Qualified Electrician – The electrical work as well as the installation should be carried out by a certified individual. Improper installation by a third party installer is the main cause of fires.
Assess the roof type – Felt roofs, timber roofs or other combustible materials should not be considered for solar panel installation.
Risk Assessment – Up to date risk assessments are necessary to reduce the likelihood of incidents. If an incident was to take place, insurers will request all relevant documentation including a risk assessment. Request a solar panel specific risk assessment from your broker, to help lay out the duties and elect the responsible persons.
Visual Inspections – Visually inspect the solar panels on the roof monthly. This is to check for dirt, debris, branches. Obstructions will need to be cleared, which should only be done by a ladder-trained individual. Obstructions can cause fires as it creates hotspots.
Electrical systems maintenance – The whole electrical system supporting the solar panels will need to be maintained regularly. The installer will recommend the timeline of the routine checks. The panel, fixings, batteries, conductors, inverters, and wiring will all need to be checked for any damage or deterioration.
Record all actions – All maintenance, inspections and purchases should be recorded. This is for insurance purposes, due diligence, but also the club manager’s piece of mind.
Why it’s essential to work with a broker when installing solar panels
Club managers need to understand that solar panels will impact insurance. At Club Insure, we want to encourage solar panel usage, and so we are happy to provide guidance to clients, or indeed any club looking to explore this opportunity.
Clear communication is essential. Whether it about clearing debris, solar panel insurance exclusions, or the risk mitigation; clubs should to their broker first. We have found that many incidents or claims involving fire have been avoidable. Communication around risk mitigation and proper procedure is the best way to ensure a safe environment.
For more information on fire risk assessments and risk management – contact Club Insure. Our Experts are ready to help answer any questions you may have about your premises or your policy. We offer a non-compulsory confidential review of your insurance portfolio, helping you understand if there are any gaps in your cover.