Fire-safe and sustainable building-integrated solar cells

Challenge

The purpose of the project is to create a more informed knowledge base for fire and installation-related risk scenarios for building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. The project participants will work together to equip the industry, customers, and stakeholders to better assess when and under what conditions a BIPV system is safe. Based on DBI’s report "Safety considerations of building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roof systems", it is clear that there is limited data and research focusing on fire hazards in BIPV systems. The report generally concludes that fire-related risks can be divided into an increased likelihood of ignition due to faults in the electrical components of the BIPV system, as well as the potential for fire spread via the under-roofing, as this has traditionally not been available to possible external ignition sources.

Solution

By understanding and shedding light on the fire-related risks of roof-mounted BIPV systems, we can provide the entire industry with a lever to help make the market larger and safer. We will provide fire safety documentation and knowledge that goes beyond what is required for BIPV systems in BR18.

The project aims to:

• Test different fault scenarios in BIPV systems on various types of under-roofing, thus creating deeper knowledge that enables a safe and energy-producing building mass.
• Analyze and evaluate data from the different constructions.
• Design a construction composition based on the indicative fire properties.
• Through full-scale testing, clarify the fire risks and fire spread, and whether this can be minimized through design and installation modifications.

The results will be compiled into a final report that highlights the fundamental issues and changes that can be made to improve safety.

• Ensure knowledge sharing through trade media and knowledge partners so the results are widely accessible.

The results will lead to specialized knowledge that we can use to optimize both the solar panels and their installation. This will mean that we can continue to innovate and ensure that we deliver the safest and most efficient total solution on the market, while also enabling the rest of the industry to access knowledge about risk scenarios, thereby preventing disasters and demystifying myths and misunderstandings about solar panels.

The project is co-financed by the Ministry of Education and Research.

Impact

The project is a crucial cornerstone for the future of sustainable construction, as the current political and economic situation leads to increased focus on solar panels. By ensuring a stronger and more informed knowledge base, we ensure that fire risks will not become a showstopper for the industry. Furthermore, the project will lay the groundwork for our product optimization, as we aim to use this project as a springboard and preliminary project for, for example, an EUDP project, with a focus on creating an improved and safer total solution.