The Solar America Board for Codes and Standards (Solar ABCs) has
conducted limited testing of the fire resistances of rack-mounted
photovoltaic (PV) panels installed over fire-classified roof
coverings. If you are involved with the design or installation of
roof-mounted PV systems, I encourage you to be aware of this
testing and the concerns it raises.
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Inc.'s classifications for PV
modules and panels indicate installing them on a roof system may or
may not adversely affect the roof system's external fire exposure
if the PV modules or panels have a lesser fire-resistance rating
than the roof system.
To determine whether rack-mounted PV modules or panels affect
roof systems' fire classifications, Solar ABCs conducted a series
of spread-of-flame and burning-brand tests on representative
rack-mounted PV panels installed on fire-classified roof systems.
The tests are similar to those conducted on PV panels and roof
systems to determine their individual...
Log in or register for FREE access to this article and other Professional Roofing online content.