Solar energy is being used to help farmers, ranchers and other agricultural operations become more efficient, while reducing their impact on the environment.

According to the 2022 U.S. Census of Agriculture, approximately 153,101 farms in the U.S. were using renewable energy systems, and 76% of those—about 116,357 farms—were using solar panels.

What this means:
  • Roughly 1 in 16 farms in the U.S. now uses solar energy.
  • Solar is the most common renewable energy source on farms, ahead of wind and geothermal.
  • Adoption is growing as farmers seek to reduce energy costs, improve sustainability, and create new income streams.

If you’re utilizing or considering a solar energy system as an alternative means of electrical generation, it’s important to understand the dangers and risks of installing and maintaining a solar energy system, and to follow industry best practices to help prevent costly incidents.

The dangers of solar panels

As we have seen with new and developing technologies, there can be growing pains associated with manufacturing defects, improper installation methods and lack of adequate maintenance — which can lead to electric shock and fire.

In February 2025, a fire broke out beneath solar panels at the Peoria Solar Farm in Illinois igniting dry grass. The blaze was quickly contained thanks to prompt action by firefighters and an on-site electrician.

Solar panels, while beneficial for clean energy, do come with some risks and challenges. Here are the dangers associated with solar panels:

  1. Dangerous components: Like any electronic devices, solar panels have components that can fail, including switches, fuses, and wiring. Prompt replacement of faulty parts is crucial to maintain safety and efficiency.
  2. Toxicity: Solar panels contain materials like cadmium and lead, which can be toxic if mishandled or improperly disposed of. Proper recycling and disposal are essential to prevent environmental harm.
  3. Earthing: Improper grounding can lead to electrical hazards. Ensuring proper earthing during installation is critical to prevent shocks or fires.
  4. Electricity: Solar panels generate electricity, and improper handling during installation or maintenance can result in electrical accidents.
  5. Fire risk: Although rare, solar panels can cause fires due to electrical faults, overheating, or faulty wiring. Regular inspections and maintenance help mitigate this risk.

In addition to the potential for fire ignition and electric shock hazard and fire, roof-top solar panels pose structural concerns to roofs not designed for additional loads. Additional roof loads include but are not limited to:

  • Weight of the photovoltaic (PV) panels and associated equipment (ballast)
  • Snow and ice accumulation on the PV panel and in the space between the roof surface and bottom of the PV panel (e.g., wind-blown snow)
  • Altered wind loading of the roof due to PV panel orientation and attachment methods

Emergency preparedness and maintenance

The electricity generated from PV systems introduces additional exposures, especially during emergency situations and for first responders.

  • Roof-mounted systems should be reported to the fire department so they can update their pre-planning documentation
  • Install and clearly identify emergency disconnects and rapid cut-offs to enhance safety
  • Implement regular preventative maintenance and inspection schedules to identify and address potential fire or injury risks
  • While some maintenance tasks can be handled by trained in-house staff, complex procedures are best left to qualified contractors

Solar panel installation best practices

The Solar America Board for Codes & Standards provides industry best practices and documents to assist PV system installation owners with monitoring and maintenance measures to prevent adverse situations. Other resources include the manufacturer’s literature of PV systems (owner’s manual) and NFPA 70 National Electric Code.

Also, when working on a roof, firefighters are being instructed to use light-darkening tarpaulins to cover PV panels, along with other tactical measures, in order to reduce the electrical shock hazard. Pre-emergency planning with the fire department has been, and always will be, a high priority risk management strategy.

Nationwide’s Property Specialty Group (PSG) and other representatives are available to assist with your risk management efforts concerning solar panel installations, as well as other perils to life and property.

References
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