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| Rooftop Photovoltaic (PV) Systems -- Examining the Risks and Researching the Options |
| Joel Sipe, Exponent - Failure Analysis Associates |
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The installation of large PV systems on commercial building roofs is increasing due to a favorable value proposition attracting building owners to install the technology. With a PV system, the likelihood of a rooftop fire significantly increases since electrical breakdown - leading to arc faults, ground faults, and short circuits - can occur anywhere across the system. Add to that the challenges of delayed detection and no fixed fire protection, the fact that the power generated can't be turned off, the risk of module and components adding fuel to support a fire, and the risk that reflection of heat back down to the roof will enhance the combustion rate of conventional roof materials and it's clear that this emerging risk require further research. This presentation will highlight a project undertaken by the Fire Protection Research Foundation to develop a test plan to address the concerns with rooftop fire spread and identify additional means to limit fire spread.
Presented by:
Joel Sipe, Exponent - Failure Analysis Associates
Joel Sipe is a Senior Managing Engineer with Exponent Failure Analysis Associates. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from WPI, and an M.S. and Ph.D. in Fire Protection Engineering also WPI. His consulting work includes failure analysis of solar PV systems, fire sprinkler systems, and commercial kitchen wet chemical systems, fire origin and cause investigations, natural gas pipeline consulting, and fire testing for a wide variety of clients. He currently serves on the committees for NFPA 30A, NFPA 30B, NFPA 52, NFPA 80A, and NFPA 140.
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