Eskom Compliance Update Recognizes Fire Risks in Solar Installations
The latest EGI Compliance Certificate (Rev 8) from Eskom marks a significant milestone for fire safety in the renewable energy sector. For years, industry experts, safety professionals, and insurers have raised concerns about fire hazards in solar installations, and now, Eskom’s compliance framework officially addresses these risks.
This update is particularly relevant for all Small-Scale Embedded Generators (SSEG), as compliance will soon become mandatory. By March 2026, all SSEGs must be registered for compliance or face potential penalties.
Understanding the New Fire & Fault Guidelines (Note 11, Page 8)
Eskom’s compliance update includes clear steps to reduce fire and fault risks in embedded generation systems. These include:
- Electrical faults should never be extinguished with water. Using water on a live electrical system can cause electrocution and worsen the fire.
- Generators must be isolated from the Eskom network before shutting down inverters and DC sources. This prevents electricity from flowing back into the system during an emergency.
- Solar panels must be covered with fire-retardant material or an equivalent technique to prevent them from generating power during a fire or fault condition.
Why This Matters
For years, LTV Technologies & Supplies, as the South African distributor of PVStop, has been actively engaging with fire safety experts, insurers, renewable energy associations, installers, and safety representatives to address these risks. PVStop is the only solution designed specifically to stop solar panels from generating power instantly, making it an essential fire safety tool for solar installations.
With Eskom now recognizing fire and fault risks within its compliance framework, this is a step in the right direction. The focus is shifting from just installation compliance to also ensuring fire safety in PV systems, which will benefit homeowners, businesses, firefighters, and insurers.
Next Steps for Solar System Owners
- Ensure compliance with Eskom’s new safety requirements before the 2026 deadline.
- Review your fire safety measures for embedded generation systems, especially in solar installations.
- Consider using PVStop, a globally recognized fire-retardant solution that instantly stops solar panel generation in emergencies.
- Stay informed by connecting with LTV Technologies & Supplies or visiting the PVStop Informative Website for updates and solutions.
Conclusion
The recognition of fire risks in solar installations within Eskom’s compliance certificate is a significant moment for the industry. LTV Technologies & Supplies and PVStop remain committed to raising awareness, driving safety innovation, and providing solutions to ensure fire risks in solar energy systems are properly managed.
For more information, reach out to LTV Technologies & Supplies or your nearest PVStop reseller.
