As we approach the spring/summer rain season in most parts of South Africa, it’s crucial to address a significant concern for solar PV system owners and installers: hail damage. While Solar PV Systems are built to withstand a variety of weather conditions, including hail, there are limits to their resilience. In this article, we’ll explore the potential risks associated with hailstorms and provide advice for both installers and customers on how to safeguard their systems and ensure their longevity.
Understanding Hail Risk in South Africa:
South Africa is no stranger to hailstorms, and they can have a considerable impact on properties and solar panels. According to data, South Africa experiences hailstorms regularly, with the eastern parts of the country, such as Gauteng, often being the most affected. In recent years, insurance companies have taken a proactive stance by sending out notifications when hailstorms are forecasted in specific areas.
However, it’s important to note that there’s not much that can be done to prevent large hailstorms. But there are proactive measures you can take to minimize the potential damage to your solar PV system.
Protecting Your Solar PV System:
- Inspection after Hailstorms: After a significant hailstorm, it is essential to contact your solar panel installers to inspect your PV system for any damages. Attempting to assess the damage on your own is not advisable. Solar PV specialists have specialized equipment and knowledge to assess the condition of your solar panels accurately.
- Thermal Imaging: Regular thermal imaging inspections should be part of your solar panel maintenance routine. Professionals can use thermal imaging to detect problems like faulty cells in panels, issues with junction boxes, MC4 connections, and PV Combiner boxes. Ensuring there are no hot connections, especially in crimping connections, is vital for system safety and performance.
- PVStop for Safe De-Energization: In case your PV panels are damaged or there’s a fire or flooding, it’s essential to have a safe de-energization method. PVStop provides a simple and secure way to de-energize your PV panels, helping prevent further damage and ensuring safety.
Important Update:
Unfortunately, PVStop is not yet available in South Africa. We are actively working with local authorities and regulators to obtain a Letter of Authority (LOA) to resell the product within the South African border. While PVStop is not currently an option for safeguarding your solar PV system, we have alternative measures to help protect your investment.
Protecting Your Solar PV System Without PVStop:
In the absence of PVStop, it’s essential to consider other precautions to minimize potential damage to your solar PV system:
- Use Plastic Tarpaulin: Installers and customers can employ plastic tarpaulins to shield the solar panels from the sun. Covering the panels can prevent further damage in case of hail or other extreme weather conditions.
- Proper Disconnection: When protecting your solar panels, it’s vital to disconnect them appropriately. This can be done at the PV Combiner box. However, please note that disconnecting the system alone may not be sufficient, as solar panels can still generate dangerous levels of electricity.
- Consult Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance company to understand the procedures for claiming damaged panels. They can provide guidance on the necessary steps to take and documentation required to facilitate a successful claim.
While PVStop remains in the process of obtaining regulatory approval for South Africa, these alternative measures can help ensure the safety of your solar PV system during hailstorms or other adverse conditions. We are committed to bringing PVStop to South Africa once all necessary approvals are secured.
Thank you for your understanding and dedication to the safety and longevity of your solar PV system. We encourage both installers and customers to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect their investments in renewable energy.
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