Fire alarm in Zirndorf: Scheunen shelter through photovoltaics in danger!

Fire alarm in Zirndorf: Scheunen shelter through photovoltaics in danger!

on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, there was a fire in a barn shelter on an agricultural estate in Zirndorf in the district of Fürth at 12.20 p.m. The emergency services were alerted and moved out to the courtyard where the fire broke out. Fortunately, the barn shelter was uninhabited and no injuries were reported. So far, the exact cause of the fire is unclear, but it is believed that a photovoltaic system could have risen in flames. It is an initial report, and the amount of the damage has not yet been announced, as Infranken

The incident raises questions about the safety of photovoltaic systems that have increased more and more popular in recent years. The fire could be connected to the special properties of solar modules, which can generate high voltages of up to 1,500 volts even without a network current. This represents a significant risk for the fire brigade, since high DC voltage makes fire fighting difficult. The VDE guideline VDE-AR-E 2100-712 specifies regulations on electrical security in combating fires near photovoltaic systems. This guideline states, among other things, that DC lines have to fall under 120 volts within 15 seconds of the AC side to protect the emergency services, such as "https://www.energie-experten.org/erneuer-energien/photovoltaik/photovoltaik-brand"> Energy-Expert

safety precautions and prevention

Companies that install photovoltaic systems are required to adhere to safety distances to dormer gaps and fire walls. A suitable planning and execution of the systems according to the quality requirements can make a significant contribution to minimizing fire risks. According to TÜV Nord, companies should carry out regular maintenance and reviews of the electrical installations to ensure the functionality of the systems. It is also important to regularly clean the solar modules of dust and dirt to ensure optimal operation.

The brochure "Fire protection-friendly planning, construction and maintenance of PV systems" contains numerous information on this topic and was created with the support of several associations. It offers guidelines for minimum distances, lightning protection and maintenance measures. An important point is the clarification of maintenance responsibility, which is important for the security of everyone involved. Protection of the photovoltaic system with an all-hazard insurance is also recommended to secure additional risks, such as tüv nord not.