Britannia Fire has launched PVSTOP, a solar panel block-out solution supplied in composite P50 units.
PVSTOP is a liquid coating designed to block light on contact and shut down solar panel power generation during an emergency.
Solar panels generate electricity whenever exposed to light and cannot be switched off during an incident.
This creates a DC electrical hazard that persists regardless of isolator switches, rapid shutdown systems or other electrical controls.
PVSTOP works by blocking light at source to stop power generation on contact.
Partial coverage is intended to break the electrical circuit and render panels electrically safe.
Britannia Fire says the system is intended to allow first responders and maintenance teams to isolate solar panels after a short circuit, storm damage or early signs of smoke or arcing.
PVSTOP is non-flammable, fire-retardant and weatherproof.
It can be applied to wet and dry surfaces.
The coating solidifies and peels away without damaging solar panels.
It can remain in place for up to 12 months.
PVSTOP is water-based and non-toxic, with disposal through general waste.
Britannia Fire says PVSTOP is the only solar safety solution to achieve ISO 14034:2016 Environmental Technology Verification, with independent testing confirming effectiveness.
The technology has been operationally validated by London Fire Brigade, Fire Department of New York and Singapore Civil Defence Force.
PVSTOP is available in 6L and 9L composite P50 units that do not require annual servicing.
The composite cylinders are up to 50% lighter than steel models, corrosion resistant and suited to outdoor or coastal solar installations.
Jim Foran, Co-Founder and CEO of PVSTOP International, said: “PVSTOP solves a problem most people don’t know exists.
“Solar panels generate potentially lethal DC electricity when exposed to light, regardless of any switches or shutdown systems.
“Until now, there’s been no practical way to eliminate this hazard at source.
“This partnership with Britannia Fire combines our proven de-energisation technology with their market-leading composite delivery system to provide UK organisations with a genuine safety solution.”
Andy Spence, Joint Managing Director of Britannia Fire, said: “As the UK’s solar industry expands, safety innovation must keep pace.
“The partnership with PVSTOP International demonstrates Britannia Fire’s commitment to innovation and protecting people, property and the environment.
“Our composite units are popular with customers because they’re lightweight, easy to handle and require minimal maintenance.
“The addition of PVSTOP strengthens the P50 product range and provides a solar safety solution for public and private sector sites.”
The companies framed the product as a way to address electrical hazards linked to live solar panels during incidents.
International Fire & Safety Journal is a publication of Centurian Media Limited
Registered office: 71-75 Shelton Street London Greater London WC2H 9JQ UNITED KINGDOM
Operating office: The Maidstone Studios, New Cut Road, Vinters Park, Maidstone Kent ME14 5NZ
Centurian Media Limited (CML) is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Our clients, suppliers, along with all qualified applicants that we receive for employment, fixed contract or freelance projects receive consideration without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. CML is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.
Website hosted and maintained by Grass Media Web Design
Company number (GB): 11730376
VAT Number: 314 7817 00
ICO registration number: CSN0536342

source