Electrical Arcing & Water Conductivity 

Thank you for your kind words, our pleasure!

You so cute

Please note that this is only true of damaged solar modules. That being said, you really don't need to clean your modules. The rain does a good job of that.

@@TheDresden89 i think its more for those who live in super dry and dusty environments

unless your voltage exceeds 120 v dc in series you dont need to worry

We believe that we are the first to conduct this type of experiment and it is a good example of the unanticipated risks that firefighters, emergency services personnel and electrical technicians may be unwittingly exposed to when when they encounter incidents involving damaged or faulty solar PV systems.

@@pvstop5763 So what current do you expect to flow through human body in this case?

@@Luzt. In this example the PV array is producing 650 volts at 8.8 amps. If you were to touch the positive and negative cables, this would be fatal.

@@foranjim One of us has no fn idea about PV. As I see it it was 650 V open-circuit and 8.8 A short-circuit. Not AND but OR. Also, I did not watch the video carefully because I found it ...

@@Luzt. I was trying to address the question in simple terms but obviously you do not find that satisfactory. I should have said "probably" fatal. As to the expected flow of current through the body in this case, you would obviously know that there are a number of variables at play including the impedance of the particular human, size, weight, gender, are they dry, damp, wet etc etc. Also a PV system is a finite source of power (not an unlimited source like a sub-station) and if a human holds on long enough, the impedance can potentially crash the power output of the PV system, but not until the human is most likely seriously injured or deceased. Happy to have our work scrutinized, but would prefer if feedback was constructive and polite.

Hi Al, so true. The perception of solar PV systems is one of a benign set of panels that sit on your roof and produce free power, they do not move or make any noise (usually) so it becomes a case of "out of sight, out of mind". A typical residential system can be putting out 2, 3 or 4 times the electricity of a power point and people know not to stick a fork in a power socket, yet they will quite happily climb all over a solar PV array without any thought to the potential safety issues. a very sad case in point, only two weeks ago a man in Dubai was fatally electrocuted by a very small PV system (just 2 panels) www.uaebarq.ae/en/?p=2740 Our mission is to raise awareness of the potential issues, improve the knowledge base of firefighters and electrical contractors through education and offer solutions that allow these personnel to operate safely where solar panel systems are involved.

Thanks Al, so true, seeing the arc that a PV system can generate definitely helps to put the risks in perspective.

1. The system was producing 8.8 amps short circuit current. 2. It was purposely not grounded to represent a potentially dangerous situation which we encounter regularly on service calls. Quite often we encounter poor quality installations where the system is not grounded correctly or grounding has been compromised due to a deterioration in system componentry due to age or weather exposure. This is the type of unanticipated risk that firefighters are encountering regularly without having the training, systems or processes to adequately mitigate these risks. 3. As long as you get a band of coating across 30% of the centre of each panel, the circuit is effectively broken, there is still voltage produced by the uncovered solar cells but there is no amperage. The equation for electrical output is Volts x Amps = Watts, so even though only the centre part of the array is covered and voltage is still being produced, there is no current, so the system is electrically safe. Saying that, we always advise completing covering the panels to minimise the voltage produced and ensuring maximum safety. 4. There are many ways to wire a system and there are several system types such as microinverters and DC optimizers that are designed to improve safety, however the vast majority of legacy systems are standard string arrays and the system in this test represents a typical 5kw residential string array installation (albeit, one that is not grounded or connected to an inverter).

@@pvstop5763 aaaaaaaa

@@pvstop5763 om

Just put a fuse. It pops if shorted and there in no Danger. There's a suckered born every minute and he will buy this product. 😆

@@pvstop5763 3 years later and youtube finally reminds me there are answers to the questions I had already forgotten. Thanks for the answers.

Hi John, most people are unaware of the risks associated with solar PV systems, it is our goal to raise awareness, improve training and education and ultimate improve safety in this fast growing market segment (renewable energy safety).

Hi Ole, thank you for the kind words.

@@foranjim OLE' like the bullfighters. daughter says "please tell them you're name is not Ole" HAHAHAHA

Great, glad to be of help!

Water needs solid particles to start forming rain drops. In some parts of the world, rain water or molten snow are actually very dirty. You have to be cautious and not count on it being insulator. There is reason open circuits left to rain on short.

Thank you!

Thanks Patrick, we appreciate your support!

PV Stop No worries, is PVstop in Australia yet ?.. If so is it well known yet

Hi Patrick, PVStop is actually an Australian invention. We are based in Sydney and PVStop is currently on appliances with the NT Fire Rescue Service, ACT Fire & Rescue and Fire + Rescue NSW. We are hoping to roll out PVStop to all Fire and Emergency Services Agencies over the next 12 months.

PV Stop That's great and great to know it's here in Oz and all the best getting it around the world a great product. I'm down in Albury-Wodonga. Cheers all the best.

Thank you Patrick, we appreciate the kind words!

Hi Rick, thank you for your kind words, we are doing our best to raise awareness, improve training, education and improving first responder and community safety.

Mostly due to leakage current due to hot hotspots on the solar modules, which occur due micro-cracks or poorly built module. Sometimes short-circuits can cause the module ignite under extremely hot ambient temperatures, and can also due to bad installation methods. Solar PV is not as simple as it looks, a qualified, knowledgeable and experienced person should be hired when system crosses 60VDC circuitry.

Most foams contain chemicals such as PFAS which are bio-accumulative and environmentally unfriendly and I'd be interested to know what trigger causes the thin clear layer to react and transform into a 15cm black foam. If the coating only blocks 83% of light, the panels will still be producing power. Apart from that, I think you are on to a winner!

I was surprised that the PV Stop product did not address how to remove it after everything is safe. Seems like it is permanent.

There are a few reasons including; - This would significantly increase the cost of the solar PV system, - It would lower/inhibit the efficiency of the solar panels - It could affect the load bearing capacity of the roof - It could increase fire risk

In theory this would work, assuming that you keep the shutters well maintained (as they will live in the elements 24/7), that they don't compromise the load bearing capacity of the roof and that they don't cast shadow across the panels and reduce efficiency.

How will you know when the hail storm will start? What if it starts at midnight? Moreover, shuttering the solar panels is a very tedious and expensive process

Solar panels can easily withstand atmospheric temperatures of 60celsius. The panels themselves get heated to over 100 celsius under the hot summer sun

It is hard for me to say as I don't have any details on your specific "solar light", but as long as the light is new and undamaged, it should be perfectly safe.

Thank you for your positive feedback, much appreciated! PVSTOP is a water based polymer that is applied to solar panels like a "liquid blanket", blocking the light and isolating the power produced by solar panels at the source. It is also fire retardant, non-flammable, non-conductive and environmentally friendly. PVSTOP is now used by world leading fire departments such as the London Fire Brigade, the New York Fire Department and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (just to name a few). Here is a link to another RU-vid video that demonstrates how the product works: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-wc-qRISs7fo.html

Even when damaged, solar panels will continue to produce power (albeit in a reduced capacity) as long as they are exposed to light (as demonstrated in the video). Optimizers are an electro-mechanical solution that operate "downstream" from the solar panel itself and there are questions over whether they will fail-safe if damaged during an incident. PVSTOP is the only accredited solution that isolates the power produced by solar PV systems at the source of power production - the solar panels themselves.

Hi Kelvin, you are absolutely correct, it all comes down to good quality system components and proper installation. The issue is that a significant number of residential installations sub-standard and a smaller proportion are potentially dangerous.

This was one of a series of short videos......no idea why it went as viral as it did! Here is a link to another short video in the series which demonstrates the power measurement post application: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-wc-qRISs7fo.html

Low voltage DC systems (typical of average domestics PV installations) are dangerous if damaged. Given the right circumstances they can be extremely difficult to stop arcing. You are 100% correct, floating systems can catch you unawares! This is exactly why we invented PV Stop. It is the only solution that allows you to turn off solar PV systems at the source, which is especially useful for firefighters and emergency service personnel. Regarding 48v systems, this would be safer, but these days, with the larger systems that are being installed, the wiring would be very difficult if adhering to 48v maximum. Say 5kw divided by 48 v = 104 amps. If you were going to run the average of 20-30 meters of cable, the cable would be very expensive and cumbersome. This would cause more trouble than the low voltage systems as most installers would not be familiar with these large cables and the best installation practices. Given that modern solar PV systems are driven by lower and lower pricing, low voltage systems are likely to remain popular.

That's why you have a fuse on each lead. Fuse blows no more coductivitie.

I don't quite understand the question, how long does what take?

"Rapid shutdown" technologies (such as DC optimizers and micro-inverters) have their place, but they are not a silver bullet solution. They are electro-mechanical solutions that operate "downstream" of the actual solar panel, they are more expensive than a standard string array, they have more connection points and there are questions around long term reliability and if they will "fail safe" if damaged during an incident. I have included a link to a website that outlines these points and more if you would like further detail, and for transparency, we have no formal or monetary link with this website www.fixmlsd.com

@@pvstop5763 Those are all valid points. I have installed several 150kW commercial systems and done too many residential jobs to remember. I’m sticking to off grid systems now. Thanks for the link. I’ll check it out.

Don't you think that sounds a bit complicated? Also such a system would require periodic maintenance and would be prone to vandalism. PVStop is a much simpler solution and shuts down the power in every panel in the system to 0 V.

@@pvstop5763 you're selling a product and bitching about complicated? Most people don't use over 24v anyways. Multi channel 12v would make it even easier and safer. You're a full bore idiot. Lookin for den gov'ment contracts only? Agent wannabe. All systems require maintenance. And you're only prone to vandalism if its on the ground without a fence around it like, I dunno. Government buildings? Even amazon has the common sense of putting it on the damn roof.

@@professorfukyu744 Wow, quite a lot of anger in your comments! The PV system in the video is a portable test array, not a commercial installation. You are correct that all PV systems require maintenance, unfortunately most systems are not adequately maintained, hence the growing number of incidents involving faulty, poorly maintained, or poorly installed PV systems. Have a nice day.

@@professorfukyu744 To be frank, maintaining solar panels is not something people prefer to do. The chances of defects is very low and the cost of inspection is far too high that negates any advantage it has. So, overall ROI of maintenance is negative

Yes you could, but paint is flammable (making a bad situation potentially worse) and black paint will damage or destroy the solar PV system. PVstop is fire retardant, non-flammable, non-conductive and can be peeled off post incident without causing any damage to the system. Like most good solutions, the devils in the details!

Hi Ed, black paint would damage the PV system, would be flammable and possibly conduct electricity. These were all safety considerations that were taken into account when we developed PVStop, ensuring that the product is safe to use in situations involving fires, floods or storms.

DC electricity behaves differently to AC electricity and this is exactly where a lot of solar PV systems experience problems. DC likes to flow in one direction, from source to load, the more fuses and circuit breakers you put in the line, the more potential weak points you create which over time can develop into problems. The number of solar PV fires caused by isolation switches is a perfect case in point. Once again, it is a case of people selecting cheap, poor quality components without understanding the safety risks.

I am well aware of the fundamentals of AC and DC current. I work as an RF Engineer professionally and electrical engineer as an alt. Most every solar system I have installed for railroad track side signalling and 2-way radio relaying, uses 24 volts DC, in the equipment shed there are pure sine inverters to step the 24 volts DC up to 120 volts AC for the outlets in the building. The signals are all LED based and run off the 24 volts and the radio repeaters are 12 volt, both are fed from a battery bank that the panels keep maintained. This is in situations where mains power is not available like in the mountains or in a desert..

I am definitely not questioning your knowledge base, in fact rail networks are one of the few market categories who have a thorough working knowledge of DC and you obviously understand solar PV systems. The main focus of this video is directed at first responders who are encountering domestic PV arrays on an ever increasing basis. Many of these systems are poorly installed by companies with limited technical knowledge and first responders do not have adequate tools and procedures to deal with incidents involving solar PV arrays. Fire services are rapidly adopting our technology because it offers a simple solution to a complicated problem and it works on any type of solar PV system.

Hi Jeremy, that is correct, but what we are demonstrating is that if the system is not grounded correctly or if the system is faulty, it can expose first responders to unanticipated risks and from our experience there are many such systems that first responders are encountering globally on an almost weekly basis.

You are talking about micro-inverters which are becoming more common (typically in residential solar panel systems). There are pros and cons to micro-inverters and although they are becoming more popular, they represent less than 10% of global solar panel systems. PVStop is effective on all types of solar panels systems so it is complementary to all solar PV technologies.

Just dangerous amperage.

Most residential inverters require a minimum of at least 120vdc to even turn on. So you have no choice but to wire in series. The other issue is that wiring in parallel increases the amperage with each panel installed. You size the wire to the amperage Dawn, so your cable would be massive. Voltage X Amps = Wattage. Example: say you want to supply your home with a 5000 watt set up. Each panel was a 48volt, 9 amp, 200 watt. You would take the 5000 watts that and divide it by the 200 watts each panel provides. Your array would require you to install a total of 25 panels to reach the wattage output. If each panel was wired in parallel, you would multiply 25 (# of panels) with 9 (amps produced from each panel). That would give you an amperage of 225 amps. That would require you to use a minimum of 4/0 gauge cable. That’s very expensive running a cable that size to your house. If you hook the system in series, the amperage stays at 9 amps and the voltage climbs with each solar panel linked up. That allows you to run the cable using 10 gauge which is considerably cheaper. Plus, most inverters I’ve used Max out at 30 amps, so I’m not sure the lugs will allow any thing larger than 8 gauge. In theory, you are correct that it’ll keep the voltage down, but it does crank the amps way up. Both are lethal numbers either way. Best way to protect yourself is to properly fuse and ground the system to protect yourself and your investment. You can install inline fuses straight off your solar panels. You can and should definitely ground the metal frame to two ground rods with a 4 gauge copper wire.

@@jimedick9496 100 % correct and true,, i have installed 3kva inverter with initial 6 panels 24 v in series,,,

48V implies 2 modern solar panels of 250W in series. That is a bit too much when using 3+kW power. 3kW requires 6 parallel connections while 5kW implies 10 parallel connections. I understand that with parallel connections there is some compartmentalisation whereby a leak of power in one panel will not draw power from all panels but the sheer number of parallel connections make it too expensive and bulky for home use.

Some of the chemicals used in the production of some solar cells (particularly certain industrial and commercial panels) are indeed toxic, this is why it is very important to utilise good quality system components. Good quality panels will give years of trouble free service, but if they are damaged, it is imperative that good salvage operations are employed. PVStop coats damaged panels and creates a waterproof coating that encases the panels and prevents toxic run-off,allowing for salvage operations to be conducted safely and effectively.

PV systems are revolutionising the way we generate power, but with any (relatively) new technology that rolls out so quickly on such a large scale, there are always unanticipated consequences.and risks.

True statement. All panel frames, rails, and mounting hardware is required by code, to be earth grounded. Not just for the reasons depicted in this video, but also to safely ground lightning strikes. It may or may not save your PV system, it will save a possible attic fire.

Hi Tomok, Direct Current (DC) always wants to flow from source to load, the more switching gear, relays or fuses you place in its path, the more potential points of weakness you create. A well designed and engineered string with the minimum number of connection points is the safest solution (in my personal experience).

Haha, I definitely don't recommend standing on your roof and taking a leak on your broken panels! You would be very surprised at how many electricians don't know anything about DC electricity (most electrical training is AC oriented). Most solar PV system installers are not qualified electricians and most fire and emergency service personnel who are called out to structure fires involving solar PV systems are not electrically qualified. Lets put it this way, solar panels are an electrical generator that do not have an "off" switch. This is the problem that we are solving. PVStop is an "off" switch for solar panels. It beats working on live wiring!

It sounds like the wires from the solar panels should be shorted to ground, as well as the frames. By code, all solar panel frames are earth grounded. Not just for damage or water, but to safely ground lightning, should the roof be struck. If the frames, and mounting rails are grounded, as per code, there should be no hazard. Grounding both - and+ leads from a series string to ground will also help. Maybe a safety disconnect switch can be made double throw, so when thrown, it simply grounds everything.

@@pvstop5763 The add made me think, that this was some type of fire extinguisher. It did not show any kind of switch, which really would solve the problem. By code. all solar panel frames, and mounting rails and hardware, are supposed to be earth grounded. Not only for the reasons depicted in this video, but to safely ground a lightning strike. A switch that not only disconnects the panels from the controllers, but also ties both + and - wires to ground, as well. That would guarantee that the panels are at the same potential as the rest of the house, and fire hoses!

@@vincentrobinette1507 Hi Vincent, while it is true that solar panel systems should be grounded (according to the NEC), we frequently encounter installations that have not been grounded correctly or where the system has deteriorated over time and is no longer safely grounded. In fact we estimate that approximately 20% of residential installations are either sub-standard or dangerous due to poor quality system components or poor quality installation practices. Any form of switching operates "downstream" of the panels themselves, meaning that as long as the panels are exposed to light, they are producing potentially lethal amounts of DC electricity (which cannot be remotely detected unlike AC electricity). PVStop is the only "physical barrier" technology that safely isolates the power at the source (the solar panels themselves).

@@pvstop5763 The video made me think you were selling a particular type of fire extinguisher. I didn't know you were selling a disconnect switch, which would really help! You're right. a lot of DYI'ers may not be aware of the need to ground panel frames. Even low voltage systems should have the frames and mounting hardware grounded, just in case of lightning strike! It requires a special kind of switch, to disconnect a DC high voltage array. There is no zero crossing to extinguish the arc, like you have with AC. A light switch is not going to interrupt the power, it's just going to "fizzle", and burn up, creating a fire hazard. The switch, to effectively cut off a high voltage array, needs a magnet to lengthen the effective contact gap, or there needs to be a physical insulator that drops between the contacts, to shear the arc.

Thank you

Ouch!

huhlol

The stronger the glass, the less likely the glass will shatter, that is correct, however the growth of solar panels has been driven by price efficiency. These days solar panels are produced as efficiently and cheaply as possible. If stronger glass was used, it would cost more to produce and the panels would not be price competitive. Also, broken glass is only one of several factors that can make a solar panel unsafe.

Yes they should be grounded by a single core, 6 gauge wire. And a normal house file (1,472F to 1,742F) should not compromise it as it will not reach the melting level of copper (1,984F). This video was filmed by morons that have no knowledge in how to properly wire anything. I am surprised the dude with the gloves didn't win a Darwin award.

Hi Brian, yes they should be grounded, but you would be surprised at the number of PV systems that we encounter that are either not grounded correctly or have deteriorated over time. The intention of the video is to show the audience a scenario that may be encountered, especially for first responders who don't necessarily have the appropriate training and who can underestimate the potential risks. If the education we are providing can save one life, it has made the exercise worthwhile.

Hahaha, lets hope not, hopefully renewable energy can reduce the damage we are doing to our own planet!

@@pvstop5763 😃

You are correct if you are referring specifically to residential systems, no residential system can have more than 600 VOC in series, however commercial and industrial systems can have up to 1500 VOC in series.

That's y I wrote:... resi system... I design resi and commercial grid tied pv arrays. :) #gosolar

Residential installations of 600v DC are common in most countries around the world. In Australia for example, recent legislation changes now allow for residential installations of up to 1000v DC (in series). If voltage is leaking onto the roof, evacuating the structure is a sound safety precaution, however, if the structure is on fire, it is not always practical for first responders to wait and uninstall the panels at night. In an emergency response scenario, first responders need a solution that can quickly and effectively make solar PV systems electrically safe, that is why we invented PVSTOP.

Indeed they are. A good quality, well installed PV system will give you years of trouble free service if maintained regularly. We support renewable energy by providing safety solutions for PV systems, filling a gap in current Work health and safety practices.

Contrary to popular belief, because the system is NOT earthed, it is SAFER than mains and there was absolutely NO chance of a current path through the person holding the hose. Also, the chances of there being one continuous stream of water from the nozzle to the panels at typical garden hose pressure and flow rate is very very slim to none. But I understand what you are saying.

ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-aO2xytlbGkA.html

Covering a PV system with a thick blanket or taping on carboard will achieve the same outcome as PVStop, however how do you safely access the roof if the PV system is damaged on the structure is on fire? PVStop is designed to be applied remotely, without having to directly engage with the roof or PV system thereby maintaining a safe system of work.

@@pvstop5763 how do you safely access a 10 meter high roof with a leak voltage and apply the PV stop remotely without boom truck? better cut the wiring on 1 panel at 10pm midnight.

@@bluekawish If structure height is an issue and first responders do not have access to a boom truck or ladder truck, we recommend our new drone delivery system. Stayed tuned, we will be releasing information about our new drone delivery system within the next few months.

Hi Vivek, what you are describing (remotely operated disconnection switch) is "rapid shutdown" technology which accounts for about 5% of global solar PV systems. In theory an automatic shading system would work, assuming that you keep the shutters well maintained (as they will live in the elements 24/7), that they don't compromise the load bearing capacity of the roof and that they don't cast shadow across the panels and reduce efficiency. Fortunately legislation in most countries is improving and roof access is a focus on most modern standards. Sadly most PV system owners do not regularly maintain their systems which is where most of the problems arise (poor quality system components and or poor quality installation practices).

Thanks Jim for Good suggestions.

@@vivekprabhu2651 No problem Vivek, we are all about raising awareness of the risks and improving renewable energy safety!

Solar PV Systems are best in landscape not suitable for any type of cultivation, on Rooftops, on top of irrigation canals. Similarly Wind Turbines are good at offshore if geographically it's a high wind speed region. What are your thoughts on these Jim.

@@vivekprabhu2651 Hi Vivek, I am not quite sure what you mean, are you saying that you don't think PV systems are suitable on cultivated land, rooftops and irrigation canals?

Hi Chris, all very good questions. The delivery range from a 9L (2.5 gal) vessel is approximately 10m (30ft). This is adequate to reach the solar panels on a single storey structure (as long as the solar panels are visible from ground level). We only recommend that PVSTOP is operated by trained professionals who can conduct an appropriate risk assessment (such as a firefighter or an electrical technician). So yes, the intention is that PVSTOP be carried by Fire Departments, Electrical Technicians, or stored on site for use by Fire Fighters/Electrical Technicians in an emergency event. You are correct that fire departments will treat solar panels defensively during daylight hours because of the risks associated with potentially lethal DC electrocution. PVSTOP should become standard equipment for Fire & Emergency Services Agencies, the sad fact is Australian Fire & Emergency Services Agencies have been very slow to adapt to the growing risks associated with solar panels. Although we are an Australian innovation, we are having a far more rapid uptake of PVSTOP in international markets (such as the UK, Europe, US, S/E Asia).

@@foranjim Thanks Jim, Very insightful. I'll Definitely be ordering one for my PV system when we get it installed. What's the shelf life of the product, ie, how long can it sit there on standby before needing to be serviced. That's amazing the delivery range. I have a one story house, but is on a sloping block, so been able to cover my north facing roof line from the lower ground would be very useful. You really should promote it to other youtube channels like SolarQuote etc.

@@ChrisLaNauze-Author no problem, my pleasure. The warranty on the product is 3 years and we have actually tested standing product beyond 3 years without any deterioration in product performance. However we recommend a visual inspection including an inspection of the pressure gauge every 6 months to ensure there is no pressure leakage or damage to the cylinder (just like a standard water type fire extinguisher). Yes, the deliver range is quite decent so that it can be applied from a safe distance (whether that be from the ground on a single-storey structure or an aerial appliance for a multi-storey structure). Our strategy is typically to start promoting the product publicly once we receive support from fire services (which is what we are doing in the UK, Europe and the US, but support here in Australia has been slow, which is why we have been "under the radar" in Australia up until now. Would be great if Australian Government Departments would give us the same product support that we receive O/S so that we could roll out our solution safely and responsibly here in our home market.

The water being applied to the damaged panels was a broken stream at low pressure, no test guys were harmed in the making of this video.

Hi Patrick, that is a really bad idea, sealing the damaged panel is only one aspect of the risk. The cracked panels will cause hot-spots, which can create an electrical arc, which can then create a fire. I would strongly recommend that you remove and replace any cracked panels or you could have a future fire on your hands.

@@pvstop5763 not gonna happen as long as it works. I stand by what I have done because I know that it works. I have two panels coated with Flex seal and two others that are not broken, powering an electric water heater. I get forty gallons of good old hot water anytime that I need it. 36 volts on both panels that are coated and 36.5 volts each on the other two. Going on two years now. Of course, your mileage may vary. 😉👍

@@patrickbodine1300 I can only hope that your panels are not installed on the roof of your house, wherever they are installed, I can only advise you that they are a fire risk. I have seen damaged panels operate for years without issue, I have seen others catch fire and burn houses to the ground. Best of luck and stay safe.

@@pvstop5763 😉👍

The name of the product is PVStop, it is not a gas, it is a water based polymer coating. If you are referring to the propellant, we utilise nitrogen to pressurise the portable pressure vessels.

Thank you!

Solar Edge make a good product and definitely improves safety, just be aware that the panels themselves are still live as long as they are exposed to light. The problem is, when firefighters respond to an incident, it is very difficult for them to identify the difference between a Solar Edge system, a Microinverter system or a normal string array system. Most firefighters do not have the necessary training to identify the different system types. The beauty of PVStop is it's simplicity, it is equally effective on any type of solar PV system; as long as a firefighter can see that PVStop has been applied, they know they are electrically safe. Post incident it can be peeled off and does not damage the PV system. A very simple solution that dramatically improves firefighter safety.

Hi Jean, well spotted and agreed, we are using appropriate electrical protective gloves for all our future demonstrations. Please could you clarify your question regarding voltage on roof and 100volts? I am unsure of what you mean, but I would be happy to discuss.

About the end, that wasn't really a question, but more another concern of safety for installations. Going over 100V on an roof installation of an house is dangerous and don't bring more efficiency. Then I consider installations over 100V (except specific ones) as dangerously designed from the start. And I haven't expected your answer so much time after the post of the video, that's a sign of care, a good sign.

Hi Jean, yes the vast majority of domestic, commercial and industrial PV installations around the world have voltages well in excess of 100V on their roofs. This is why fire and emergency services agencies are so concerned about the "DC Danger Zone". We provide the only solution that can quickly safely and effectively isolate the power produced by solar panels in incidents involving solar PV systems. We also provide education and training to support the product. There is currently so much myth and mis-information surrounding solar PV systems technology, which is why we try to keep up with these posts and educate people on the facts. We are passionate about renewable technology and firefighter safety and your kind words are much appreciated!

Dude, what are you talking about. We put 600v systems on rooftops all day long. To add, you wont even turn on a string inverter with only 100v. You are obviously clueless, why post shit like this? WTF?

@@jasonbone5121 Your comment isn't gonna get a response when you question so harshly.

That is definitely a safer option for working on/around damaged solar panels, but not always possible for first responders attending a fire incident during daytime and needing to save lives/property.

@Rich Ratch but .it is recommented to ground the pv.. or u will ..sometimes distroys the whole pv system..

It just provides a path from the live cells to the frame. Water conducts electricity! In reality, the frames of all PV panels are supposed to be earth grounded. It's required by the National Electrical Code.

@@vincentrobinette1507 it goes to show how little some.people know about electricity. Lol

Anything that is wet with water ( not oil or oily liquids) will boost lectricity flow.

The more extensively solar panels are damaged, the greater the risk, the video demonstrates that even partially damaged panels can create unanticipated risks. FYI, and for the sake of transparency, we managed to purchase these panels very cheaply as they had been damaged by a forklift (hence the damage in the bottom edge of every panel). The panels were used across a number of tests to the point of destruction, it would have been a great shame (and wasteful) to destroy brand new panels!

PVStop is designed to "switch off" the power produced by solar panels. In emergency situations such as fires, floods or storms, solar panels continue to produce potentially lethal amounts of DC electricity as long as they are exposed to light. In professional terms this is known as the "DC Danger Zone" and up until recently, there has been no solution to this globally recognized problem. PVStop is the solution to this problem, the polymer film technology coats the solar panels, blocking the light and making the solar panels electrically safe so that first responders and electrical contractors can perform their operations safely without the risk of electrocution.

Its essential carbon black spray mud in a fire extinguisher. Pv panels are a type of diode and block power when covered. We commonly cover a panel in each string when washing.

@@tomtaylor8462 We like to think that PVSTOP is a little more technical than "carbon black spray mud". For example, because it is an accredited first response tool, it is fire-retardant, non-flammable, non-conductive and also encases hazardous nanoparticles that can be released from burning solar panels. In addition it is environmentally friendly having been extensively tested by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Finally once an incident is over, the coating can be peeled off without causing any damage to the PV system.

Hi Kody, PVSTOP is designed to "switch off" solar panels, it sprays on like a "liquid blanket" to isolate the power produced by solar panels at the source. It is an essential tool used by first responders (firefighters & electrical technicians) to make solar panels safe if the solar panels are faulty or in an emergency situation such as a fire, flood or storm.

The problem is not solved by optimizers or microinverters, collectively referred to as "rapid shutdown" technologies, they are complimentary safety devices to the PVSTOP solution. To steer you to some of the reasoning, I have included a link to the following website www.fixmlsd.com (note that we are not affiliated with this website). In addition, first responders do not have the depth of training to be able to easily identify between a string array or a rapid shutdown array, they are always going to assume that the PV system is live and dangerous. PVSTOP is the only accredited solution that solves this fundamental problem.

Being forewarned allows you to be prepared, solar panels do not have 'off' switches

whorayful , let all just be honest with one another. Transparency sells.

I'm in Australia and had never heard of this product, I do know our fire department have issues with house fires when PV systems are installed, more than a few houses have probably burnt down due to PV faults when the panels couldn't be neutralised. This product is definitely aimed at emergency services people not the home owner. I suppose any publicity is good publicity. Ray

I am sorry you interpreted the video that way. We are not trying to scare monger, we have bee involved in the solar industry for over 40 years and firmly believe renewable energy (including solar panels) are the future of power production for the planet. However, there are genuine safety risks associated with solar PV systems that no one has adequately addressed. We are proud to be addressing these issues and improving solar system safety.

That is absolutely correct! We are raising awareness on the issues with the intention of improving safety for firefighters, emergency services personnel and electrical contractors.

Foam will extinguish a fire, but it will not make a solar PV system electrically safe.

Everything "upstream" of the breaker (also known as the isolation switch) including the panels and wiring leading to the breaker is "live" and if damaged, potentially lethal.

Hi Cameron. Yes, the demonstration unit is a basic ungrounded array. Having installed PV systems for many years we see real world examples of arrays that are not grounded correctly very regularly. This video is designed to show an example of an unanticipated risk created by a damaged solar array, not a well designed perfectly functioning grid interactive system. Rapid Shutdown devices also have limitations, there is a reason why the US (and more recently the Philippines) are the only countries in the world to legislate Rapid Shutdown. Here is a link for your reference www.fixmlsd.com and just to be clear, we are not affiliated with this website.

There is nothing wrong with healthy scepticism, feel free to do your own investigations, but everything in this video is factual. Our product PVStop is now being adopted by firefighters and emergency services personnel in several countries including the UK, Australia , Japan and the US. About the hat, it was a 35°C day and the filming took most of the day, without the hat, I would have been burnt to a crisp!

Grain of Salt? Are you Daft? Just ignorant, this Information can save lives!

I’d avoid putting salt on it. It makes water much more conductive, which is unhelpful in this situation.

It's to do with power loss through transmission, Even a 1% loss on the system above would equate to 58.5wh, however multiply that by an average of 4 peak sun hours per day over a year (Australia) you're suddenly losing a total of 85410wh (85.4Kwh) annually. I should clarify that power loss is calculated by Current squared multiplied by the resistance of the cable.

Any domestic string array (or commercial system for that matter) that does not feature microinverters or DC optimisers can have up to 600V in series. Even "rapid shutdown" systems have their limitations. The only way to ensure complete safety is to block the light reaching the solar panels - light is the source of the power.

The cheapest inverters are string inverters and they can go upto 600+V. Using microinverters will reduce voltage but the cost of wiring and the inverter itself will more than double

@@shrujanamsyama9940 its not double the cost but micros are more expensive - however what price do you put on your home or family

​@@airselectricalcontractors842 If one has 15 panels of 335W for a total of 5kW, only 1 string inverter with 600V is enough whereas 15 microinverters will be needed. In addition, the current will increase, necessitating thicker wires. This doubles the cost indeed. About price of home or family, I don't see how high voltage is a bigger risk than high amperage in causing fires. In fact, the higher amperage causes higher heat and hence increases chances of fire. As a disclosure, in my case, I live in brick homes with concrete roof as most normal people in India do. There is almost no chance of fire from solar panels at all in my case, regardless of voltage or amperage. So, it mostly boils down to cost of thick wirings and microinverters

@@shrujanamsyama9940 mate i do solar and am an electrican - micr invertors are on 4mm cable - same as string invertors - micros are 240v in australia ac not 600 plus dc - micros are protected by circuit breakers and have rapid shut down - you just turn the circuit off at your switchboard - string invertors cant be turned of while the sun is out - i know what i would put on my kidds roofs

Agreed. it's a "Photovoltaic system". Also, it's more specific, to call the individual frames, "photovoltaic panels". there are also thermal absorption panels, some heat water, others heat air. they're also panels, that harvest energy from the sun. so "solar panel" is a very generalized term. If you don't want to say "Photovoltaic", use the abbreviation "PV panels".

If you slip on it and bang your head, you see stars.

egn83b pvstop, the world's first spray-on tarp.

A tarp does not always work, UL did a comprehensive study back in 2011 titled, "Firefighter Safety & Photovoltaic Installations Research Project". You should be able to find it online (P56-58). Not to mention the risks of operating at height, weather conditions, roof load capacity, not being able to remotely detect DC electricity etc. In short, trying to de-energise a PV system by climbing onto a roof and tarping the system is a bad idea!

I agree, which is why the spray-on tarp is better!

If i overspray on someones roof will it come off. Open circuit on residential is usually 450v or less which wont make as much of an arc as you show ive only had 2 mc4 connectors arc and melt in over 2mw of residential installs in 10 years neither arc damaged the structure luckily Cool product For a very rare event at least in Florida

So would sunset, if you can wait that long.

Each cell in a solar panel produces 0.6 volts. No doubt as more cells in a panel are destroyed by fire, the electrical output of the panel will reduce. However the cells that are not damaged/destroyed in the panel (or the other panels in the string) will continue to produce power as long as they are exposed to light. So a solar PV string that is extensively damaged can still continue to produce dangerous amounts of DC electricity.