As the effects of the category five Cyclone Ita are felt in Far North Queensland in the wake of the storm, there have been concerns over Cyclone Ita solar panel safety.
As solar PV systems are powered by the sun, they continue to generate electricity regardless of whether or not the mains power supply has been switched off.
This can cause serious bodily harm in the wake of cyclones if the systems become damaged or submerged in flood waters. Cyclone Ita solar damage could cause serious injury if these precautions are not considered.
Cyclone Ita Solar Panel Damage Advice
Industrial Relations Minister Cameron Dick said that anyone working around solar panels or their cables should treat them as if they were live.
“If you are on the roof, keep well away from solar panels and their cables. If a building is unroofed or solar panels end up on the ground, the same care should be taken. The panels may be live.”
Ergon Energy has released guidelines concerning safety regulations of solar panels after a major weather event. After a cyclone do not reconnect your solar system if your property’s roof has been damaged. Your roof may have become electrically charged, or your system may have become live due to any residual moisture.
Inspect the solar PV system without touching the roof and if it appears damage has occurred, contact the installer or a licensed electrician to survey the extent of the damage, and to make repairs. If there has been flooding in your area and your solar PV system has been submerged for any length of time do not operate any switches as moisture may have resulted in the system becoming live.
Attempting to operate your solar system following a major weather event may result in life threatening electric shock, even if mains power is disconnected. After the cyclone has depleted and/or flood waters have receded, contact a Clean Energy Council accredited installer and they will recommission your solar PV system. Do not attempt to turn your system on until a licensed electrician has verified its safety.
Cyclone Ita was downgraded to a tropical low earlier this week. It landed in Cooktown and moved south through Cairns and Townsville. No serious injury or death has been reported following the cyclone.
Cyclone Ita Solar Panel Damage
**By Australian Solar Quotes **
