With solar power now firmly established as a mainstream energy choice for South Africans, ASP Fire, a leading fire risk consulting company, has cautioned that poorly designed or badly installed systems are increasingly giving rise to dangerous fire incidents.
CEO Michael van Niekerk notes that the rapid expansion of the solar market, coupled with the influx of new suppliers and installers, has heightened the risk of unsafe practices. A major insurance company recently reported a notable increase in property damage linked to defective workmanship and substandard solar equipment.
“Lithium battery fires are among the most challenging to contain because they are self-sustaining,” says van Niekerk. “Once a battery goes into thermal runaway, the fire can escalate rapidly and becomes very difficult to extinguish.” He stresses that only systems signed off by qualified engineers and equipped with robust battery management systems can provide adequate protection.
While solar energy continues to offer households and businesses greater independence and long-term savings, van Niekerk warns that cutting corners on installation or relying on low-quality components can have catastrophic consequences. Issues such as arc faults in DC circuits, inadequate surge protection, or faulty wiring are among the leading causes of solar-related fires.
ASP Fire highlights the importance of preventative measures such as choosing certified installers, ensuring that a Certificate of Compliance is issued, and insisting on quality components from reputable suppliers. Regular maintenance and inspections also play a vital role in safeguarding system integrity, while monitoring tools can help detect anomalies before they develop into major hazards.
“Solar energy is here to stay, but safety cannot be an afterthought,” concludes van Niekerk. “By prioritising quality, compliance, and proper oversight, South Africans can harness renewable power with confidence while reducing the risk of fire.”
ASP Fire continues to provide specialised risk assessments, consulting services, and fire safety training, supporting both homeowners and businesses in making solar power a safe and sustainable investment.
Ends
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Notes to the Editor
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About ASP Fire
ASP Fire operates across the entire African continent from its Gauteng base, providing professional, accredited fire risk management and support to its clients. ASP Fire designs, installs, and maintains a full range of fire detection and suppression equipment suited to clients’ needs. ASP Fire provides a holistic, proactive, and preventative fire solution based on integrated fire risk assessment, training, and consulting, with the installation and maintenance of fire detection and suppression systems that meet SABS, NFPA, FPASA, and SAQCC standards.
ASP Fire Contact
Michael van Niekerk
ASP Fire
CEO
Phone: +27 (0) 11 452 2169
Cell: +27 (0) 83 779 1701
Fax: +27 (0) 86 505 1030
Email: michael@aspfire.co.za
Web: www.aspfire.co.za
Media Contact
Thobile Ndlovu
Senior PR Account Executive
NGAGE Public Relations
Phone: (011) 867-7763
Cell: 073 574 2931
Email: thobile@ngage.co.za
Web: www.ngage.co.za
Browse the NGAGE Media Zone for more client press releases and photographs at http://media.ngage.co.za
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ASP Fire CEO Michael van Niekerk
Fire risks in solar installations and inverters
The importance of proper installation and maintenance to ensure safety and efficiency
High-quality components from reputable manufacturers to avoid the dangers associated with counterfeit or substandard products. - Solar growth sparks safety concerns over fire risks_approved
Solar growth sparks safety concerns over fire risks_approved
