Skip to main content

6MFS

6MFS Committee

All 6MFS Topics

6MFS Calendar

Aviation

Airtankers

Felling Safety

Fire Communication

Firefighter Health & First Aid

Leadership

Misc Fireline Hazards

Operational Engagement

This Day in History

Vehicles - Roads

Weather - Fire Behavior

Week of Remembrance

Solar Farm Safety

When Fire Impacts Solar Energy Farms

A photovoltaic (PV) energy system may be composed of ground- or roof-mounted solar panels, connected cables, transformers, electrical boxes, and batteries. While known for their environmental benefits as a source of renewable energy, the systems can pose a serious threat to firefighter safety when they fall in the path of wildland fires.

Electrical Hazard

As a general rule, apply powerline safety precautions to PV systems. All PV system components encountered in the fire ground should be considered “hot” and conducting live current. Electricity in significant voltages (like in PV systems) from any source can be lethal.

Solar panels and battery electric storage are an independent (off-grid) power source. Even when grid-powered electricity has been shut off to an area, the PV system will still be generating power. When the sun is shining, panels produce high voltage electricity, and panels may retain residual current even after days without sun. Additionally, any battery energy storage systems connected to the solar array will always hold electrical current day and night, regardless of grid power.

Smoke and Hazardous Materials

Treat PV systems with the same rules of suppression engagement for your agency as structures. When these systems catch fire, they release numerous toxic chemicals. Once airborne in smoke, the chemicals pose a serious threat to responders after even short-duration exposure. If you discover a burning PV system or suspect fire impact to PV components is imminent, notify all resources in the area and notify command. Ensure no personnel are downwind and maintain and establish safe distances to reduce smoke exposure in the event of changes in wind direction.

Summary

The dangers of PV systems in wildland fires are significant and should not be underestimated. The release of toxic chemicals, the risk of electric shock, and the continuous production of electricity pose serious challenges for emergency responders. Understanding these risks and implementing appropriate safety measures are crucial to minimizing the potential hazards associated with PV systems in fire situations.

Discussion Questions:

  • Have you encountered PV systems on wildfires? What was your course of action?
  • Often, we have plans for how to engage fire threatening our local communities, but do you know where any large, grid-scale PV systems are located on your local unit? Is there a suppression plan in place? Look at a map of your area and discuss.
    • How would you engage fire there? Discuss considerations like surrounding fuels, access, seasonal winds, etc.
  • How would you identify and communicate the presence of PV systems when working in the urban interface? Discuss your crew’s approach. 
     

References:

Category
Misc Fireline Hazards

6MFS Suggestion Form


Have an idea or feedback?

Share it with the NWCG 6MFS Subcommittee
 


Follow NWCG on X and Facebook
 


 

Last Modified / Reviewed:

Print PDF

NWCG Latest Announcements

NEW! Incident Performance and Training Modernization Story Map Now Available

Date: Aug 26, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
National Wildfire Coordinating Group

NWCG is excited to announce the launch of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) Story Map, a new interactive resource that showcases how NWCG is transforming wildland fire training and qualifications through a performance-based system.

Since its launch in 2023, IPTM has made major strides in updating how we manage incident positions:

  • 36 incident positions now have new Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books available for field use
  • 6 more incident positions are nearing completion
  • 111 total incident positions are being analyzed through the IPTM initiative

The Story Map guides you through the IPTM process, highlights key accomplishments, and outlines what’s ahead. Whether you are a trainer or a trainee, this tool offers valuable insight into the modernization effort shaping the future of wildland fire training and qualifications.

This effort would not be possible without the contributions of NWCG staff, NWCG committees, and hundreds of subject matter experts across the wildland fire community.

References:

IPTM Story Map

Incident Performance and Training Modernization Webpage

NEW! S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended) Available Now

Date: Aug 15, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that the S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended) training is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal. S-290 (Blended) training combines online training and instructor-led training components that support individuals working towards any Single Resource Boss or Fire Effects Monitor incident qualifications.

This second course in the series collectively serves to develop fire behavior prediction knowledge and skills, and provides more detailed information on fuels, weather, and topography that affect wildland fire behavior for safety purposes.

Students are required to finish the prerequisite S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, before enrolling in S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended).

References:

S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended)

S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NEW! S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) Now Available

Date: Aug 14, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Interagency Helicopter Operations Subcommittee

The S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) is now available. Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) incident qualifications. 

S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) training combines online training and instructor-led training components. This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of the HECM position, as described in the NWCG Incident Position Standards for Helicopter Crewmember, PMS 350-22.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended)

NWCG Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books Now Available for FBAN and LTAN

Date: Aug 13, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books are now available for Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAN) and Long Term Fire Analyst (LTAN).

The Performance Support Packages for these positions were developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort. These resources support trainees, qualified personnel, and evaluators in their respective roles.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

NWCG Fire Behavior Analyst Position Page

NWCG Long Term Fire Analyst Page