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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
Miscellaneous Fireline Hazards

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NWCG Latest Announcements

NEW! S-231, Engine Boss Course Available Now

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) incident qualifications. 

This is a performance-based instructor-led training (ILT) that focuses on the application of ENGB responsibilities during wildland fire operations, emphasizing readiness, information gathering, risk management, engine tactics, and Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) operations. Trainees apply these skills through scenario-based group work and an optional field day that reinforces hands-on engine operation tasks. 

References:

S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) (Instructor-led)

NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NWCG Celebrates 50 Years!

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG Executive Secretary

NWCG is proud to celebrate 50 years of service to the wildland fire community. Beginning in 1976 with an interagency agreement between the Department of Interior and Department of Agriculture, NWCG has grown to include additional member agencies and is recognized as the standard-setting leader in wildland fire operations.

To honor where we’ve been and highlight where we are going, the NWCG team has created a video showcasing our history and accomplishments. The video is now available on the NWCG website.

References:

NWCG 50 Year Anniversary Video

NEW! S-131, Firefighter Type 1 Course Available Now

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-131, Firefighter Type 1 course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this course is a performance-based instructor-led training (ILT) that focuses on the application of situational awareness and decision making, building on the knowledge and concepts introduced in previous required courses. Using a threaded fictitious fire, each unit focuses on a performance-based activity in which students practice applying their decision-making and problem-solving skills.

The S-131, Firefighter Type 1 course is required for individuals seeking qualifications to be a Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) (FFT1) or an Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5).

References:

S-131, Firefighter Type 1 (Instructor-led)

NWCG Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) Position Page

NWCG Incident Commander Type 5 Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

2026 Professional Reading List

Date: March 4, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: WFLDP Curriculum Management

The Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program (WFLDP) is announcing the 2026 Professional Reading List.  The goal of the annual reading list is to promote the reading and discussion of the selected books throughout the year. 

The six books chosen for this year are: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie; Leadership Strategy and Tactics by Jocko Willink; Meditations by Marcus Aurelious; Quiet by Susan Cain; The Little Book of Stoic Quotes by Phil Van Treuren; and The Confident Mind by Nate Zinsser.

References:

Professional Reading Program

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program