As the UK pushes toward ambitious net-zero and renewable energy targets, leading UK fire extinguisher manufacturer, Britannia Fire, has launched PVSTOP, a solar panel blockout solution, in lightweight, composite units for easy use and transport. PVSTOP’s liquid coating acts like a blanket, instantly blocking light and safely shutting down solar panels during an emergency.
Organisations in the private and public sectors are increasingly embracing solar technology to power their premises and reduce their carbon footprint. While this growth brings enormous environmental benefits, it also presents new safety challenges for maintenance crews and firefighters.
Solar panels generate electricity whenever exposed to light and cannot simply be ‘switched off’ in an emergency. This ‘DC Danger Zone’ creates persistent electrical hazards that exist regardless of isolator switches, rapid shutdown systems, or other electrical controls. PVSTOP addresses this fundamental problem by blocking light at the source, immediately stopping power generation on contact. Even with partial coverage, it effectively breaks the electrical circuit and renders panels electrically safe.
The system allows first responders and maintenance teams to safely isolate panels in the event of a short circuit, storm damage, or at the first signs of smoke or arcing, long before a situation escalates out of control.
PVSTOP is the only solar safety solution to achieve ISO 14034:2016 Environmental Technology Verification, with independent testing confirming effectiveness. The technology has been operationally validated by major fire services worldwide, including London Fire Brigade, Fire Department of New York, and Singapore Civil Defence Force.
PVSTOP is non-flammable, fire-retardant, weatherproof, and can be safely used on both wet and dry surfaces. Effective on all types of solar panels, the liquid coating solidifies and peels away easily without damaging solar panels. It can remain in place for up to 12 months. Water-based and non-toxic, it is safe to dispose of with general waste.
Britannia Fire’s durable composite P50 units provide the perfect delivery system for PVSTOP. Composite cylinders are up to 50% lighter than traditional steel models, making them easier to handle and transport. They are corrosion-resistant, ideal for outdoor or coastal solar installations, fully recyclable, and environmentally friendly. PVSTOP is available in 6L and 9L units, which do not require costly annual servicing.
Jim Foran, Co-Founder and CEO of PVSTOP International Ltd, said: “PVSTOP solves a problem most people don’t know exists. Solar panels generate potentially lethal DC electricity when exposed to light, regardless of any switches or shutdown systems. Until now, there’s been no practical way to eliminate this hazard at source. This partnership with Britannia Fire combines our proven de-energisation technology with their market-leading composite delivery system to provide UK organisations with a genuine safety solution.”
“As the UK’s solar industry expands, safety innovation must keep pace,” said Andy Spence, Joint Managing Director of Britannia Fire. “The partnership with PVSTOP International Ltd demonstrates Britannia Fire’s commitment to innovation and protecting people, property and the environment.
“Our revolutionary composite units are popular with customers because they’re lightweight, easy to handle, and require minimal maintenance. The addition of PVSTOP further strengthens our P50 product range and provides a simple and effective solar safety solution for both the public and private sectors.”
For more information about Britannia Fire and PVSTOP, please visit www.britannia-fire.co.uk/product/pvstop or email sales@britannia-fire.co.uk
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