Fair Trading Minister Anthony Roberts is warning flood victims with solar panel installations to stay well clear when returning to their homes and businesses.

Mr Roberts said there were possible electrical hazards concerning solar panels or Photovoltaic Arrays (PV Arrays), which can generate an electrical current regardless of whether or not the electrical supply from the state grid has been turned off.

“People should be very cautious when re-entering flood affected premises fitted with solar panels,” he said.

“Just because the power is off, does not mean solar panels do not pose an electrocution risk.

“Home owners should be aware that solar panels can continue to generate electricity during daylight hours.

“If you are unsure about the state of your solar panel installation, contact the installer or get the advice of a licensed electrician.

“Do not turn on the equipment without checking first.”

Mr Roberts said when inverter or switching gear was immersed in water, electrical arcing was highly probable within the equipment.

“If this arcing is left unchecked, it may lead to a fire,” he said.

“Solar panels will generate potentially lethal voltages during day light hours and these voltages will be present in all cables between the array and the inverter.”

Mr Roberts said technical advice had been provided to Emergency Services workers and agencies but stressed that the public also needed to exercise caution.

“People should also apply caution when using any electrical items affected by water, such as toasters and home entertainment systems,” he said.

“Get them checked first by a licensed electrician.”

For further information or to check the licence credentials of an electrician contact Fair Trading on 13 32 20 or visit the NSW Fair Trading website.

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