(Image source from the internet)
Frequent fire incidents pose “hidden threats” to traditional photovoltaic scenarios. Coupled with the rapid adoption of lightweight modules in distributed PV systems, major safety events such as component fires and arc faults have been reported in multiple regions, drawing industry-wide attention. Although lightweight modules offer reduced weight, their electrical connectors and protective materials are more susceptible to external damage or aging failure. Once an arc fault occurs, the consequences could be catastrophic.
PV Systems Go Lightweight, But Safety Must Not Be “Taken Lightly”
Most traditional PV safety measures (such as fuses, circuit breakers, and centralized AFCI) only provide protection at the string or system level, unable to locate and rapidly isolate faults at individual modules. Lightweight modules are often installed in structurally sensitive areas like color steel tiles or plastic roofs, where localized overheating or uncontrolled sparks can rapidly escalate. Due to the lack of module-level rapid shutdown and monitoring capabilities, emergency response is delayed, risks are difficult to predict, and the “last mile” of safety protection remains unaddressed.
(Image source from the internet)
To reduce weight, lightweight modules often utilize new materials and thin structural designs, resulting in relatively weaker mechanical strength and conductive stability in their terminals, busbars, and backsheets. During actual use, minor transportation vibrations, temperature fluctuations, or installation stress can lead to poor contact or cold solder joints, thereby triggering series or parallel arc faults. Once an arc occurs, the modules themselves struggle to interrupt the fault path, making it highly likely for ignition sources to form in confined environments such as rooftops, leading to extensive damage.
Fonrich Safety Protector: A Dedicated “Firewall” for Lightweight Modules
Fonrich Module-level Safety Protector employs a triple-protection system to precisely address the electrical safety challenges of lightweight modules:
Module-level Arc Fault Protection
The Fonrich Safety Protector features advanced arc detection capabilities, capable of identifying series or parallel arc faults within photovoltaic modules in milliseconds. Upon detecting anomalies, the system instantly cuts off the circuit, preventing sustained arcing that could lead to fires.
This function is particularly suited for lightweight modules and color steel tile roofs—applications highly sensitive to high temperatures—effectively reducing roofs.
Module-level Rapid Shutdown
When the system detects a fault or receives an emergency shutdown command, the Fonrich Safety Protector enables independent rapid shutdown at the level of each individual PV module, swiftly reducing voltage to safe thresholds (e.g., below 30V).
This functionality fully complies with international safety standards such as NEC, UL3741, and IEC 63027, making it widely applicable in residential and commercial rooftops, gas stations, highways, and other scenarios requiring ensured fire rescue safety.
Intelligent Module-level Data Monitoring
Equipped with an integrated communication module and connected to the SafeSolar platform, the Fonrich Safety Protector collects real-time operational data for each module, including current, voltage, temperature, and arc fault alerts. It not only enables module-level visual monitoring but also provides early warnings of potential risks, helping maintenance teams accurately locate issues and enhancing power plant operational efficiency and return on investment.
Practical Implementation Cases
Full Compatibility and Stable Operation in Lightweight Module Projects
In addition to conventional modules, Fonrich Safety Protectors have now been deployed in multiple lightweight module projects, achieving seamless compatibility with various module brands. Designed for easy installation and long-term stable performance, these compact devices are discreetly installed beneath the modules, quietly safeguarding and monitoring each photovoltaic panel to ensure both safety and optimal efficiency!
Mortar Production Plant Rooftop Project Picture —— Zhejiang 199.68kWp
Office Park Rooftop Project Picture —— Zhejiang 611.52kWp
Safety is not an optional feature, but a standard requirement for every project! Every arc fault is a test of the power plant’s safety. Every safety closed loop is a safeguard of user trust. Fonrich consistently upholds the principle: “Module-level electrical safety fundamentally prevents fire risks.”
To learn more about Fonrich New Energy’s products, technical solutions, and collaboration opportunities, please visit our official website at www.fonrich.com or contact us via email at info@fonrich.com.
Company Profile
Fonrich (Shanghai) New Energy Technology Co., Ltd., founded in 2011, is a national high-tech enterprise specializing in safety and intelligent operation and maintenance for new energy power plants. Driven by core technologies, the company’s business covers PV plant yield optimization, system safety protection, and full-lifecycle intelligent management. With over 200 patent applications, Fonrich’s core technologies include AFCI arc fault detection algorithms, PV module rapid shutdown, and power control methods. Its products have been deployed in numerous residential, commercial, industrial, and utility-scale PV projects worldwide.
