By Our Correspondent
National News – The Federal Government has raised alarm over rising fire incidents linked to poorly installed rooftop solar systems across Nigeria, urging strict compliance with safety standards.
The warning was issued on April 20, 2026, by the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), which identified faulty installations, substandard materials, and lack of certified professionals as key causes.
As more Nigerians turn to solar power due to unreliable electricity supply, authorities say the trend, while beneficial, is becoming dangerous without proper regulation.
According to NEMSA, the fires are occurring nationwide, particularly in residential buildings where rooftop photovoltaic systems are installed without adequate technical oversight.
The agency explained that many installers fail to meet required standards, increasing risks to lives and property.
To address this, NEMSA released new safety guidelines under the Electricity Act 2023, mandating that only certified contractors handle installations.
The agency emphasised that qualified installers must conduct proper load assessments before installation to ensure systems are correctly sized and safe.
It also highlighted the importance of using durable mounting structures and ensuring roofs can support solar panels.
Damaged panels, including those with cracks or loose components, must not be used due to their potential to cause electrical faults and fires.
To prevent overheating, NEMSA directed that solar panels maintain adequate clearance from roofing materials for ventilation.
Installers are also required to include safety devices such as circuit breakers, isolators, surge protectors, and proper earthing systems.
Battery storage systems must be placed in well-ventilated areas away from living spaces, with lithium batteries requiring temperature control systems.
Furthermore, the agency advised regular maintenance, including cleaning panels and inspecting cables, inverters, and connectors.
It stressed that proper cable routing and separation of power and communication lines are critical to avoiding system failure.
NEMSA warned that adherence to these guidelines is essential to ensure safety, improve system performance, and support Nigeria’s renewable energy transition without compromising public safety.
