Case Study
White Paper: Fire Safety in Building-Applied PV Systems
Industry
Renewable Energy (Solar Energy)
October 2024
Overview
JinkoSolar, in collaboration with ESL and DEWA, local laboratories accredited by the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense, tested their panels for fire safety compliance. They sought an independent analysis of the results to assess the panels’ performance against the UAE Fire Code and IEC 61730-2:2023 standards. We conducted a thorough review of the test data and compiled a comprehensive white paper, offering clear and objective insights to support JinkoSolar’s commitment to providing safe, reliable solutions in the UAE market.
Challenges
- Technical Complexity of IEC Standards: The IEC standards themselves are highly technical, and the client needed the findings to be presented merely for a broad audience. This was a challenge, but thanks to our specialized technical team, we successfully simplified the complex data into user-friendly insights.
- Coordination with Multiple Stakeholders: Coordinating with multiple stakeholders, including ESL, and DEWA laboratories, created logistical complexities and occasional delays.
Our Approach
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Research and Familiarization
We began by studying the IEC 61730-2:2023 standards for photovoltaic module safety, focusing on the BAPV fire tests (MST 22-26) as key benchmarks for fire performance. We also reviewed the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code and the EN 13501-5 standard, including Class B-roof T4 specifications, to ensure full compliance with fire safety regulations.
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Panel Preparation and Testing Coordination
We worked closely with JinkoSolar to ensure the panels were in compliance with the required specifications for fire safety testing. The selected panels were sent to accredited local laboratories, such as ESL and DEWA for fire safety testing.
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Review and Analysis of Test Results
Upon receiving the test results, our technical team carefully analyzed the data to confirm that the panels met the necessary fire safety benchmarks outlined in the IEC 61730-2:2023 and EN 13501-5 standards. This analysis ensured that the panels were fully compliant with local and international regulations.
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Simplification and Clear Reporting
Given the highly technical nature of the test results, our team worked to simplify and present the findings in a clear, accessible format. We ensured the results were communicated in a way that both technical experts and non-experts could easily understand, making the findings actionable for regulatory authorities and industry stakeholders.
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Final Report and Stakeholder Engagement
The final step involved compiling the results into a white paper. This paper was delivered to JinkoSolar to facilitate engagement with key decision-makers and regulatory bodies in the UAE. The report reinforced JinkoSolar’s commitment to safety and compliance within the local market.
Result
- Informed Decision-Making: In light of recent concerns over BAPV system fires, the detailed fire safety analysis gave JinkoSolar the confidence to confirm their panels’ compliance with UAE regulations, enabling informed, safety-driven decisions in the market.
- Increased Stakeholder Engagement: The bilingual white paper made the fire safety results accessible to a wide range of stakeholders, fostering trust and engagement by clearly demonstrating the panels’ compliance with safety standards.
- Enhanced Reputation and Market Position: By prioritizing fire safety, JinkoSolar reinforced its reputation as a reliable and responsible solar provider, reassuring buyers of the safety and compliance of their investments.
Edgard Abou Kheir
“I recently collaborated with the Solarabic team to write a white paper addressing the fire safety requirements of the UAE and showcasing JinkoSolar's compliance. I was highly impressed with their professionalism, expertise, and dedication to delivering a high-quality document. The team demonstrated a deep understanding of both the technical aspects of fire safety and the specific regulations in the UAE. The final white paper was well-structured, informative, and visually appealing. It effectively conveyed the key messages and provided compelling evidence of Jinkosolar's commitment to fire safety.
I would highly recommend the Solarabic team to anyone in need of technical writing or content creation services. They are a talented and reliable team that consistently delivers exceptional results.”
