Installing solar panels serves as a warning – mistakes can lead to serious damage

OP warns that incorrect solar panel installation can cause serious damage. According to the bank, sales in Finland have fallen this year.

The OP warned in the bulletin that improper installation of solar panels could even cause fires in the worst case scenario.

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According to Pohjola Insurance, damage caused by careless or faulty solar panel installation has become more common in recent years.

“The most serious damage is usually caused by installation errors or negligence. According to damage reports, the errors have caused damage to the solar panels themselves or to the typical installation location, which is the rooftop,” said Pohjola Insurance’s claims manager Blue Kujara In the announcement.

OP says that compensable damages are usually between one thousand and four thousand euros, but in the worst case, installation errors or damage to solar panels can lead to extensive fire damage.

“When panels are installed on residential rooftops, the importance of installation and maintenance becomes even more apparent. Fortunately, fire damage related to solar panels is rare, but unfortunately, serious damage has occurred,” Kujara said.

Solar panels are subject to severe frost and storms. According to the OP, the most typical causes of damage from natural phenomena are lightning or strong winds.

“In this case, the damage could be, for example, a tree falling on the panel or the panel falling off. It is very important to regularly check the condition of the panels and contact professionals if necessary”, Kujala points out.

Sales decline

Sales of solar panels in Finland have fallen by 50 percent compared with the same period last year, according to OP Yrityspanki.

Solar panels are often installed in homes or villas. Spring and summer are usually the busiest times for solar panel sales.

“Demand for solar panels depends heavily on electricity prices. In 2022 and 2023, rising electricity costs led to a surge in demand for solar. Although sales have been falling this year, this points to a normalization of demand rather than a sharp drop,” said OP Yrityspanki’s head of cash flow and working capital. Jalimo’s Finger In the announcement.

OP Yrityspankki offers solar panel financing to consumers through its sales outlets and, according to the bank, is one of the largest solar panel financiers in Finland.