LAHORE – The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PMDA) has issued guidelines for the installation of solar panels in Punjab days after the poor installation panels caused damages in recent windstorms.
PDMA has asked all commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab to implement the new regulations.
In light of the instructions issued by the Energy Department, PDMA said the district administration should immediately provide SOPs to all relevant stakeholders (building owners, solar vendors, and installers).
According to PDMA, solar systems should only be installed by experts approved by AEDB. A prompt inspection should be carried out of solar systems installed in sensitive public buildings such as schools, hospitals, and offices.
Municipal corporations and building authorities have been directed to strictly enforce regulatory guidelines on solar installations. It has been stated that public awareness campaigns should be conducted through local media, mosques, community leaders, and district information officers.
DG Irfan Ali Kathia said that solar panels should be installed in a secure, robust, and sealed manner; panels should be safely fastened with stainless steel nuts, bolts, and spring washers.
Cables should be tied using standard ties and the use of wire or ordinary rope should be avoided. The inverter, battery, and meter should be installed above ground or placed at an elevated location.
The directive stated that drainage paths should not be blocked, and roof cleaning should be ensured. For protection against hailstorms, high-impact rating solar panels should be selected.
