On March 27, Prof Grunde Jomaas presented at the XII International APICI Congress in Madrid. His talk, PV Fire Safety – Current Status and Needs for the Immediate Future, was part of the session Challenges of the Sustainable Environment and Fire Protection I: Energy Generation and Storage, alongside Dr Jorge Garrandés (CESVIMAP) and Dr Esther Valdivia (INERCO).

Grunde focused on the fire risks associated with photovoltaic (PV) systems, particularly recent rooftop fires. He introduced the new FRISSBE guide on improving PV installation safety on flat roofs, explaining how experimental work at the Logatec laboratory helped shape its recommendations. By simulating real-life conditions, researchers were able to assess ignition risks, fire spread, and suppression methods, leading to practical guidelines for safer PV system design and installation.

He also highlighted the growing need for collaboration between fire safety researchers, energy professionals, and policymakers. As the demand for renewable energy increases, ensuring fire safety in energy storage and generation systems becomes more critical. Looking ahead, further research and standardization efforts will be essential to minimize fire risks and support a safe transition to sustainable energy.

The APICI Congress gathered experts to discuss fire risks in the context of sustainability, making it a key event for exchanging knowledge and solutions. Grunde’s contribution reinforced the importance of integrating fire safety into the energy transition, ensuring that new technologies are both effective and secure.