PV Magazine has published an article on a series of rooftop photovoltaic fire tests commissioned jointly by EUMEPS and the German Rigid Foam Industry Association, IVH. The seven tests, carried out by Kiwa BDA between October 2024 and April 2025, examined how different roof configurations and materials can influence fire behaviour beneath rooftop PV installations. The results were subsequently analysed by researchers from the Danish Institute of Fire and Security Technology (DBI), who witnessed the tests and reviewed the test reports, videos and temperature data.
One of the main findings highlighted by PV Magazine concerns the use of a 12 mm cement-bonded particle board between the roofing membrane and EPS insulation. In three of the four configurations tested with this additional layer, self-sustained flame spread was prevented after the ignition source was removed. More broadly, the tests showed that the fire behaviour of such a complex system cannot be defined by looking at a single specific material and its combustibility. The roofing membrane, protective layers, insulation, PV configuration and installation conditions all interact and need to be considered as part of the complete roof-PV system.
These tests formed the technical basis of EUMEPS’ work on rooftop PV fire safety. EUMEPS has brought together the detailed test results, configurations, and technical explanations
The full article by Emiliano Bellini, published by PV Magazine on 22 September 2026, can be read on the PV Magazine website.