Storms can cause serious damage to solar power systems—especially on farms where open spaces and exposed installations are the norm. If you’re running your farm off solar or using it to supplement Eskom, storm protection isn’t optional—it’s essential. Here’s how to prepare your farm’s solar installation for harsh weather.
1. Use Strong Mounting Frames Built for Wind
Make sure your solar panels are mounted with galvanised steel or anodised aluminium frames rated for high wind zones. Poor-quality brackets often twist or rip out during gusts. Roof-mounted panels should be double-bolted with wind deflectors where needed.
2. Ground the System Properly (Lightning Protection)
Lightning strikes can destroy inverters and panels in a second. Ensure that your system is properly earthed with copper grounding rods and surge protectors installed at the DC and AC combiner boxes. Install a lightning rod for added protection if your system is freestanding.
3. Install Surge Protection Devices (SPDs)
Install surge arrestors between your panels, inverter, and grid connections. These help to absorb voltage spikes caused by indirect lightning strikes or electrical surges during power cuts and storm events.
4. Regular Thermal Imaging Scans
Thermal scans help identify loose or overheating connections before they fail during a storm. Loose connectors are more likely to arc or melt under surge conditions. FarmTech Engineer offers mobile thermal inspections for rural farms in the Western Cape.
5. Secure All Exposed Cabling
Storm winds can whip and tear exposed cables loose. All cabling should be inside UV-rated conduit or buried underground. Junction boxes must be weatherproof (IP65 minimum) and sealed against water ingress.
6. Use a Monitoring System with Alerts
A smart monitoring system can alert you to faults or abnormal temperatures during a storm. Use remote access via Wi-Fi or GSM so you don’t have to climb into the rain to check the inverter.
7. Do a Pre-Storm Checklist
- Check all panels and mounts are tight
- Inspect cables for wear or looseness
- Clear branches and debris from around the array
- Shut off system manually during extreme lightning events
Need Help? Book a Solar Safety Check
FarmTech Engineer offers thermal scans, inverter inspections, and storm-proofing consultations for farms near Heidelberg, Riversdale, and George. Let’s protect your investment before the next big storm hits.
FarmTech Engineer – Your partner in off-grid and solar farm systems, based in Heidelberg, Western Cape.