Rethinking Site Security Can Help Reduce Risk of Solar Panel Theft

Theft of commercial and residential use Solar Panels have increase 15% year over year according to statistics compiled by SolarInsure.

SolarInsure’s statistical study also indicates that panels installed in remote areas are the most targeted locations for solar thefts, accounting for more than one-third of all incidents, followed by unsecured locations, such as unfenced ground mounted units and parking lots.

Solar Installers and building owners can take steps to help prevent theft, such as

• Thoroughly screen prospective employees. Security experts maintain that a high percentage of thefts involve inside information or complicity.

• Establish a security culture within your company. Provide security training for employees, and educate installers and owners in theft awareness and prevention.

• Incorporate counter surveillance into the duties of security guards, and have guards patrol away from perimeters.

• Take advantage of technology. Panel tracking, alarms and advanced, high-technology security locks are now available at lower cost.

• Conduct periodic security audits. Operations and personnel change, and criminals are always harvesting fresh ideas and modifying previous techniques. 

SolarInsure provides property and casualty insurance for commercial customers worldwide for the Solar Energy Industry including installers and manufacturers of alternative energy products.