Path-Q Solar
What inspection should follow a lightning strike near a solar array?
Answer
Arrange a qualified post-lightning inspection of the array, wiring, inverter, protection devices, grounding and bonding, roof attachments, and related building electrical equipment. A nearby strike can cause surge damage without obvious physical marks or an immediate production loss.
Key points
- The inspection should include fault logs, surge-protection devices, disconnects, combiner equipment, connectors, grounding paths, and communications equipment.
- Inspect the array and roof for burn marks, damaged modules, displaced hardware, and water entry.
- Check connected equipment such as batteries, backup equipment, and service-panel components when applicable.
- Preserve photographs and records for any warranty or insurance claim.
What it depends on
- Whether the strike was direct, nearby, or only suspected
- System design and installed surge protection
- Whether the home experienced electrical damage or a power event
- Visible damage and system fault history
Risks and trade-offs
- Some surge damage is latent and may fail later.
- Testing or resetting equipment without inspection can expose people to damaged energized components.
- A broad inspection costs more than a basic visual check but reduces the chance of missing hidden damage.
Information you may need
- Date, location, and apparent proximity of the strike
- Photos, utility outage information, and other damaged appliances
- Inverter and battery fault logs
- System drawings and equipment list
Your next step
What to do next
Leave suspected damaged equipment in the safest available state and request a documented post-lightning inspection from a qualified solar or electrical provider.
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