Photovoltaic panels stolen in

Are solar panels stolen?

By way of example, in August, solar panels worth approximately £10 500 were stolen from an energy farm in Northamptonshire. Solar panel theft is not limited to large scale and commercial solar farms either – homes in remote areas are also vulnerable, with thieves reportedly swiping panels from people’s roofs. Why?

What should I do if my solar panels are stolen?

Ensure your homeowner’s insurance policy covers your solar panels in case of theft. Some solar panel owners choose to install GPS tracking devices on their panels, allowing them to be tracked and located if stolen. Ensure your solar panels are professionally installed.

Are solar panels causing a rise in solar crime?

A rise in solar crime means eco-conscious homeowners and farmers who have diversified into renewables should check their security and insurance. The warning comes after police figures revealed a 48 per cent rise in solar panel and cabling theft from 2021 to 2022.¹

Is solar theft a problem in the UK?

Rural theft has long been an issue in the UK. It is a sinister practice, with repercussions that are as much emotional, as they are commercial. After all, for a small farm, solar panels are a huge investment. Not only that, but if solar theft is not brought under control, it will delay the country from reaching its net zero goals.

How to protect solar panels from theft?

You can use mechanical locks on the mounting equipment to prevent the panels from being easily removed. The locks should be custom-designed for solar panel installation and tamper-resistant. Installing an alarm system that triggers a loud noise if the panels are tampered with can help deter potential thieves.

How much property was stolen from UK solar sites last year?

Speakers at the event, held in Telford, in the west of England, appealed for solar site owners to report all incidents of criminal damage, no matter how small. Taylor said GBP 574,300 ($691,500) worth of property was reported stolen from UK solar sites last year, but noted that the real figure is likely higher.