IKEA Wembley fire (UK): what happened and how you can protect yourself when you have photovoltaic panels
· Disturbing
An incident on the roof of the IKEA store in Wembley, London, brings back into question fire prevention and extinguishing measures in photovoltaic installations.
In short
On the morning of October 16, 2025, a fire broke out at the IKEA store in Wembley, London, damaging the photovoltaic panels installed on the roof. Customers and staff were safely evacuated, and the fire brigade quickly intervened to extinguish the fire.
Confirmed facts
- Around 100 photovoltaic panels were engulfed in flames on the roof of the store in Drury Way, Wembley.
- 5 fire engines and around 30 firefighters were mobilized; the fire was brought under control after lunch, with subsequent operations to cool the area.
- About 250 people were safely evacuated; no casualties were reported.
- The cause is under investigation (possible scenarios: defect, improper installation/maintenance, damage, external source).
Main sources: BBC News – Fire at Wembley Ikea sees shoppers evacuated , Evening Standard , London Fire Brigade (post X) .
Why does this incident matter?
Commercial and residential rooftop PV installations increase energy efficiency, but they also present unique fire hazards: direct current (DC) areas, long cables, multiple connectors and difficult access to the roof. The Wembley incident highlights the importance of proactive measures to prevent, detect and mitigate the effects.
Distreo recommended solutions for photovoltaic installations
Solarstop – dedicated extinguisher for photovoltaic panels
Specialized solution for rapid intervention in incidents involving solar panels. Helps control incipient outbreaks in the area of modules and DC paths, until the arrival of intervention crews.
- Useful for commercial/residential PV roofs
- Punctual intervention, limiting the spread of the fire
- Compatible with standard safety procedures
ArcBox – autonomous extinguishing device in PV connectors
Protection at the source for one of the most sensitive areas of a PV system: connectors and joints. ArcBox acts autonomously upon the occurrence of a thermal event, limiting the risk of propagation.
- Spot coating of connectors and joint areas
- Autonomous activation, without human intervention
- Extra layer of protection in combination with regular maintenance
5 best practices for building owners with PV
- Design and install the system with authorized companies; require complete documentation and commissioning tests.
- Plan periodic maintenance (mechanical, electrical, thermographic) and keep records of interventions.
- Place appropriate fire extinguishers in key areas and train staff.
- Install protections at the source (e.g. ArcBox in connectors) and rapid intervention equipment (e.g. Solarstop).
- Update the emergency plan and evacuation routes; clearly mark the presence of DC circuits.
Do you have photovoltaic panels? Talk to us for a complete solution
The Distreo team can help you identify the risks specific to your building and choose the right equipment for prevention and intervention.
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