SolarWorld has recalled approximately 1.3 million solar panel systems in the U.S. and 210,000 in Canada installed with bare-copper grounding lugs. These systems, installed after June 1, 2010, may have been fitted with grounding lugs that can corrode over time, potentially leading to a faulty electrical ground. One report of corrosion has been received, though no injuries have been reported. Consumers are advised to check their systems and contact SolarWorld for a free inspection and replacement of the affected parts.
The bare-copper grounding lugs can corrode, which may break the electrical ground circuit. This creates a serious risk of electric shock, electrocution, or a fire starting on the roof or within the system.
Customers may be able to identify from the ground whether a tin-coated lug (silver) or a bare-copper lug (brown) has been used on their solar panels. Consumers who can identify the improper lugs should contact SolarWorld for replacement. If customers cannot determine which grounding lugs were used, they should contact SolarWorld to have an authorized SolarWorld agent inspect the installation and replace the lugs with tin-coated grounding lugs or equally safe alternative remedy at no cost to consumers. SolarWorld is requesting that distributors and others remove SolarWorld's installation instructions dated before June 2014 from their websites or other commercial information sources.
Improper Bare-Copper Lugs Installed on Roof
Proper Tin-Coated Lugs Installed on Roof
Improper Bare Copper Grounding Lug
Proper Tin-Coated Copper Grounding Lug
If you or a family member were harmed by this recalled product, you may have legal rights. Consider consulting a consumer protection attorney to understand your options for compensation.
This is general information, not legal advice. Go Backs is not a law firm and does not provide legal services.
AI-Enhanced Content: The summary, action steps, and risk assessment on this page were generated by AI from official government recall data to improve readability. This is not legal or medical advice. Always refer to the official agency sources below for authoritative information.
Sources: CPSC Notice · Raw API Response