Author: Kevin Gospage, CCL Technical Manager
New BROOF (t4) Approvals Expand Module Choice for GSE In-Roof PV Systems
UK solar installers working with in-roof PV systems have been waiting for this update for some time, so it was welcome news at the end of last year when GSE confirmed new BROOF (t4) fire classification approvals covering a wider range of latest-generation PV modules.
GSE now has official BROOF (t4) fire classification reports for multiple current PV modules when installed as part of the GSE in-roof mounting system. These reports confirm that the combined roof build-up, including the in-roof mounting system plus PV module, achieves BROOF (t4) performance under the relevant test standard.
The reports have been submitted to the certification body for integration into the official MCS certificate.
Caption: The new approvals have widened the choice for GSE in-roof solar.
What Is BROOF (t4) and Why Does It Matter?
BROOF (t4) is the highest external fire performance classification for roofs under the UK / European test regime, BS EN 13501-5 using Test 4. In practical terms, it demonstrates that the tested roof build-up, including both the in-roof mounting system and the PV modules, meets stringent requirements for resistance to external fire exposure.
For designers, installers and specifiers, a BROOF (t4) classification helps to simplify building control approvals and provides reassurance that the combination of in-roof mounting plus solar panel has been tested together as a complete system to meet UK fire safety standards for roofing.
MCS Certification Status
The new BROOF (t4) reports for the modules listed in the table below have been submitted to the certification body and will be formally integrated into the GSE in-roof system MCS certificate at the next update.
In the meantime, the BROOF (t4) test reports themselves are official, and they confirm that the GSE in-roof system can be used in combination with all of the panels in the table within a BROOF (t4)-classified roof build-up.
Copies of the official test reports are available on request. Please let the CCL team know if you need documentation for a specific project.
CCL PV Modules Covered by the New BROOF (t4) Reports
All our main module manufacturers, Trinasolar, LONGi Solar and DMEGC Solar, offer panels that are covered by the BROOF (t4) reports. The modules listed have been tested in combination with the GSE in-roof mounting system and are included in the supplier’s latest BROOF (t4) classification reports. Dimensions shown are nominal module dimensions: L × W × H.
BROOF (t4) Approved PV Modules
Trinasolar PV Modules
| Module | Power Range (W) | Dimensions (mm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
TSM-450NEG9R.28 TSM-455NEG9R.28 TSM-460NEG9R.28 |
450–460 | 1762 × 1134 × 30 | Dual glass, Vertex S+, black frame, white backsheet |
|
TSM-430NEG9RC.27 TSM-435NEG9RC.27 TSM-440NEG9RC.27 TSM-445NEG9RC.27 |
430–445 | 1762 × 1134 × 30 | Bi-facial dual glass, Vertex S+, transparent |
|
TSM-440NEG9R.25 TSM-445NEG9R.25 TSM-450NEG9R.25 |
440–450 | 1762 × 1134 × 30 | Dual glass, Vertex S+, full black |
LONGi Solar PV Modules
| Module | Power (W) | Dimensions (mm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| LR7-54HVB-480M | 480 | 1800 × 1134 × 30 | 54-cell, 108 half-cut, full black |
| LR7-54HVH-485M | 485 | 1800 × 1134 × 30 | 54-cell, 108 half-cut, monofacial, black frame / white backsheet |
| LR7-60HVH-540M | 540 | 1990 × 1134 × 30 | 60-cell, 120 half-cut, monofacial |
DMEGC Solar PV Modules
| Module | Power (W) | Dimensions (mm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DM500M10RT-B60HBT | 500 | 1950 × 1134 × 30 | 60-cell, 120 half-cut, black frame transparent backsheet, bi-facial, dual glass |
Project and Design Notes
When specifying a BROOF (t4)-classified system for in-roof solar, it’s important to verify the exact module variant against the manufacturer’s data sheet and the latest BROOF (t4) report, and to ensure that the full roof build-up, including underlay, insulation and deck, aligns with the tested construction where required by local regulations.
What This Means for Your Next Project
For designers and installers working on new-build or retrofit projects where roof-integrated PV is required, these new BROOF (t4) approvals make it easier to specify in-roof PV. It opens up a much wider choice as far as modules go, giving more flexibility on power, aesthetics and availability. And with tested evidence for the complete roof build-up, it simplifies building control approvals for solar and provides reassurance to your customers.
The GSE solar mounting system allows for portrait or landscape configurations, with or without a roof window. The system is compatible with VELUX, FAKRO and ROTO. The system is lightweight and takes up very little space, with 116 half-frames per pallet, and GSE estimate that 10 to 16 panels can be installed in around 6 hours.
If you’d like support with PV module selection, documentation for a specific project, or further information about GSE in-roof BROOF (t4) approvals, speak to the CCL team.