The Cost of Not Using Rapid Shutdown Devices in Solar Projects

We’ve all heard it before: “That’s an extra cost we don’t need right now.” But when it comes to rapid shutdown devices, cutting corners can cost you far more than you save. Solar fires, failed inspections, higher insurance premiums—these aren’t just hypotheticals. They’re real risks with real price tags.

In this article, I’ll break down the true cost of not using rapid shutdown devices, and how Fonrich delivers a solution that pays for itself in safety, compliance, and peace of mind.

The Hidden Costs of Skipping RSDs

Let’s talk numbers. A single solar fire can result in:

• Property damage: easily six figures or more
• Legal liability: especially if firefighters or tenants are injured
• Insurance hikes: some carriers raise premiums by 20–30% after incidents
• Reputational damage: losing clients and future business

And here’s the kicker: most of these are preventable with the right safety hardware.

Rapid Shutdown Devices: An Investment, Not an Expense

Think of module-level RSDs like seatbelts in a car. You hope you never need them, but you’d never drive without them. The upfront cost is minimal compared to the protection they provide.

In fact, many installers report that adding Fonrich RSDs actually lowers long-term operating costs by reducing maintenance needs and improving system reliability.

Fonrich: Maximum Safety, Minimum Hassle

Fonrich’s rapid shutdown devices are engineered for durability and ease of use. They’re affordable, easy to install, and compatible with nearly any system. That means you’re not just buying safety—you’re buying efficiency and scalability.

Real-World ROI

One commercial solar project in Texas avoided a potentially catastrophic arc fault thanks to Fonrich RSDs. The system detected the issue, shut down the affected section, and sent an alert before any damage occurred. The facility manager later said the devices “paid for themselves in that one event.”

Conclusion: Don’t Wait for a Disaster

The cost of inaction is always higher than the cost of prevention. With Fonrich, you’re not just meeting codes—you’re protecting your investment, your reputation, and the people who depend on your system.

Safety isn’t a line item. It’s the foundation.