Solar panel array that flew off Hong Kong building was illegal and structure must be removed, authorities reveal
- Fears raised after collapse of more than 10 solar panels from building in Tuen Mun during Wednesday’s rainstorm, hitting two cars below
- Buildings Department says no obvious danger to the structure of the industrial building involved has been noted
An array of solar panels that flew off a building and hit two cars during a rainstorm was installed illegally and the remaining support structure must be removed, Hong Kong authorities have confirmed.
The incident on Wednesday sparked concern with building experts warning about the possible prevalence of illegally installed solar panels, amid ongoing efforts by authorities to promote the installations as a source of renewable energy.
In a reply to the Post, the Buildings Department on Friday said no obvious danger to the structure of the industrial building involved was noted, but it would continue to follow up on compliance of the removal order.
“The building works for the supporting structures of the solar photovoltaic system in question have neither been submitted under the simplified requirements of the Minor Works Control System nor have obtained the prior approval and consent from the Buildings Department,” a spokesman said on Friday.
“The subject works are therefore considered as unauthorised building works and a removal order has been served on the concerned owner.”
Fears were raised after more than 10 solar panels on the Tung Ming Industrial Building in Tuen Mun became detached during Wednesday’s rainstorm, plunged to the ground and hit two cars at around 10.39am. Both drivers were unharmed.