Fire breaks out at Panevėžys textile factory after solar panels ignite

A fire erupted at the Linas textile factory in Panevėžys on Wednesday after solar panels installed on the building’s roof caught fire, local media LRT.lt reports.

The blaze began around 11:00 AM on S. Kerbedžio Street, where 360 square metres of the roof—covered with solar power modules—was engulfed in flames. Firefighters contained the fire by midday and declared it fully extinguished by 1:13 PM, though crews remained on site to dismantle and cool structures to prevent reignition.

Residents received mobile alerts warning of potential air pollution due to the incident, advising them to stay indoors, close windows, and monitor official updates. However, the Environmental Protection Department reported no elevated pollution levels in the city.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Founded in 1957, Linas manufactures linen fabrics and home textiles, employing around 230 workers according to state social insurance records. No injuries were reported.