Photovoltaics

Verify current electrical panel and service line infrastructure is in good condition, compliant with codes, and of sufficient electrical capacity (Amps) to accommodate interconnection of solar power.  Verify position of spare (unused) breaker or space to install new breaker in panel  for solar power interconnection

If a roof installation is planned, verify that the roof will support the installation (e.g., dead load, wind load) and that the current roof covering is less than 5 years old.  Verify that the type of roof is suitable for solar installation (e.g. not slate or wood shingle). The roof understructure shall be inspected and evaluated for support of PV system.  Any reinforcements, such as blocking between rafters, shall be completed before load of PV system is applied

If a roof installation is planned, the roof shall be inspected, cleaned and any necessary repairs shall be made

Design the size of PV system to serve the prescribed load

Prepare electrical one line drawing

Prepare layout drawings showing location and connections of all equipment

Provide list (make, model) of all equipment 

Design PV system layout to provide safe access around PV modules as required by codes and standards, and required clearances around balance-of-system components such as inverter and switchgear

Locate PV Modules to minimize shading factor and maximize solar gain, but not interfere with existing systems or appliance operation (e.g., chimneys, vents, exhaust terminations) 

Secure approval of design by utility and secure interconnection agreement to operate utility-connected PV system

Secure electrical permit to install and operate PV system from Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) (e.g. County building Dept.)

Installer shall meet the requirements of AHJ

Secure the mounting structures to the roof following manufacturer instructions 

Install flashing to make all roof penetrations weather-tight and leak-proof using instructions and materials specified by manufacturer

Install inverters and disconnects in a safe and accessible location, inverter shall be located in the shade when specified by manufacturer's instructions

Install solar panels on the mounting structures according to the manufacturer's instructions

The installation shall comply with all applicable codes and standards adopted by Authority Having Jurisdiction, including but not limited to: 

National Electric Code (NEC) 

International Residential Code (IRC) 

IEEE 1547 Standard for Interconnecting Distributed Resources with Electric Power Systems 

UL 1703 Standard for Flat-Plate Photovoltaic Modules and Panels 

Manufacturer's installation and operation manuals 

If conflict exists between code and manufacturer specifications, apply the more restrictive requirement 

Install PV Array and Balance of System to allow for inspection, maintenance, and replacement of the PV system components

Provide a path that allows the PV modules to be safely accessed without damaging the roof or PV modules

Install all electrical components according to the NEC and authority having jurisdiction

Fasten wires with wire ties and conduit as per design and installation instructions

The system shall be connected to the electrical grid at a location and in a method approved by the utility

If a conflict exists, the most restrictive rule applies

Monitor the system energy delivery for a minimum of 12 months and compare results with predicted energy production

Provide documentation to the building owner, including:

copy of the installation and operation manual

electrical diagrams and schematics

certificate of inspection and approval

system performance benchmark data

Inspect the installation as required by the AHJ

Perform electrical tests to verify proper operation and system performance

Tests include open circuit voltage, operating current, resistance of grounding system (should be <25 ohms), and resistance of electrical insulation (should be >1 Megohm)

Measured voltage shall be compared to reference voltage corrected for temperature

Measured current shall be compared to reference current corrected for insolation (sunlight level)

Clear jobsite of construction waste

Permanently remove all waste materials from job site and recycle or dispose of removed materials in accordance with local and federal law

Provide occupants/owners with user's manual, warranty information, installation instructions, and installer contact information

The PV modules and inverter shall be warranted by the manufacturer

Whole system shall be warranted by the installer for a period of at least 1 year

The warranty shall cover defects in materials and workmanship