Photovoltaic panel installation inspection standards

What are the standards for photovoltaics?

There are numerous national and international bodies that set standards for photovoltaics. There are standards for nearly every stage of the PV life cycle, including materials and processes used in the production of PV panels, testing methodologies, performance standards, and design and installation guidelines.

What is a solar panel inspection?

The solar inspection process is one of the most time-consuming parts of any company’s operations, from design to installation. PV Education 101: A Guide for Solar Installation Professionals shows how to frame solar panel inspection when speaking to your customers about development costs and installation timelines.

What is a model inspection checklist for rooftop PV systems?

Model Inspection Checklist for Rooftop PV Systems IREC provides a model checklist for municipalities to adopt an inspection checklist that can be used for streamlined on-site verification of compliance with code requirements for inspectors.

What is included in a solar inspection?

There’s some published examples of what is included in a solar inspection such as SolarAPP+ and California’s solar permitting guidebook. During an onsite solar inspection, systems are evaluated for installation quality, equipment compatibility and compliance to building codes, and ensuring the system was installed as it was permitted.

What are the requirements for a PV installation?

Virtually all domestic PV installations will fall under the scope of Part P. Part P requires the relevant Building Control department to be notified and approve the work. There are two routes to comply with the requirements of Part P: Notify the relevant Building Control department before starting the work.

Do I need a building regulations approval for a PV system?

Building Regulations approval may require the product to have passed the wind uplift, water penetration and spread of flame tests (see section 2.1.1.2). These will usually be applicable only where the PV is integrated into the fabric of the building.