We would like to introduce the "Field Inspection Guidelines for PV Systems" (pdf), a report by Brooks Engineering. The report details the most important aspects of a field inspection, and is helpful for the solar integrator in both installing safely and avoiding common pitfalls.
The guideline is accessible online at the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC USA) website. Bill Brooks, the author, suggests that it is supplementary to the report Expedited Permit Process for PV Systems, which was also prepared by his engineering firm, Brooks Engineering.
The report's extremely handy Field Inspection Checklist is excerpted below:
Field Inspection Checklist for Array:
- Module model # matches plans and spec sheets, module quantity matches plans and spec sheets
- Wire Management: Array conductors are neatly and professionally held in place
- PV array is properly grounded
- Check that electrical boxes are accessible and connections suitable for environment
- Array Fastened and Sealed According To Attachment Detail
- Check conductors ratings and sizes
Specifics For Ground-Mounted Arrays
- Foundation review
- Mounting structure review
- Electrical bonding of structural elements
- Additional array electrode
- Attachment method according to plans
- Wiring not readily accessible
Appropriate Signs Installed
- Check proper sign construction:
- Check for sign identifying PV power source system attributes at dc disconnect
- Check for sign identifying ac point of connection [690.54].
- Check for sign identifying switch for alternative power system
Check that equipment ratings are consistent with application and signs
- Check that inverter has a rating as high as max voltage on PV Power Source sign.
- Check that dc-side OCPDs are dc rated at least as high as max voltage on sign.
- Check that switches and OCPDs are installed according to manufacturers specifications (i.e. many 600Vdc switches require passing through the switch poles twice in a specific way).
- Check that inverter is rated for the site ac voltage supplied and shown on the ac point of connection sign.
- Check that OCPD connected to the ac output of the inverter is rated at least 125% of maximum current on sign, and is no larger than the maximum OCPD on the inverter listing label.
- Check that the sum of the main OCPD and the inverter OCPD is rated for not more than 120% of the busbar rating.
(cited from: Brooks, Bill. June 2010, Interstate Renewable Energy Council, "Field Inspection Guidelines for PV Systems")
Greentech Renewables provides all non-installation services required to pass permitting, including design support, layout and electrical drawings, and custom signage. Please contact us 800-409-2257 if you need any assistance.
{photo credit: arcadianprojects}