Whether you are an electrical or building inspector, a general contractor, a PV professional or an educator, the fast pace of this evolving industry can either keep you up at night or be the morning jolt you need with (or in lieu of) that first cup of caffeine.
This article will cover some of the behind-the-scenes activities that occur along with the more formal process of developing the Code and the UL standards for PV systems.
Almost ten years ago, I had the pleasure of working on and testing new concept inverters for a large manufacturer at a facility called PVUSA (Photovoltaics for Utility Systems Applications).
Sunlight is our most valuable resource and, when properly used, it can provide all of the energy the world needs for future generations. The PV module through the photovoltaic effect is the device that allows us to convert sunlight directly into electricity and that solar-generated electricity has some unique characteristics.
This article will focus on the details of large-scale support structures for PV and some of the unique challenges for those who build and inspect these large PV projects.
This article addresses the possible pitfalls in the construction and installation of privately owned generating substations as well as some other unique types of installations.
PV ac system output currents for the larger systems are usually too high for connection on the load side of the service disconnect and must be connected on the supply side of the service disconnect. The NEC allows such connections, but the existing service must be examined carefully to determine where the connection can be made and what type of equipment must be used to make the connection.
The concept of the receptacle has been largely unchanged since the first National Electrical Code® (NEC®) in 1897; by the 2017 edition, it will have been 120 years.
In an effort to increase the production of the residential PV system, the original contractor installed additional modules; no permit was obtained.
This article summarizes the actions and reporting processes required to achieve good results in field evaluations for new, used, and unlisted/uncertified electrical equipment.