A GUIDE TO PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) SYSTEM DESIGN AND INSTALLATION

PV Installation Guide June 2001 Page 1 A GUIDE TO PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) SYSTEM DESIGN AND INSTALLATION Prepared for: California Energy Commission Energy Technology Development Division …

1.1. Basic Principles to Follow When Designing a Quality PV System
1. Select a packaged system that meets the owner’s needs. Customer criteria for a system may include reduction in monthly electricity bill, environmental benefits, desire for backup power, initial budget constraints, etc. Size and orient the PV array to provide the expected electrical power and energy.
2. Ensure the roof area or other installation site is capable of handling the desired system size. 3. Specify sunlight and weather resistant materials for all outdoor equipment. 4. Locate the array to minimize shading from foliage, vent pipes, and adjacent structures. 5. Design the system in compliance with all applicable building and electrical codes. 6. Design the system with a minimum of electrical losses due to wiring, fuses, switches, and inverters. 7. Properly house and manage the battery system, should batteries be required. 8. Ensure the design meets local utility interconnection requirements. 1.2. Basic Steps to Follow When Installing a PV System 1. Ensure the roof area or other installation site is capable of handling the desired system size. 2. If roof mounted, verify that the roof is capable of handling additional weight of PV system. Augment roof structure as necessary.
3. Properly seal any roof penetrations with roofing industry approved sealing methods.
4. Install equipment according to manufacturers specifications, using installation requirements and procedures from the manufacturers’ specifications.
5. Properly ground the system parts to reduce the threat of shock hazards and induced surges.
6. Check for proper PV system operation by following the checkout procedures on the PV System Installation Checklist.
7. Ensure the design meets local utility interconnection requirements
8. Have final inspections completed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) and the utility (if required).


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