What Is Inspected in a Solar InspectionPhotovoltaic Panels Installation methods – inspectors will check that solar panel mounting follow code requirements for roof penetration, lag bolt quantity/depth, etc. Inverters/Metering Inverter testing – proper input/output voltages and frequency synchronization will be validated.
How do I prepare for a solar inspection?
The inspection process is a long, but important part of helping your customers go solar. At both the application and construction review stages of your projects, the best way to prepare for any solar inspection is with the knowledge and tools to efficiently design and install systems up to local safety standards.
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.
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.
This means passing a solar inspection is vital for the operational efficiency, customer service, and bottom line of PV companies everywhere. The need for an inspection is determined by the AHJ and/or utility where the project is installed.
What happens during an onsite solar inspection?
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. In some parts of the country, a licensed electrician is required to be present during an electrical inspection.
How to evaluate the performance of a solar plant?
Despite the above listed challenges, I-V and P-V curve measurement is the actual industry standard technique for inspecting and evaluating the performance of a solar plant. Another alternative is to deploy current and voltage sensors for online monitoring of the PV plant which are typically deployed inside the inverters.