Which building types require a photovoltaic (PV) system?

All newly constructed building types specified in Table 140.10-A, or mixed occupancy buildings where one or more of these building types constitute at least 80 percent of the floor area of the building, shall have a newly installed photovoltaic (PV) system meeting the minimum qualification requirements of Reference Joint Appendix JA11.

Do I need to meter a photovoltaic system?

It is assumed that aluminum framed photovoltaic (PV) panels mounted on a “post” and rail mounting system, the most common in the industry today, will be installed by the homeowner. While metering the system is encouraged, the specification does not address system wiring elements for associated system sensors or monitoring equipment.

What are the requirements for large PV power plants?

Large PV power plants (i.e., greater than 20 MW at the utility interconnection) that provide power into the bulk power system must comply with standards related to reliability and adequacy promulgated by authorities such as NERC and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

Can a new solar PV system be installed in a building?

Answer: No. The existing Rapid Shutdown system technology installed at the time of the initial installation of the solar PV system would be acceptable. NEC Section 690.12 addresses the Rapid Shutdown requirements for “new” solar PV systems installed in or on a building, and not to existing solar PV systems.

Why is energy availability important in assessing PV systems?

Both energy and availability are necessary metrics for assessing PV systems. If the stakeholders involved in a contract are most interested in energy production, and if the contract holds parties responsible for energy production, then it is crucial that energy losses associated with unavailability and system performance are accounted for.

Are solar photovoltaic systems considered electrical equipment?

Answer: Yes. The State Electrical Code adopts by reference the 2023 edition of the National Electrical Code (NEC). Solar photovoltaic systems fall within the definition of “equipment” as it is defined in the NEC. See NEC Articles 100, 690, 691, 705 and other applicable articles for all pertinent definitions.