Solar Panels
What Is Required for the Permit Application
- Please go to eTrakit and apply for a Building Residential Solar Panel permit as well as a Residential Electrical Solar Panel permit.
- Site plans for freestanding solar panels.
- A structural analysis of the building showing that the building can support the proposed load must be submitted by a SC. licensed engineer who has visited the site. The letter must be signed and sealed.
- A dimensional plan view of the proposed panel array.
- A three-line electrical drawing including all the components that were submitted to the local power company for approval.
- All components used shall be listed and labeled in accordance with U.L listings.
- Maximum voltage and circuit sizing must be in accordance with NEC 690.7 and NEC 690.8.
- The locations of DC/AC inverter, rapid shut down, AC disconnect, main service entrance, electrical panel box and meter must be identified on a directory per NEC 705.10.
- Label identification that will be used for equipment, devices and conduit.
- An approval letter from the utility provider.
- The make and model number of the racking system for the arrays, along with the installation instructions.
- Manufacture specification sheets for the equipment that will be used.
Inspection Checklist for Roof Mounted Arrays
- Module model numbers match the plans and specification sheets.
- PV conductors are compliant with their application.
- Wires are secured neatly and professionally secured.
- PV array is properly grounded.
- Electrical boxes are accessible and connections used are suitable for their environment.
- Correct conduit is used for their application.
- Access to attic to verify anchorage to truss / rafter system.
- Back feeding breaker to panel listed.
Inspection Checklist for Ground Mounted Arrays
- Verify footings before concrete is installed.
- Check mounting array for correct attachment.
- Check electrical bonding of structural elements.
- Ensure wiring is protected from accessibility.
- Additional array electrode.
- Back feeding breaker to panel listed.
Appropriate Signage Installation
- Check that signage has been made from a suitable material per NEC 110.21(B).
- Check for Rapid Shut Down label.
- Check for Photovoltaic Power Source labels that are required on every junction box and exposed raceways labeled every 10 feet and 1 foot from bends and penetrations.
- Check for Directory per NEC 705.10.
- Check for Inverter label.
- Check for Disconnecting Means label.
- Check panel for Inverter Output Connection labels.
- Check other labels that may be required.
Checking Ratings & Equipment on Site
- Verify that the components used are consistent with what has been submitted and approved.
- Verify that wiring is consistent with the three-line drawing that was approved.
- Check inverter for max voltage rating for PV power source side.
- Check that the Over Current Protection Devices (OCPDs) on the DC side are rated to handle the supply from the PV supply side.
- Check that the switches and OCPDs are installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Check that the inverter is rated for the site’s AC voltage supplied.