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.