What are the National simplified residential PV & energy storage permit guidelines?

The National Simplified Residential PV and Energy Storage Permit Guidelines get local governments and contractors on the same page to facilitate a smooth construction process. Robust permitting for one- and two-family residential installations, the most common type of project in many jurisdictions, ensures that projects are safe and effective.

What is the minimum array area requirement for a solar PV inverter?

Although the RERH specification does not set a minimum array area requirement, builders should minimally specify an area of 50 square feet in order to operate the smallest grid-tied solar PV inverters on the market.

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.

How can a streamlined solar permitting process help local governments?

By implementing a streamlined and more standardized permitting process, local governments can make installing solar faster, easier, and more affordable for their staff, local residents, businesses, and solar companies.

How much weight does a PV system add to a roof?

A conventional PV system that includes racking materials will add approximately 6 pounds per square foot of dead load to the roof or structure, though actual weights can vary for different types of systems. Wind will add live loads; the magnitude of live loads will depend on the geographic region and the final PV system.

Do you need a pull line for a solar PV system?

To facilitate the wiring of the solar PV system at a later date, the builder may also want to include a pull line in the conduit, particularly if the conduit run is lengthy or has multiple bends.