www.energycenter.org
Mastering Solar Planning & Permits
City of San Diego County of San Diego
October 18, 2011
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California Center for Sustainable Energy Vision: To create a sustainable energy future. Mission: To foster public policies and provide
programs, services, information and forums that facilitate the adoption of clean, reliable, renewable, sustainable and efficient energy technologies and practices.
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CCSE Programs
• California Solar Initiative
• Multi-Family Affordable Solar
Housing Project
• Solar Water Heating Program
• Clean Vehicle Rebate Project
• Energy Upgrade California
CCSE operates in five focus areas: energy efficiency, renewable energy, climate change, transportation and green building.
• Self-Generation Incentive Program (Wind and Fuel Cells)
• Energy Advisory Services • Urban Forestry Advisory Services • Energy Resource Center
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CCSE Services • Workshops and Events • Tool Lending & Resource Library • Expanded Display Space • Energy Advisory Services • Technical Assistance • Vendor Database • Green Career Network
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Upcoming Events
• Oct 20 – CSI Thermal Contractor and Self-Install Training
• Oct 26 – Skip’s Tips – Advanced Solar Thermal Workshop
• Nov 1– Energy Upgrade California Orientation Workshop
• Nov 15 – Passing the CSI Inspection Protocol
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CCSE Housekeeping
• Please sign in • Turn off your cell phones • Refreshments • Recycle and compost • Restrooms down the hall • Fill out your Evaluation Forms • Tell people about CCSE! • Presentation will be available online at
www.energycenter.org/csi-presentations
Mastering Solar Planning & Permits
Among the things that make an installation easier, is a better understanding of municipal processes,
permitting and issues related to safety.
Installing a solar PV system in San Diego?
Introduction-
Patrick Healy
Chief EPM Inspector
*DPLU, Building div. - County of San Diego
• 19 years experience combination inspector – County of San Diego
• 7 years as Electrical Specialist – County of San Diego
• Past President - So Cal Chapter, International Association of Electrical Inspectors
• Past President - International Code Council, San Diego Area Chapter
• Code Advisory Committee - CBSC
Marisa Smith Planner 1 DPLU – Planning div. - County of San Diego
Agenda • Trends in Solar Permits • Personal History with Solar in SD County • Agencies involved in solar regulations • Codes Applicable to Solar • State Code Process • Local Ordinances • Local Interpretation • Local Policies • Standards applicable to Solar Equipment • Plan Submittal Requirements and Permitting • Documentation and County Handouts • Plan Submittal requirements and Process • Most common solar systems • Plan technical basics • Common plan errors • Commercial project requirements • Q/A
Practical?
Practical? Depends
Coastal areas ?
Don’t see as much solar on coast?
Is Fog and Clouds the Determining Factor, or is it
the lower HVAC costs in the coastal area?
•5 Acres?
•5 Acres? •300 Acre Project coming to SD County
•5 Acres? •300 Acre Project coming to SD County •6000 Acre Project coming to Central CA – 540 MW
FRANCE
FRANCE - Mountains
What’s with all the interest in solar?
"Comparing finite and renewable planetary energy reserves (Terawatt‐years). Total recoverable reserves are shown for the finite resources. Yearly potential is shown for the renewables." (source: Perez & Perez, 2009a)
"Comparing finite and renewable planetary energy reserves (Terawatt -years). Total recoverable reserves are shown for the finite resources. Yearly potential is shown for the renewables." (*source: Perez & Perez, 2009) *
Once you know the size of the reserves it easy to see the number of years those reserves would last. At the end of 2009 the estimates were
•Oil: 46 years (depleted in 2055)
•Natural gas: 63 years (depleted in 2072)
•Coal: 119 years (depleted in 2128)
Total Solar Irradiance upon Earth was measured by satellite to be
roughly 1.361 Kilowatts per square meter
1 MW of PV generates 1,500,000 kWh per year
Other Factors
Incentives - The federal and state financial
incentives have undoubtedly fueled the rise in the solar industry and the economy
Interest - People just like solar and being involved in
doing something good for the environment
Trends in Solar
After standing at 17 gigawatts in July 2011, the US non-residential pipeline increased to 24 GW by September 2011
After standing at 17 gigawatts in July 2011, the US non-residential pipeline increased to 24 GW by September 2011
California currently accounts for 61% of the total US project pipeline *New Projects in California, Some in SD County
After standing at 17 gigawatts in July 2011, the US non-residential pipeline increased to 24 GW by September 2011
California currently accounts for 61% of the total US project pipeline
Utility-driven activity is now evident across 35 states *
Recent report from Interstate Renewable Energy Council shows the solar installed base of PV in 2010 doubled compared to the solar installed base in 2009
Personal Experience with Solar
Past 7 years as the County Electrical Specialist
•First year about 3 -5 permits a week •Currently an average of about 10- 15 a Day • Recent Surge in Commercial • Recent Interest in Solar Farms and Utility Grade Plants
131 167 169 219
279
382 433
954 981
1336
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
Solar Photovoltaic Permits Issued (Includes: Ground-Mount PV, Roof-Mount PV, & Solar Water Heaters)
(Current FY Annualized)
ACTUALS SOLAR PV RESIDENTIALPERMITS ISSUED 952
TOTAL RENEWABLE ENERGY PERMITS 981 TOTAL FEE'S WAIVED $322,401 RENEWABLE ENERGY CAPACITY AND GENERATION: AMOUNT OF PV GENERATING CAPACITY INSTALLED (MW) 5.44
EMISSIONS REDUCTIONS (TONS) (CO2 EQUIVALENTS) IN CARBON: PHOTOVOLTAIC 6029.035
TOTAL 6086.886
Renewable Energy Permits FY 10/11
ACTUAL PROJECTION RESIDENTIAL SOLAR PV PERMITS 330 1320
TOTAL FEE'S WAIVED $112,211 $448,844
AMOUNT OF PV GENERATING CAPACITY INSTALLED 1.7885 7.15400
: EMISSIONS REDUCTION (TONS) (CO2 EQUIVALENTS) IN CARBON 1982.105 7928.421
Renewable Energy Permits FY 11/12
Though State and Federal Incentives have decreased, so have the costs of Solar Modules*
New Technologies in Solar products Solar Sand
Thin Film
Organic Modules
Concentrating Panels
Copper, Indium, Gallium, Selenide (CIGS Panels)
Many, many others
What Do Building Departments Do and What Rules and Codes Do They Apply
Let’s take a look
Promote safe and sanitary buildings, utilities, and
structures, and regulate their use in a manner that best serves the individual, the environment and the
community
NFPA in response to GM: In the effort to rapidly change the country to “Green” technologies, the
last thing we need is for Building Codes and the Local Building Department to become obstructionists to the change.
While Building Department personnel have a duty to stay in touch with the latest trends and technologies, codes may not entirely keep up with these
quickly evolving renewable industries. It is sometimes necessary to use education, experience, and expertise in
interpreting the purpose and intent of these codes
Our primary responsibility is the health, safety, and well being of the residents of our communities.
*
Personal History with Solar
• 25 years ago in Julian I saw my first solar system.
• Stand alone with Batteries
• 150K
• Lost in Cedar Fire
• Rebuilt - w/solar
Types of Solar Permits
• Residential Roof Mount
• Residential Ground Mount
• Commercial Roof Mount
• Commercial Ground Mount
• Agricultural
• Solar Farm/Utility Grade Solar Plant, Off-Site
Permit Fees within the County of San Diego
• Residential Roof Mount -
• Residential Ground Mount -
• Commercial Roof Mount -
• Commercial Ground Mount -
• Agricultural -
• Solar Farm/Utility Grade Solar Plant -
Permit Fees within the County of San Diego
• Residential Roof Mount - $0
• Residential Ground Mount -
• Commercial Roof Mount -
• Commercial Ground Mount -
• Agricultural -
• Solar Farm/Utility Grade Solar Plant -
Permit Fees within the County of San Diego
• Residential Roof Mount - $0
• Residential Ground Mount - $0 (could be fees charged by DEH and DPW)
• Commercial Roof Mount -
• Commercial Ground Mount -
• Agricultural -
• Solar Farm/Utility Grade Solar Plant -
Permit Fees within the County of San Diego
• Residential Roof Mount - $0
• Residential Ground Mount - $0 (could be fees charged by DEH and DPW)
• Commercial Roof Mount - Based on Size/ Percentage of Valuation
• Commercial Ground Mount - Based on Size/ Percentage of Valuation
• Agricultural - Based on Size/ Percentage of Valuation
• Solar Farm/Utility Grade Solar Plant -
Permit Fees within the County of San Diego
• Residential Roof Mount - $0
• Residential Ground Mount - $0 (could be fees charged by DEH and DPW)
• Commercial Roof Mount - Based on Size/ Percentage of Valuation
• Commercial Ground Mount - Based on Size/ Percentage of Valuation
• Agricultural - Based on Size/ Percentage of Valuation
• Solar Farm/Utility Grade Solar Plant - Based on Size/ Percentage of Valuation, &/or the cost of providing the services
Fees for Residential Solar permits are Waived under The County of San Diego’s Green Building Program and Homeowners Relief Act.
These programs were created by the County Board of Supervisors to Aid
Homeowners, and Promote the Use of Green Technology.
Additional Funding Provided by the Federal, American Reinvestment and Recovery Act,
Providing Grants to Local Government
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATORY AGENCIES & AUTHORITIES
OVERSEEING SOLAR INSTALLATIONS
•State of CA, •Local Bldg Dept •Local Planning and Zoning •Local Fire Dept •Local Health Dept •Local Public Works Dept •Area-wide Policies and Interpretation Authorities such as the local ICC Chapter •PUC, CEC •OTHER AGENCIES
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATORY AGENCIES & AUTHORITIES
GOVERNMENTAL: State of CA -
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATORY AGENCIES & AUTHORITIES
State of CA –
Adopts the State Building Codes
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATORY AGENCIES & AUTHORITIES
State of CA –
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATORY AGENCIES & AUTHORITIES
GOVERNMENTAL: State of CA –
Adopts the State Building Codes. State Agencies – California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) - Ca Fire Marshal, HCD, Others. All have an impact on what goes into the CA Codes.
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATORY AGENCIES & AUTHORITIES
GOVERNMENTAL: State of CA –
Adopts the State Building Codes. State Agencies – California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) - Ca Fire Marshal, HCD, Others. All have an impact on what goes into the CA Codes.
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATORY AGENCIES & AUTHORITIES
GOVERNMENTAL: State of CA –
Adopts the State Building Codes. State Agencies – California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) - Ca Fire Marshal, HCD, Others. All have an impact on what goes into the CA Codes.
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATORY AGENCIES & AUTHORITIES
State of CA –
THE 2011 MODEL CODE WILL BECOME
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATORY AGENCIES & AUTHORITIES
State of CA –
THE 2011 MODEL CODE WILL BECOME
THE 2013 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE
ALL CITIES AND COUNTIES IN CALIFORNIA ARE MANDATED TO ENFORCE THE CALFORNIA BUILDING CODES
Local Bldg. Dept Local Bldg. Dept –
• Interprets and applies the state codes
•Enacts local ordinances for topics not covered in code.
•Sets policies for functions and operations
•Performs plan-check and inspection to verify code compliance.
http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dplu/bldgforms/index.html
San Diego County Website for forms and handouts
Solar Ordinance
http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dplu/ceqa/POD09006.html
Building Div Forms and Handouts
OTHER LOCAL AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
•Planning/Zoning regulations •Fire regulations •Health Department (DEH) for septic systems •Public Works for flood plains, drainage courses
DEH Requirements for Ground Mount Systems
Two primary concerns are addressed when DEH reviews ground mounted solar arrays. The first being the array itself and its proximity to the septic system. Second being the utility trench to the electric panel and it’s proximity to the septic system. Below are the review standards for DEH. Ground Mount Array •The array is considered a structure. The minimum setback for a leach line to a structure is 8 feet. The setback should be measured from the outermost point of the array whether it be the footing or the solar panel itself. Reasoning here is adequate room to maneuver equipment for a septic system repair. This setback must also take into account reserve leach field area. Setbacks for solar arrays to septic tanks are 5 feet. Here again to the outer most edge of the array allowing for equipment access.
Utility Trench •The utility trench from the solar array cannot cross over a primary or reserve leach field area. The utility trench should maintain a 5:1 setback to a leach line for every foot of depth (2 ft deep utility trench = 10 ft setback to leach line). This would include reserve leach field areas. Utility trenches cannot cross over septic tanks and require a minimum 5 ft setback to the edge of the tank.
Plans need to identify the location of the septic tank and leach field. Then the accuracy needs to be verified by DEH records, or in the case
where there is no record a DEH visit to the site •· Good records from property owner or DEH showing no issues, sign-off is over the counter (OTC). Usually larger lots with lots of room. •· No records. Need licensed contractor to find system and produce an as-built (signed and dated by contractor). If DEH is comfortable
with this then an OTC is done, if not comfortable DEH may charge a 2 hr minimum consultation to do a site check. •· Impacts to septic system will require relocation of solar array. Impacts to septic system that cannot be mitigated with a relocation will
not be approved
County Fire Marshall Requirements for Solar
Installations
ACCESS
ACCESS FOR SERVICING
ACCESS FOR SERVICING FOR FIREFIGHTERS
Department of Public Works
Solar panels and equipment must be mounted a minimum of 12” about the recorded flood plain
•PUBLIC UTILITIES – PUC, CEC •CODE WRITING PANELS AND COMMITTEES •STANDARDS AGENCIES AND TECHNICAL COMMITTEES ( UL, ANSI, ETC )* •NRTLs - NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED TESTING AGENCIES •THIRD-PARTY FIELD EVALUATORS •CCSE AND OTHER AGENCIES OVERSEEING “GREEN “ PROGRAMS •LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS LIKE ICC AND CALBO •OTHERS?
NON- GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES & AUTHORITIES ON SOLAR
San Diego Area Electrical Newsletters
Drafted by the San Diego Chapter of ICC
www.iccsandiego.org/uploads/2005%20Electrical%20Newsletter%20Final%201-10-06.pdf
http://www.iccsandiego.org
Newsletters Link
UL STANDARDS FOR SOLAR PRODUCTS UL 1703* – For flat plate modules and panels
UL 1741* – Grid –Tied Inverters
UL 2703 – Solar Racking Systems and Grounding *ANSI approved Standard UL is testing products to safety standards, but is showing an interest in testing to efficiency standards also. This to help certify the claims made by manufacturers of solar products
Standard Municipal Process: Plan Check Review
Permit Issuance Inspection
The level of Plan review depends on the scope of the project Typical roof mount residential plan review includes: •Roof Plan - overall layout of modules, electrical panels/equipment, and conduit runs •Electrical plan review – single line electrical diagram •Electrical Calculations Voltage, Amperage, Derating factors, Overcurrent and conductors sizing. •Structural roof attachment review – racking system •Equipment Data Sheets •Property history review and zoning review •Permit issuance – 0 fees * •Inspection – Most residential roof-mounts are a single inspection, performed when the job is complete
Standard Municipal Process: Plan Check Review
Permit Issuance and Inspection
Typical residential ground mount includes most items shown for a roof mount and additionally: Plot Plan review Structural foundation review and support attachments Dpt of Environmental Health review for septic concerns Dpt of Public Works Review for flood plain setbacks Permit issuance – $0 Building Div fees* Inspection – Most ground-mounts require multiple inspections Foundation, U/G Electric, and Final Inspection *If additional electrical work needs to be performed, regular electrical fees apply * Fees apply to DEH and DPW review
Standard Municipal Process is Plan Check Review
Permit Issuance and Inspection
Typical Commercial and Agricultural On-site Solar would include most of the previous items and additionally; Professionally designed electrical and structural plans Zoning Review and possible zoning criteria administered Possible Fire Department Review Possible Submittal of Plans Permit issuance – Fees Apply
Standard Municipal Process is Plan Check Review
Permit Issuance and Inspection
Typical Solar Farm and Utility Grade Off-site Solar would include most of the previous items and additionally; Use Permit/Admin Permit review Fire Department Review Submittal of Plans Permit issuance – Fees Apply
Sample Plans ROOF MOUNTED SYSTEM
Sample Plan # 2 ROOF MOUNTED SYSTEM
IDENTIFY THE LOCATION OF THE CONDUIT RUN
REQUIRED
REQUIRED REQUIRED
REQUIRED
2 GROUND RODS REQUIRED
REQUIRED
REQUIRED
2 GROUND RODS REQUIRED
REQUIRED
AC DISCONNECT ?
The Combined maximum output of inverters on the AC side X 1.25% indicates the minimum size breaker. Conductor size is determined by the breaker rating and derating of the conductors. Derating is needed for more than 3 conductors in a raceway, distance mounted off the surface of the roof, and the ambient temperature for the area of the installation Maximum Breaker size is determined by the rating of the main breaker and the rating of the solar breakers not exceeding the rating of the buss bar X 120%
2 1/2” IMBEDMENT
Sample Plan # 3 GROUND MOUNTED SYSTEM
gmspdf
Sample Plan # 4 ROOF MOUNTED SYSTEM
gmspdf1
Sample Plan # 5 GROUND MOUNTED SYSTEM
gmspdf2
Sample Plan # 6 GROUND MOUNTED SYSTEM
gmspdf3
Third-Party Grounding Devices
•Must be specifically mentioned in the installation instructions for the modules
•Grounding Clips tested in conjunction with a racking system that’s listed to UL 2703 must specifically identify the modules that it was tested with.
Class-A roofing?
Class-A roofing?
•Some modules have a class-A rating
Class-A roofing?
•Some modules have a class-A rating •Most require a class-A roof underneath (new construction)
“CLASS A” ROOF?
Target Fire Bakersfield
Link
Metal Roofs
INDIA
Teaching the Basics
Want to teach your kids about renewable energy in a way that’s relevant and interesting?
If you’re installing a new solar power system for your home, it’s a perfect opportunity to talk about how it works, why it’s important for the environment,
and you can throw in some math lessons too. Solar power is complicated enough that older children and adults can learn plenty, but it can also be explained in a
way that even younger kids can understand
NOW SERVING
SOLAR POWER IN SAN DIEGO
Thank You
Q & A Time Permitting
Marisa Smith Planner 1 DPLU – Planning Div. - County of San Diego
NEXT UP
County of San Diego Planning Requirements for Solar
1) roof-mount 2) ground-mount on-site 3) ground-mount off-site
Roof Mount Solar PV
Ground Mount Solar PV - residential
Roof mount - Solar PV - commercial
Ground Mount Off-Site
N
Typical Plot Plan
Typical Plot Plan
Typical Plot Plan – show all existing structure
Existing SFD
Typical Plot Plan - setbacks
Typical Plot Plan
Typical Plot Plan
Typical Plot Plan
EXPIRED PERMITS
Summary
Q & A?
Development Services Department Division of Building, Safety & Construction
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Photovoltaic Information Session
•Martin Montessoro
October 18, 2011
Development Services Department Division of Building, Safety & Construction
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Resources Information Bulletin 301 Plan Template Inspection Guidelines SD Area Electrical Newsletter http://www.sandiego.gov/development
-services/
Development Services Department Division of Building, Safety & Construction
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Submit Plans and Documents Over-the-Counter by Appointment
(SFR Per Template) Master Plan
Options For Plan Review
Development Services Department Division of Building, Safety & Construction
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All Commercial and Residential not per Template Documents and Plans per IB 301 10-Day Review Fees
Submitted Plan Review
Development Services Department Division of Building, Safety & Construction
Plan Submittal • Check in on the third floor of DSC • Walk- in or Appointment at Submittal • Plan Check fees have to be paid at the
time of Submittal • Plans are distributed to all reviewers
(Structural and Electrical) 6
Development Services Department Division of Building, Safety & Construction
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Plans and Documents per Plan Template
Call (619) 446-5300 for appointment Appointments are for one hour Maximum of two appointments per
day per customer Check-in at least 30 minutes prior to
your appointment
Over-the-Counter by Appointment
Development Services Department Division of Building, Safety & Construction
Master Plans
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Establish Master Plan Submit Plans on Third Floor of DSC 10-Day Review Fee - Hourly Plan Check Only
Development Services Department Division of Building, Safety & Construction
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Master Plan Installations Per Established Master Plan Site Plan Issued Over-the-Counter at
Screening (3rd Floor, DSC) Fees
• Issuance • Records • Permit Fee
Development Services Department Division of Building, Safety & Construction
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Rechecks
By Appointment with the reviewer Walk-In, Over-the-Counter Electrical Counter (3rd Floor,
DSC)
Development Services Department Division of Building, Safety & Construction
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Issuance
By Appointment with the Issuance staff
Walk-In Over-the-Counter Third floor DSC Permit fees
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Solar Photovoltaic Plan Review Process
• Complying Template Projects – Roof Mounted SFD
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
DSD Residential Plan Template for Solar Photovoltaic
• The Purpose is to reduce plan review time by: – Establishing a standard format and layout – Suggesting standard notes
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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•Residential PV Template General Project Information
Notes for each page on the right-hand side of the page
Plans need to be in a simple legible format
(11” X 17”)
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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•Residential PV Template PV Company Name & Logo
Designer Name
Signature
License #
Project Location
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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•Residential PV Template
Notes font large enough to be
legible
Identify Property Lines
Page Reference
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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•Residential PV Template Locate Building ,Plumbing
and Mechanical Vents Array layout custom to each project showing the number of modules
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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•Residential PV Template Identify the location of
the conduit. If DC conductors are routed within the building they must be within a metallic conduit marked CAUTION DC CIRCUIT every five feet.
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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•Residential PV Template
Show Meter Location
Show Inverter Location
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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•Residential PV Template Structural
calculations are required for the roof or structure mounted
PV systems if the weight of the PV
system exceeds five pounds per square
foot.
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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•Residential PV Template Roof Framing and the Rack lay out
Typical Detail to show the
attachment
Provide a Water Proofing Detail
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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•Residential PV Template Single Line
Identify the wire type and size
Show the number of modules per string and the number of strings per system
Show the module manufactures' name and the model number
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Residential PV Template Single Line Identify the wire type,
and size
Identify the conduit type, and size
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Residential PV Template Single Line
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Identify the wire type and size
Identify the conduit type and size
Show the inverter manufactures' name and the model number
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Residential PV Template Single Line
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If a combiner box is used identify the ampere rating of the bus and OCP
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Residential PV Template Single Line
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Identify the ampere rating of the bus, main breaker and back-fed PV breaker
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Residential PV Template Single Line
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Systems with micro inverters need to show disconnects in compliance with (CEC 609.14 (D))
If micro inverter system is installed show the module manufactures' name and the model number
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Residential PV Template Single Line
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Identify DC and AC disconnects and where fuses are required show the ampere rating of the fuses
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Residential PV Template –
Manufacturer Information Sheets
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Include 8.5” by 11” copies of the Manufacturer’s specifications
Verify that all components are listed by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory for the intended use.
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Technical Data
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Identify the short circuit current (Isc) and the open circuit voltage (Voc).
Module Info Inverter Info
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
DSD Residential Plan Template for Solar Photovoltaic
QUESTIONS?
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Inspection Guidelines and Suggested Practices
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Inspection Process • To verify that the installation is in
conformance with the design of the approved set of plans
• To verify that the installation is in compliance with the California Electrical Code and other applicable codes and regulations
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Purpose of the Code
“….the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity”
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
2010 California Electrical Code
• 2008 National Electrical Code • with amendments from State agencies • California Code of Regulations, • Title 24, Part 3 • Effective date – January 1, 2011
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Inspection Process • Contractor/owner responsibility to
schedule and coordinate all required inspections
• Responsible party on site • Provide access to all elements of
system installation
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Inspection • Ground-mounted 1. footings for array frame 2. underground raceways 3. final Observe regulations for - Brush Management Zones,
Environmentally Sensitive Lands, and Multiple Habitat Planning Areas
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Inspection (continued) • Roof mounted arrays Rough electrical (for any concealed work) Roof array and bond (for integrated systems or for tile roofs) Final inspection
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Necessary Paperwork on Site
• Approved plans • Inspection record card (DS-1798) • Manufacturer’s Installation instructions – modules, racking, inverter
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Installation manuals – inverters, modules
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Roof Mounted Systems
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Roof Access • Cal -OSHA
Compliant Ladder
• Sitting squarely on level surface
• Secured at top
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Tile roofs
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Building Integrated PV
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Micro-inverters
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Other Systems
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Other Systems
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Racking Installation
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Racking system and grounding 57
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Flashing and Weather Protection
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Rolled roofing penetration Properly flashed and sealed
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Clearance to Vents
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Plumbing Vents •Plumbing vents cannot be covered by module installation •Vents shall terminate a minimum of •6” above or 1’ away horizontally from adjacent PV modules •Termination shall not be higher that the highest point of the existing roof •Vents less than 3” can be extended /offset but shall be properly and independently supported •All extensions shall meet the requirements of the California Plumbing Code •Extension on any plumbing vent 3” diameter or larger is not allowed
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Using Identified grounding points and approved devices and materials
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Unapproved Grounding Means Not approved – braided copper with sheet metal screw into the module frame
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Combiner Boxes, Junction Boxes and Wiring Methods
• Listed equipment • Installed per manufacturer's installation
instructions • Cable Management • Conduit support
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Combiner boxes, wiring method Combiner boxes shall be listed Installed per the manufacturer’s instructions
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Conduit support
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Conduit Support
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Wiring methods and materials
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
PV Wire
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Cable Management
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Conductor De-rating
• Derating for conductor ampacity is required per new Table 310.15(B)(2)
• Use the ASHRAE tables for the ambient temperature used for the correction factor
• Air inside the raceway is significantly hotter than the
surrounding air
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Inverters and DC Disconnects • Listed utility interactive inverters • As-built conforms to the design • Installed per manufacturer’s installation
instructions or recommendations • System grounding electrode conductor
properly terminated
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Listed Utility-Interactive Inverter
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
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Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Conductor terminations
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Inverter locations
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Service Equipment • bus rating • existing main overcurrent protection • PV overcurrent protection • manufacturer breakers • cable or conduit entry • labeling • multiwire branch circuit relocation and balanced load on bus • grounding system
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
EXISTING Panel What’s the rating of the bus? Total Sum of the Over-current Devices Permitted 87
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
400 Amp Panel – 400 Amp Bus?
88
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
89
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
90
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
PV breakers and new and existing multi-wire circuits
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Service Upgrades involving Scheduled Outages with SDG&E
• Schedule DSD inspection for day of the scheduled outage
• Contact the inspector re: time frame • Equipment installed, • framing weather-protected, • grounded, • service entrance raceway or riser and service
entrance conductors installed
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Ready for reconnection?
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
BNL 14-1 – How to Install Flashing
94
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Grounding
• Verify acceptable grounding for existing service equipment or provide a supplemental electrode
• Provide service and system grounding compliant with the Code
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Water piping ground must be supplemented
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Driven Ground Rod
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Irreversible Splicing Devices • For grounding electrode conductors • Micro-inverter installations - #8 or #6 Cu system grounding
conductors
99
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
DC and AC wiring through a structure
100
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
CAUTION – Notching and Boring Wood Members 101
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Load-bearing 2 x 12 floor joists @ 12” OC notched in middle 1/3 of span
102
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
103
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Properly fire stop around all penetrations of rated assemblies 104
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Fire-resistive Exit Enclosures and Passageways
105
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Signage and Placarding
• Alternate power source placard • DC raceways and DC disconnects • Cautionary • Site specific design • PV disconnect for utility operation
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Alternate Power Source Placard
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
108
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
111
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Suggested practices • Survey the site – verify the adequacy
and condition of the existing electrical system to accommodate a PV system
• A service upgrade or other corrections may be required
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Inadequate work space
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
115
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Service Disconnects – Maximum Six Handles without a Main Disconnect
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Existing Service Entrance
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Existing service
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Service supplied by SIDA cable
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Alternative Energy Systems installed with safeguarding life and property in mind
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Resources • Photovoltaic Systems, 2nd ed. Dunlop • IAEI News (www.iaei.org) • IREC (www.IRECUSA.org) Field Inspection
Guidelines for PV Systems (Brooks Eng’g) • Photovoltaic Power Systems: Suggested
Practices, Southwest Technology Development Institute , NMSU(John Wiles)
• NEC Handbooks - NFPA • NFPA’s NEC Plus • City of San Diego Inspection Guidelines
121
Development Services Department Division of Building, Construction and Safety
Questions?