The use of solar energy has grown every year for the past decade. Solar power is now a mainstream energy source, producing more than 5% of domestic electrical power and the use of solar power is expected to continue to grow. With any electrical system, there are hazards that are present and that need to be addressed to prevent injuries, fires, and electrical faults.
Equipment Selection
Solar systems are made up of a number of components that operate together to generate usable electrical power. The most visible are the photovoltaic (PV) panels that are roof mounted or rack mounted. The cost of these panels has been trending down and the power output has been trending up. This has made solar power a more economical option for homeowners and business. The growth of the market has led to a wide range of quality panels being available. A good yardstick for assessing quality is the presence of a listing indicating compliance with UL standards.
The PV panels should be UL listed to one or more of the following standards.
UL 1703 For flat-plate PV modules and panels, this standard includes fire tests to characterize the performance of modules and panels. It also includes a system fire class rating for modules or panels combined with mounting systems and roof coverings.
UL 2703 For rack mounting systems and clamping devices for flat-plate PV modules and panels, this standard also covers ground lugs and requirements for ground-mounted and roof systems. It can also be used to determine the fire classification of a rooftop-mounted PV system and maintain the roof's fire performance integrity.
UL 61730-2 For PV module safety qualification, this standard includes requirements for testing and IEC 61730-2. It also covers wiring and harnesses, which need to be sunlight resistant and rated for wet locations at temperatures of 90ºC or higher.
The inverter that converts DC power from the panels to AC power used in your home should be UL listed to UL 1741. Many utilities require certification of compliance with this standard as part of their connection agreements.
Electrical Installation
The National Electric Code has specific regulations and installation requirements for solar energy systems, Article 690 of the National Electric Code covers these requirements. You should get written verification that the installation at your building meets these standards. All PV installations should be subject to permitting and inspections by third party electrical inspectors. The NEC is updated every three years to reflect current equipment and emerging issues. Be sure your installer is using the most current edition of the code. Many local building departments use an electrical code that is three to six years old.
Utility Connections
One selling point for solar energy is that you may be able to send energy to the grid, reducing your electric bill. You need to contact your utility to select the type of agreement and to complete the connection process. This may include insurance requirements, system documentation and equipment certifications. Utilities may require a dedicated disconnect switch to isolate your system from the grid. The utility may require an inspection before your system can operate connected to the grid.
Energy Storage Systems
Instead of selling power to a utility you may opt for storing energy in a battery bank. The type of battery bank will dictate the specific standards that apply to the installation. The most popular option today is lithium-ion batteries arranged in racks. There are no recognized fire control systems for these batteries. So, a lithium-ion battery system that fails can create a significant uncontrolled fire hazard. Consider this when deciding on the placement of your battery system.
PV Installation Considerations
Roof mounted PV arrays add weight to the roof. You need to verify that the structure of the building can handle the additional weight of the solar system. The system will also add wind loads and snow loads to the building. These additional loads must be calculated and included in the roof structure design evaluation.
The use of PV panels that are not UL Listed for fire ratings can cause your roof system to lose its fire rating. If you are required to have a specific fire rating for your roof covering, make sure the PV panels selected do not conflict with this requirement.
System layout should allow for roof access and easy access to the panels for repairs and maintenance. A large array with inaccessible inner panels can create difficulty at time of an emergency repair.
Ground mounted systems on racks should also consider wind and snow loads for the rack system. If the racks are designed to track the sun, the motors and operators should be rated for the loads involved. Foundations for the racks should be able to handle frost heave from wither freeze and thaw cycles. Electrical connections can be damaged by panel and rack movement.
Vegetation control should be considered for ground mounted systems. A fire in vegetation could cause significant damage to your solar array. Ground mounted solar systems may be subject to local zoning laws and be subject to setbacks and area limitations.
Insurance Consideration
You will need equipment breakdown coverage as the electrical system for your building has gotten more complex. There are equipment breakdown products for both personal lines and commercial lines that can offer protection for the equipment, wiring, controls, and potential loss of revenue. This is not automatically included, and you and your agent should discuss your system and its financial impacts.
The Driehaus Difference
We have insured businesses and homes with solar energy systems for many years. We understand the exposures these systems present, and the insurance coverage needed to protect your interests. Call us at 513-977-6860 or reach out using the contact tools on our website, www.driehausins.com. We want to be your insurance provider.
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