The purpose of this workshop is to help the audience better understand the NEC requirements for designing and installing solar electric or photovoltaic (PV) systems.  The workshop is designed for building inspectors, plan checkers, fire officials, PV installers, designers, engineers, and architects who wish to stay on top of the latest code compliance issues that help facilitate safe and long-lasting PV systems. Participants will be provided with an intensive overview of the codes and standards that govern small-scale solar electrical generation. Primary focus is on the National Electrical Code (NEC), including the 2008 updates to the NEC with a permit and inspection guideline provided to organize the process.

Who Should Attend?

• Local Code Enforcement Officers
• Building Department Officials
• Third-party electrical inspectors

Workshop Outline

• PV System Basics
• Introduction to relevant Codes and Standards
• Summary of PV Electrical Installation Issues
• Permit and Field Inspector Guidelines for PV Systems
  • Permit Guidelines for Small-Scale PV Systems
    • Basic site diagram
    • One-line electric diagram
    • Major component information
  • Inspection Guidelines for all PV Systems
    • Equipment, conduit, and wiring installed according to approved plans
    • Structure attached according to plans and directions
    • Appropriate signs installed
• Questions and Answers

About the Speaker

Bill Brooks, PE of Brooks Engineering, LLC, has 20 years of experience designing, installing, and evaluating grid-connected PV systems. Nearly 4,000 installers and 2,500 inspectors have attended his courses throughout the U.S. and abroad. He has authored several widely used publications including the Inspector Guidelines for PV Systems.  Actively involved in the developments of PV codes and standards including IEEE-929 (PV Utility Interconnection) and for NEC Article 690 (Solar Photovoltaic Systems), Mr. Brooks holds B.S. and M.S. degrees in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina State University and is a registered Professional Engineer in North Carolina and California.

Sponsors

The Ann Arbor Energy Office  works to move the City of Ann Arbor toward more sustainable energy use by managing projects and programs, developing information resources, and providing expert advice.  This workshop is part of an partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy and the Interstate Renewable Energy Council to integrate solar energy through the Ann Arbor community.