KNOW the CODE

Many of the PV systems in use and being installed today may not be in compliance with the National Electrical Codes (NEC) and other local codes.


There are several contributing factors to this situation:

• The PV industry has a strong “grass roots,” do-it-yourself faction that is not fully aware of the dangers associated with low-voltage and high-voltage, direct-current (dc), PV-power systems.

• Some people in the PV community may believe that PV systems below 50 volts are not covered by the NEC.

• Electricians and electrical inspectors have not had significant experience with direct-current portions of the Code or PV power systems. The electrical equipment industries do not advertise or widely distribute equipment suitable for dc use that meets NEC requirements.

• Popular publications are presenting information to the public that implies that PV systems are easily installed, modified, and maintained by untrained personnel.

• Photovoltaic equipment manufacturers have, in some cases, been unable to afford the costs associated with testing and listing by approved testing laboratories like Underwriters Laboratories or ETL.

• Photovoltaic installers and dealers in many cases have not had significant experience installing ac residential and/or commercial power systems.

The only way to know how to properly install a photovoltaic system and ensure that you are following critical electrical codes, is to be trained by a knowledgeable source.