Technical due diligence is crucial for the success of solar projects in commercial, industrial, and utility settings. Large photovoltaic (PV) power systems represent major capital investments with lifespans of 30 years or more. If these assets don't function as intended or encounter operational issues, project financiers, owners, and developers face the risk of diminished returns.
Minimizing risks over the lifetime of a PV system involves more than just adhering to minimum requirements. As consultants to project owners and lenders, we at Pure Power have assessed numerous underperforming or problematic solar assets that technically met basic code standards. These experiences underscore the importance of understanding that compliance with legal minimums is merely the starting point for solar project due diligence—not the ultimate goal.
Understanding Code Compliance
Like any building or electrical system, PV installations must comply with specific codes like the National Electrical Code (NEC) or the International Building Code (IBC). Adhering to these regulations is vital for obtaining permits, passing inspections, and reducing liability. However, meeting just the legal baseline doesn’t guarantee quality, reliability, performance, or durability.
Safeguarding versus Adequacy
Fundamentally, codes reflect real-world failures, particularly catastrophic incidents causing fatalities, fires, or costly insurance claims. These codes are developed collaboratively by experts who aim to prevent such tragedies. Since their main priority is protecting lives and property, they often overlook issues leading to reduced performance, usability, or lifespan.
The NEC’s first article [90.1(A)] clearly states its purpose:
“The Code is intended for the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity.â€
Subsequent sections acknowledge that compliance alone isn't enough for optimal outcomes:
“Compliance with this Code and proper maintenance result in an installation that is essentially free from hazard but not necessarily efficient, convenient, or adequate for good service…â€
This distinction is critical. For a PV plant to deliver strong returns, it needs to operate efficiently, be easy to maintain, and last a long time.
Variations Between Code Editions
It's also worth noting that code updates lag behind technological advancements. While new editions of the NEC and IBC come out every three years, their adoption varies greatly across jurisdictions. Some regions quickly adopt the latest versions, while others stick with older editions. This disparity complicates efforts to ensure safety and reliability, sometimes even restricting access to cutting-edge solutions.
Understanding Best Practices
Best practices go beyond minimum legal standards, encompassing strategies proven to yield superior results. They enable stakeholders to make informed decisions based on factors like efficiency, effectiveness, and reliability. While priorities may differ among organizations—some focusing on short-term gains while others prioritize long-term stability—many best practices apply universally.
Performance Matters
A PV system that isn't operational or efficient won't deliver anticipated financial benefits. Even if minimum codes are followed, there’s still room for error or suboptimal design choices. For instance, selecting and positioning inverters without considering local temperatures could lead to reduced output or increased failure rates due to overheating. Similarly, improperly sized wiring might cause unnecessary voltage drops, triggering false alarms. Applying best practices addresses these potential pitfalls.
Climate and Location Matter
Designs should account for regional environmental risks such as seismic activity, coastal winds, snowfall, UV exposure, etc., to ensure lasting performance. Simply following base-level codes might leave systems vulnerable to foreseeable disasters. According to an engineering report submitted to the Structural Engineers Association of California:
“Though rare, structural failures have occurred even in code-compliant utility-scale PV facilities.â€
Best practices enhance overall resilience compared to minimal designs by guiding appropriate material selections and structural modifications aimed at achieving extended operational lifespans.
Installation and Maintenance Matter
Difficult-to-access components can hinder timely repairs, exemplifying the phrase "penny-wise, pound-foolish." Aggregating inverters into accessible zones minimizes downtime during servicing. Simple yet cost-effective adjustments like flexible conduits facilitate quicker replacements. Our team brings extensive expertise in implementing these kinds of optimizations to maximize profitability throughout the project lifecycle.
In summary, going beyond mere regulatory adherence ensures not only safety but also sustainability, efficiency, and profitability over time.
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