Photovoltaic panel support installation acceptance

Do rooftop PV panels need to be designed for component and cladding loads?

International Code Council (ICC) International Building Code (ICC IBC) and International Residential Code (ICC IRC): The 2015 editions of the IBC and IRC require rooftop PV panel systems to be designed for component and cladding loads. However, the referenced criteria are not specific to PV systems.

Do you know the code requirements for a PV panel installation?

Frequently, the owner, contractor, or developer does not fully understand the code requirements to ensure the existing structural framing is not compromised by the PV panel installation. Depending on the jurisdiction and current code edition adopted, there may not be specific structural code requirements currently listed.

How do I specify a PV panel?

Specify PV panels and rail/rack systems that have UL 1703 and UL 2703 listing (as applicable), and an ICC AC 428 evaluation report. If the building is insured by FM Global, specify that the PV system have an FM 4478 approval. Specify double-nutting the panel clamp bolts. For the first nut, specify nuts that are furnished with T-bolts.

Can a PV system be installed on a village house?

PV system installed on roof of village houses Photovoltaic (PV) systems installed on roofs or roofs of stairhoods of village houses must comply with the specified requirements for green and amenity facilities and must be properly installed and not adversely affect the structural safety of the buildings.

How high can a PV system be installed on a roof?

PV system installed on roof should not exceed 2.5m high. PV system exceeding the height of 1.5m should be certified by an Authorized Person who is registered under the Buildings Ordinance for submission of a safety certificate to the Lands Department for record. The average imposed load should not exceed 150kg/m 2.

What are solar photovoltaic design guidelines?

In addition to the IRC and IBC, the Structural Engineers Association of California (SEAOC) has published solar photovoltaic (PV) design guidelines, which provide specific recommendations for solar array installations on low-slope roofs 3.