|
|
|
The Express System Certification is restricted and limited to the following:
- Group R-3 residential structures only; roof mounted PV arrays
- Addresses conventional string inverter designs rated 10kWac or less (Tier 1). System will be expanded to include emerging designs using microinverters, ac modules, and other module level electronics.
- Express System Certification is not an online optimization tool.
An optimization check should be performed using the inverter manufacturer's utility.
- Standard permitting process may not be used for systems not qualifying for use of Express System Certification
- Express System Certification establishes minimum design and installation requirements for selected equipment
- Contractor must supplement Express System Certification output with site-specific plans showing locations of equipment on property, roof layouts, and other requirements, determined to be acceptable to the AHJ
- Users assume full liability for the validity of the inputs, use of the Express System Certification results, and compliance with all applicable codes and manufacturer instructions.
- Exposed PV source circuit conductors shall be 10 AWG PV Wire. All other system wiring shall use 90 C wet-rated conductors. Equipment grounding conductor shall be 6 AWG.
- Bonded metal raceways shall be used for all other circuits.
- Exposed PV wiring shall transition to a raceway at the array location using a listed 3R enclosure and strain relief.
- Parallel connections of PV source circuits are not permitted prior to inverter, no more than one string shall be connected to a single MPPT input.
- Inverter ac output circuit conductors and overcurrent protection device sizes are based on inverter power and maximum current ratings.
- Only load side utility connections are permitted.
Minimum requirements for the distribution equipment busbar and supply overcurrent protection device are based on the ratings of the inverter overcurrent device.
- PV modules shall be listed, and tested for mechanical loads and fire ratings compatible with racking system to achieve a Class A rated assembly.
- Inverters shall be listed, identified for use with ungrounded PV arrays, and include integral dc GFP, ACFI, dc disconnect and source circuit combiner.
- Racking system shall use conventional rails and point attachments to the structure, listed for integrated equipment grounding, and have a Class A fire class rating using specific Type PV modules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: How can I certify my PV system design?
A: There are two options.
Manual: Use this option to submit user generated electrical drawings for evaluation by the FSEC Design Review Committee.
Express: Use this option to have an FSEC certified, code compliant drawing automatically generated by our online system using select components.
Note: Only systems meeting the express system certification criteria are eligible for express system certification.
- Q: How long does system certification take?
A: If the system meets the express system certification criteria, it can be certified almost instantaneously. Using the Manual certification option, an approval or deficiency notice is usually provided within 1 to 2 business days although large or complicated reviews may take longer.
- Q: How do I get a new PV module registered?
A: Module registrations can be initiated by the module's manufacturer through our site via the PV Module Registration.
- Q: Can I use a Micro Inverter for my PV System?
A: Systems using microinverters currently have to be certified through the Manual system certification option. We hope add the capability to use microinverters to the Express system certification option in the near future.
- Q: What should I do if I don't see the module, inverter, optimizer, charge controller, or battery needed to complete my system certification application?
A: Please submit equipment models (inverters, batteries, etc) for possible inclusion in the PV System Certification process.
If the module model is not listed, please contact the manufacturer to request they register it with FSEC.
- Q: Do I need to get a certification for each install site?
A: No. An FSEC PV System Certification covers the electrical design and components used in a system and may be used at multiple installation sites unless the provided drawings are site-specific.
- Q: Why isn't a previously Registered PV Module listed on this site?
A: We appologize, but we are still in the process of migrating previously registered PV Modules onto this site.
- Q: How can I change my username after it has been created?
Have a question? Have a comment?
|
|
