Photovoltaic bracket installation diagram on the roof of the factory building

How do I install a solar PV system?

Install a mounting system for solar thermal or solar photovoltaic panels. Consider the roof type (material and slope), weatherproofing, installation convenience, and wind and snow loadings. Choose an appropriate racking and mounting system for the type of PV module, and install the system along with needed flashing and seals.

Should a roof rack be installed on a PV system?

When designing a commercial rooftop solar system, it's important to consider allowing ease of removal by trained personnel for roof maintenance without damaging the roof system. This may require collaboration between the PV system designer and the roof designer to ensure proper flashing and maintenance access.

Do commercial buildings need a photovoltaic system?

If commercial buildings in the U.S. with roofs over 5,000 square-feet were to install photovoltaic (PV), or solar, arrays, they could potentially provide enough energy to power nearly 60 percent of the total commercial electricity demand. Therefore, having a PV system is not a necessity but could significantly contribute to powering commercial buildings.

Can a racking system be used to ground a PV module?

This racking system may be used to ground and/or mount a PV module complying with UL 1703 only when the specic module has been evaluated for grounding and/or mounting in compliance with the included instructions. The system is a non-separately derived system.

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.

How should flashings be installed on a PV system?

Flashings for a PV (Photovoltaic) system should be installed in accordance with NRCA or the roof manufacturer’s construction details. Penetration pockets (pitch pockets or pitch pans) are acceptable as a last alternative for flashing PV system electrical connections passing through a roof assembly.