Should a general contractor install a solar PV system?

A general contractor may face a choice between using an electrical subcontractor or a solar subcontractor to install the PV system. A good solar contractor will have the expertise in solar PV systems plus qualified electricians on staff.

Do solar PV panels drain to the ground?

As solar PV panels will drain to the existing ground, the impact will not in general be significant and therefore this should not be an onerous requirement. Where access tracks need to be provided, permeable tracks should be used, and localised SUDS, such as swales and infiltration trenches, should be used to control any run-off where recommended.

What is included in a residential solar PV plan set?

They typically include roof layouts, load calculations, equipment specifications, and electrical wiring diagrams. Also, residential solar PV plan sets must follow residential building codes and solar permit regulations for a given area, which may differ from commercial and utility-scale solar installation requirements.

How do you manage vegetation under solar panels?

Vegetation will grow under the solar panels and this will require management, particularly to avoid the site becoming overgrown with noxious weeds and assist with the eventual restoration of the site, normally to agriculture. There are various techniques for managing the vegetation, these include mowing, strimming, spraying or mulching.

Are solar PV panels a viable investment?

Rising energy costs and the support of the Feed in Tariff (FiT) and the Renewable Obligations Certificates have significantly increased the financial viability and attractiveness of installing solar PV panels. These installations may be roof / wall mounted or standalone / ground mounted.

What should a builder do if a building has solar PV?

Ensure the building plans, electrical infrastructure, and mechanical equipment placements (vents, stacks, etc.) adequately provide for solar PV installation. Highlight structural impacts for review by others to ensure solar PV can be accommodated. The builder may have a specific solar PV energy production target.