Working with EPCs — End-to-End Renewable Energy Engineering Learn More
NEC Safety Codes for PV and other Renewable Energy Systems
The National Electric Code (NEC), published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and officially designated as NFPA 70, sets the standards for electrical safety and performance and provides a comprehensive framework that photovoltaic and other renewable energy projects must follow. The code, last amended in 2023, is updated every three years to incorporate new developments in solar, BESS, and EV charging technology and system design. However, given the recent proliferation of fires in California, these safety codes have taken on heightened significance, which is why we have chosen to highlight them here.
A summary of the key NEC changes impacting our industry
Adherence to the following updates are essential to meet compliance requirements and pass inspections:
- Solar conductor sizing and protection adjustments address how larger conductors and enhanced protection need to be measured to address the higher demands of modern solar systems.
- Rapid Shutdown System (RSS) updates clarify and expand the NEC solar labeling and documenting requirements for RSS.
- Energy Storage System (ESS) commissioning provides details on the specific procedures that need to be followed to ensure energy storage systems are properly evaluated and validated, including testing for functionality, performance, and safety.
- Arc-fault protection enhancements strengthen requirements for arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) in solar installations to reduce the risk of electrical fires.
- NEC floatovoltaic standards address the challenges presented by floating solar installations. They set new installation requirements that are crucial to the safety and effectiveness of solar panels mounted on water bodies.
- EV charging requirements establish new guidelines for EV charging loads and the electrical conductors and equipment that are used to connect electric vehicles to wiring on the premises.
The importance of the NEC guidelines
“Blymyer closely monitors NEC changes to ensure that our projects pass inspections and secure permit approvals,” explains Greg Mazur, Blymyer Director of Engineering. “Adhering to all compliance guidelines and safety standards is essential to delivering a successful project—and integral to our entire process, from design to engineering. The NFPA is the authority and watchdog guiding fire safety, and in light of the increasing incidence of fires in California, their guidelines are more critical than ever.”
About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Established in 1896, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a U.S.-based international nonprofit organization devoted to eliminating death, injury, property, and economic loss due to fire, electrical, and related hazards. The NFPA has approximately 50,000 members and 9,000 volunteers working with the organization through its 250 technical committees.