Are photovoltaic solar energy systems safe?

The safe and reliable installation of photovoltaic (PV) solar energy systems and their integration with the nation’s electric grid requires timely development of the foundational codes and standards governing solar deployment.

How does NFPA keep pace with energy storage and solar technology?

NFPA is keeping pace with the surge in energy storage and solar technology by undertaking initiatives including training, standards development, and research so that various stakeholders can safely embrace renewable energy sources and respond if potential new hazards arise. NFPA Standards that address Energy Storage Systems

Which inverter is required for a combined PV and storage system?

Combined PV and storage system topologies will generally require a bi-directional inverter, either as the primary inverter solution (DC-coupled) or in addition to the unidirectional PV inverters (AC-coupled).

Are PV storage systems safe?

Storage systems in PV plus storage settings call for many overlapping safety standards and precautions, particularly those that apply to working on DC wiring, and bring a set of technology-specific new considerations.

What are the requirements for large PV power plants?

Large PV power plants (i.e., greater than 20 MW at the utility interconnection) that provide power into the bulk power system must comply with standards related to reliability and adequacy promulgated by authorities such as NERC and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

Why is energy availability important in assessing PV systems?

Both energy and availability are necessary metrics for assessing PV systems. If the stakeholders involved in a contract are most interested in energy production, and if the contract holds parties responsible for energy production, then it is crucial that energy losses associated with unavailability and system performance are accounted for.