January 2024
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etween the solar panels and roof.<br />
iii) For new roofs understand the risks of flat vs<br />
pitched roofs<br />
iv) Ensure there is a completed H&S risk<br />
assessment, including working at heights.<br />
2. PV location<br />
The amount of sunlight and shading is key.<br />
Consider the surroundings and risk of debris from<br />
leaves etc. Look at on-going accessibility for<br />
maintenance and repair. Be aware that without<br />
safe access this could increase costs further<br />
down the line.<br />
“Evaluate the fixings in<br />
relation to the weatherrelated<br />
conditions in<br />
the area, durability,<br />
maintenance, and<br />
lifecycle”<br />
3. Type of PV panel<br />
PV panels vary from manufacturer to<br />
manufacturer. Ensure they conform to the most<br />
recent and relevant technical standards. Evaluate<br />
the fixings in relation to the weather-related<br />
conditions in the area, durability, maintenance,<br />
and lifecycle.<br />
4. Installations<br />
i) There are 2 main types of PV installation:<br />
(a) Integrated into the roof surface (Building<br />
Integrated Photovoltaic - BIPV)<br />
(b) Above the roof surface (Stand-off systems)<br />
ii) Different types of roof coverings present<br />
different installation challenges. Ensure that<br />
weathertightness, thermal insulation, ventilation<br />
and structural stability are not compromised by<br />
the installation.<br />
5. Inverters<br />
The PV inverter converts the variable direct<br />
current (DC) output from a PV panel into<br />
alternating current (AC). Its size dictates the push<br />
“Batteries have reduced both in cost and in size<br />
by at least 40% over the last five years”<br />
pull capabilities and size of the battery and<br />
should be matched to the usage pattern of your<br />
building/site demand.<br />
6. Battery storage systems<br />
i) Modern lithium ion batteries are slim. They are<br />
sleek and lightweight so can be wall mounted or<br />
standalone.<br />
ii) Batteries should be located in fire rated<br />
compartments away from combustible<br />
surroundings.<br />
7. Constantly ‘live’<br />
The ‘live’ nature of PV panels means careful<br />
consideration of how panels are isolated:<br />
i) dedicated remote switch<br />
ii) integrated isolator switch<br />
iii) via a fire alarm system<br />
8. Handover<br />
Once commissioned a handover should include<br />
training, a quality inspection, and a full test of<br />
the system. Certification of all electrical work in<br />
compliance with the relevant UK standards.<br />
9. Inspections<br />
i) Monitor energy production<br />
ii) Only use competent electrical engineers<br />
(NICEIC, ECA etc)<br />
iii) Periodic panel cleaning and inspection will<br />
help maintain an efficient system<br />
iv) A full visual inspection by a competent person<br />
should be conducted annually<br />
v) Inspections are also advised following extreme<br />
weather<br />
10. Accreditation<br />
All PV contractors should be accredited to a<br />
national trade body and follow mandatory<br />
guidelines, as well as being trained in general<br />
construction site practice and specific training or<br />
competence appropriate to solar PV and BESS<br />
installations.<br />
Contact Aztec Solar Energy<br />
www.aztecsolarenergy.co.uk<br />
0845 467 5058<br />
JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> TC 15
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