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Technical due diligence plays a crucial role in the success of solar projects across commercial, industrial, and utility-scale applications. Large photovoltaic (PV) systems represent significant capital investments with a service life extending beyond 30 years. If these systems fail to perform reliably or as expected, project stakeholders—such as financiers, owners, and developers—risk lower returns on their investment.
Mitigating risks throughout the operational lifespan of a PV system goes well beyond simply meeting minimum regulatory requirements. As a consulting engineer working with project owners and lenders, Pure Power has assessed numerous underperforming or problematic solar assets that met code standards. These experiences have shown us that code compliance is not an end goal—it’s merely the starting point for thorough due diligence.
**Understanding Code Compliance**
Like any electrical or structural system, PV installations must adhere to specific codes such as the National Electrical Code (NEC) or the International Building Code (IBC). Meeting these requirements is essential for permits, inspections, and limiting liability. However, compliance with legal minimums does not guarantee quality, reliability, performance, or longevity.
Codes are essentially a reflection of past failures, particularly those that led to loss of life, fire damage, or major insurance claims. While they aim to protect people and property, they often do not address issues that affect long-term performance, maintenance, or system efficiency.
The NEC itself states:
> “The purpose of this Code is the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity.â€
And further notes:
> “Compliance with [this Code] and proper maintenance result in an installation that is essentially free from hazard but not necessarily efficient, convenient, or adequate for good service.â€
This distinction is key: for a PV plant to deliver strong returns, it must be efficient, easy to maintain, and built to last.
**Variations Between Code Editions**
It's also important to recognize that code development moves at a slower pace than technological advancements. While new editions of the NEC and IBC are released every three years, adoption by states and local jurisdictions can vary widely. Some regions adopt the latest version immediately, while others may still enforce older editions, sometimes more than a decade out of date. This lag can create gaps between what is legally required and what is best practice.
In some cases, outdated codes may even prevent the use of newer, more efficient technologies. Therefore, relying solely on code compliance doesn't always ensure a safe or reliable system.
**Understanding Best Practices**
Best practices go beyond legal requirements and focus on proven methods, materials, and strategies that lead to superior outcomes. They help stakeholders make informed decisions based on metrics like efficiency, reliability, and long-term performance. While best practices can vary depending on business goals, many principles apply universally.
**Performance Matters**
If a PV system isn’t operating efficiently or is frequently unavailable, it won’t deliver the expected returns. Simply meeting code requirements won’t prevent equipment failures, installation errors, or design flaws. For example, improper inverter placement in high-temperature environments can lead to derating, reduced efficiency, or even nuisance tripping. Best practices help mitigate these risks.
**Climate and Location Matter**
PV systems must be designed with environmental conditions in mind. Factors like seismic activity, coastal winds, snow, frost, and UV exposure can significantly impact long-term performance. A code-compliant system may not be sufficient to withstand extreme weather events. Engineering reports have shown that even code-compliant structures can experience failures under certain conditions.
**Installation and O&M Matter**
Ease of installation and maintenance is critical. If a system is difficult to access or service, it can lead to higher costs and longer downtime. For instance, spreading inverters over large areas increases the time and effort needed for maintenance. Best practices suggest clustering inverters to improve accessibility and reduce service time.
Simple design adjustments, such as flexible conduit routing, can save time and money during operations. At Pure Power, our engineers bring these best practices to every project, ensuring your PV and energy storage systems are safe, reliable, efficient, and profitable over the long term.