If you have a PV system and it is a line-side tap (which is permitted) must the disconnect for the PV system be grouped with the service disconnect for the dwelling?

No. The PV system disconnecting means must be grouped per 690.14(C)(5), but are not required to be grouped with the service disconnecting means or any other source of power.

However, Section 702.8(A) &/or 705.10 require signage or a directory to placed at the service & at the PV system disconencts denoting the other source of power. This same requirement can be found in Section 230.2(E).

Thanks. That is what I thought but I wanted to be sure. Appreciate the assistance.

I have some follow-up questions on solar panels with the micro-inverters built in,, but first I am noticing that I do not get automatically generated emails when someone replies. When the forum changed to a single forum - do we need to reset something? I also see that when I log in it says "this page not available" or something like that...just wondering..

I have yet to see one of these installed. It would be nice if somebody would take some snapshots with some notes for concerns.

I got the auto-email that time.

Ruben, the problem that I have is that there are many different ways to install a PV system. There are also some systems with solar panels that have micro-inverters built in, while others are done the "old-fashioned" way with the separate inverter. It is a bit much (at least for me) to show up on a job and in minutes of my being there, be able to fully understand the installation. I will be asking for one-line diagrams at plan review for all solar installations. There are just too many different ways to do it.

For PV System Permit Applications, we request the following submittals:

1. One-line riser & circuit diagram of all electrical wiring & equipment associated with the PB system.

2. FSEC certifcation letter or documentation.

3. PV Module, Inverter, & other associated equipment installation instructions / specification sheets.

4. NRTL listing documentation.

5. Structural anchoring / tie-down information. (Must be engineered)

We do basically the same. The Utility requires a disconnect at the service equipment and supplies an ID label. I am also concerned about off-grid systems and supplying signs and a disconnect for 'responders'.

FPL does not require a dedicated utility disconnecting means for Tier 1 systems (10kW & less) Tier 2 (>10kW - 100kW) & Tier 3 (>100kW) systems require the disconnecting means.

Nick,
I would suspect your notification issue is with your internet security or your email path.
But anyway you really should post issues like this in the help forum. So we don't dilute the current topic at hand.
BTW, Check your private message.

And back to on topic.
I understand that there are lots of methods to install a PV system.
That is why I stated that it would be nice (Since I have never seen one) that somebody provided some more info.
Submittals are cute for plan review but does little good for the poor field inspector that is inspecting the installation.
Maybe 20 years down the road when possibly they are more common it would not be that difficult to determine if they comply with the code.

Bryan's method seems to be the best, and should be incorporated into the Florida Administrative Code (for Engineers), when a Florida P.E. signs and seals a PV system all of those items should be included in the sealed plans (this should be a requirement if not already listed in the F.A.C.).

don't bite my head off - i did not have time to check,....

We require line diagram and documents on panels, grounding, inverters (if not micro inverters, etc.
We also require engineered calculations per ASCE 7 on fastening to roof.
We have not asked for Florida Solar lab certification, only a state solar contractor license (or unlimited).
We had an influx of solar systems (mostly micro inverters) this last few months. Seems the power companies and fed are giving generous subsidies. I worked it out to go to Mike Holt's class on PV systems and found it very informative and enlightening.

I am seeing a bunch of these, I really would like to understand it better. The idea of going to a class such as Mike Holt is a really good one. If I can get the time I may just do that as well. I'm not sure how long the perks will last (from the power companies, cities, counties, green movement, etc.) but I would really like to get a better understanding of PV anyhow. It seems the more I am exposed to it, the simpler it is to understand. At least for me.

I also may have a distinct problem with how the microinverter setups are grounded --- if the setup is a line-side tap (only in this scenario); the PV system being an additional service. I don't believe the grounding is being laid out correctly, and there may be objectionable current, but this is my problem at the moment. Don't mean to make a big deal of it right now. Seeing a bunch of stuff from Enphase micro-inverters - trying to study the online schematics for a better understanding.
ns

The Florida Solar Energy Center is required by Section 377.705 of the Florida Statutes to develop standards and certify all solar energy equipment manufactured or sold in Florida. To meet the requirements of the Florida Statutes, FSEC has developed a PV Module and PV System Certification program that protects the public interest and advances the use of renewable technologies. The objectives of the program are to:

1.Provide Florida residents with reliable, safe and high quality PV system designs.
2.Provide a means for consumers to obtain a summary of their certified PV system design including the installer's name, address, telephone number and Florida contractor's license number.
3.Provide Florida consumers and/or agency officials with the expected power output of certified PV systems using accurate PV module performance ratings.
4.Provide a PV system design approval certificate with a checklist that list the items that require compliance with National Electrical Code. The certificate and checklist can be used by local building officials for both the issuing of permits and the inspection of installed PV systems.

To satisfy these objectives, FSEC has developed a PV Module and System Certification processes. These certification processes are intended to be simple and straightforward.