Technical due diligence plays a critical role in the success of solar projects across commercial, industrial, and utility-scale applications. Large photovoltaic (PV) systems represent significant capital investments with long operational lifespans—often 30 years or more. If these systems fail to perform reliably or meet expectations, project stakeholders such as financiers, owners, and developers face serious risks to their investment returns.
Risk mitigation over the lifetime of a PV system goes beyond just meeting basic code requirements. As a consulting engineering firm working with project owners and lenders, Pure Power has reviewed numerous underperforming or problematic solar assets that met minimum code standards. These experiences have shown us that while code compliance is a necessary starting point, it should never be considered the ultimate goal.
**Understanding Code Compliance**
Like any electrical or structural system, PV installations must follow specific codes, such as the National Electrical Code (NEC) or the International Building Code (IBC). Meeting these requirements is essential for permits, inspections, and liability management. However, simply complying with legal standards does not guarantee quality, reliability, performance, or longevity.
Codes are essentially a reflection of past failures—especially those that led to loss of life, property damage, or major insurance claims. They are developed by volunteer experts who aim to prevent catastrophic events. But they don’t always address issues related to efficiency, maintenance, or long-term durability.
The NEC itself states in section 90.1(A):
> “The purpose of this Code is the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity.â€
And in 90.1(B), it acknowledges:
> “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 on investment, it must operate efficiently, be easy to maintain, and last for decades.
**Code Evolution and Adoption Challenges**
It's also important to note that code development moves slowly compared to technological advancements. While new editions of the NEC and IBC are published every three years, adoption at the state or local level can vary widely. Some states adopt new codes immediately, while others may lag by several years or even decades. This creates inconsistencies in safety and performance standards.
In some cases, outdated codes may actually hinder the use of modern, more efficient technologies. Therefore, relying solely on code compliance may not be sufficient to ensure a safe, reliable, and high-performing system.
**Understanding Best Practices**
Best practices go beyond legal requirements and are based on proven methods, materials, and experience. They help stakeholders make informed decisions about efficiency, reliability, and long-term performance. While best practices can vary depending on business goals, many are universally applicable.
**Performance Matters**
A PV system must not only be compliant but also function efficiently. For example, improper inverter placement in high-temperature environments can lead to power derating, reduced performance, or even equipment failure. Proper conductor sizing and cooling strategies are essential to avoid voltage drops and nuisance tripping.
**Climate and Location Matter**
PV systems must be designed with local environmental conditions in mind—such as seismic activity, coastal winds, snow loads, or UV exposure. A system that meets code requirements may still be vulnerable to extreme weather. Best practices help improve resilience and ensure long-term reliability.
**Installation and O&M Matter**
Ease of installation and maintenance is another key factor. Overly complex designs can increase costs and reduce system availability. Best practices suggest clustering inverters and planning for future maintenance to save time and money. Small design changes, like flexible conduit routing, can make a big difference during operations.
At Pure Power, our experienced engineers integrate these best practices into every project, ensuring your solar and energy storage systems are safe, reliable, efficient, and profitable over their entire lifespan.
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