Roof penetrations for Solar PV installations

[katwalatapan]

Hello,

I wanted to inquire for Solar PV, Grid-Tie type installations, the only roof penetration into the attic / plenum space is the conduit coming from the PV array combiner/junction box. A roof flashing product is installed, where the conduit is then connected. Would this be the standard industry practice?

Would the above be sufficient along with insallation of conduit all the way to the main electrical room (where the utility meter is installed), to make a facility Solar PV ready?

Thank you.

 

[MikeHalloran]

If you don't want the panels to fly away in a storm, you need to connect the structure supporting the panels to the structure supporting the roof, with appropriate flashing.



Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[OperaHouse]

In a new construction I would just bring conduit to the attic and let the installer provide the roof penetration where it is best for them. A couple of feet of conduit on the roof is ugly and can cause future problems.

Providing an unused passage is smart but there is a problem many do not think of. A good inspector will have issues with fire blocking in a large unused conduit traveling through several floors.

 

[MikeHalloran]

If you have the space, consider installing panels on a pergola, not on the building, avoiding flashing issues.



Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[katwalatapan]

Thank you very much for your comments.