Latest photovoltaic panel vent installation specifications

What is a roof mounted photovoltaic system guidance?

The guidance refers only to the mechanical installation of roof mounted integrated and stand-off photovoltaic systems; it provides best practice guidance on installation requirements and does not constitute fixing instructions.

To whom is the photovoltaic (PV) guide applicable?

This guide is applicable to Clients planning or undertaking installation of Photovoltaic (PV) systems on ‘Large Scale’ buildings. These buildings are typically owned by organisations from the public or private sector, such as educational establishments, local government, a local community, or commercial organisations.

Are there any UK standards relating to a PV installation?

While many UK standards apply in general terms, at the time of writing there is still relatively little which specifically relates to a PV installation. However, there are two documents which specifically relate to the installation of these systems that are of particular relevance:

What are the different types of PV installation?

There are two main types of PV installation: integrated into the roof surface, often referred to as Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) systems or mounted above the existing roof covering, also referred to as stand-off systems.

What are the requirements for a PV installation?

Virtually all domestic PV installations will fall under the scope of Part P. Part P requires the relevant Building Control department to be notified and approve the work. There are two routes to comply with the requirements of Part P: Notify the relevant Building Control department before starting the work.

What guidance is there on the performance of PV systems?

The Good Practice Guide provides some guidance on the performance of PV systems in Section 4 of the updated PV Installers Guide. The PV Specialist should model the system using one of the software simulation programmes available, which have a ‘library’ of modules and inverters and can select the sunlight conditions most representative of the site.