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National Electrical Code

Photovoltaic Systems ― Part 4

Jan. 21, 2020

Neatly installing a Code-compliant solar power system means using a professional-grade label making tool.

The requirements for photovoltaic (PV) system wiring methods underwent extensive revision with the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC) revision cycle. You can expect at least another round of heavy revision, because these systems are becoming increasingly affordable and thus increasingly ubiquitous.

As a benchmark, China identified numerous large metroplex cities where the cost of power from solar was on par with the cost of power from the grid. In the United States, progress has not been quite as rapid, but it is continuing. It won't be long until solar is commonly more affordable than normal grid power and/or normal grid power has a large solar component.

Labeling is a key area that was stressed this time around. For example, DC circuit conductors must be identified at all termination, connection, and splice points [Sec. 690.31(B)(1)]. In addition, there are special labeling requirements for wiring methods and enclosures that contain the DC conductors [Sec. 690.31(D)(3)].

With so many things needing to be identified and with the identification having to meet strict and detailed requirements, neatly installing a Code-compliant solar power system means using a professional-grade label making tool.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.