5 SEC Inspection and Testing Checklistsv2Clean

Sustainable Integration of Renewable Energy
Sources (Solar PV) with SEC Distribution Network

Low Voltage and Medium Voltage
Inspection and Testing Checklists
Version 2
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Table of contents
1 SCOPE ...................................................................................................................................... 5
1.1 Site Test and Commissioning Test ...............................................................................................5
1.2 Site Inspection and Witnessing of the Tests arranged by the Applicant .....................................5
1.3 Notice to users ............................................................................................................................5
2 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS ......................................................................................................... 6
3 COMPANION DOCUMENTS....................................................................................................... 6
4 TERMS AND DEFINITIONS ......................................................................................................... 6
5 GLOSSARY................................................................................................................................ 8
6 SITE TEST CHECKLIST ................................................................................................................ 9
6.1 Overview......................................................................................................................................9
6.2 General on PV system and Participants ......................................................................................9
6.2.1 Description ..........................................................................................................................9
6.2.2 Pass/fail criteria ...................................................................................................................9
6.2.3 Checklist ..............................................................................................................................9
6.3 Documents required................................................................................................................. 10
6.3.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 10
6.3.2 Pass/fail criteria ................................................................................................................ 10
6.3.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 10
6.4 DC system inspection ............................................................................................................... 11
6.4.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 11
6.4.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 11
6.5 AC system inspection ............................................................................................................... 14
6.5.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 14
6.5.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 14
6.6 Labelling and identification ...................................................................................................... 15
6.6.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 15
6.6.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 15
6.7 Fire Protection .......................................................................................................................... 15
6.7.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 15
6.7.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 16
6.8 Special Requirements for Households ..................................................................................... 18
6.8.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 18
6.8.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 18
6.9 PV array test report .................................................................................................................. 19
6.9.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 19
6.9.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 20
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6.10 Site Test Final result ................................................................................................................. 21
6.10.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 21

6.10.3 Final result page ............................................................................................................... 21
7 COMMISSIONING TEST CHECKLIST .......................................................................................... 22
7.1 Overview................................................................................................................................... 22
7.2 General on PV system and Participants ................................................................................... 22
7.2.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 22
7.2.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 22
7.3 Documents required................................................................................................................. 23
7.3.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 23
7.3.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 23
7.4 Sensors ..................................................................................................................................... 23
7.4.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 23
7.4.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 24
7.5 Performance test ...................................................................................................................... 25
7.5.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 25
7.5.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 25
7.6 Inspection and Test of the Interface Protection....................................................................... 26
7.6.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 26
7.6.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 26
7.7 Commissioning Test Final result ............................................................................................... 27
7.7.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 27
7.7.3 Final result page ............................................................................................................... 27
8 SEC INSPECTION ..................................................................................................................... 28
8.1 Overview................................................................................................................................... 28
8.2 Site Inspection (PV ≤ 50 kW) .................................................................................................... 28
8.2.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 28
8.2.3 Checklist – Documentation .............................................................................................. 28
8.3 Site Inspection and Witnessing the Site Test (PV > 50 kW) ...................................................... 30
8.3.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 30
8.3.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 30
8.4 Witnessing the Commissioning Test ........................................................................................ 33
8.4.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 33
8.4.3 Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 34
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1 SCOPE
These Checklists provide information on the Inspection and Testing activities to be carried out by the
Applicant at the end of the construction of a solar PV system, in order to connect it to the Distribution
Network in KSA.
Referring to the Guidelines that inform customers and installers in order to connect a solar PV system
to distribution networks (Connection Guidelines), and to the Inspection and Testing Guidelines, in the
Inspection and Energization stage, after the solar PV system construction is over, the following
activities shall take place:
Activities arranged by the Site Test  Issue of Site Test Report1

Applicant Commissioning Test  Issue of Commissioning Test Report
Site Inspection
Activities made by SEC Witnessing the Site Test (if PV capacity > 50 kWp)
Witnessing the Commissioning Test
1.1 Site Test and Commissioning Test

The Site Test and the Commissioning Test are specifically for Small-scale Solar PV systems, as described
in the Inspection and Testing Guidelines. The Site Test and Commissioning Test are arranged by the
Applicant and undertaken by a qualified Test Engineer under his/her responsibility.
1.2 Site Inspection and Witnessing of the Tests arranged by the Applicant
The aim of the Site Inspection made by SEC is to verify the Small-scale Solar PV system, at least in those
parts that it deems to be relevant to it. When inspecting the site, at its sole discretion, SEC may witness
the Site Test, if the capacity of the PV System exceeds 50 kW: in this case either some or all the tests
undertaken by the Applicant may have to be repeated at the presence of the SEC Inspector(if deemed
necessary). Then SEC witness the Commissioning Test.
1.3 Notice to users

This document is for use of employees of SEC, Consumers, Consultants, Contractors and
Manufacturers. Users of this guideline should consult all applicable laws and regulations. Users are
responsible for observing or referring to the applicable regulatory requirements. SEC does not, by the
publication of its standards, intend to urge action that is not in compliance with applicable laws, and
these documents may not be construed as doing so.
Users should be aware that this document may be superseded at any time by the issuance of new
editions or may be amended from time to time through the issuance of amendments, corrigenda, or
errata. These Technical Standards at any point in time consist of the current edition of the document
together with any amendments, corrigenda, or errata then in effect. All users should ensure that they
have the latest edition of this document, uploaded on SEC website.
Finally, the user shall refer to Saudi Building Code – Section 401 - Chapter 712, as well as to applicable
SASO Standards or International Standards mentioned in these SEC documents, unless differently
indicated in other SEC documents related to Small-Scale Solar PV Systems Regulations.
1
The Applicant shall prepare and submit to SEC other relevant documents before applying for the Inspection, as described in the Guidelines that
inform customers and installers in order to connect a solar PV system to distribution networks (Connection Guidelines)
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2 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS
[1] Technical Standards for the Connection of Small-Scale Solar PV Systems to the LV and MV
Distribution Networks of SEC (Technical Standards)
[2] Guidelines that inform customers and installers in order to connect a solar PV system to
distribution networks (Connection Guidelines)
[3] Saudi Building Code (SBC)
[4] Inspection and Testing Guidelines
[5] IEC 60364-6 – Low voltage electrical installations. Part 6: Verifications
[6] IEC 61010 – Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and
laboratory use
[7] IEC 61557 – Electrical safety in low voltage distribution systems up to 1000 V AC and 1500 V DC
[8] IEC 61724-1 – Photovoltaic system performance. Part 1: Monitoring
[9] IEC 61724-2 – Photovoltaic system performance. Part 2: Capacity evaluation method
[10] IEC 61724-3 – Photovoltaic system performance. Part 3: Energy evaluation method
[11] IEC 61730-2 – Photovoltaic PV module safety qualification. Part 2: Requirements for testing
[12] IEC 62446-1 – Photovoltaic (PV) systems. Requirements for testing, documentation and
maintenance. Part 1: Grid connection systems. Documentation, commissioning, tests and
inspection
[13] IEC 62548 – Photovoltaic (PV) arrays. Design requirements
3 COMPANION DOCUMENTS
The documents listed hereinafter have to be considered a compendium of the current document.
Therefore, they should be carefully read in addition to this.
a) Technical Standards for the Connection of Small-Scale Solar PV Systems to the LV and MV
Distribution Networks of SEC
b) Guidelines for Consumers, Consultants and Contractors to connect a Small-Scale Solar PV
System to SEC distribution network
c) Inspection and Testing Guidelines
d) Safety related to the installation of the Solar PV systems
e) PV on buildings and safety
f) Best Practice for Designing a PV system
g) Manual for the Maintenance of the Solar PV Systems
4 TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
Active power – Active Power is the real component of the apparent power, expressed in watts or
multiples thereof (e.g. kilowatts (kW) or megawatts (MW)). In the text this will be generically referred
as P or Pnom in case of nominal active power of equipment.
Apparent power – Is the product of voltage (in Volt) and current (in Ampere). It is usually expressed in
kiloVolt-Ampere (kVA) or MegaVolt-Ampere (MVA) and consists of a real component (Active Power)
and an imaginary component (Reactive Power). In the text this will be generically referred as S or Sn in
case of rated apparent power of equipment.
Building-Attached Photovoltaic Modules (BAPV modules) – photovoltaic modules are considered to
be building-attached, if the PV modules are mounted on a building envelope and the integrity of the
building functionality is independent of the existence of a building-attached photovoltaic module.
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Building Attached Photovoltaic system (BAPV system) – photovoltaic systems are considered to be
building attached, if the PV modules they utilize do not fulfil the criteria for BIPV modules.
Building-Integrated Photovoltaic modules (BIPV modules) – photovoltaic modules are considered to
be building-integrated, if the PV modules form a construction product providing a function. Thus the
BIPV module is a prerequisite for the integrity of the building’s functionality. If the integrated PV
module is dismounted (in the case of structurally bonded modules, dismounting includes the adjacent
construction product), the PV module would have to be replaced by an appropriate construction
product.
The building’s functions in the context of BIPV are one or more of the following:
 mechanical rigidity or structural integrity
 primary weather impact protection: rain, snow, wind, hail, soiling
 energy economy, such as shading, daylighting, thermal insulation
 fire protection
 noise protection
 separation between indoor and outdoor environments
 security, shelter or safety
Inherent electro-technical properties of PV such as antenna function, power generation and
electromagnetic shielding etc. alone do not qualify PV modules as to be building-integrated.
Building-Integrated Photovoltaic system (BIPV system) – photovoltaic systems are considered to be
building-integrated, if the PV modules they utilize fulfil the criteria for BIPV modules.
Datasheet – basic product description and specification (Note: Typically, one or two pages, not a full
product manual).
Eligible Consumer – A person who has an Exit Point that meets the requirements of these Regulations
and the Connection Conditions between the Distribution System and the Consumer’s Premises as
defined in the Distribution Code.
Exit Point– The joint point of delivery of electricity supply by SEC & export of surplus generation by
Eligible Consumer linked to one single meter in a Premises.
Global horizontal irradiance (GHI) – direct plus diffuse irradiance incident on a horizontal surface
expressed in W/m2.
IMOD_MAX_OCPR – PV module maximum overcurrent protection rating determined by IEC 61730-2 (Note:
This is often specified by module manufacturers as the maximum series fuse rating).
Inspection – examination of an electrical installation using all the senses in order to ascertain correct
selection and proper erection of electrical equipment.
In-plane irradiance (Gi or POA) – the sum of direct, diffuse, and ground-reflected irradiance incident
upon an inclined surface parallel to the plane of the modules in the PV array, also known as plane-of-
array (POA) irradiance. It is expressed in W/m2.
Interface Protection (IP) - The electrical protection required to ensure that either the Solar PV System
and/or any Solar PV Unit is disconnected for any event that could impair the integrity or degrade the
safety and reliability of the distribution network.
Inverter – electric energy converter that changes direct electric current to single-phase or polyphase
alternating current.
Irradiance (G) – incident flux of radiant power per unit area expressed in W/m2.
Irradiation (H) – irradiance integrated over a specified time interval expressed in kWh/m2.
Micro-inverter – small inverter designed to be connected directly to one or two PV modules (Note: A
micro inverter will normally connect directly to the factory fitted module leads and be fixed to the
module frame or mounted immediately adjacent to the module).
Power factor () – under periodic conditions, ratio of the absolute value of the active power P to the
apparent power S.
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PV array – assembly of electrically interconnected PV modules, PV strings or PV sub-arrays. For the

purposes of these Technical Standards a PV array is all components up to the DC input terminals of the
inverter.
PV cell – most elementary device that exhibits the photovoltaic effect, i.e. the direct non-thermal
conversion of radiant energy into electrical energy.
PV module – PV modules consists of electrically connected PV cells and packaged to protect it from the
environment and the users from electrical shock.
PV string – PV string consists of two or more series-connected PV modules.
Record – data recorded and stored in data log, based on acquired samples.
Recording interval () – time between records.
Report – aggregate value based on series of records.
Residual current device (RCD) – is a sensitive safety device that switches off when the residual current
exceeds the rated value of the device.
Sample – data acquired from a sensor or measuring device.
Sampling interval – time between samples.
Small-Scale Solar PV System – As per ECRA Regulations, a solar PV installation of not more than 2MW
and not less than 1kW capacity that is installed in one Premises and connected in parallel to the
Distribution system.
Soiling ratio (SR) – ratio of the actual power output of the PV array under given soiling conditions to
the power that would be expected if the PV array were clean and free of soiling.
Switch – Mechanical device capable of making, carrying and breaking currents in normal circuit
conditions and, when specified, in given operating overload conditions. In addition, it is able to carry,
for a specified time, currents under specified abnormal circuit conditions, such as short-circuit
conditions.
Standard test conditions (STC) – reference values of in-plane irradiance (1000 W/m2), PV cell junction
temperature (25 °C), and the reference spectral irradiance defined in IEC 60904-3.
Testing – implementation of measures in an electrical installation by means of which its effectiveness is
proved (Note: It includes ascertaining values by means of appropriate measuring instruments, said
values not being detectable by inspection).
Verification – all measures by means of which compliance of the electrical installation to the relevant
standards is checked.
5 GLOSSARY
The following acronyms and symbols are used throughout the document:
AC Alternating Current
AFCI Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter
BIPV Building Integrated Photovoltaic Modules
DC Direct Current
ECRA Electricity and Co-Generation Regulatory Authority
GHI Global Horizontal Irradiance
GI Global Inclined Irradiance
IEC International Electrotechnical Commission
IP (or I.P.) Interface Protection
LV Low Voltage (namely 220/127 V or 380/220 V or 400/230 V)
MV Medium Voltage (namely 13.8kV or 33 kV)
NEC National Electrical Code
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NFPA National Fire Protection Association

P Active power
PELV Protected Extra Low Voltage
Pnom Nominal active power of equipment
POA Plane of Array
PV (Solar) PhotoVoltaic
Q Reactive Power
RCD Residual current device
S Apparent Power
SASO Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization
SBC Saudi Building Codes
SEC Saudi Electricity Company
SELV Safety extra low voltage
STC Standard Test Condition
SPD Surge Protection Device
UL Underwriters Laboratories
V Voltage
Vnom Nominal Voltage
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6 SITE TEST CHECKLIST
The Site Test applies to all solar PV systems.
6.1 Overview
The purpose of the Site Test is to verify and test the safety and the functional requirements of the PV
system before its connection to the grid.
The checklist is composed by the following documents:
 General on PV system and Participants Check-list
 Documents required Checklist
 DC system inspection Checklist
 AC system inspection Checklist
 Labelling and Identification Checklist
 Fire Protection Checklist
 Special Requirements for Households Checklist
 PV array test report Checklist
 Site Test final result
6.2 General on PV system and Participants

6.2.1 Description
This part refers to the general data of the PV system and to the data of the participants to the Site Test.
6.2.2 Pass/fail criteria

A positive final result requires that all items are filled with correct information, except to P.O. Box and
Street name and number that may be alternative each other.
Participants indicated as Facultative may be omitted if they are not present. Affiliation shall be
indicated if not already present.
6.2.3 Checklist
Site Test Check-list

General on PV system
Name of the PV system
Nominal Power [kWp]
P.O. Box
Street name and number
Location / Area
City
Voltage delivery  220 V (3 phases)  230V (1 phase)  400 V (3 phases)
 13.8 kV  33 kV
Exit point
PV module installation  On building  Other structure (e.g. canopy)  Ground
Building installation (if applicable)  Flat rooftop  Roof flap  Façade  Other
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Building type (if applicable)  Villa or small household  Apartment block  Offices
 School/University  Healthcare/Hospital  Industrial
 Hotel/Restaurant  Entertainment  Agricultural/Stable
 Detention/Correctional  Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Area of the PV array [m2]
PV technology  Mono-crystalline silicon  Multi-crystalline silicon
 Thin-film (specify) . . . . . . . . .  Other (specify) . . . . . . . . . . .
Tracking system if any  No tracking  Single-axis tracking  Two-axes tracking
Participants
Role Name Affiliation
Test engineer (mandatory)
Installer (mandatory)
Designer (facultative)
Inspector (facultative) SEC
Inspector (facultative)
Result  Accepted  Not Accepted
6.3 Documents required

6.3.1 Description
This part refers to the documents required on-site to perform the Site Test.

A positive final result requires that only Yes or N/A boxes are checked.
6.3.3 Checklist

Documents required
Field Result / Value Notes
As-built design  Yes  No
along with complete
specifications of all equipment
installed
Declaration of Conformity  Yes  No
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6.4 DC system inspection

6.4.1 Description
The purpose of this document is to check that the entire DC system has been inspected according to
IEC 60364-6 and IEC 62548.

A positive final result requires that only Yes or N/A boxes are checked unless differently indicated.
6.4.3 Checklist

DC system – general
The DC system has been designed,  Yes  No
specified and installed to the
requirements of IEC 60364 and IEC 62548
The maximum PV array voltage is suitable  Yes  No
for the array location
All system components and mounting  Yes  No
structures have been selected and
erected to withstand the expected
external influences such as wind,
sandstorm, temperature and corrosion
Roof fixings and cable entries are  Yes  No  N/A
weatherproof (where applicable)
DC system – Protection against electric shock

 Yes  No
Protective measure provided by extra low
(alternative to the next
voltage (SELV / PELV)
one)
 Yes  No
Protection by use of class II or equivalent
(Alternative to the
insulation adopted on the DC side
previous one)
DC system – Protection against the effects of insulation faults

Galvanic separation in place inside the  Yes  No
inverter or on the AC side (informative)
 Yes  No
Functional earthing of any DC conductor
(Informative)
PV Array Earth Insulation Resistance  Yes  No
detection and alarm system is installed –
to the requirements of IEC 62548
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PV Array Earth Residual Current  Yes  No
Monitoring detection and alarm system is
installed – to the requirements of IEC
62548
DC system – Protection against overcurrent

For systems without string overcurrent  Yes  No  N/A
protective device: IMOD_MAX_OCPR (the
module maximum series fuse rating) is
greater than the possible reverse current
For systems without string overcurrent  Yes  No  N/A
protective device: string cables are sized
to accommodate the maximum
combined fault current from parallel
strings
For systems with string overcurrent  Yes  No  N/A
protective device: string overcurrent
protective devices are fitted and correctly
specified to the requirements of IEC
62548
For systems with array / sub-array  Yes  No  N/A
overcurrent protective devices:
overcurrent protective devices are fitted
and correctly specified to the
requirements of IEC 62548
For systems where the inverter(s) can  Yes  No  N/A
produce a DC back-feed into the PV array
circuits: any back-feed current is lower
than both the module maximum fuse
rating and the string cable ampere rating
DC system – Earthing and bonding arrangements

Where the PV system includes functional  Yes  No  N/A
earthing of one of the DC conductors: the
functional earth connection has been
specified and installed to the
Where a PV system has a direct  Yes  No  N/A
connection to earth on the DC side: a
functional earth fault interrupter is
provided to the requirements of IEC
62548
Array frame bonding arrangements have  Yes  No  N/A
been specified and installed to the
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Where protective earthing and/or  Yes  No  N/A
equipotential bonding conductors are
installed: they are parallel to, and
bundled with, the DC cables
DC system – Protection against the effects of lightning and overvoltage

To minimize voltages induced by  Yes  No
lightning, the area of all wiring loops has
been kept as small as possible
Measures are in place to protect long  Yes  No
cables (e.g. screening or the use of SPDs)
Where SPDs are fitted, they have been  Yes  No
installed to the requirements of IEC
62548
DC system – Selection and erection of electrical equipment

The PV modules are rated for the  Yes  No
maximum possible DC system voltage
All DC components are rated for  Yes  No  N/A
continuous operation at DC and at the
maximum possible DC system voltage
and current as defined in IEC 62548
Wiring systems have been selected and  Yes  No  N/A
erected to withstand the expected
external influences such as wind,
temperature, UV and solar radiation
DC wirings are compliant and tested  Yes  No  N/A
according to EN 50618
Means of isolation and disconnection  Yes  No  N/A
have been provided for the PV array
strings and PV sub-arrays – to the
A DC switch disconnector is fitted to the  Yes  No  N/A
DC side of the inverter to the
If blocking diodes are fitted, their reverse  Yes  No  N/A
voltage rating is at least 2 × Voc (STC) of
the PV string in which they are fitted (see
IEC 62548)
Plug and socket connectors mated  Yes  No  N/A
together are of the same type and has
similar specifications and comply with
the requirements of IEC 62548
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6.5 AC system inspection

6.5.1 Description
The purpose of this document is to check that the AC system has been inspected according to IEC
60364-6 and IEC 62548.

6.5.3 Checklist
AC system – General
Means of isolating the inverter has been  Yes  No
provided on the AC side
All isolation and switching devices have  Yes  No
been connected such that PV installation
is wired to the “load” side and the public
supply to the “source” side
Where an RCD is installed to the AC  Yes  No  N/A
circuit feeding an inverter, the RCD type
has been verified to ensure it has been
selected according to the requirements
of IEC 62548
Inverters are fully compliant to the  Yes  No
standards for Solar PV Systems
Interface protection (IP) is external to  Yes  No
inverter(s) (informative)
Interface protection (IP) – internal or  Yes  No
external – is fully compliant to the
Interface device is compliant to the  Yes  No
Backup interface device is compliant to  Yes  No  N/A
An UPS to support the Interface  Yes  No  N/A
protection system is present
Earthing Measurements according to The  Yes  No  N/A
Saudi Arabian Distribution Code
Result  Accepted  Not Accepted

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6.6 Labelling and identification

6.6.1 Description
The purpose of this document is to check that the labels and warning sign have been properly used
according to IEC 60364-6 and IEC 62548.

6.6.3 Checklist

Labelling and identification
All circuits, protective devices, switches  Yes  No
and terminals suitably labelled to the
requirements of IEC 60364 and IEC 62548
All DC junction boxes (PV generator and  Yes  No  N/A
PV array boxes) carry a warning label
indicating that active parts inside the
boxes are fed from a PV array and may
still be energized after isolation from the
PV inverter and public supply
Means of isolation on the AC side is  Yes  No
clearly labelled
Dual supply warning labels are fitted at  Yes  No
point of interconnection
A single line wiring diagram is displayed  Yes  No
on site
Installer details are displayed on site  Yes  No
Shutdown procedures are displayed on  Yes  No
site
Emergency procedures are displayed on  Yes  No  N/A
site (where relevant)
All signs and labels are suitably affixed  Yes  No
and durable
Result  Accepted  Not Accepted
6.7 Fire Protection

6.7.1 Description
The purpose of this document is to check that all the provisions prescribed against fire hazard have
been adopted.
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A positive final result requires that only Yes or N/A boxes, or a proper selection are checked unless
differently indicated.
6.7.3 Checklist

Fire protection – Verifications common to all PV systems
A manual emergency system for the  DC outside
disconnection of the PV modules from  AC outside
the internal electric plant of the building  Fire-compartment
is present and operates in one of the  No present
ways indicated
When there is a passage of cables from  Yes  No  N/A
PV modules inside the building before the
disconnector, cables inside the building
are placed in a trunking with a fire-rated
protection of at least one-and half-hour
Except for One-and-Two-Family Dwelling,  Yes  No
electrical disconnection is operated by
means of a manual call point with all the
following characteristics:
 installed at the height of 1.1 – 1.4 m
above floor level, in a plain,
accessible, well-lit and free-hindrance
place
 close to an external access to be
easily operated by personnel or
firefighters
 in accordance with NFPA 72 and a
proper label indicate that it actuates
the disconnection of the PV plant
Each PV array is equipped with an earth  Yes  No  N/A
fault detector that preferably shut down
the array in case of failure
A simplified site plan with the position of  Yes  No
PV modules, cables and disconnectors is
exposed close to the main energy meter.
If a manual call point is present in the
building a further copy of the simplified
site plan is exposed on the side.
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The area where PV modules, cables and  Yes  No
other equipment are located, if
accessible, are marked by proper signs.
They are also placed in correspondence
of each access door to the PV plant. The
same signs are used to indicate cables
before disconnectors and are placed
every 5 meters along the cable. These
signs are UV resistant, and indicate the
DC voltage as the Open Circuit Voltage at
STC of the PV array. Their minimum size
is 200  200 mm (w  h).
Fire protection – Verification for BAPV

 PV modules placed on
a roof made of non-
combustible material
 Interposition of a non-
combustible layer
Adoption of one of these measures when
between PV modules
the PV system is installed on a rooftop
and the roof (at least ½
hour fire-rated)
 A new risk assessment
is required
 None of the above
PV modules, wirings and other  Yes  No
equipment do not cover any possible
ventilation systems on roof, e.g. skylights,
smoke extraction systems or chimneys
PV components and wirings are placed at  Yes  No
a minimum distance of 1 m (top view)
from the perimeter of the ventilation
systems and in accordance with the
manufacturer’s prescriptions
PV components and wirings are placed at  Yes  No
a minimum distance of 0.5 m (top view)
from the perimeter of skylights, chimneys
or other openings
Components and equipment installed  Yes  No
internally or externally do not obstruct in
any way the existing means of egress
Minimum elevation of the PV modules  Yes  No
above the roof is 50 mm
Fire protection – Verification for BIPV

Page 17/34
 The manual call point

also disconnects or
short-circuits PV
modules having an open
circuit voltage not
In case of BIPV not installed in fire
greater than 120 VDC
compartmented areas at least one of
 An AFCI to protect the
these further measures is adopted
DC side from series arcs
in accordance with NEC
Section 690.11 and UL
1699B is installed
Where applicable, PV modules, wirings,  Yes  No  N/A
switchboard assemblies and other
equipment do not cover any possible
ventilation systems on roof, e.g.skylights,
smoke extraction systems or chimneys
Where applicable, PV components and  Yes  No  N/A
wirings are placed at a minimum distance
of 1 m (top view) from the perimeter of
the ventilation systems and in
accordance with the manufacturer’s
prescriptions
Where applicable, PV components and  Yes  No  N/A
wirings are placed at a minimum distance
of 0.5 m (top view) from the perimeter of
skylights, chimneys or other openings
Where applicable, components and  Yes  No  N/A
equipment installed internally or
externally do not obstruct in any way the
existing means of egress
6.8 Special Requirements for Households

6.8.1 Description
The purpose of this document is to check that the Small-Scale PV Systems installed on households are
compliant with the prescriptions reported in the Inspection and Testing Guidelines.

A positive final result requires that only Yes or N/A boxes, or a proper selection are checked unless
differently indicated.
6.8.3 Checklist
Page 18/34

Special Requirements for Households
 Not reachable
without a proper
provisional tool (stair,
The back-sheet, the junction box and the scaffold, etc.)
wiring of each PV module are compliant  Protected with at
with at least one of these conditions least IP67 degree (the
back of the hand)
 N/A
When the spacing between rows of  Yes  No  N/A
supporting structures is greater than 0.5
m, the connections are placed on floor,
not higher than 50 mm, without sharp
edges and clearly visible. They withstand
the weight of a person (100 kg).
Module mounting structure  Yes  No  N/A
(MMS)/Ballasts and their arrangements
are
clearly visible and without sharp edges
MMS
Electrical connections between the PV  Yes  No  N/A
array and combiner boxes or inverters
preferably do not interfere with existing
passages for people. In case of passage’s
crossing, the connections are placed on
floor, not higher than 50 mm, without
sharp edges and clearly visible.
The top of the trunking and the floor
surface are matched with sloped surfaces
to avoid the step. This trunking withstand
6.9 PV array test report

6.9.1 Description
The purpose of this document is to report the tests made on all the strings of the PV array.
Each copy of the document may contain tests on up to five strings. In case of more than five stings in
parallel on the same PV array a progressive Sheet number and the same PV array number for each PV
array shall be indicated in the heading.
In case of more than one independent PV array be present, a number of documents equal to the
number of independent PV arrays, or to a multiple of them if more than five strings per each
Page 19/34
independent PV array are present, will be used. A different progressive PV Array number shall be
indicated for each PV array.

An analysis of the measured data shall be made in order to check the following:
 All check boxes are checked Y or N/A
 String overcurrent protection devices fit the specific application
 Array isolators fit the specific application
 String wiring fit the specific application
 Voc reading matches the expected value
 The array insulation resistance is higher than the minimum value required
6.9.3 Checklist
PV Array number: Sheet number:
PV array test report
String String reference 1 2 3 4 5

PV module
Quantity
Array Voc-stc [V]
parameters Isc-stc [A]
(as specified)
String Type
overcurrent Rating [A]
protective DC rating [V]
device Capacity [kA]
String wiring Type
Cross-sect [mm2]
String test Voc [V]
Isc [A]
Irradiance [W/m2]
Polarity check OK  YN  YN  YN  YN  YN
Array Test voltage [V]
insulation Pos – Earth [M]
resistance Neg – Earth [M]
Earth continuity (where fitted)  N/A  YN  YN  YN  YN  YN
Array Rating [A]
isolator Rating [V]
Location
Functional check
Inverter Manuf. and model
Serial number
Functioning OK
Page 20/34
6.10 Site Test Final result

6.10.1 Description
This part reports the final outcome of the Site Test.

The Site Test will be successful (Accepted) if all the checklists in the above documents give positive
result (Accepted).
6.10.3 Final result page
Site Test Final result

Participants
Role Name Signature
Designer (if present)
Inspector (if present)
Notes
Final result  Accepted  Not Accepted

Page 21/34
7 COMMISSIONING TEST CHECKLIST
The Commissioning Test applies to all solar PV systems.

The duration of the Commissioning Test will depend on the size of the Solar PV system as follows:
 Up to 11 kW – At least one valid measurement
 Above 11 kW and up to 100 kW – 1 day (99% valid data recorded)
 Above 100 kW – At least 10 days (95% valid data recorded)
7.1 Overview
The purpose of the Commissioning Test is to verify and test the performance requirements of the PV
system after its connection to the grid.
The checklist is composed by the following documents:
 General on PV system and Participants Check-list
 Documents required Checklist
 Measurement system checklist
 Performance Test Checklist (for PV systems > 250 kWp)
 Commissioning Test final result
7.2 General on PV system and Participants

7.2.1 Description
This part refers to the general data of the PV system and to the data of the participants to the
Commissioning Test.

A positive final result requires that all items are filled with correct information, except to P.O. Box and
Street name and number that may be alternative each other.
Participants indicated as Facultative may be omitted if they are not present. Affiliation shall be
indicated if not already present.
7.2.3 Checklist
Commissioning Test Check-list

General on PV system
Name of the PV system
Nominal Power [kW]
P.O. Box
Street name and number
Location / Area
City
Voltage delivery  220 V (3 phases)  230V (1 phase)  400 V (3 phases)
 13.8 kV  33 kV
Exit point
PV module installation  On building  Other structure (e.g. canopy)  Ground
Page 22/34

Building installation (if applicable)  Flat rooftop  Roof flap  Façade  Other
Building type (if applicable)  Villa or small household  Apartment block  Offices
 School/University  Healthcare/Hospital  Industrial
 Hotel/Restaurant  Entertainment  Agricultural/Stable
 Detention/Correctional  Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Area of the PV array [m2]
PV technology  Mono-crystalline silicon  Multi-crystalline silicon
 Thin-film (specify) . . . . . . . . .  Other (specify) . . . . . . . . . . .
Tracking system if any  No tracking  Single-axis tracking  Two-axes tracking
Participants
Role Name Affiliation
Designer (facultative)
Inspector (facultative) SEC
7.3 Documents required

7.3.1 Description
This part refers to the documents required on-site to perform the Commissioning Test.

7.3.3 Checklist

Documents required
Final design (or As-built design  Yes  No
in case of variations)
Site Test report  Yes  No
7.4 Sensors
7.4.1 Description
This part describes the sensors used to perform the Commissioning Test.
Page 23/34

Furthermore, depending on the Class of the monitoring system or the measurement system adopted
(A, B, or C) the cells related to the used sensors shall be properly filled.
PV systems with a Pn > 250 kW may use only a Class A or B monitoring system indicated in IEC 61724.
7.4.3 Checklist

List of sensors
Sensor Type Accuracy Manufacturer Calibration
and model
In-plane irradiance  Pyranometer  PV  Yes  No
(POA) Cell  Photodiode
 Estimated
Global Horizontal  Pyranometer  PV  Yes  No
Irradiance Cell  Photodiode  N/A
 Estimated  N/A
PV module temperature  Measured   Yes  No
Estimated  N/A  N/A
Ambient air  Measured   Yes  No
temperature Estimated
Wind speed  Measured  Yes  No
Estimated  N/A N/A
Wind direction  Yes  No  N/A Yes  No
N/A
Soiling ratio  Yes  No  N/A Yes  No
N/A
Array voltage (DC)  Yes  No  N/A Yes  No
N/A
Array current (DC)  Yes  No  N/A Yes  No
N/A
Array power (DC)  Yes  No  N/A Yes  No
N/A
Output voltage (AC)  Yes  No  N/A Yes  No
N/A
Output current (AC)  Yes  No  N/A Yes  No
N/A
Output power (AC)  Yes  No  Yes  No
Output energy  Yes  No  Yes  No
Output power factor  Yes  No  N/A  Yes  No

 N/A
Page 24/34

Reduced load demand  Yes  No  N/A  Yes  No
 N/A
System output power  Yes  No  N/A  Yes  No
factor request  N/A
7.5 Performance test

7.5.1 Description
This part refers to the results of the Commissioning Test calculated in the period considered.

A positive final result requires that all items are filled with correct information, except those indicated
as facultative.
Only Yes or N/A boxes are checked in their cells.
PV systems with a Pn > 250 kW may use only a Class A or B monitoring system indicated in IEC 61724.
7.5.3 Checklist

General on Performance Test
Sampling interval [s]
Recording interval [min]
Start test: date and time
[dd/mm/yyyy hh:mm]
Stop test: date and time
[dd/mm/yyyy hh:mm]
Valid data in the time interval [%]
Class of the monitoring system  A B C
used
Test report
Relevant data on the Test Engineer  Yes  No
Description of the site being tested  Yes  No
Description of the system being  Yes  No
tested
Definition of the meteorological  Yes  No
data taken during the test
definition of the system output  Yes  No
data collected during the test
Description of raw data that were  Yes  No
collected during the test
Page 25/34
List of any deviations from the test  Yes  No  N/A

procedure
Summary of the correction factors  Yes  No  N/A
for the filtered data
Uncertainty analysis  Yes  No  N/A
Summary of the test results  Yes  No
Performance ratios
Test Duration (when applicable)
Performance Ratio (PR) [%]
Temperature-corrected
Performance Ratio (PR) [%]
(facultative)
Reference correction temperature
[°C] (facultative)
7.6 Inspection and Test of the Interface Protection

7.6.1 Description
This part refers to the inspection and test of the Interface Protection and its related devices.

7.6.3 Checklist

Inspection and Test of the Interface Protection
The enabled functions of the  Yes  No
Interface Protection are those
required by SEC
The thresholds are those required  Yes  No
by SEC
The times of intervention are those  Yes  No
required by SEC
Interface device switches off in  Yes  No
case of power failure on command
of the Interface Protection
After a power recovery the  Yes  No
Interface Protection recloses the
Interface device
Page 26/34
7.7 Commissioning Test Final result

7.7.1 Description
This part reports the final outcome of the Commissioning Test.

The Commissioning Test will be successful (Accepted) if all the checklists in the above documents give
positive result (Accepted).
7.7.3 Final result page
Commissioning Test Final result

Participants
Role Name Signature
Designer (if present)
Notes
Final result  Accepted  Not Accepted
Page 27/34
8 SEC INSPECTION
8.1 Overview
SEC verifies the Small-scale Solar PV system, at least in those parts that it deems to be relevant to it.
SEC may also witness the Site Test, if the capacity of the PV System exceeds 50 kWp: in this case either
some or all the tests undertaken by the Applicant have to be repeated at the presence of SEC
Inspector. Then SEC witness the Commissioning Test, in particular as regards the inspection and test of
the Interface Protection (IP).
8.2 Site Inspection (PV ≤ 50 kWp)

8.2.1 Description
SEC Inspection concerns the verification of requirements that are of its specific interest.

8.2.3 Checklist – Documentation
SEC Inspection
Site Inspection (PV ≤ 50 kWp)
Documents received
Declaration of Conformity (letter of  Yes  No
undertaking from Contractor)
Site Test Report  Yes  No
Specification of the major equipment  Yes  No
Copies of the Safety Rules and  Yes  No
instructions
Electrical Diagram of the Eligible  Yes  No
Consumer's Equipment at the Exit Point
Details of the protection arrangement  Yes  No
and settings
Proposed Maintenance Program for the  Yes  No
Small-scale Solar PV System (> 100 kWp)
Mechanical Completion Letter (Civil  Yes  No
construction completion letter from the
responsible Municipality)
Clearance and Readiness for Energization  Yes  No
of the proposed Exit Point and Equipment
Serial Numbers of the PV modules (in case  Yes  No
of PV systems with several PV modules)
Page 28/34
SEC Inspection
Site Inspection (PV ≤ 50 kWp)
The Main Switch is present  Yes  No

The Interface Switch is present  Yes  No
Interface protection (IP) – where external  Yes  No  N/A
– is present
Backup interface device – where needed  Yes  No  N/A
(Small Scale Solar PV >20kWp) – is present
An UPS to support the Interface  Yes  No  N/A
protection system – where external to
inverters – is present

Means of isolation on the AC side is  Yes  No
clearly labelled
Dual supply warning labels are fitted at  Yes  No
A single line wiring diagram is displayed  Yes  No
on site
Installer details are displayed on site  Yes  No
Shutdown procedures are displayed on  Yes  No
site
All signs and labels are suitably affixed  Yes  No
and durable
Final result
Role Name Signature
SEC Inspector
Notes
Page 29/34
8.3 Site Inspection and Witnessing the Site Test (PV > 50 kW)
8.3.1 Description
When the Solar PV System size exceeds 50kW, in addition to the performance of the Site Inspection,
SEC Inspectors witness either some or all the Site Tests already undertaken by the Applicant, which
have then to be repeated by the Contractor at the presence of the SEC Inspector.

8.3.3 Checklist
SEC Inspection
Site Inspection and Witnessing the Site Test (PV > 50 kW)
Documents received
Declaration of Conformity (letter of  Yes  No
undertaking from Contractor)
Site Test Report  Yes  No
Specification of the major equipment  Yes  No
Copies of the Safety Rules and  Yes  No
instructions
Electrical Diagram of the Eligible  Yes  No
Consumer's Equipment at the Exit Point
Details of the protection arrangement  Yes  No
and settings
Proposed Maintenance Program for the  Yes  No
Small-scale Solar PV System (> 100 kW)
Mechanical Completion Letter (Civil  Yes  No
construction completion letter from the
responsible Municipality)
Clearance and Readiness for Energization  Yes  No
of the proposed Exit Point and Equipment
Serial Numbers of the PV modules (in case  Yes  No
of PV systems with several PV modules)
Means of isolating the inverter has been  Yes  No
provided on the AC side
All isolation and switching devices have  Yes  No
been connected such that PV installation
is wired to the “load” side and the public
supply to the “source” side
Page 30/34
SEC Inspection
Inverters are fully compliant to the  Yes  No

Interface protection (IP) – internal or  Yes  No
external – is fully compliant to the
Interface device is compliant to the  Yes  No
Backup interface device is compliant to  Yes  No  N/A
An UPS to support the Interface  Yes  No  N/A
protection system is present

Means of isolation on the AC side is  Yes  No
clearly labelled
Dual supply warning labels are fitted at  Yes  No
A single line wiring diagram is displayed  Yes  No
on site
Installer details are displayed on site  Yes  No
Shutdown procedures are displayed on  Yes  No
site
Emergency procedures are displayed on  Yes  No  N/A
site (where relevant)
All signs and labels are suitably affixed  Yes  No
and durable
Fire protection
Page 31/34
SEC Inspection
Except for One-and-Two-Family Dwelling,  Yes  No
electrical disconnection is operated by
means of a manual call point with all the
following characteristics:
 installed at the height of 1.1 – 1.4 m
above floor level, in a plain,
accessible, well-lit and free-hindrance
place
 close to an external access to be
easily operated by personnel or
firefighters
in accordance with NFPA 72 and a proper
label indicate that it actuates the
disconnection of the PV plant
A simplified site plan with the position of  Yes  No
PV modules, cables and disconnectors is
exposed close to the main energy meter.
If a manual call point is present in the
building a further copy of the simplified
site plan is exposed on the side.
The area where PV modules, cables and  Yes  No
other equipment are located, if
accessible, are marked by proper signs.
They are also placed in correspondence
of each access door to the PV plant. The
same signs are used to indicate cables
before disconnectors and are placed
every 5 meters along the cable. These
signs are UV resistant, and indicate the
DC voltage as the Open Circuit Voltage at
STC of the PV array. Their minimum size
is 200  200 mm (w  h).
Special Requirements for Households

 Not reachable
without a proper
provisional tool (stair,
The back-sheet, the junction box and the scaffold, etc.)
wiring of each PV module are compliant  Protected with at
with at least one of these conditions least IP67 degree (the
back of the hand)
 N/A
Page 32/34
SEC Inspection
When the spacing between rows of  Yes  No  N/A
supporting structures is greater than 0.5
m, the connections are placed on floor,
not higher than 50 mm, without sharp
edges and clearly visible. They withstand
Module mounting structure  Yes  No  N/A
(MMS)/Ballasts and their arrangements
are clearly visible and without sharp edges
Electrical connections between the PV  Yes  No  N/A
array and combiner boxes or inverters
preferably do not interfere with existing
passages for people. In case of passage’s
crossing, the connections are placed on
floor, not higher than 50 mm, without
sharp edges and clearly visible.
The top of the trunking and the floor
surface are matched with sloped surfaces
to avoid the step. This trunking withstand
Final result
Role Name Signature
SEC Inspector
Notes
Page 33/34
8.4 Witnessing the Commissioning Test

8.4.1 Description
SEC Inspection during the Commissioning Test includes mainly the verification of the requirements that
are of its specific interest.

8.4.3 Checklist
SEC Inspection
Witnessing the Commissioning Test
General on Performance Test
Class of the monitoring system  A B C
used
Inspection and Test of the Interface Protection

The enabled functions of the  Yes  No
Interface Protection are those
required by SEC
The thresholds are those required  Yes  No
by SEC
The times of intervention are those  Yes  No
required by SEC
Interface device switches off in  Yes  No
case of power failure on command
of the Interface Protection
After a power recovery the  Yes  No
Interface Protection recloses the
Interface device
Final result
Role Name Signature
SEC Inspector
Notes
Page 34/34

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Sustainable Integration of Renewable Energy

Sources (Solar PV) with SEC Distribution Network

Inspection and Testing Checklists

6.10 Site Test Final result ................................................................................................................. 21

6.10.1 Description ....................................................................................................................... 21

Activities arranged by the Site Test  Issue of Site Test Report1

1.1 Site Test and Commissioning Test

1.3 Notice to users

4 TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

PV array – assembly of electrically interconnected PV modules, PV strings or PV sub-arrays. For the

NFPA National Fire Protection Association

6 SITE TEST CHECKLIST

The Site Test applies to all solar PV systems.

6.2 General on PV system and Participants

6.2.2 Pass/fail criteria

Site Test Check-list

Result  Accepted  Not Accepted

6.3 Documents required

6.3.2 Pass/fail criteria

Site Test Check-list

Result  Accepted  Not Accepted

6.4 DC system inspection

6.4.2 Pass/fail criteria

Site Test Check-list

DC system – Protection against electric shock

DC system – Protection against the effects of insulation faults

Site Test Check-list

DC system – Protection against overcurrent

DC system – Earthing and bonding arrangements

Site Test Check-list

DC system – Protection against the effects of lightning and overvoltage

DC system – Selection and erection of electrical equipment

Site Test Check-list

Result  Accepted  Not Accepted

6.5 AC system inspection

6.5.2 Pass/fail criteria

Result  Accepted  Not Accepted

6.6 Labelling and identification

6.6.2 Pass/fail criteria

Site Test Check-list

Result  Accepted  Not Accepted

6.7 Fire Protection

6.7.2 Pass/fail criteria

Site Test Check-list

Site Test Check-list

Fire protection – Verification for BAPV

Fire protection – Verification for BIPV

Site Test Check-list

 The manual call point

Result  Accepted  Not Accepted

6.8 Special Requirements for Households

6.8.2 Pass/fail criteria

Site Test Check-list

Result  Accepted  Not Accepted

6.9 PV array test report

6.9.2 Pass/fail criteria

Site Test Check-list

PV Array number: Sheet number:

PV array test report

String String reference 1 2 3 4 5

Result  Accepted  Not Accepted

6.10 Site Test Final result

6.10.2 Pass/fail criteria