Solar PV DC Collection System Inspection Checklist

This solar PV DC collection system inspection checklist ensures compliance with NEC Article 690 (Solar Photovoltaic Systems), UL 4703 (Photovoltaic Wire), NFPA 70E electrical safety requirements, IEC 62852 (Connectors for DC-Application in Photovoltaic Systems), and NEC 690.12 Rapid Shutdown of PV Systems requirements. Designed for solar O&M technicians to inspect DC wiring, combiner boxes, disconnect switches, and arc fault detection systems at utility-scale and commercial solar installations.

  • Industry: Renewable Energy
  • Frequency: Annually
  • Estimated Time: Half day to full day
  • Role: Solar O&M Electrical Technician
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: NEC Article 690 Solar Photovoltaic Systems, UL 4703 Photovoltaic Wire Requirements, NFPA 70E Electrical Safety in the Workplace, IEC 62852 Connectors for DC PV Applications, NEC 690.12 Rapid Shutdown of PV Systems

Module-Level Wiring

DC module wiring and connector inspection.

  • Module wiring (XLPE/PV wire) free of cuts, abrasion, or UV damage?
  • Cable ground clearance maintained (not lying on ground or in water)?
  • All MC4 or IEC 62852 connectors locked and mated correctly?
  • Connectors are same brand (no cross-mated connectors)?
  • Module Wiring Condition Photo

Combiner Boxes

DC combiner box inspection.

  • Combiner box enclosures sealed with gaskets intact?
  • All string fuses in good condition (correct rating)?
  • Combiner box terminal connections torqued to spec?
  • No burn marks or evidence of overheating in combiner?
  • DC surge arrestors operational (not in fault state)?

DC Disconnects

String and array-level DC disconnects.

  • DC disconnects accessible for emergency shutdown?
  • All disconnects labeled per NEC 690 marking requirements?
  • Disconnects operate freely and latch correctly?
  • Rapid shutdown (NEC 690.12) system functional?
  • Rapid shutdown initiator tested per NFPA requirements?

Arc Fault Detection

AFCI and arc fault protection system.

  • AFCI protection installed per NEC 690.11 requirements?
  • No active AFCI fault conditions?
  • AFCI function tested per OEM procedure?
  • Arc fault event history reviewed and cleared if resolved?
  • AFCI firmware at latest version?

Grounding and Bonding

DC system grounding and bonding.

  • Module frames bonded through racking system?
  • Racking system grounding conductor intact?
  • All electrical equipment properly grounded?
  • Ground fault detection system (GFDI) functional?
  • Insulation resistance (megger) test completed?

Inspection Records

DC wiring inspection documentation.

  • All DC wiring defects documented with location?
  • Thermographic scan of all combiner boxes and disconnects completed?
  • DC wiring repairs completed or work orders created?
  • All findings assessed against NEC 690 compliance requirements?
  • DC Collection System Inspection Notes

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Why Use This Solar PV DC Collection System Inspection Checklist?

This solar pv dc collection system inspection checklist helps renewable energy teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for solar o&m electrical technician professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: annually.

Ensures compliance with NEC Article 690 Solar Photovoltaic Systems, UL 4703 Photovoltaic Wire Requirements, NFPA 70E Electrical Safety in the Workplace, IEC 62852 Connectors for DC PV Applications, NEC 690.12 Rapid Shutdown of PV Systems. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Solar PV DC Collection System Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Module-Level Wiring, Combiner Boxes, DC Disconnects, Arc Fault Detection, Grounding and Bonding, Inspection Records. It is designed for renewable energy operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed annually. Each completion takes approximately Half day to full day.

Who should use this Solar PV DC Collection System Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Solar O&M Electrical Technician professionals in the renewable energy industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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