Sample Specs for Solar

Electrical and Plumbing Specs for Solar Installations

Sample specs for Solar (developed by Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville (VA); Special thanks to Jeremy Coerper)

Below are electrical and plumbing requirement sketches and language that were developed to share with subcontractors.  This information is included in RFPs. (Please note: code requirements may vary by location) 

Hand-drawn diagram of solar electrical requirements and attic installation, showing electrical panel, 1-inch metal flex conduit, junction box near meter, meters, future inverter, and future AC disconnect, with notes on wiring and space.

Foundation/Framing

The wall space for electrical meter options is limited, but we will discuss ideal locations for the conduit for the electrical meter with the foundation and/or framing contractor to maximize blank wall space for solar equipment near the meter if possible

Electrical

Follow solar ready requirements as detailed in Exhibit 1 which include exterior wall space requirements and installing 1” metal flex conduit from the attic to a junction box, and from junction box to the electrical panel (locations to be determined by owner). Also leave space for a maximum 40amp double pole breaker on the opposite end of the panel from the main service feeder.

Hand-drawn roof diagram illustrating solar readiness planning with color-coded legend. Red indicates no penetrations within four feet of the firewall, green shows vent stacks within three feet of roof edge, and blue denotes per HOAs, no roofing penetrations on the front. Notes specify minimum fire access path requirements for a single-family detached home.

Plumbing

Run vent stacks through roof at rough-in, and avoid Solar Roof Area. See Exhibit #1:

  • · Locate vent stacks within 3’ of roof edge

    · No penetrations within 4’ of firewalls

    · Per HOA, no roof penetrations on front of home