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Batteries and Storage
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Inspection, O&M

2020 NEC PV, Energy Storage, Building and Fire Codes for PV System Inspectors

Sean White and 1 other • Last updated 04/2023

4.9/5 (view ratings)
103 students
5 modules
CEUs
20:55 hours
97 assignments

Course description

This course is intended for PV System Inspectors and covers Photovoltaics combined with Energy Storage Systems (ESS) and the 2020 National Electric Code (NEC).

This is the best way to prepare for and pass the NABCEP PV System Inspector Certification Exam and it is also an excellent way for PV Inspectors to understand how the NEC applies to Solar + Storage and how to properly inspect systems.

Interested in NABCEP PV System Inspector Certification? Register for the "NABCEP PV System Inspector Certification Prep" course to get a full practice exam for the NABCEP PV System Inspector Certification Exam at no additional cost.

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Check out a free preview of the course by clicking the button below. This is a live assignment from the course and will give you a good sense for what the course will be like.

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Continuing Education Units

Approved for: NABCEP Advanced Credit Hours, NABCEP NEC, NABCEP JTA, NABCEP RE Elective, NABCEP Building or Fire Code, NABCEP PV Associate Renewal.

Approved NABCEP CEU Hours
NABCEP Credential Advanced Hours for Exam Recertification CEU Hours NEC JTA RE Elective Building or Fire Code
30 30 28 30 12 2
0 12 0 0 0 0
24 30 28 30 12 2
24 30 28 30 12 2
15 30 0 15 30 0
24 30 28 30 12 2
0 28 28 0 0 0
NABCEP Registered Provider

This course counts towards the training requirements for taking NABCEP professional certification exams and CEUs for renewing all certifications.

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Full course outline

Welcome - Orientation Materials

This course is self-paced, so you don’t need to be logged in at any specific time. You can get started immediately after you enroll and the course materials will remain in your account with minimum guaranteed access for 12 months (1 year) after enrollment.

  • Intro to Course (05:24 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Free Download and 2020 NEC Free Access
  • Set up email notifications and your student profile
  • Introduce yourself on the discussion board
  • Books and resources
  • Live Online Proctoring (LOP) for All NABCEP Exams!
  • Connect with your instructor Sean on LinkedIn
Module 1 - NEC Overview

Before we dive deep into NEC articles specific to PV and ESS, we are going to get more familiar with the rest of the NEC, from a PV and ESS point of view.

  • Module 1 Organization
  • Memorize and Familiarize Video 2: NEC Articles 100 Definitions and 110 Requirements for Electrical Installations (10:12 minutes)
  • Memorize and Familiarize Video 3: NEC Articles 200-250 including 230 Services, 240 Overcurrent Protection and 250 Grounding and Bonding (10:11 minutes)
  • Memorize and Familiarize Video 4: NEC Chapter 3 Wiring Methods and Materials, including the 310 Tables and different Articles on installing Conduits, such as EMT or Cables (11:09 minutes)
  • Memorize and Familiarize Video 5: NEC Chapters 4, 5 & 6. 4 is Equipment for General Use and includes 480 Storage Batteries, 5 is Special Occupancies and 6 is Special Equipment and includes 690 PV! (20:50 minutes)
  • Memorize and Familiarize - Video 6: NEC Chapter 7 Video 1 of 2 including Articles 705 Interconnections, 706 Energy Storage Systems and 710 Stand-Alone Systems (23:32 minutes) Preview
  • Memorize and Familiarize - Video 7 NEC Chapter 7 Video 2 of 2, including Articles 710 Stand Alone Systems and 712 DC Microgrids (24:26 minutes) Preview
  • Memorize and Familiarize - Video 8: NEC Chapter 9 Tables and Annex C Conduit and Tubing Fill Tables for Conductors and Fixture Wires of the Same Size (08:26 minutes)
  • Audio 2020 NEC Article 690 Reading - Radio 690! (.m4a)
  • NEC Article 100 Definitions Part 1 (29:57 minutes)
  • NEC Article 100 Definitions Part 2 (16:35 minutes)
  • NEC Article 100 Definitions Part 3 (17:55 minutes)
  • NEC Article 110 Requirements for Electrical Installations Part 1 (19:39 minutes) Preview
  • NEC Article 110 Requirements for Electrical Installations Part 2 (19:49 minutes)
  • NEC Article 200 Grounded Conductors Part 1 (16:40 minutes)
  • NEC Article 200 Grounded Conductors Part 2 (16:44 minutes)
  • NEC Articles 210 Branch Circuits, 215 Feeders and 230 Services (20:47 minutes)
  • NEC Article 240 Overcurrent Protection Part 1 (22:47 minutes)
  • NEC Article 240 Overcurrent Protection Part 2 (19:51 minutes)
  • NEC Article 250 Grounding and Bonding Part 1 (26:36 minutes) Preview
  • NEC Article 250 Grounding and Bonding Part 2 (21:18 minutes)
  • NEC Article 300 General Requirements for Wiring Methods and Materials Part 1 (15:06 minutes)
  • NEC Article 300 General Requirements for Wiring Methods and Materials Part 2 (21:46 minutes)
  • NEC Article 310 Conductors for General Wiring Part 1 (14:57 minutes) Preview
  • NEC Article 310 Conductors for General Wiring Part 2 (18:53 minutes)
  • NEC Article 310 Conductors for General Wiring Part 3 (21:11 minutes)
  • 320 to 358 Common Wiring Methods like EMT Part 1 (15:19 minutes)
  • 320 to 358 Common Wiring Methods like EMT Part 2 (17:27 minutes)
  • NEC Chapter 4 Featuring Article 480! Part 1 (15:38 minutes)
  • NEC Chapter 4 Featuring Article 480! Part 2 (17:11 minutes)
  • NEC Chapters 5, 6, 7 & 8 (10:42 minutes)
  • NEC Chapter 9 Tables Part 1 (28:19 minutes)
  • NEC Chapter 9 Tables Part 2 (19:32 minutes)
  • NEC Chapter 9 Tables Part 3 (15:09 minutes)
  • Informational Annexes (11:08 minutes)
Module 2 - NEC Article 690 PV Systems

Article 690 was first put into the NEC in 1984.

  • Read NEC Article 690 PV Systems
  • Listen to Sean read NEC 690 on his podcast
  • 2017 Versus 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC)
  • 2017 NEC Video 1 - Introduction to 690.2 (18:42 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 2 - 690.7 Voltage (16:59 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 3 - 690.8 Current (22:18 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 4 - 690.9 Overcurrent Protection (14:13 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 5 - 690.10 Stand-Alone Systems and 690.11 DC Arc-Fault Protection (06:00 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 6 - 690.12 Rapid Shutdown Showdown Part 1 (21:12 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 6 - 690.12 Rapid Shutdown Showdown Part 2 (25:23 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 7 - 690 Part III Disconnecting Means (19:32 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 8 - 690 Part IV Wiring Methods (30:06 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 9 - 690 Part V Grounding and Bonding Part 1 (18:01 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 9 - 690 Part V Grounding and Bonding Part 2 (17:04 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 10 - 690 Part VI to End of Article 690 (23:03 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 11 - 691 Large-Scale Photovoltaic (19:10 minutes)
  • Bill Brooks on Rapid Shutdown Part 1 Outside of the Array Boundary (14:57 minutes)
  • Bill Brooks on Rapid Shutdown Part 2 inside of the Array Boundary (20:17 minutes)
  • News: 690.12(B)(2)(1) Rapid Shutdown UL Listing
Module 3 - Module 3 Energy Storage Systems (706) and Interconnections (705)

If you are studying for the NABCEP PV System Inspector (PVSI) exam, you do not need to focus as much on ESS. ESS is a hot topic and very important in real life, which is more important than what NABCEP puts on exams. Article 706 ESS was new in the 2017 NEC and much of it came out of Article 690. It was originally meant to replace Article 480 Storage Batteries, however 480 was kept in the NEC. Article 690 points us to 706 when using energy storage systems and not 480. Different AHJs interpret this differently and the NEC can sometimes contradict itself as we will learn. Article 705 Interconnected Power Production Sources is very important for both PV and ESS and is definitely a part of the PVSI exam.

  • 2020 National Electrical Code 706 With Bill Brooks Part 1 (20:04 minutes)
  • 2020 National Electrical Code 706 With Bill Brooks Part 2 (17:26 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 12 - 705 Interconnected Power Production Sources Part 1 (25:51 minutes)
  • 2017 NEC Video 12 - 705 Interconnected Power Production Sources Part 2 (20:46 minutes)
  • Bill Brooks talks Energy Storage Systems Part 1 (22:29 minutes) Preview
  • Bill Brooks talks Energy Storage Systems Part 2 (10:56 minutes)
  • Bill Brooks talks Storage Batteries Article 480 (03:30 minutes)
  • Bill Brooks talks EV Power Transfer Station (EV charging and EV to Grid) (05:38 minutes)
  • Bill gets excited talking about 705.13 Power Control Systems (08:16 minutes)
  • Bill Brooks on 705 Video 1 Supply and Load Side Connections (07:44 minutes)
  • Bill Brooks on 705 Video 2 with ESS Implications and Markets (11:51 minutes)
  • Bill Brooks on 705 Video 3 More 705.13 PCS and MIDs (08:04 minutes)
  • More EV to Grid-Full Circle with Bill Brooks (07:14 minutes) Preview
  • Bill Brooks on 705 Video 4 Supply-Side Connections and Microgrids (10:16 minutes)
  • Bill Brooks on 705 Video 5 Wire Sizing and Supply-Side Connections (05:52 minutes) Preview
  • Bill Brooks on 705 Video 6 Load-Side Connections (26:10 minutes)
Module 4 - More NEC and some Building Codes

Here we have some extras.

  • Answer to Question on Connecting PV System to a Split Bus Panel (10:59 minutes)
  • Code-Compliant Conductor Sizing - SolarPro (PDF) (.pdf)
  • Code Compliant Conductor Sizing: a 2021 take on a 2011 SolarPro Article Part 1 (16:41 minutes)
  • Code Compliant Conductor Sizing: a 2021 take on a 2011 SolarPro Article Part 2 (18:55 minutes)
  • Wire Sizing (Chapter 12 PV and the NEC) (.pdf)
  • Building and Fire Codes with Bill Brooks Part 1- 2020 NFPA 855 Energy Storage Systems, IRC, IBC, IFC, NFPA 1, ICC (08:41 minutes) Preview
  • Building and Fire Codes with Bill Brooks Part 2 Roof Setbacks (30:55 minutes)
  • Building and Fire Codes with Bill Brooks Part 3 The ICC i-codes (13:55 minutes)
  • PV UL Listing 1703 transitioned to UL 61730 (.pdf)
  • UL PV Listing 61730 replacing UL 1703 for making the test work around the world and UL 3741 listing for Rapid Shutdown (Hazard Control Systems) with Bill Brooks PE (12:08 minutes)
  • UL 3741 Rapid Shutdown solution where the PV array can stay up to 1000V using SMA inverters with Sollega or Ironridge racks! (16:53 minutes)
  • Grounding electrode schemes and transformers with emphasis on utility-scale (double advanced topic). (21:27 minutes)
Module 5 - PV System Inspector (PVSI) Exam

Here is a good representation of the PVSI exam, with some added energy storage questions. There is a lot of learning to be had here, especially when you read the explanations of the answers with the downloadable PDF. For those of you taking the PVSI exam, this PDF is the most valuable part of this course. Remember, the PVSI exam is the least expensive NABCEP Certification exam at $150 and has no prerequisites, so even if you were not planning on taking it, hey you got this far, why not! Maybe it will be the best investment of your life! Even if you are not going to take the PVSI exam, all of this information is relevant, so you do need to take the exam in order to complete this course. Remember, all of the answers are on a downloadable PDF right after the exam, so you too will pass.

  • Discussion Board Request from Sean and Notes on Posting Discussion Board Questions
  • PV System Inspector Exam
  • PV System Inspector Exam Answers with Detailed Explanations (.pdf)
Conclusion - Feedback and Additional Resources

This is our last module but you still have access to the all of course materials for 12 months (1 year), so keep working and you'll be able to complete the course at your own pace. After your year of access expires you can optionally extend access with a HeatSpring Membership. Enjoy the course and keep in touch!

  • PVSI exam will be updated someday
  • 1 Year of Access to Course Materials
  • Feedback: 2-minute Exit Survey
  • Consider Joining as a HeatSpring Member
  • Certificate of Completion: Request a Certificate

Instructors

Sean White

2014 IREC Trainer of the Year

Sean White was the 2014 Interstate Renewable Energy Council Trainer of the Year. He is an ISPQ Certified Solar PV Master Trainer and has authored several books on solar. He contributed to the development of the NABCEP PV Installation Professional Job Task Analysis and has been a member of the NABCEP PV Installation Professional Technical Committee. Sean is a... Learn more

Bill Brooks

Principal, Brooks Engineering

Bill Brooks PE, of Brooks Engineering LLC, has over 30 years of experience designing, installing, and evaluating grid-connected PV systems. More than 12,000 installers and inspectors have attended his courses throughout the U.S. and abroad. His field troubleshooting skills have been valuable in determining where problems occur to focus training on those issues of... Learn more

Ratings

4.9
29 reviews

103 students have taken this course

by Tim Suddoth 11/04/2022

I highly recommend this course, especially for those who will be inspecting PV and ESS systems regularly.

by Blair Buselli, Owner/Operator, Buselli Solutions 10/04/2022

I am a NABCEP PV Professional in a rural area where the inspectors actually look to me for their standard for enforcing codes. It puts a lot of pressure on my company to help work with the inspectors on providing the best installation standards for our area. This course helps me to maintain the respect of the local professionals as well as the integrity of the trade. Thank you

by Ken Stewart, President, Easley Electric Inc. 08/17/2022

Sean is the best! He motivates you to learn in a fun way. He's responsive when you send in questions or comments, thoroughly qualified to enable you to succeed in passing NABCEP exams!

by Prithviraj Shelke, Senior Project Engineer, RWE Renewables Inc. 07/27/2022

Having few years of experience I was already familiarized with NEC but after taking this course I do feel more confident about where and what to look for when designing for solar PV projects.

by Matt D 02/28/2022

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Frequently asked questions

How does this course work?

You can begin this online course instantly upon enrollment. This 5 module course is delivered entirely online. This course is self-paced and you can set your own schedule to complete the materials. You can begin the lecture videos and other course materials as soon as you enroll. During your year of access the instructor will be in the course answering questions on the discussion board. After successfully completing the course, you will be able to generate a certificate of completion.

How long do I have access to the materials?

Students get unlimited access to the course materials as soon as they enroll and for one year (365 days) after enrollment. Rewatch videos and review assignments as many times as you want. View updates the instructor makes to the course as the industry advances. Return to your course anytime with online access from anywhere in the world. After the one year of access expires, access can be extended by joining as a HeatSpring member. A single membership extends access to course materials for all past enrollments.

Is there a certificate of completion?

Yes, when you complete this course you are eligible for a certificate of completion from HeatSpring. You can download your certificate as soon as you have completed all of the course requirements. Students can easily share their verified certificates on their LinkedIn profiles using our LinkedIn integration.

Can I register multiple people?

Yes please visit our HeatSpring for Teams page to get a group discount.

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