PV Designers and Installers
When commissioning a photovoltaic (PV) installation, it is important to check that the designer and installer is appropriately qualified and experienced. For larger, more complex historic building projects, you will want to ensure they also have the knowledge and experience necessary to work on historic buildings.
Finding a designer
Suitable engineers to design PV systems are likely to be Chartered members or fellows of the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE and FCIBSE) or The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
In addition to the electrical design, the structural design and fixings should be undertaken by a structural engineer. The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStrucE) hold a list of engineers.
Finding an installer
Installers can be found through the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) and Solar Energy UK who are a trade association for the UK solar market. Neither of the schemes identifies installers that have worked in historic buildings, so when choosing an installer, it is important to ask questions about how they are going to carry out the installation. It should be possible to view examples of the installer’s previous work, which will give a good indication of whether they are suitably experienced.
Checklist for finding a PV system installer
Ask for examples of their work, including on historic buildings
If you are not using a professional adviser for your work, it is even more important to find an installer with verifiable experience and knowledge of historic buildings. If possible, go and look at other jobs the installer has completed. They should be able to demonstrate their knowledge of designing, installing and commissioning PV systems on similar types of buildings.
Obtain a written quote for the project
Check exactly what has been included and what has not been in the quote to make it a fully operational system suitable for your needs and to work optimally. Ensure that the interface to the existing electrical installation and any additional fire protection measures have been included.
Get as much detail as possible
You should obtain relevant plans, elevations and a specification for the installation which should show the location of all equipment in the system. You should also ask for a programme of works, fixing method, cable types and routes, how statutory consents will be sought, grid connection details, and a health and safety file. For larger projects, additional information may be required such as an ecological impact assessment, design and access statements, and archaeological assessment.
Check what warranties are provided
For security, check what warranties the installers provide.
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