General Information for Photovoltaic Modules and Panels

690.2690.4(A)690.4(C)690.51690.52705.3 Exc 1

This category covers flat-plate photovoltaic modules and panels intended for mounting on buildings or on ground-supported frames. Roof-mounted modules or panels are evaluated for one of three mounting methods: (1) integral to the roof of a building, (2) directly on a building's roof, or (3) on a rack with a space above the roof surface.

When mounted integral to a building's roof the module serves as the waterproof membrane. Direct-mounted panels are placed upon the building's waterproof membrane (shingles or the like). Rack-mounted styles are spaced away from the building's roof member. Rack-mounted styles may also be installed separate from buildings.

Installation of modules on or integral to a building's roof system may adversely affect the roof covering materials' resistance to external fire exposure if the module has a lesser or no fire resistance rating. Roof covering materials will not be adversely affected when the modules have an equal or greater fire resistance rating than the roof covering material.

Photovoltaic modules and panels are intended to be connected to electrical loads, controllers, or to static inverters that convert the dc power the modules or panels generate to other types of power compatible with the intended loads. This category does not include AC modules; see AC Modules (QHYZ) for additional details. In addition to their voltage, current and power ratings, modules and panels are marked to indicate terminal polarity, maximum series overcurrent device rating, and minimum acceptable diode bypassing (if needed). Installation of the modules and panels, including connection between the modules and the panels and the load, static inverters or controller is intended to be in accordance with the provisions of ANSI/NFPA 70, "National Electrical Code." Authorities Having Jurisdiction should be consulted as to conformance with applicable building codes including the class of roof covering.

When applicable, modules or panels are identified as Class A, B or C to denote their Classification for resistance to external fire exposure. Modules or panels that have not been identified with respect to their resistance to external fire exposure are marked "Not Fire Rated." For significance of external fire exposure classes, see UL's Roofing Materials and Systems Directory.

For additional information, see Electrical Equipment for Use in Ordinary Locations (AALZ).

The basic standard used to investigate products in this category is UL 1703, "Flat-Plate Photovoltaic Modules and Panels."

Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) provides a service for the Classification of photovoltaic modules and panels that not only meet the appropriate requirements of UL but also have been investigated in accordance with one or more of the following design qualification standards:

1. IEEE 1262-(issue date), "IEEE Recommended practice for qualification of photovoltaic (PV) modules"

2. IEC 61215:(issue date), "Crystalline silicon terrestrial photovoltaic modules - Design qualification and type approval"

3. IEC 61646:(issue date), "Thin-film terrestrial photovoltaic modules - Design qualification and approval"

The Listing Mark of Underwriters Laboratories Inc. on the product is the only method provided by UL to identify products manufactured under its Listing and Follow-Up Service. The Listing Mark for these products includes the UL symbol (as illustrated in the Introduction of this Directory) together with the word "LISTED," a control number, and the product name "Photovoltaic Module" or "Photovoltaic Panel."

Combination Listing/Classification Mark — A Listing Mark combined with a Classification Mark is provided on products that have additionally been investigated in accordance with IEC or IEEE design qualification standards. The combined Listing/Classification Mark consists of the Listing Mark elements detailed above and the following marking: "ALSO CLASSIFIED IN ACCORDANCE WITH *," where "*" is one or more of the following:

1. IEEE 1262-(issue date)

2. IEC 61215:(issue date)

3. IEC 61646:(issue date)