BRE National Solar Centre To Unveil New PV Certification Scheme
With an estimated 870,000 solar photovoltaic (PV) installations already in operation across the UK in homes and commercial buildings, BRE Global, part of the independent, world leading building science centre and authority on all aspects of the built environment BRE Group, is to unveil a new Certification Scheme in a bid to standardise current practises.
Set to be launched at the Solar PV Summit which takes place in London on 19 July 2016, the new Certification Scheme will provide building operators, developers, financiers, insurance companies, consumers and installers with confidence that installed PV systems of 50 kWp* size and above, meet current best practice quality requirements.
Jonny Williams, Director - BRE National Solar Centre said;
"At the moment, it can be difficult for end users to be 100% confident that their solar is installed to a high standard and will perform reliably. From mid-July, those investing in solar who achieve this new certification, are demonstrating that their installation is not only appropriate for their property but is installed to the highest standard with a quality assurance approval from BRE Global."
In the UK, these power systems, which are designed to supply useful solar electricity range from small commercial installations on buildings to much larger utility scale installations which tend to be ground mounted. Larger commercial roofs, where all solar electricity generated is consumed onsite provide an ideal situation where carbon emissions, utility costs, and security of supply can benefit.
The new certification scheme includes a review of system design and onsite commissioning, and is based on the IET Code of Practice for Grid Connected Solar Photovoltaic Systems**. Once certification is granted, it may be maintained only through regular surveillance assessments. The assessment process is designed to be efficient and cost effective.
Further details of the new PV Certification Scheme will be available from 19 July 2016 at www.bre.co.uk
