Solar Ready: Harmonizing the Solar Ready Scope for Safer & more productive Solar Deployments

Abstract

A Solar Ready building is one that is engineered for future adaptation of solar PV. This thesis reviews the literature of existing Solar Ready standards and analyzes the solar installation process with the goal of proposing an ideal standard for future implementation. An analysis of the work processes performed during solar system installation identifies those work packages that are suitable for pre-installation within the scope of new construction. The installation process is a composite of several specialty building trades including: electrical, roofing, carpentry and IT; thus exposing workers to a unique array of hazards. Non-solar workers operating on rooftops can be subjected to hazards that may be magnified by the presence of a rooftop solar system. Since the Solar Ready scope can dictate the economic and safety characteristics of a solar system, it should be implemented using an evidence-based approach for maximum impact. The research includes a review of renewable energy policies including incentives, mandatory building codes and voluntary green building certifications; analysis of solar installation work processes and costs as well as a review of policy cases. The resulting model Solar Ready scope is validated through a survey questionnaire and informal interviews.