Scope 12 certification for older solar installations, is it possible?

Scope 12 certification is a comprehensive inspection protocol specifically designed for commercial solar installations that verifies electrical safety, installation quality, and compliance with industry standards. This certification focuses on ensuring that photovoltaic systems are installed correctly and operate safely throughout their lifecycle.

It’s important to understand that Scope 12 certification is not legally mandatory simply for having solar panels installed. However, it is required by insurance companies if you want to insure your commercial solar installation. Most insurers will not provide coverage for commercial PV systems without a valid Scope 12 certification, as they need verification that the system meets safety standards.

The certification process examines various aspects of a solar installation, from electrical components to mounting structures, ensuring everything adheres to current safety regulations and industry best practices. For older installations, this assessment becomes particularly valuable as it identifies potential safety issues that may have developed over time.

What is a Scope 12 inspection for solar panels?

A Scope 12 inspection is a specialized technical evaluation designed to assess the safety, quality, and insurability of commercial photovoltaic systems. This inspection is conducted by SCIOS-certified inspectors who follow a standardized protocol to verify that solar installations meet all required safety and quality standards.

The inspection covers several critical areas:

• Regulatory compliance verification ensures that the solar PV installation complies with all applicable industry standards and electrical safety regulations. This includes confirming that proper documentation is available such as system schematics, test reports, and commissioning records, and that the installation adheres to current electrical codes and safety guidelines: NEN 1010, NEN 3140, NEN EN IEC 62446-1, NEN EN IEC 61439, and SCIOS Technical Document 18.
• Electrical safety assessment, checking wiring, connections, grounding, and protection systems
• Physical installation quality, including mounting structures and weather sealing
• System performance verification and documentation review
• For rooftop installations, verification that a structural load calculation is available demonstrating that the roof can safely support the added weight of the PV system, including snow and water accumulation

The inspector produces a detailed report highlighting any issues that need addressing, along with recommendations for remediation if necessary. This thorough evaluation ensures that the solar installation is safe, properly installed, and meets all requirements for insurance coverage.

Can older solar installations qualify for Scope 12 certification?

Yes, older solar installations can definitely qualify for Scope 12 certification. The certification process evaluates the current condition and compliance of a system rather than when it was installed. There is no age limit or cutoff date that automatically disqualifies older systems from obtaining certification.

However, it’s important to understand that solar technology and installation standards have evolved over time. Older systems may have been installed according to different guidelines than those currently in place. This means that while age itself isn’t a barrier, some modifications or upgrades might be necessary to bring an older system into compliance with current standards.

Common issues in older installations that might need addressing include outdated electrical components, inadequate labeling, insufficient documentation, or mounting systems that don’t meet current requirements. Once these issues are identified and remediated, older systems can successfully obtain Scope 12 certification.

Many commercial solar system owners have successfully certified installations that are 5, 10, or even more years old. The key factor is not the age but whether the system can be brought into compliance with current safety and quality standards.

What requirements must older solar systems meet for Scope 12 certification?

Older solar systems must meet the same fundamental requirements as new installation to achieve Scope 12 certification. These technical standards focus on safety like fire hazzards, performance, and compliance regardless of when the system was installed. Key requirements include:

• Compliance with current electrical codes and safety regulations (NEN 1010, NEN 3140, NEN EN IEC 62446-1, NEN EN IEC 61439)
• Proper system documentation, including electrical schematics, component specifications, and maintenance records
• Adequate labeling of components, especially those related to safety and emergency procedures
• Appropriate earthing and lightning protection systems
• Structural integrity of mounting systems and appropriate load calculations for roof-mounted installations
• Proper cable management, including protection from environmental factors and physical damage
• Functional safety devices and appropriate isolation points

For older installations, modifications might be needed to meet these requirements. Common upgrades include replacing outdated components, improving documentation, enhancing labeling, upgrading protection systems, or reinforcing mounting structures. An initial assessment can identify specific areas that need attention before the formal inspection.

Why is Scope 12 certification important for insurance?

Scope 12 certification is crucial for insurance coverage of commercial solar installations. While not legally mandated for simply having solar panels, most insurers require Scope 12 certification before providing coverage for commercial PV systems. Without this certification, you typically cannot obtain insurance for your solar installation.

This requirement exists because insurers need verification that the system meets safety standards and doesn’t pose undue risks. The certification provides objective evidence that the installation has been professionally assessed and meets all necessary safety and quality standards.

It’s important to clarify that obtaining Scope 12 certification does not result in premium discounts from insurance providers. Rather, it’s a prerequisite for obtaining coverage at all. The certification is about ensuring basic insurability, not securing preferential rates.

For older installations, having this certification becomes even more significant as insurers may have heightened concerns about systems that have been operational for many years. The certification provides assurance that despite its age, the system remains safe and compliant with current standards.

How do you arrange a Scope 12 inspection for an existing installation?

Arranging a Scope 12 inspection for an existing solar installation involves several key steps:

• Select a certified inspector – The inspection must be performed by a SCIOS-certified Scope 12 inspector. These professionals have specialized training and certification to conduct these assessments properly.
• Prepare documentation – Gather all available system documentation, including original installation specifications, previous maintenance records, and any modifications made since installation.
• Preliminary assessment – Consider having a preliminary assessment to identify potential issues that might need addressing before the formal inspection.
• Schedule the inspection – Work with the inspector to arrange a suitable time, ensuring the system is accessible and operational for testing.
• Inspection day – The inspector will conduct a thorough on-site evaluation, including visual inspections, electrical measurements, and documentation review.
• Review findings – After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any issues identified and recommendations for remediation if needed.
• Address deficiencies – Complete any required modifications or upgrades to bring the system into compliance.
• Re-inspection if necessary – If significant issues were found, a follow-up inspection may be required to verify that remediation was successful.

The entire process typically takes several weeks, depending on the system’s complexity and any modifications required. For older installations, it’s advisable to allow extra time as more issues might need addressing compared to newer systems.

Key takeaways about Scope 12 certification for older solar installations

When considering Scope 12 certification for older solar installations, remember these essential points:

• Age is not a barrier – Older solar installations can absolutely obtain Scope 12 certification if theymeet current safety and quality standards.
• Insurance requirement – Scope 12 certification is not legally mandatory for having solar panels but is required by insurers for commercial solar installations to be insurable.
• No premium discounts – Having Scope 12 certification doesn’t result in insurance premium discounts; it’s a prerequisite for coverage.
• Technical focus – The certification evaluates current compliance with safety standards rather than when the system was installed.
• Possible modifications – Older systems may need upgrades to meet current standards, but these are typically feasible and cost-effective.
• Regular reassessment – Even after certification, periodic Scope 12 inspections (typically every 5 years) represent best practice for maintaining system safety and insurability.
• Professional expertise – Always work with certified Scope 12 inspectors who understand the unique challenges of assessing older installations.

Obtaining Scope 12 certification for your older commercial solar installation is a prudent investment in both safety and business continuity. It ensures your system meets current standards, remains insurable, and continues to operate safely throughout its lifecycle.