[RE-wrenches] PV and Roof Flammability

[Bill Brooks]

Joel,

The problem is not with the rating of the modules. It is with the way we
install them. The air gap is a problem. If HVAC systems were installed like
PV modules, they would have the same problem. There will be changes of some
sort coming in the next year or so. The IBC in 2012 will require "PV
systems" to have a fire rating. Module fire rating may become irrelevant.
Time will tell. This is in a very preliminary stage. All we know is that
changes are likely with this new IBC language.

There is a group working on this issue that includes several representatives
from the PV manufacturing and PV installing industries. If this is something
you want to put a lot of personal effort into, there are ways to accommodate
good input. The SolarABCs will be helping coordinate ongoing efforts.

Bill.

-----Original Message-----
From: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Joel
Davidson
Sent: Wednesday, September 22, 2010 7:12 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: [RE-wrenches] PV and Roof Flammability

Wrenches,

See http://www.solarabcs.org/flammability/ and the report at 
http://www.solarabcs.org/flammability/Flammability_Interimreport.pdf

Is there any flammability difference between PV equipment on a roof and HVAC

or air handling equipment on a roof? My concern is whether PV is being 
singled out as a flammability concern while other more established 
industries with more powerful lobbyists are not.

Joel Davidson 

_______________________________________________
List sponsored by Home Power magazine

List Address: RE-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org

Options & settings:
http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org

List-Archive:
http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org

List rules & etiquette:
www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm

Check out participant bios:
www.members.re-wrenches.org