NABCEP - Certified North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners Specialist PV System Mechanical Installation Questions and Answers

Question 1

When installing a PV array on a composite shingle roof, what is the primary purpose of using flashing at each roof penetration?

Accepted Answer

To divert water away from the penetration point and prevent leaks.

Answer

To provide a secure bonding path for the equipment grounding conductor.

Answer

To cover the lag screw heads for aesthetic purposes.

Answer

To increase the pullout strength of the lag screws securing the L-feet.

Question 2

An installer is using a torque wrench to tighten the M8 bolts on the mid-clamps securing PV modules to the racking system. The racking manufacturer's instructions specify a torque value, but the module installation manual provides a different, lower torque range. Which torque specification should the installer follow?

Accepted Answer

The torque specification from the PV module manufacturer.

Answer

The higher value to ensure maximum clamping force.

Answer

The average of the two specified torque values.

Answer

The torque specification from the racking manufacturer.

Question 3

Which of the following is a key requirement when using a UL 2703 listed mounting system to bond the PV modules together?

Accepted Answer

The system must be installed precisely according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Answer

A separate grounding electrode must be installed at the array location.

Answer

A bare copper bonding jumper must connect each individual module frame.

Answer

Each rail segment must be connected to the grounding electrode conductor.

Question 4

A PV system is being installed on a roof in a region with high snow loads. According to ASCE 7 standards, what factor is critical for determining the design snow load on the array?

Accepted Answer

The ground snow load for the specific location.

Answer

The color of the roof shingles.

Answer

The ambient air temperature during installation.

Answer

The brand of the PV module being installed.

Question 5

When attaching a flush-mounted racking system to a residential roof, what is the standard best practice for securing the L-feet or standoffs?

Accepted Answer

Using lag screws driven into the center of the roof rafters.

Answer

Attaching them directly to the roof decking with wood screws.

Answer

Securing them with adhesive approved for roofing applications.

Answer

Placing them between shingles without any roof penetration.

Question 6

During a mechanical installation, an installer notices that removing a single PV module from the middle of a row will break the continuity of the equipment grounding conductor run along the rail. According to NEC and best practices, this installation is:

Accepted Answer

Non-compliant, because removing a module must not interrupt the bonding path for other modules.

Answer

Acceptable, as long as the module is immediately replaced.

Answer

Compliant, provided the inverter has integrated ground-fault protection.

Answer

Acceptable, if the modules are mounted on a non-conductive roof surface.