Residential sample: pitched roof
Portrait modules, single inverter, combiner, roof anchor details, and monitoring nodes annotated.
Case notes and representative observations
This collection presents structured technical notes from a selection of representative photovoltaic installations. Each entry focuses on factual description of the configuration, materials used, mounting and structural interfaces, electrical single-line pathways, and monitoring nodes captured during observation. The objective is to document how systems are assembled and connected within typical residential and small commercial contexts, and to provide annotated examples of documentation artifacts such as wiring schedules and component lists. Entries avoid prescriptive instructions and do not include outcome-based claims. Readers will find material suited to cross-referencing technical standards, constructing single-line diagrams from field observations, and understanding the typical interfaces between PV equipment and building electrical infrastructure.
Photograph: mixed-use rooftop array and service access point
Overview: documenting representative installations
When documenting a photovoltaic installation for technical reference, begin with a clear statement of the observed system boundary and underlying assumptions. Useful boundaries include whether the observation covers only the PV source circuits, the inverter and AC distribution interface, or the full site metering arrangement. Record environmental reference values such as ambient temperature and measured irradiance if available; these contextualise module performance parameters reported in datasheets. For structural notes, capture the method of attachment and the load path into the building structure, listing fastener type, spacing, and any corrosion protection. For electrical notes, capture module type and rated Voc/Isc, string lengths, inverter model and nominal AC coupling point, overcurrent protective device ratings, and conductor types and sizes. Each case note should include an annotated single-line diagram and a minimal bill of materials. Clear, reproducible documentation enables technical readers to compare observed configurations against normative standards and to use the notes as a reference when preparing their own single-line diagrams or inspection checklists.
Sample technical note: residential pitched-roof array
The sample observation describes a medium-sized pitched-roof installation on a timber-framed dwelling. The array comprised framed crystalline modules mounted in portrait orientation on an aluminium rail system fixed with flashings that maintain roof membrane continuity. Mechanical notes identified interface locations where load was transferred to the roof structure via specified roofer-approved anchors; spacing conformed to the manufacturer span table for expected wind loads. The electrical configuration used three strings connected to a single transformerless inverter located in the garage; DC conductors were routed in conduit to a combiner and then to the inverter DC input, with a DC isolator adjacent to the inverter. The inverter AC output fed the house distribution board through a dedicated breaker and a metering shunt at the point of common coupling. Monitoring nodes included per-inverter AC power, ambient temperature, and an irradiance sensor mounted near the array. The case note includes a labelled single-line diagram and a conductor sizing rationale based on expected maximum operating current and a conservative voltage drop target for the string runs.
Documentation artifacts and reproducible diagrams
Consistent artifacts improve clarity across case notes. sanemlist recommends including a concise single-line diagram that shows array strings, combiner box, inverter, protective devices, and the point of common coupling with building distribution. Each diagram should annotate nominal voltages, protection device ratings, and measurement nodes. A bill of materials listing module model, inverter model, conductor types and sizes, and mounting hardware supports cross-referencing with datasheets. When presenting monitoring data, annotate sampling rate, time base, and sensor locations. Provide a short statement of assumed reference conditions used in any performance numbers; for example, specify if module power references are at standard test conditions (1000 W/m², 25 °C). These reproducible elements allow readers to interpret observations and adapt the structure of diagrams to their own documentation workflows without conflating descriptive notes with prescriptive installation instructions.
Commercial sample: canopy array
Flat-roof canopy with ballasted racking, multiple inverters, and distributed metering points documented.
Facade-integrated case
Integrated panels with structural interface notes, junction box access, and thermal expansion considerations.