A Guide to PV Plan Sets & Critical Mistakes to Avoid

A solar installer once shared how a missing detail in their PV plan set delayed an entire project by three weeks—and cost them a key client. It's a common pitfall in the solar industry: underestimating the importance of detailed solar plan design.

Whether you're working on residential or commercial projects, PV plan sets are the foundation of a successful installation. In this guide, we’ll break down what goes into great pv plans, based on insights from GreenLancer’s decade-long experience supporting over 200,000 solar projects. From solar permitting to PTO, we’ve got the details that help you get it done right the first time.

What are PV Plan Sets?

PV plan sets—also known as solar permit packages or solar plan designs—are essential documentation for the successful execution and approval of a solar installation project. These documents serve as a technical roadmap for solar installers, engineers, inspectors, and local authorities, guiding each stage of the installation and permitting process.

A professionally prepared solar plan design ensures the system complies with the National Electrical Code (NEC), local building codes, and utility interconnection requirements. Without accurate and complete pv plans, projects risk delays, failed inspections, or rejected permits—all of which can cost time and money.

GreenLancer specializes in providing permit-ready PV plan sets for residential and commercial projects across the U.S. Our licensed engineers and designers are experienced with jurisdiction-specific requirements, helping solar contractors meet deadlines and reduce friction during the solar permitting process.

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What PV Plan Sets Include

PV plan sets contain all the technical documentation required to ensure a solar energy system is designed and installed safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with local building codes, the National Electrical Code (NEC), and utility interconnection standards. A well-prepared solar plan design supports smooth solar permitting and faster approvals from authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs).

Here’s a breakdown of what a complete set of PV plans typically includes:

Site Plan

A scaled drawing showing the physical layout of the system on the property. This includes:

• Location of solar modules, inverters, disconnects, and meters

• Roof or ground mount placement with setback distances

• Conduit routing and elevation details

• Access pathways per fire code requirements (especially in California and New York)

  
  

Electrical Diagrams

Detailed single-line or three-line diagrams illustrating:

• Module string configurations

• Inverter input and output connections

• AC/DC disconnects and load centers

• Grounding methods and bonding points

• Conductor sizing, overcurrent protection, and voltage drop calculations. These diagrams are critical for solar plan design approval and utility interconnection.

  
  

Structural Analysis

Engineering documentation to verify that the roof or racking system can support the added loads:

• Mounting and attachment methods

• Load calculations for dead load, wind load, and snow load

• Racking system specs and fastening patterns

• Jurisdiction-specific structural criteria (e.g., Miami-Dade or seismic zones)

  
  

Specification Sheets

The manufacturer cut sheets for each major component in the system:

• Solar modules (including wattage, voltage, efficiency, fire rating)

• Inverters (string, microinverter, or hybrid), optimizers, and batteries

• Racking and mounting systems

• Certifies that all components meet UL and NEC listing standards

  
  

Equipment Locations

A detailed layout showing:

• The exact placement of inverters, junction boxes, rapid shutdown devices, and meters

• Identification of service panels, main service disconnects, and utility points of connection

• Clearances and working space for service access (per NEC Article 110)

  
  

Labels and Warnings

Required labeling and signage as per NEC Articles 690 and 705:

• Placards for AC and DC disconnects

• Rapid shutdown labeling

• Point-of-interconnection warnings

• Firefighter access labels and hazard identification signage

  
  

Code Compliance References

Explicit references to relevant codes and standards, such as:

• NEC (2020 or 2023, depending on jurisdiction)

• International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC)

• Local AHJ amendments and utility standards

• UL certification listings for all electrical components

  
  

Residential PV Plan Sets

Residential PV plan sets are engineered for rooftop solar systems on single-family homes or small multifamily dwellings. These PV plans focus on smaller system capacities (typically under 25 kW) and include critical design documents such as:

• Roof layout drawings with module placement, azimuth, and tilt

• Structural load calculations verifying compliance with local building codes

• NEC-compliant electrical wiring diagrams showing string configurations, inverter placement, and interconnection details

• Rapid shutdown system layouts and labeling

• Fire access pathways and required setbacks per jurisdictional requirements

These solar plan designs must align with residential building codes and solar permitting requirements, which vary by AHJ. Installers must account for roof load capacity, wind and snow loads, rafter spacing, and attachment methods. Setback rules (e.g., 3-foot clearances) and aesthetic guidelines, particularly in HOA-regulated neighborhoods, also factor into residential PV plan sets.

Commercial Solar Plan Sets

Commercial solar plan sets are created for larger installations on commercial buildings, schools, agricultural operations, and light industrial sites. These systems often exceed 25 kW and may involve 3-phase power, higher voltage operation, and more complex utility interconnections.

Key components of commercial pv plans include:

• Site plans for ground-mounted systems or flat-roof arrays with ballasted or mechanically attached racking

• Advanced structural analysis for commercial roof types, often including TPO or EPDM membranes, concrete decks, or steel purlins

• Coordination with building management systems (BMS), load panels, and transformers

• Electrical line diagrams for systems with multiple inverters, optimizers, or battery energy storage systems (BESS)

• String inverter or central inverter specifications and monitoring integration

• Interconnection details compliant with utility requirements for commercial net metering or demand reduction

  
  

These solar plan designs must adhere to IBC commercial code sections, NFPA fire codes, and often require sign-off by a licensed professional engineer (PE).

PV Plan Sets with Battery Storage

PV plan sets with energy storage are increasingly common as battery installations rise for grid resilience and time-of-use optimization. These pv plans integrate both solar generation and battery storage systems—whether AC-coupled, DC-coupled, or hybrid.

A complete solar plan design for battery storage includes:

• Battery storage system layout showing placement relative to inverters and main service panel

• Wiring schematics for bidirectional power flow and isolation switches

• Load backup subpanels for essential circuits

• Battery management system (BMS) integration and communications

• NEC Article 706 and UL 9540/9540A compliance details for battery safety

• Ventilation and clearance requirements for lithium-ion systems (e.g., Tesla Powerwall, Enphase IQ Battery, or LG RESU)

  
  

PV plan sets with storage must clearly identify disconnects, overcurrent protection devices, and compliance with rapid shutdown and interconnection requirements. These designs are crucial for permitting approvals and utility interconnection when adding storage to new or existing systems.

Why are PV Plan Sets Important?

Solar plan sets are vital for solar installers as they ensure compliance with local building codes, zoning regulations, and permit requirements. Detailed instructions within the PV plan set provide guidance on the layout, placement, and wiring of solar panels, inverters, and other PV equipment, minimizing installation errors and optimizing system efficiency. 

Solar Permit Application & Approval

Solar contractors must submit PV plan sets during the solar permit application process, ensuring that these drawings comply with all building, electrical, and zoning codes. Once the PV plan sets are submitted and approved, you can proceed with installing the solar array. Solar permit inspectors typically review the plan sets during inspections, so obtaining Permission to Operate status depends on adhering to approved PV plan sets.

Quality Solar Installations

PV plan sets simplify the installation process, reducing time and labor costs while enhancing communication between installers, project managers, and regulatory authorities. By following approved solar plan designs, you also minimize liability risks, protect installer reputations, and ensure customer satisfaction with safe and compliant solar installations.

Terms Related to PV Plan Sets & Solar Plan Design

Numerous terms are used to describe technical solar drawings, and they often overlap. Here’s a rundown of many of the terms you may encounter.

Solar Panel Layout Drawings 

Also called a solar PV layout or solar array layout, this component of a PV plan set visually maps the placement of solar panels on a specific site. It includes details such as module orientation, tilt angle, spacing, and proximity to roof obstructions or shading sources. A well-designed solar panel layout drawing is essential to optimize system performance, meet setback requirements, and comply with solar plan design standards.

PV Schematics

A PV schematic, or electrical diagram within a pv plan set, shows the full electrical layout of a solar energy system. It includes the wiring configuration of modules, inverters, energy storage, overcurrent protection, grounding, and rapid shutdown components. These schematics are critical for ensuring NEC compliance and guiding installers during both installation and future maintenance.

Solar Permit Plan Sets

A solar permit plan set is the official document package required by the AHJ for permitting. It includes the site plan, electrical schematics, structural calculations, product specification sheets, and compliance labeling. These PV plan sets confirm that the solar plan design meets local code requirements and provides the technical roadmap for the installer and inspector throughout the project.

Solar Single-Line Diagrams (SLD)

Also known as one-line diagrams, SLDs simplify the electrical system by using a single line to show the power flow from the source to various components. A single-line diagram, often included in a PV plan set, shows the electrical connections, including solar panels, inverters, solar storage batteries, and other essential components. It provides a high-level overview of the PV system layout and helps in visualizing the electrical flow and coordination between different parts of the system.

Solar Three-Line Diagrams

A solar three-line diagram provides a more detailed view of the electrical connections within a solar energy system. Unlike the single-line diagram, which uses one line, the three-line diagram employs three lines to represent the positive, negative, and ground connections.

Included in PV plan sets, this diagram outlines the wiring between system components on both the DC and AC sides. It is a critical element of solar plan design, serving as an essential tool during the wiring and installation stages. Electricians rely on it for precise guidance to properly connect system components, ensuring safe and efficient operation.

Solar Drawings

Solar drawings are a core component of any solar plan design, offering detailed visual documentation like array layouts, electrical schematics, and site plans. These drawings within PV plan sets serve as the installation blueprint, showing precise placement of PV panels, conduit routing, inverter locations, and other system components. Accurate solar drawings ensure code compliance and streamline the installation process.

Solar Panel Schematics

Solar panel schematics are technical diagrams included in pv plans that show the electrical configuration of the solar array. They detail stringing methods, series and parallel connections, inverter input, grounding paths, and fuse ratings. These schematics are essential for ensuring proper wiring, verifying system voltage and current limits, and meeting NEC requirements for safe solar installations.

Solar Panel Drawings 

Included in comprehensive PV plan sets, solar panel drawings provide the specifications and mounting details for solar modules. These drawings illustrate panel dimensions, tilt angles, row spacing, and racking attachment points. Proper use of solar panel drawings supports efficient layout, structural safety, and maximum energy production through optimized panel alignment.

6 Common Mistakes In Solar Plan Design

Since 2013, we’ve been working with solar contractors to overcome solar permitting obstacles. Over the years, we’ve seen many issues arise with solar plans that can impact the quality of the solar design or obtaining solar permits and interconnection. While every PV plan set can be unique, several common mistakes can occur. 

1. Incomplete or inaccurate information on PV plan sets: This includes missing details on electrical connections, equipment specifications, or structural requirements. Providing comprehensive and accurate information in the solar plan set is important to ensure a successful project.

2. Non-compliance with local building codes: Adherence to building codes and regulations can lead to solar permit delays or rejections. It's crucial to thoroughly research and incorporate the jurisdiction's specific PV plan sets and permitting requirements for the project.

3. Insufficient electrical design: The electrical design for PV arrays should consider factors such as solar system sizing, wire gauges, safety disconnects, and proper grounding. Overlooking these components can result in system underperformance, safety hazards, and solar permit rejection.

4. Lack of clarity in solar diagrams and drawings: Clear and well-detailed PV diagrams are essential for the installers and inspectors to understand and follow the PV plan sets. Unclear or ambiguous solar drawings can lead to confusion and even installation mistakes.

5. Inadequate structural considerations: Solar panel arrays must be properly supported and mounted to withstand wind, snow loads, and other environmental factors. Overlooking structural requirements for solar energy systems can compromise their lifespan and create solar permitting issues.

6. Not including necessary documentation: Solar permitting agencies often require additional documentation, such as solar equipment spec sheets, product certifications, or engineering reports, to support the plan sets. Not providing these documents can cause delays or rejections during the PV permitting process.

FAQs On Solar Plan Design and PV Plan Sets

Read on to gain answers to some of the top questions related to solar drafting. 

Do I need engineering stamps for my PV plan set?

Whether you need professional engineering (PE) stamps for your solar plan set depends on local building codes and regulations. In some jurisdictions, an engineering stamp may be required for certain aspects of the PV plan set, such as structural details or electrical specifications. It's essential to consult with local authorities to determine if an engineering stamp is necessary and what kind (structural engineering stamp, electrical engineering stamp, etc.) you need for your specific projects.

Who prepares PV plan sets?

Solar plan sets are typically prepared by professional solar installers, licensed engineers, or solar designers with specialized expertise in solar energy systems. These experts ensure that all technical specifications are accurately documented and that the PV plan sets comply with local building and electrical codes and regulations, enabling smooth permitting and installation processes.

GreenLancer, with over a decade of PV plan design experience, is an excellent option for preparing comprehensive solar plan sets. We offer specialized design services for residential, commercial, and utility solar projects, ensuring efficient and compliant installations.

What software is used for solar plan design?

There are numerous solar design software options available for creating PV plan sets. Some of the most popular include Aurora Solar Design Software, Helioscope, HOMER Solar Software, OpenSolar Design Proposal Software, PVSketch, PVCAD by PVComplete, and Solargraf Solar Software.

Each tool offers unique functionalities to streamline solar plan design and ensure accuracy in solar plan design. The best choice depends on specific project requirements, budget, and the software’s features and capabilities.

Are there PV permit plan services?

Solar plan set services are available to help with PV system design and solar permitting. GreenLancer is one such service that provides engineering and design support. Solar installers and developers can access solar plan set expertise and support without needing in-house design and engineering teams, allowing for cost-effective solutions and quick turnaround times for solar drafting services.

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