Solar Commissioning and Handover: What You Should Receive

The day the panels go on the roof is not the end of a project. The system must be tested, switched on correctly and handed over with the information you need. A good handover protects you for the next twenty years.

Key takeaways

• Insist on tests that are recorded, not only "it is working".
• You should receive drawings, datasheets, warranty papers, serial numbers and the settings.
• You should be shown how to operate and monitor the system and how to shut it down safely.
• Keep all documents together; they are needed for claims and resale.

1. The tests

Before the system is switched on, a technician checks polarity and the open-circuit voltage of every string, tests insulation resistance on the DC side, and checks the earthing and the protection devices. After switching on, the output, the string currents and the inverter settings are checked and recorded. See solar string design basics.

2. Approvals and connection

If you have net metering or a grid connection, the paperwork, the meter and the approval from the electricity company should be complete before the system exports. See net metering in Pakistan. Ask what is done and what is still pending.

3. Documents you should receive

1. The single-line diagram and the layout drawing as built.
2. The datasheets and the model and serial numbers of the panels, inverter, batteries and key parts.
3. The warranty documents and the installer's warranty; see solar panel warranty explained.
4. The test and commissioning report.
5. The inverter settings, the app login and the monitoring set-up.
6. The user manual and the maintenance advice.

4. Training

The installer should show you the inverter display and the app, how to check production, what the alarms mean, how to switch the system off in an emergency and what you should not do, such as opening the inverter or walking on the panels. Read solar monitoring: what to watch.

5. Labels and safety

The isolators, breakers and warnings should be labelled. The roof should be left clean. Cables should be neat and protected. Photographs of the finished work are useful for records.

6. After the handover

Ask about the first service visit, the response time for faults and who to call. Plan the yearly service from annual solar plant service checklist.

Next step

When we install a system, we provide the documents above. For a quotation, use the quotation form, or see our installation service.