Why is an inspection of photovoltaic systems important?
- Safety – detecting damaged cables, insulation faults and protection failures
- Reliable operation – preventing outages and loss of output
- Legal and technical requirements under Act 250/2021 Coll. and Government Decree 190/2022 Coll.
What does a PV inspection include?
- Visual inspection of the panels, mounting structure and cabling
- Electrical measurements and an inverter test
- Check of safety devices
- Inspection report with recommendations
What is checked under ČSN 33 2000-7-712
The documentation of the system, commissioning tests and checks are supplemented by the standard ČSN EN 62446-1, to which the 7-712 standard refers in clause 712.6.101.
- The DC side is considered live even after the AC side or the inverter is disconnected (712.410.101) – protection by double or reinforced insulation, or SELV/PELV (712.410.102)
- An insulation monitoring device (IMD) or an inverter function that monitors the insulation of the DC side (712.421.101)
- Protection of PV strings and cables against overcurrent; with more than 2 parallel strings according to the condition in 712.431.101
- Surge protection on both the DC and AC side, or a risk assessment (712.443)
- Isolation and switching (712.537) and bonding – conductor of at least 4 mm² Cu (712.542.3.101)
- Labelling: PV installation on the building and the warning "Solar DC – live parts may remain energised after disconnection" (712.514.101 to 712.514.103)
How often is a PV inspection carried out?
An initial inspection is needed before the power plant is put into operation and for grid connection. There is no single separate interval for PV: the periodic inspection follows the environment and use of the building according to Annex 4 of Government Decree No. 190/2022 Coll. (e.g. production, schools and accommodation 3 years, office buildings 5 years, wet areas and areas with corrosive substances 1 year; the shortest applicable interval applies) and the manufacturer's instructions. After a fault, a lightning strike or a modification of the DC/AC part we recommend an extraordinary inspection.
Frequently asked questions
How often is a photovoltaic power plant inspected?
Always an initial inspection before start-up. Periodic checks are planned according to the environment and the manufacturer's documentation; for operating PV plants a regular inspection every few years is usual, and immediately after a fault.
What does a PV inspection technician check?
Both the AC and DC side, inverters, earthing, protective devices, cabling and the condition of the panels. The result is an inspection report.
How much does an inspection cost? You will find indicative prices in the price list →