NEC 690: Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
What This Article Covers
NEC Article 690 covers solar photovoltaic (PV) systems — the installation requirements for grid-tied and standalone solar arrays. PV is one of the fastest-growing specialties.
Key Requirements
- Maximum PV system voltage per 690.7 (accounting for low-temperature voltage rise)
- DC conductor sizing at 125% of short-circuit current, then another 125% for continuous (effectively 156%)
- Rapid shutdown required for rooftop systems (690.12)
- Disconnect requirements for PV source circuits and PV output circuits
- Marking and labeling per 690.31, 690.53, 690.54, 690.56
Common Field Applications
- Residential rooftop array with microinverters
- Central inverter ground-mount system
- Battery storage interconnection with PV
Common Mistakes & Inspection Failures
- Sizing DC conductors at 125% instead of 156%
- Missing rapid shutdown
- Inadequate labeling at the service
Related NEC Articles
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does NEC 690 cover?
NEC Article 690 covers solar photovoltaic (PV) systems — the installation requirements for grid-tied and standalone solar arrays. PV is one of the fastest-growing specialties.
What are the key requirements of NEC 690?
Key requirements include: Maximum PV system voltage per 690.7 (accounting for low-temperature voltage rise); DC conductor sizing at 125% of short-circuit current, then another 125% for continuous (effectively 156%); Rapid shutdown required for rooftop systems (690.12). See the full requirements list on this page.
What are common mistakes with NEC 690?
Sizing DC conductors at 125% instead of 156% Missing rapid shutdown Inadequate labeling at the service
Related Resources
Michael Briglio
IBEW Local 134 Journeyman · Licensed Contractor · IL Educator
Michael started in the IBEW at 18 and made foreman as a 3rd-year apprentice. Thirteen years in, he’s a Local 134 journeyman, a licensed electrical contractor, a licensed Illinois teacher, and OSHA 30 and EPA 608 certified. He teaches a federally recognized pre-apprenticeship on the south side of Chicago — where he’s helped 100+ students get into the IBEW. He built Sparky AI around exactly what the NJATC exam tests and what trips people up. Prep with this and you walk in ready.
Facts on this page trace to primary sources or first-hand IBEW Local 134 experience — see sources & methodology.