Solar PV Design Exam Prep practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q1When reviewing local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements for a commercial PV installation, which of the following would typically be the MOST important to consider first?
✓ Correct answer: D. Setback requirements from the building code
Setback requirements from the building code are crucial to consider early in the design phase as they directly impact where PV equipment can be placed and may significantly constrain system size and configuration.
Q2Which section of the 2017 NEC specifically addresses solar photovoltaic systems?
✓ Correct answer: C. Article 690
Article 690 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) is dedicated specifically to solar photovoltaic systems and contains the requirements for installation, operation, and maintenance of these systems.
Q3When reviewing utility interconnection requirements, which of the following is typically required for grid-connected PV systems?
✓ Correct answer: B. External disconnect switch
An external disconnect switch is typically required by utilities to allow them to isolate the PV system from the grid during maintenance or emergency situations.
Q4A homeowners association (HOA) covenant restricts roof-mounted solar equipment visibility from the street. Which design approach would best address this requirement?
✓ Correct answer: A. Place the array on the rear-facing roof slope
Placing the array on the rear-facing roof slope would typically make it less visible from the street, helping comply with HOA visibility restrictions while still allowing for solar installation.
Q5According to the 2017 NEC, what is the required minimum clear space in front of electrical equipment operating at 600V or less?
✓ Correct answer: D. 36 inches
NEC 110.26(A)(1) requires a minimum working space of 3 feet (36 inches) in front of electrical equipment operating at 600V or less to ensure safe access for installation and maintenance.
Q6When reviewing project criteria for a new PV installation, which document would contain the specific structural requirements for roof loading?
✓ Correct answer: C. Structural engineering report
Structural engineering reports contain the analysis of roof loading capacity, which is critical for determining if the roof can support the additional weight of a PV system.
Q7When evaluating utility requirements for a grid-connected PV system, which of the following limitations would MOST directly affect system size?
✓ Correct answer: B. Net metering capacity limits
Net metering capacity limits directly restrict the maximum size of a grid-connected PV system that can participate in net metering programs, which affects system sizing decisions.
Q8Which of the following best describes a key purpose of reviewing construction specification documents during PV system design?
✓ Correct answer: A. To identify required materials and installation methods
Construction specification documents provide detailed requirements for materials and installation methods that must be followed for a project to be considered compliant, ensuring the PV system meets all required standards.
Q9In accordance with the 2017 NEC, what is the minimum distance required between a PV array and the roof ridge to allow for firefighter access?
✓ Correct answer: D. 36 inches
NEC 690.12(D) requires at least 3 feet (36 inches) of clear space between a PV array and the roof ridge to allow firefighter access and ventilation in case of emergency.
Q10When reviewing local zoning ordinances for a ground-mounted PV array, which of the following would typically be MOST restrictive?
✓ Correct answer: C. Height limitations
Height limitations in zoning ordinances often present the most restrictive challenge for ground-mounted PV arrays, as they directly limit the tilt angle and overall design of the system.
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