NECA 412-2012, Standard for Installing and Maintaining Photovoltaic Systems (ANSI) is now available from the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). This highly anticipated standard describes the application procedures for installing photovoltaic (PV) power systems and components. NECA 412 complements the National Electrical Code (NEC) rules with essential information about quality and performance aspects of the photovoltaic equipment that transforms solar energy into electric power. This installation standard covers performing site assessments, designing PV systems, and determining the correct PV equipment to install to ensure desired results, quality, and acceptable returns on investment customers expect. This NECA installation standard on photovoltaic systems is critically important, according to Michael Johnston, NECA’s executive director of standards and safety. He said, “We are excited about the renewable options solar power can provide customers of all sizes,” Johnston said. “However, photovoltaic installation is a type of electrical installation that should be always performed by qualified installers and qualified contractors, as required in the NEC. Customers should never forget that they’re essentially installing a power generating station on their building. To protect the property and the occupants, they should always have a qualified electrical contractor oversee the installation.” This new NEIS will assist professionals and contractors alike in understanding appropriate positioning of PV arrays, calculating the amount of PV needed for a given facility, and essential information related to necessary interconnections for interactive systems. NECA 412 is a must for organizations involved with providing solar photovoltaic power system installation and maintenance services. NECA 412 applies to the installation of low-voltage AC and DC photovoltaic power systems, rated 1000V and less, for grid-connected and stand-alone operation for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. NECA 412 does not apply to solar heating systems or photovoltaic power systems rated more than 1000V. For ordering information, call NECA at (301) 215-4504 or visit http://www.necanet.org/store/products/index.cfm/NECA%20412-12