Welcomed by the Clean Energy Council’s Mike Russell and RISE’s Oscar Arteaga, delegates enjoyed a comprehensive program, presented by esteemed and experienced industry experts.

Ted Spooner presented the National Standards Report, updating installers on new standards and projects in development. These included discussion of the new inverter performance document and the amendment to AS/NZ 5033. Standards currently underway were covered, including the revised AS 4509.1 and AS 4509.2, the latter being for future development. Proposed standards projects with Standards Australia include a revision of AS/NZ 5033 and AS 4777.

Throughout the day, it was noted that the rapid development of clean energy technology is creating new challenges and making it difficult for standards to keep up the pace. However, it was also clear that the tireless efforts of those working on standards committees have advanced the growth of the industry and built a framework for safety and quality installations.

“We try not to stifle innovation,” said Mr Spooner.

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Mr Spooner encouraged those working in a ‘standards-free zone’ to let Australian Standards know of the new technology so that relevant issues could be addressed in the future.

International standards were also covered, and delegates heard that they could expect changes in standards and new requirements for arrays and components, including arc detectors (which are currently under development in the United States), array junction boxes, cable connectors, array wiring protection, and possible new module safety requirements.

Following the morning session, installation issues were the focus for much of the day. In particular, Glen Morris guided delegates through issues relating to photovoltaic array mountings, mechanical protection and support of cables, and user manuals. Oscar Arteaga covered revisions to AS/NZ 5033, array and module frame earthing, and issues surrounding harmonisation among signage standards.

Before breaking for lunch, discussions moved to energy performance and AC/DC isolation.

After a bite to refuel, delegates got back down to business to engage on the finer points of installation issues. Michelle Guelden gave an update on revisions to AS 4509, discussed battery enclosures and answered questions from the audience with insightful advice.

The late afternoon saw discussion continue with the panel answering questions and queries. Delegates raised a number of issues, including the quality of installation components, certification and accreditation, yield standards, battery enclosures and signage standards.

Other issues raised at the PD Day and discussed throughout the conference included the case for and against rooftop isolators, and clarification of the accreditation regulations for final approval on solar installations. Delegates also engaged in discussions about efforts to maintain a high level of system quality through regular auditing and strict accreditation requirements, and discussed the method used for audit inspections.

The presentations and high level of engagement amongst delegates was indicative of the enthusiasm within the industry to continue to install high standard systems.

After a day enjoyed by all, delegates were keen to socialise. The evening drinks and exhibition gave everyone a chance to continue discussion of issues raised in the session, catch up and relax.