U.S. state has its own unique regulations and standards that solar design engineers need to consider, particularly when seeking a Professional Engineer (PE) stamping to ensure structural safety, electrical code compliance, and the adherence to local building codes, it generally requires a licensed professional engineer or PE engineer to review and stamp solar engineering documents related to a project. Stamping is typically required for projects requiring permits, or if the project exceeds a certain size, and includes structural plans for mounting systems, electrical wiring diagrams, and site layout plans. Stamping may also be mandatory for projects requiring permits.
According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), solar energy will account for about 3.1% of U.S. electricity generation in 2025. With the most solar capacity in the country, California has about 40% of the nation’s solar resources. Florida and Texas are becoming rising competitors, thanks to their sunny weather and favourable laws.
Importance of PE Stamping!
Solar PV systems need professional oversight to ensure safety, compliance, and overall quality. Professional engineers stamps or PE Review show that a certified PE engineer reviewed the project plans and made sure the installation meets local building codes, national standards (like the National Electrical Code), and engineering principles.
Texas:
A report of Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) says, in 2024, the state added approximately 19,000 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity, 14,000 MW of wind capacity, 6,200 MW of battery capacity, with projections indicating continued growth. This is a considerable market opportunity for engineers working in the state.
Texas does not have a statewide solar regulatory framework, which means that AHJs play a significant role in solar approvals. This can create lots of requirements depending on where a solar project is located. PE stamping requirements may vary significantly between cities.
Building Codes: PE Engineers need to stay on top of local codes and regulations for cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas, which may have different conditions for solar installations.
Wind Load: Given Texas’s susceptibility to severe weather, special attention must be paid to local wind load requirements, which can affect how solar systems are designed and mounted.
Interconnection Agreements: Engineers must evaluate interconnection requirements with local utilities, ensuring that installations can connect seamlessly to the grid.
California:
More than half of the total solar market in the USA is in California, with over 30 GW of installed solar capacity. The state’s aggressive renewable energy goals further enhance the importance of meticulous PE stamping for new projects. The state has comprehensive regulations and incentives designed to promote solar energy. The California Solar Initiative (CSI) and California’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24) are central to the solar landscape.
Title 24 Compliance: PE Engineers must ensure designs comply with rigorous energy efficiency standards that may go beyond the national codes.
Seismic Considerations: PV systems must be engineered to resist potential earthquakes, which involves specific design requirements for mounting systems.
Fire Safety Regulations: The state has specific fire safety regulations governing rooftop solar installations, particularly related to spacing and access for firefighting.
Florida:
Florida is the third-largest state in terms of solar capacity, with 4.5 GW installed, and projected growth suggests significant opportunities for solar engineers.
The recent legislation has been favorable for solar growth, creating a more enticing environment for PV installations. Two biggest utilities, Florida Power & Light Co. and Duke Energy Corp., still favor natural-gas-driven electricity over solar and its current governor remains a skeptic about climate change. The state’s drive toward renewable energy is likely to break existing records annually for the next five years.
Building Codes: The state has its own specific building codes which are influenced by local climate and other considerations.
Hurricane Resistance: PE engineers must consider designs which can be hurricane resistant, including structural integrity to withstand high winds.
Interconnection Approvals: Collaborating with utilities for interconnection approval can be a vital aspect of ensuring that solar systems meet local utility requirements.
For solar PE stamping local authorities operating in Texas, California, and Florida, staying informed about each state’s unique requirements is essential for fostering a safe, compliant, and effective solar energy market. Stay up to date about codes and regulations by engaging with local authorities. Attend solar industry conferences and collaborate with fellow PE engineers to share best practices and knowledge. Professional engineers can make sure solar projects meet safety and efficiency standards using statewide data and local insights.
Vishtik offers guidance on how to revise your project to comply with the necessary standards and can review the revised documents for compliance. Also, our experienced engineers look and understand each and every aspect closely, which increases your chances of getting approval. Sign Up Now!
