3
Managing the Project
Project management is a key aspect of any construction project. Once a contract has been signed with the customer, the project schedule can commence for the construction of the PV system. Longer lead time system components such as modules, inverters, and combiner boxes can be ordered while drawings are being finalized and the permit package is being assembled for submittal. The construction foreman must be informed of the project plans and be given the opportunity to provide their input to the process to implement any necessary improvements to the construction process. A healthy feedback mechanism should be in place to make continual process improvements and learn from the mistakes of past projects. Failure to make process improvements when managing projects will lead to a loss of morale with the construction crew and ultimately result in high labor turnover rates. In summary, planning a PV installation utilizes information gathered during a site survey, and includes the following considerations: • • • • •
3.1
Reviewing, completing and adapting the system design Submitting applications for permits, utility interconnection and incentives Defining the project schedule, manpower and equipment needs Identifying and resolving construction activity conflicts such as power outages or alterations to the site Coordinating other logistics with the customer such as site access, worker facilities, waste collection and storage areas
Secure Permits and Approvals
A complete permit package is critical to an expeditious permitting and approval process. When working with jurisdictions for the first time, it is always valuable to schedule a meeting with the building department and develop an understanding of the expectations of the jurisdiction on the contents of a permit package. Jurisdictions that are new to PV systems will require more time and effort in processing the paperwork for construction approval. While it is rarely a problem to provide too much information, the information must be relevant and well organized so the plan reviewer can perform their review as efficiently as possible. The benefit of having a positive and helpful attitude when working with jurisdictional personnel is hard to understate. Most jurisdictional employees are overworked, underpaid, and underappreciated. Showing an appreciation for their role in the construction process can make big difference in how a permit package is received. Too often contractors get a bad attitude about having to work through the bureaucracy of local government. That attitude often comes across loud and clear to the jurisdictional employees causing them to lose any possible motivation they might have had to process the paperwork in a timely manner. For a plan checker with little or no PV experience, offering to be available for questions and clarifications can help move the process more quickly. A high quality permit package is one of the most effective methods of establishing a good rapport with the local jurisdiction. The contents of a high quality permit package include:
82 • NABCEP PV Installation Professional Resource Guide
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