Final Design

PURPOSE: Design is responsible for creating a quality design for the customer with the highest possible production while also making an installable product for the installer.

WORK QUEUE REPORT: 

DESIGN - Ready for Final Design

Order of priority:

1. Redesigns

2. Projects returning into your queue from Re-Surveys, PSR & PER

3. New Designs

TRAINING MATERIALS:

SLA EXPECTATIONS:

• Final Design: 1 business day SLA from time of assignment

NAMING CONVENTION:

CAD [First, Last] [File Type] [date (0-00-0000)]

Example: CAD Doe, John Shade Report 01-01-2023

MAIN FINAL DESIGN SOP

DETAILED STEP BY STEP:

I.  Select a project from the design queue to work on

1. Navigate to the report linked above.

2. Click a project name to work on.

3. On the General Details page for the project navigate on the Assistant bar on the left:

1. Scroll to “Design” and click the arrow to access the drop down.

   1. Click the arrow to the right of “Create Design” and select “Accept” to assign the design to yourself

II. Copy over the design deliverables for the project

1. Open the CADHelper tool:

   1. CTRL+SHIFT+1 on the main customer details page in Salesforce

   2. This will copy over all customer details into the CADHelper

2. Create a folder on your desktop for the project using the proper naming convention: CAD [First, Last(CTRL+1)] [Date (00-00-0000)]

   1. Inside that folder, make a second folder: CAD [First, Last(CTRL+1)] Deliverables [Date (00-00-0000)]

3. Open the File Explorer on your PC and navigate to the CadShare (K:) Drive:

   1. #1 New DT-FOR CAD USE -> Copy both the BASELINE.DT and the IONCAD 1.0.1.dwg files to the desktop.

   2. Drag & drop these into the deliverables folder inside of the main folder that you just created.

4. Open the BASELINE.DT for the project

   1. Once the file has loaded, hit CTRL+3 to fill out the customer details automatically.

   2. Mark the revision as 0

   3. Sometimes, the territory may not transfer over on the CAD Helper. When this is the case, check the customer details page on salesforce for this information.

III. Complete Data Collection (~15 minuets)

Data collection will involve creating the design on paper prior to creating the deliverables for the project. Use a notepad, desktop sticky note, or other form of notation to complete your data collection:

1. Navigate to the File Browser from any page:

   1. Located near the top, beside “details”

2. Open all customer forms:

   1. Proposal:

      1. Navigate to Proposalist.

         1. Use the most recently synced proposal. (If trees have an X on them, it is assumed they will be removed)

   2. Customer Installation Agreement:

      1. Contract Docs folder -> Customer Installation Agreement ->

   3. Utility Bill:

      1. Utility - NEM folder -> Utility Bill or Usage ->

3. Confirm that the info between the contract and proposal are consistent:

   1. System Size

   2. Notate:

      1. Finance Type (Loan/Cash/PPA)

      2. Module size and quantity

      3. Inverter type and quantity

      4. The proposal estimated annual production

      5. Any additional incentives:

         1. Critter Guard

            1. When critter guard is needed, mark critter guard as “yes” on the General Details of the BASELINE.DT.

4. In Salesforce, Navigate to the Design tab from the General Details page by clicking the blue hyperlinked number on the upper right.

   1. Notate the annual usage under the “Pre-Design” section.

5. Confirm the AHJ using the AHJ Registry

   1. If the AHJ differs from what is listed in the main Project Details page, update the field according to what is listed in the AHJ Registry.

   2. This will also need to be updated in the BASELINE.DT customer details on the front page.

   3. If the AHJ from the AHJ database is not in our AHJ database, use the next larger AHJ such as the county (i.e. If Summit City doesn't exist in the database, but Summit City is in Clark County, which does exist in the AHJ database, then use Clark County).

      1. In addition, Begin creating a change order that addresses the missing AHJ.

         1. List the account you are working in the "Account" field

         2. List "Compliance" as the owner

         3. In the "change order step initiated" drop-down menu, select "design" to indicate that the change order is related to and created by design.

         4. In the "Change Order Reason" drop-down menu, select "Corrections Needed" 

         5. In the "Change Order Initiator" drop-down menu, select "Compliance"

         6. In the "Change Order Initiator Subtype" drop-down menu, select "Final Design" 

         7. In the change order description section, clearly state the name of the AHJ or Utility that is missing from the design tool.

         8. Provide any additional relevant information or documentation that supports the need for this change order.

6. Confirm the customer Utility:

   1. If the name of the Utility differs from what is listed in the main Project Details page, update accordingly

   2. This will also need to be updated in the BASELINE.DT customer details on the front page.

   3. Also be sure to double check the utility customer name. The plan set will need to show the utility customer’s name. 

      1. Be sure to note if the name on the utility differs from the name on the CIA.

      2. If the name of the utility customer differs from the name on the contract, use the Utility customer name in the BASLINE Design Tool.

   4. If the Utility does not appear in the database, do the following:

      1. Assign the design in your supervisors name to avoid having this account sit in your queue for an extended period of time.

      2. Begin creating a change order that addresses the missing Utility.

         1. Specify the Compliance department as the responsible party for this change order.

         2. In the "change order step initiated" drop-down menu, select "design" to indicate that the change order is related to and created by design.

         3. In the change order description section, clearly state the name of the AHJ or Utility that is missing from the design tool.

         4. Provide any additional relevant information or documentation that supports the need for this change order.

7. Before looking at the site survey, review the AHJ and Utility requirements as they appear in the BASELINE.DT front page.

   1. Notate any relevant info to look out for as you complete your data collection.

8. Open the site survey summary:

   1. Navigate to the file browser

   2. Click on “Field Pro Images” to get to the Site Survey Image Folder(s)

   3. Click “View Summary” to view all site survey photos and notes from the surveyor

9. Structural Photos:

   1. Look for any structural red flags or damage. Refer to Structural Framing Types and Structural Red Flags & Damage as needed. Notate these issues and highlight them before moving forward. It is important to fully complete your data collection before requesting reviews and rework. If you notice anything that would raise concern for a structural disqualification (DQ), push the account to the structural stamp queue for the engineer to perform an official DQ. 

   2. Notate:

      1. Framing type

         1. If conventional framing is present in the attic, even if only one section, label the framing in salesforce as CONVENTIONAL

         2. If vaulted conventional and fails calculations in the design tool, it is an immediate structural DQ.

      2. Sheathing Type

      3. Rafter/Top Chord Size

      4. Spacing

      5. Roof pitch

         1. If pitch is above 45 degrees, escalate to your supervisor to send for DQ

   3. If not enough info to make a determination, or not all roof structures are properly surveyed, skip to step 12.

10. Electrical Photos:

    1. Look for any electrical red flags or damage. Refer to Electrical Load Centers, Electrical Damage and Electrical Code Violations as needed. Notate these issues and highlight them before moving forward. It is important to fully complete your data collection before requesting reviews and rework.

    2. Notate:

       1. The location of the meter

       2. The location of the MSP in relation to the meter

       3. MSP bus rating

       4. MSP main disconnect rating

       5. What interconnection options are available.

    3. Make a determination of which available interconnection is best in this scenario. Refer to Electrical PV Equipment, Interconnection Equipment, Supply Side Connections and Load Side Connections. Be sure to use the Interconnection Flow Chart

       1. Make sure to also flag any additional work such as sub panel inserts or main breaker derates/add-ins as they will require a preliminary review and should follow step 13.

       2. Double check the Breaker Compatibility if mix branded breakers are present

    4. If not enough info to make a determination, or not all existing residential electrical components are properly surveyed, skip to step 12.

11. Roof Photos:

    1. Look for any roof red flags or damage. Refer to Roof Analysis and Roof Damage as needed. Notate these issues and highlight them before moving forward. It is important to fully complete your data collection before requesting reviews and rework.

    2. Notate:

       1. Roof type

       2. Roof shape

       3. Overall condition of the roof

    3. If not enough info to make a determination, or not all relevant roof sections are properly surveyed we will need 

12. If a resurvey is needed, complete the following steps:

    1. Consult a supervisor for a second opinion prior to requesting a resurvey

    2. Include photos/snips to support your notes. Upload this to the  “Site Survey Docs” folder of the file browser. Try to visually demonstrate what you are requesting.

    3. Your note should be in a bulleted format and should explain what is needed, why and how to get it for each bullet point

    4. Make sure to complete your data collection and flag any and all design concerns before moving on as the project will leave your queue once you request a resurvey. Do not process the request until you have verified that there are no additional resurvey items to address.

13. If a Preliminary Review or ancillary work will be needed prior to install:

    1. First consult a supervisor for a second opinion and approval for any preliminary review or object.

    2. For Electrical or Structural Reviews:

       1. During the "Qualify Design" step in Project Assistant, mark what is needed in the drop-down menu titled "Is the Design ready to be created?"

       2. Leave very detailed notes in project notes explaining why the account is being sent for an additional review.

          1. These notes MUST include everything that you have tried prior to sending for review

          2. When escalating for review, include screenshots of your design tool inputs in Salesforce under Design Documents

       3. Once the account is reviewed by the associated Engineer and reappears in the designer’s queue, they can move forward with the design

    3. For Re-roof:

       1. Identify the Need for Roof Review: (view hyper link for roof review SOP)

          1. If the designer believes the home requires a reroof or if they are unsure, they will use Project Assistant to escalate the account for a roof review.

       2. Processing via Project Assistant:

          1. During the "Create Design" phase in Project Assistant, use the drop-down menu titled "Roof Review Grade" to assess the roof quality. This is based on a 1-10 grade scale.

       3. Automatic Escalation:

          1. Any roof marked with a grade of 4 or below will be automatically sent for review.

       4. Detailed Notes:

          1. Add some details as to why a reroof is being called out to the scope of work within Project Assistant.

    4. For Asbestos Insulation, open an Asbestos Object:

       1. Create a miscellaneous Special Service Object.

          1. Add some details as to why it is being called for.

          2. Save the object

          3. Add supporting photos of the suspected asbestos for removal.

    5. Make sure to complete your data collection and flag any and all design concerns before moving on as the project will leave your queue once you request a preliminary review/special service object.

IV. Complete the Aurora Model (~5-15 minuets)

1. Open Aurora and log in.

2. Search for the Project using the customer's address or name.

3. Select the correct customer.

4. Match the name and address as it appears on Salesforce.

   1. If multiple projects are present, select the top project

5. Once you have entered the correct Aurora project, click the “+” button to create the final design layout.

   1. Name the new design “Final Design”

   2. You may copy the design from the existing proposal by clicking “Copy from Design 1” but it is recommended that you start with a blank model to ensure that the model receives your full attention.

6. Complete the model referring to Aurora Modeling as needed:

   1. Ensure that your house model is accurate to what was surveyed and roof dimensions are accurate

   2. Model any trees or neighboring buildings that are casting shade.

   3. Place all obstructions

   4. Account for fire setbacks. This can be found in the BASELINE.DT AHJ Requirements on the front page

   5. Place and string your modules

      1. Use the design tool to confirm module orientation.

7. Download your Aurora Documents:

   1. Download the DXF by clicking the download button on the upper right near the top of the model space

      1. This document goes in the deliverables folder with the BASELINE.DT and the IONCAD.dwg. There is no need to rename this file.

   2. Download the Shade Report by clicking “Documents” then clicking “Shade report”

      1. Scroll through and adjust each window so that the home is centered and zoomed in.

         1. Make sure not to change the orientation of the photos. Only zoom in or out.

      2. Scroll back to the top and hit the print icon.

      3. Print into the main project folder outside of the deliverables folder using the appropriate naming convention.

   3. Download the Final Design cover sheet by clicking “Documents” then clicking “New Proposal”

      1. From the drop down, select “Final Engineered Design”

      2. Once the document is loaded, make sure the home is centered and zoomed in the window. 

         1. Make sure not to change the orientation of the photo; it should be oriented with true north up. Only zoom in or out.

      3. Scroll to the top and hit the print icon

      4. Print into the main project folder outside of the deliverables folder using the appropriate naming convention.

V. Complete the design tool/BOM (~20 minuets)

1. Front Page:

   1. Electrical Design

      1. Input the Module Size based on the data collected earlier in the process

      2. Input the Inverter Type based on the data collected earlier in the process

      3. Input the Circuit Sizes:

         1. Refer to Layout

      4. Select the Homerun Conduit Location

      5. Input the Furthest Array to Combiner Box (ft)

6. Input the Combiner Box to POI (Point of Interconnection) (ft)

   1. Default to 10’ and increase by increments of 5’ as necessary.

7. Input the Existing Main Bus Rating based on the data collected earlier in the process.

8. Input the Main Disconnect Rating based on the data collected earlier in the process.

9. Determine the Interconnection Method.

2. Layout / Structural Design

   1. Select the Roof Type

   2. Input the # of Layers

   3. Select the Sheathing Type

   4. Select the Structure Type - Roof Shape

   5. Determine the Wind Exposure Category

      1. Refer to Structural PV Mounting - Hardware, Uplift Design & Compatibility

   6. Input the Number of PV Arrays

   7. Input the Number of Stories at Utility Meter

   8. Input the total roof area

3. Racking Calculator Input

   1. Select the Roof Section matching to the Aurora Shade Report.

   2. Select the Mod. (Module) Orientation

   3. Input the number of Rows

   4. Input the number of Columns

   5. Input the number of Duplicate Qty

   6. For landscape preferred orientation, you will also need to list bottom rows individually and call them out as “yes” for the “bottom row?” field. This will call out needed array skirts on railless systems.

4. Framing / Loading Inputs

   1. Input the Azimuth for each roof section.

   2. Input the Roof Pitch for each roof section.

   3. Input the TSRF for each roof section.

   4. Select the Framing Type for each roof section.

   5. Select the Rafter / TC Size for each roof section.

   6. Select the Rafter / TC Spacing for each roof section.

   7. Input the Max Rafter / TC Span for each roof section.

      1. Determined on modeling software using the 2D ruler

      2. Measure all roof sections; do not just measure one roof and apply to all.

   8. Take a snip of the house with measurements if Luke Rowley is the Engineer

5. Design Reason / Instructions for Installation

   2. 2. 1. 1. Layout:

               1.  Use this template form for your description:

“Layout was done in accordance with 2015/2018/2021 fire code requirements. Portrait orientation was used due to the installation requirements.”

1. Be as detailed as possible when making adjustments to the text and add lines describing changes. Notate anything the installers need to be aware of such as:

   1. Homeowner desired layout

   2. Exterior conduit between different levels of the home

   3. Shading concerns/ space constraints to take into account

   4. Racking/ mounting equipment decisions made and why

   5. Critter Guard installation is required

   6. Wind Zone Restrictions (list special details from the Span Table or the Structural page of the Design Tool here, i.e. spacing restrictions).

   7. If modules cannot be installed on a certain roof section, make sure to state that even if the modules are being installed on another roof section so the installers do not move the modules.

5. 2. 2. 1. 2. Electrical:

               1. Use this template form for your description:

“Main service panel is located inside and is back to back with the meter. Interconnection method shall be performed using a load side breaker positioned in the furthest slot from the main breaker as this will be the best method of interconnection. There is sufficient room to install the equipment next to the meter. A/C Disconnect and PV Meter are required.”

1. Add any other electrical information that the installers should be mindful of such as:

   1. Electrical upgrades that need to happen

   2. Swapping/adding breakers and the reasons for it

   3. Code violations that need to be fixed

   4. Relevant AHJ / Utility requirement notes from the Design Tool should be listed hn / setup goes here.

   5. If equipment cannot be installed next to the meter, explain where it can be installed (behind fence/ indoors)

   6. Anything dealing with wire runs, trenching, electrical interconnection method

5. 2. 2. 1. 3. Structural:

               1.  Use this template form for your description:

“Construction consists of 2x4 trusses spaced at 24" on center.”

1. Add any other structural information that the installers should be mindful of such as:

   1. Structural damage we need to repair before install

   2. Structural damage we need to avoid

   3. Structural upgrades that need to happen

   4. Anything dealing with the framing build/ attic or if anything affects the structural calcs.

5. 2. 2. 1. 4. Site Redflags:

               1.  Use this template form for your description:

“Meter is located on the South side of the house.”

1. Add any other site information that the installers should be mindful of such as:

2. Reroof required or missing shingles that need to be replaced

3. Steep roof pitches (30 degrees and higher)

4. Moss on the roof that needs to be removed prior to install

5. Installation happens near a skylight or any other roof hazard

6. Installation happens near service wires and need to maintain a 3' work zone clearance

7. Location of all ground obstructions that will interfere with installation (gas meter/ window well/ pool)

8. List Homeowner Obligations to be completed prior to install or inspection.

9. Anything dealing with workspace clearance, miscellaneous site issues, etc. goes here.

6. AHJ Requirements

   1. General Requirements:

      1. Determine if a Map Directory Placard is required.

      2. Determine if a Residential Load Calc. is required.

   2. Layout/Electrical/Structural Requirements:

      1. Determine the Fire Setback Requirements.

      2. Follow all Site / Electrical / Structural Requirements down below carefully as they differ from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.

7. Utility Specific Requirements

   1. General Requirements

      1. Determine if an AC Disconnect is required.

         1. Verify the PV System Size AC Disconnect size if applicable. Utilities such as RMP or PGE will require an AC disconnect when the AC system size is over a certain threshold.

      2. Determine if a Utility PV Meter is required.

      3. Determine if Meter Can Taps are allowed.

      4. Determine if the PV Meter / AC Disconnect need to be swapped.

      5. Determine if a Residential Load Calc. is required.

   2. Follow all Utility / HOA / Rebate Requirements

      1. Follow all Site / Electrical / Structural Requirements down below carefully as they differ from utility to utility.

3. Customer FD

   1. Select any Homeowner Obligations Before Install

      1. Make sure to always browse this drop down for any relevant homeowner obligations.

      2. The most common reason for this field is customer obligation to remove objects in front of electrical equipment

VI. Complete the CAD drawings

1. Before beginning, make sure to check the AHJ and Utility requirements for any drawing specifics:

   1. If property lines are required

   2. If special labeling is required

   3. If additional pages will be required.

2. In AutoCAD, copy the DXF model and paste into the main model space of the IONCAD.dwg file.

   1. Make sure the aurora model is positioned under the north arrow.

   2. Scale the model:

      1. (SC + SPACE)

      2. Click any point on the interior of the model

      3. Type “12”

      4. Hit enter

3. Correct the fire setbacks as needed.

   1. Adjust the fire setbacks using the extend/trip (TR+SPACE/EX + SPACE) options to correctly represent the needed pathways.

   2. Remove any unnecessary pathways from the Aurora Model.

   3. Hatch the setbacks:

      1. (H + SPACE) = Hatch

      2. Match the hatch template on the left of the  main model space (Match + ENTER)

         1. Highlight the template hatch box on the left of the model space

      3. Click the interiors of the fire setbacks to fill.

4. Change the rest of the model to white “ByLayer”

   1. From the layer drop down, lock the fire setbacks layer so that the fire setbacks you just adjusted will not be affected.

   2. Highlight the entire model

   3. For the layer options to the right of the layer drop down, select the white “ByLayer” option.

   4. This will cause the lines to appear solid black throughout the planset instead of gray.

5. Move the site icons to the appropriate location on the model (If equipment is located under a porch or awning, be sure to indicate so on the plans)

   1. Pay close attention to new (N) vs existing (E) equipment.

   2. Always represent:

      1. Meter = (M)

      2. MSP = (Main)

      3. Combiner Box = (C) 

      4. Roof Junction Boxes = (J-Box)

         1. Copy and past as needed for each array.

   3. Based on the utility requirements, you may need to represent the following:

      1. PV Meter = (PVM)

      2. AC Disconnect = (ACD)

   4. Note that depending on the interconnection, you will need to also represent the following equipment.

      1. When interconnecting a sub panel, we will also need to represent the sub on the plans.

         1. Sub panel = (Sub)

      2. When performing an exterior supply side tap or the tap will be back to back with the meter, we will need a fusible AC disconnect.

         1. Fusible AC Disconnect = (ACD)

      3. When performing an interior supply side tap away from the meter, we will need an interior breaker type OCPD protecting the tap instead:

         1. OCPD Panel = (LC)

            1. LC stands for Load Center

   5. Rotate (RO+SPACE) and move (MO+SPACE) equipment to be flush with exterior walls.

      1. You can use the corners as anchor points to make it easier, or select the center point.

6. In the left of the model space, and zoom into the electrical details

   1. Make your selections for the electrical diagram based on the instructions in the design tool.

      1. On the very left, make your selection for the meter rendering

         1. Attached = Meter/Main configuration

         2. Detached = Not a Meter/Main combo

         3. Away AC disco = MSP is not grouped with the meter

            1. This includes when the MSP is indoor and back-to-back. 

         4. Adjacent AC disco = MSP is outside and next to the meter. 

         5. Reverse Line/Load = Choose this option only when instructed to use the reverse line/load option for the “Utility BOS Equipment Block” in the Design Tool DATALINK.

      2. The first two spaces under utility requirements will instruct you what to select for the interconnection block and the Utility BOS Equipment block.

         1. Check the output for the “Interconnection Block” on the front page of the Design Tool DATALINK. Use the exact output in this box as your selection for the block in AutoCAD.

         2. Check the output for the “Utility BOS Equipment Block” on the front page of the Design Tool DATALINK. Use the exact output in this box as your selection for the block in AutoCAD.

      3. The Inverter Type block will be determined by the number of circuits under the Electrical Design portion on the Front Page of the Design Tool DATALINK.

7. Scroll down to the structural details

   1. Make your selections for the racking and mounting based on the info from the design tool.

      1. This can be found in the structural/layout design area.

      2. Pay close attention to portrait/landscape spacing

      3. Pay close attention to Clickfit vs Rockit racking

      4. Structural upgrades and blocking need to be represented here.

         1. A few AHJs require a side view regardless of if we are completing upgrades or not. Refer to the AHJ requirements to be sure.

      5. Alternate mounts, such as sheathing mounts, need to be shown here as well.

         1. Alternate mounts will include when multiple mount types are needed for mounting on multiple roof membrane types

         2. Alternate mounts will also be needed when using roof sheathing mounts of horizontal trusses.

8. Insert an aerial Site Image in the space to the right of the model. 

   1. Make sure to have it fill the entire frame. It’s okay if it overlaps a little. It won’t affect the window view on the cover page.

   2. If no property lines are needed, move on to step IV.

      1. This can be checked in the general AHJ/Utility details on the Front Page of the Design Tool DATALINK

   3. If property lines are required, grab a snip that shows the scale of the image. Zoom in until the measure icon indicates a unit of 20’

      1. Paste this in the open space somewhere away from the other model boxes. 

      2. Scale (SC + SPACE).

      3. Pick a point in the interior of the model

      4. Use the reference function (REF + ENTER)

      5. Click the interior of one of the scale brackets, then click the exterior of the other bracket

      6. Type “20’”

         1. Be careful to indicate the unit for feet (‘)

      7. Now use the move command (MO + SPACE)

         1. Select one of the visible corners of the home as your reference point.

         2. Click and drag to line up with the same corner in your model.

      8. Now change to the “Property Lines” layer and use the line function at the top left to approximate the property lines. Try to get as close as possible.

VII. Adjust plan set pages

1. On the bottom tabs, change to the “INSTALL-S2” tab.

   1. Adjust the Aurora Irradiance Map image:

      1. Delete the stock Aurora image.

      2. Insert a snip of the aurora irradiance map from the shade report.

   2. Insert the New Equipment Location Wall Photo

      1. This will be a step back photo of the meter from the site survey.

      2. Use the snipping tool to get a snip, and paste into the appropriate window in AutoCAD (Ctrl + V)

      3. Center it in the frame.

   3. Insert the Interconnection Load Center Photo

      1. This will be a photo of the MSP/POI with the deadfront off from the site survey.

      2. Use the snipping tool to get a snip, and paste into the appropriate window in AutoCAD (Ctrl + V)

      3. Center it in the frame.

   4. Scale the Site Array/Equipment Location

      1. To do this, double click the viewport window. 

      2. Scaling can be adjusted in the bottom right.

      3. Middle click and drag to center the home in the frame.

      4. Double click out of the viewport window once you’ve made your adjustments.

   5. Copy and Paste the "Front of Home" and "RS1, RS2, etc." texts into place.

      1. These Items are located to the left of the page.

      2. Match each roof section as they appear on the shade report and on the design tool input.

2. On the bottom tabs, change to the “INSTALL-SN3” tab.

   1. Adjust the viewport window:

      1. Double click in the viewport and center the arrays in the window

      2. DO NOT CHANGE THE SCALE FROM 3/16" = 1'-0"

      3. Double click out of the viewport window once you’ve made your adjustments.

   2. Copy and Paste the "Circuits" texts into place.

      1. Do your best to center the text to indicate which strings/arrays go together for each circuit.

      2. Be sure to leave space for installers to leave a serial sticker map on this page registered to each module to ensure easy servicing in the future if needed.

3. On the bottom tabs, change to the “P-G1” tab.

   1. Revise the sheet list to match the sheets that will appear on the final plan set.

      1. Remove additional pages that will not be used such as P-V2, P-E8 and P-E10

         1. Make sure not to remove them if the AHJ requires one of these conditional pages.

4. On the bottom tabs, change to the “P-S3” tab.

   1. Adjust the viewport window:

      1. Double click in the viewport

      2. Scaling can be adjusted in the bottom right.

      3. Double click outside of the viewport window once you are done adjusting the image.

   2. Copy and Paste the "Front of Home" and "RS1, RS2, etc." texts into place.

      1. These items are found to the left of the page

      2. Make sure each roof section corresponds with your design tool input.

   3. Copy and Paste the Address Datalink Box above the "Front of Home" text.

      1. This will appear as a blank single-box chart on the left.

      2. This will populate with the street name once we datalink the plan set.

   4. Rotate the "Front of Home" text and the Address Viewport so it is aligned to the house

   5. If no fire setbacks are required by the AHJ, move on to step 4.

   6. Dimension (DIM + SPACE) the fire setbacks

      1. You can adjust the snap points on the bottom right to “perpendicular” and “midpoints” to make it easier.

      2. Dimension the width of the fire pathways for each roof edge.

      3. Hit escape once all dimensions are placed

      4. The leaders for the dimensions can be clicked and dragged to either side of the dimension to make it look nicer.

      5. If you used the setbacks from the aurora model, the measurement may be slightly off due to the aurora setbacks being based on the 3D space while AutoCAD uses the 2D dimension.

         1. When you see this issue, simply double click the text of each dimension and correct the value (example: dimensioned at 2’8”, correct it to say 3’)

5. Double check the AHJ/Utility requirements for conditional pages:

   1. If no conditional pages are needed, move on to step V.

   2. P-V2

      1. This is used whenever property lines are required to be represented.

         1. Follow the AHJ/Utility guidelines closely.

            1. Some AHJs require the distance from home to property line to be dimensioned.

            2. AHJs may also require you to label fenced vs unfenced property lines as well as other site specific labels.

               1. Only add these details if it is required.

            3. Always label the front of the home and street as you would on P-S3

      2. This page will also often be used if electrical sight photos or an electrical wall view is required by the AHJ or utility.

         1. Follow the AHJ instructions for this and consult your supervisor as needed.

      3. Position this page between P-G1 and P-S3 when this page is required.

   3. P-E8

      1. This page will need to be included whenever a load calculation is needed:

         1. When a load calc is required by the AHJ/Utility

         2. When a derate is required for interconnection

      2. This page will autofill with data once the data link function is completed.

      3. Position this page between P-E7 and P-E9 when this page is required.

   4. P-E10

      1. This page is used when the AHJ/Utility requires a directory map placard.

         1. Rotate the model to be square with the window

         2. Label all electrical equipment using the leaders

      2. Position this page after P-E9 and include it as part of the Plan Set document when this page is required.

      3. The Placard printed as a separate document is only required if the AHJ/Utility requests it.

   5. Occasionally, we will need a site plan on P-V2 and an additional page with structural photos.

      1. In situations like this, you may duplicate the tab and give it a new name such as “P-V2.5.”

      2. Update the sheet number on the sheet itself and update the sheet description. In the example above, we might call it “Structural Photos” instead of “Site Plan”

      3. Make sure to update this on the sheet list on G-1

VIII. Datalink the plan set

1. Type “Datalink” and select “data link update”

2. Update select “update all datalinks.”

3. While this page loads, you won’t be able to do anything else in autocad. 

   1. Utilize this time to:

      1. Complete your notes for the plan set phase

         1. Double check engineering fields

         2. Draft your project note

      2. Double check your Design Tool Datalink.

Or

3. Take your 15 minute break here.

4. Ensure the data link was completed.

5. Go to the Model Space and Refresh (REA + SPACE) the data link.

IX. Create final design documents 

1. Publish the Installation CD

2. Select tabs INSTALL-S1 through P-E9 (include any conditional pages that are required) (SHIFT+CLICK)

3. Right click the tabs

   1. Click “Publish Selected Layouts”

   2. On the upper left, make sure it is in the default AutoCAD print to PDF

   3. Hit “publish”

   4. Save to the main customer folder outside of the deliverables

      1. Use the proper naming convention. This file is called the Installation CD.

2. Publish the Plan Set

   1. Select tabs P-G1 through P-E9 (include any conditional pages that are required) (SHIFT+CLICK)

   2. Right click the tabs

      1. Click “Publish Selected Layouts”

      2. On the upper left, make sure it is in the default AutoCAD print to PDF

      3. Hit “publish”

      4. Save to the main customer folder outside of the deliverables

         1. Use the proper naming convention. This file is called the Plan Set.

   3. Final Design

      1. Print the Customer FD tab of the BASELINE.DT as a PDF

         1. See design announcements in Orcale for detailed step by step

      2. This file goes in the main customer folder outside of the deliverables folder.

   4. BOM PDF

      1. Print the BOM PDF tab of the BASELINE.DT as a PDF.

      2. Name using the proper naming convention.

      3. This file goes in the main customer folder outside of the deliverables folder.

   5. ENG Letter (When Structural letter is required.)

      1. Print the ENG Letter from the BASELINE.DT as a PDF.

      2. Name using the proper naming convention.

      3. This file goes in the main customer folder outside of the deliverables folder.

   6. Shade Report

      1. This should have already been printed from Aurora. Make sure it is saved in the main customer folder outside of the deliverables folder.

   7. Aurora Production Screeenshot(s) (PPA ONLY) (USE PPA FD TAB)

      1. Screen shot(s) must include the following:

         1. Project Address 

         2. Lidar ON 

         3. Irradiance ON 

         4. Production Curve 

         5. Simulation Logs *NEW*

            1. Simulate system -> Advanced -> System Logs

         6. Simulation Settings 

         7. System Losses 

         8. Monthly Production (Manual input on PPA FD tab)

   8. BOM CSV

      1. Copy the BOM CSV tab of the BASELINE.DT into its own separate excel file.

      2. Save the workbook as a CSV UTF-8 (Comma delimited) (*.csv) using the proper naming convention. This will go in the deliverables folder with the BASELINE.DT, the IONCAD.dwg file, and the DXF.

   9. Zipped Deliverables

      1. Now that all documents are rendered, right click the deliverables folder:

         1. Sent to -> Compressed Zip Folder

         2. The new zip folder will default to the same name as the original deliverables folder. Do not change the name.

   10. Save and close out of the IONCAD.dwg and the Desgin Tool DATALINK.

   11. DOUBLE CHECK ALL DOCUMENTS BEFORE

X. White Glove Checklist (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1qoyTer8nJXBsqo6BLlSGygzy7N-XopEnI4Rsxde8Ya0/edit?gid=0#gid=0)

1. Print Out All of Your Deliverables

   • Reason: Performing the white glove check after printing everything off is essential. If the check is done before printing, crucial elements might be missed, or the PDF might be printed incorrectly. Reviewing printed deliverables helps catch any overlooked details.

2. Review Every Page Slowly

   • Action: Go through each page of your deliverables at a slow pace.

   • Reason: Have your data collection open during this review to use as cross-references. This ensures that no details are missed, and all information is accurately reflected in the deliverables.

3. AHJ / Utility Compliance

   • Action: While reviewing your deliverables, meticulously read through EVERY requirement listed in the tool associated with the selected AHJ and Utility company.

   • Reason: This step is crucial to ensure compliance with all regulations. Read through the full requirement to verify accuracy.

4. Non-Standard Inputs

   • Action: For those on the senior design team or when performing manual overrides or edits in the tool, triple-check these changes.

   • Reason: Ensure that manual edits or overrides do not disrupt any calculations or data integrity.

5. Complete Account Walkthrough

   • Action: Once the first four steps are completed, upload your documents to the Salesforce account.

   • Reason: Conduct a thorough walkthrough of the account to confirm that nothing was missed and all information is complete and accurate.

XI. Upload documents and complete data entry

1. Make sure to upload the final documents before marking the Plan Set/BOM created/complete:

   1. The last step of Project Assistant will prompt the designer to upload all required documents 

   2. The File Browser will prompt you to either upload to the main home folder. Instead of selecting “yes,” select “choose folder.”

   3. File as follows:

      1. Deliverables zip -> Click the folder icon for “Design” -> select the folder for “Design Documents.”

      2. Plan Set PDF -> Click the folder icon for “Design” -> select the folder for “Permit Plan Set”

      3. Installation CD -> Click the folder icon for “Design” -> select the folder for “Installation Documents”

   4. Before moving on, ensure that all documents are properly uploaded to each respective folder.

      1. In the same step the designer will list any special equipment required for the project

2. Double check that all your notes have been saved and that all your documents have uploaded before closing out and moving on to the next project.

REVISIONS:

1. Revisions will pull back into your name in the Final Design Queue.

2. The revision request and details will appear under the “design” section of the design tab. 

3. Address any revision notes accordingly

4. The revision process will require the same deliverable documents be created for any revision.

   1. Make sure to republish/re-upload all design documents (shade report, eng letter, etc)  whether changes were made to these documents or not to maintain continuity with design versions and to avoid confusion with other departments.

5. Save new documents using the same naming convention, adding the suffix “REV A” changing the revision letter for each subsequent revision.

   1. Archive old versions of the design documents before marking revisions completed.

6. Update all applicable salesforce inputs

   1. ex: Special equipement, scope of work, etc. 

7. Revisions are only completed when the “revision completed” date is marked.

Reroof 

The reroof Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) provides clear guidelines for determining when it is necessary to call out for a reroof and how to do so accurately.

Flat roofs will be reroofed using TPO or EPDM. We will not using rolled composition roofing.

What states require the reroof BOM:

• Colorado

• North Carolina

• Oklahoma

• Ohio

• Oregon

• Texas

• Virginia

• Utah

• Las Vegas

• New Mexico

How to process a reroof:

1. Fill out the Reroof Input section at the bottom of the Front tab in the design tool

   1. 1. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Yrb6eXTJ6cNX0YAyv8by7mIjGf-HIh_t 

2. When the design has been completed and you are finishing out the account through project assistant you will be required to input the roof review grade. Select the dropdown and choose the option that is most applicable 

CANCELLATIONS

Cancellation is a very serious thing and needs to be regarded as such. These customers have already signed legal contracts for the solar system and we should only cancel an account if there is truly no other way forward. This document will guide you through how to determine whether or not an account should be canceled and, if so, how to do it properly. 

Cancellation Reasons and Possible Solutions

I. Structural - Overspan

1. 1. Overspan comes from the unsupported span of the rafter being too long for the added weight of the solar panels. The design tool will tell you when this is the case. In most cases, we are able to upgrade the existing framing to accommodate the added weight, however, there are some instances where that’s not possible due to space constraints, obstructions, or other factors.

   2. At times, the entire home is not disqualified but just a certain section(s) of the home. In these cases, we should always try to fit the panels in another section of the home to avoid total disqualification.

   3. This call should really only be made by the structural engineer after reviewing the account for any possible alternatives. If there is a job that is being disqualified for this reason please get a second opinion by our in-house engineer by sending it through the structural cancellation path.

II. Structural - Prefabricated Home

2. 1. Prefabricated homes are typically never framed in a manner that will accommodate the added weight of a solar system or to allow for proper embedment of our lag screws.

   2. If you think that a home is pre-fabricated, always check at least 2 different realtor websites (zillow, redfin, realtor, etc.) to confirm. If there is conflicting information, escalate to a team lead to review. If you still aren’t sure, we can request a survey to check for the placard that is commonly on prefabricated homes or reach out to a liaison to check with the customer.

   3. If the home is determined to be a pre-fabricated home, there is always the possibility of doing a ground mount. Please verify if there is adequate space for a ground mount. If not, please send through the structural cancellation process.

III. Utility - System Size Constraint

3. 1. Sometimes the customer doesn’t use enough electricity to meet our minimum system size requirements (2 panels) before hitting the utility’s maximum offset requirement.

   2. If it’s determined that the account should be disqualified for this reason, always check to ensure that the customer has a full 12 months of usage history. Sometimes, once they have a full 12 months of usage history, this problem will resolve itself. If the customer doesn’t have a full 12 months, we should send the account to the sales liaison team to put on hold until we have more usage from the customer.

   3. If the customer has a full 12 months of usage and cannot meet the minimum system size requirements, please follow the utility cancellation process.

IV. Design - Townhomes

4. 1. Townhomes are typically disqualified for 1 or more of 3 reasons (design should always assume that 2 and 3 reasons below don’t matter.)

      1. Equipment location - Unable to find adequate space for our equipment on the customer’s property

      2. HOA Approval - the HOA will not approve solar on the home

      3. Rooftop ownership - the roof may not be owned by the customer (sometimes they are owned by the HOA)

   2. If there isn’t sufficient space for our equipment, escalate to a team lead for their opinion. If there are no alternatives, please follow the townhomes cancellation process.

   3. For townhouses you cannot have any penetrations in the roof within 4 feet of the common walls per VRC R302.2.4. If you are unable to determine the exact location, consult with your supervisor

V. Asbestos

4. 4. Asbestos is typically found in homes that were built prior to the year 2000, however, it can be found in newer homes on rare occasions. When asbestos is identified, please use the following flow chart

      1. Create a Misc. Special Service Object for an asbestos test

      2. If structural upgrades are required, please follow the asbestos cancellation process.

      3. If possible, install all equipment (including conduit run) on the exterior of the home and complete design normally. Leave a project note and a installers note regarding the asbestos. If not possible, please continue to the asbestos cancellation process.

Cancellation Process

I. Structural (overspan, prefab home, system size, etc.)

1. Mark the ‘Preliminary Structural Review Requested’ field on the design tab in Salesforce.

2. Leave very detailed notes in the Preliminary Structural Review Details explaining why the account is being disqualified.

3. Once the account is reviewed by Luke and reappears in the designer’s queue, they will mark the final design complete and plan set / BOM complete.

4. Leave a project note stating that the account was disqualified and why the final design was marked complete.

II. Utility

1. Create cancellation case with subject line “Utility Constraint Disqualification”

2. Put the deparmtnet manager as the owner.

3. Leave very detailed notes explaining why the case was created and why the account is being disqualified.

III. Townhomes

1. Mark the ‘Preliminary Electrical Review Requested’ field on the design tab in Salesforce.

2. Create a cancellation case with subject line “Design Disqualification - Townhome” with a detailed explanation as to why we are unable to proceed with the account. Please assign this case to the electrical review queue.

3. Leave a very detailed project note explaining why the account is being disqualified.

IV. Asbestos

1. 1. 1. Create an ‘Asbestos Test’ case.

         1. Call out the need for an asbestos test.

      2. Mark the ‘Preliminary Structural Review Required’ field

      3. Leave a very detailed project note explaining the situation and why we suspect that there may be asbestos present.

ESCALATION PATHS

The path to escalate questions/concerns to the design team hasn’t been well defined and they have been escalated to whoever is available soonest. The intent of this SOP is to define how they should be escalated to save everyone time and create clearer communication channels.

1. General Design Questions/Concerns

   1. Your supervisor/manager

   2. Design Team Lead/Manager
      
      

2. Account Specific Questions/Concerns

   1. Your supervisor/manager

   2. Designer on account

   3. Design Team Lead/Manager
      
      

3. General Electrical Questions/Concerns

   1. Your supervisor/manager

   2. Design Team Lead/Manager

   3. Eddie Freeman

   4. Scott Gurney
      
      

4. Account Specific Electrical Questions/Concerns

   1. Your supervisor/manager

   2. Designer on account

   3. Design Team Lead/Manager

   4. Eddie Freeman

   5. Scott Gurney
      
      

5. General Structural Questions/Concerns

   1. Your supervisor/manager

   2. Design Team Lead/Manager

   3. Structural EIT

   4. Luke Rowley
      
      

6. Account Specific Structural Questions/Concerns

   1. Your supervisor/manager

   2. Designer on Account

   3. Design Team Lead/Manager

   4. Structural EIT

   5. Luke Rowley
      
      

7. Electrical Upgrade Related Questions/Concerns (ESCs, MPUs, TDRs, subpanel inserts)

   1. Your supervisor/manager

   2. Designer on account

   3. Design Team Lead/Manager

   4. Electrical Review Team (Austin Fleming & Chase Coulombe)

   5. Eddie Freeman

   6. Scott Gurney

TOWN HOMES

Townhomes have been a pain point for many teams in the company as they can be difficult for design and installation. 

Guidelines & Requirements

I. Equipment Location

With townhomes, it is especially important to take into account the location of the equipment that will be placed on the home. There is typically limited space to place the equipment and it must be placed on parts of the building that are owned by the customer. Be aware of the space requirements and service clearance when determining where to place the equipment.

If there is not enough space for our equipment, the account may need to be disqualified. Before sending for cancellation, please review the location to determine whether or not equipment (ie gas meters, HVAC, etc.) could be moved to allow more room for our equipment. At times, this may require a resurvey so please consult leadership if needed.

Especially important is the placement of the PV meter socket as most utilities that require a PV meter require that it be placed within a certain distance and/or within line of sight of the utility meter. If the customer’s utility meter isn’t attached to their home and the utility requires that the PV meter be within line of sight of the utility meter, it is very likely that the account will be disqualified.

Be sure to check whether or not the utility you are working with allows for variances with a site placard. If a variance is possible, please try that route rather than going the route of disqualification.

II. HOA Approval

All townhomes will go through the HOA approval process. This is not the responsibility of design, however, we can do what we can to ensure that the array is aesthetically pleasing and that the ‘Design Type’ field in the Design tab in Salesforce is set to ‘MultiFamily/Shared Roof'.

III. Rooftop Ownership

With shared roofs, it is very important to only place modules on parts of the roof that are *owned by the customer purchasing solar. Please take extra precautions to ensure that you identify what parts of the roof are owned by the customer. If you are unable to determine the roof lines, send for a resurvey to confirm. If the site survey team isn’t able to confirm the roof lines either, the account will need to be sent to the sales liaisons team to work with the sales rep and customer.

*actual roof ownership will be confirmed by another team and is not the responsibility of the design team to verify

IV. Building Height

Take the height of the building into consideration when designing on townhomes as the roofs may be difficult to access. If the building is greater than 2 stories tall, please follow the Tall Structures SOP. 

TALL STRUCTURES

There have been many instances where the structure is too tall for the equipment that installers normally take to the site and they have to either drive back to the office to get a taller ladder or they have to reschedule the installation. We need a way to flag this earlier to avoid these issues. 

When Special Equipment is Needed

Special equipment is needed to access a roof for installation if the roof isn’t accessible by our standard 32’ or 40’ ladder (directly or using a step-up method).

How to request special equipment for roof access

How to request special equipment for roof access is almost as important as knowing when to do it. Not properly detailing what is needed may lead to a dropped installation and an escalated customer.

1. Please create a Pre-Install Ticket Item under the Install Tab in salesforce for a 40' ladder/boom lift as needed. 

2. In addition, please include this in your Design to Install notes in the Installation CD.

Pre-Install will coordinate with the local office manager to determine whether or not a resurvey is needed or special equipment (tall ladder or boom lift).

PORTLAND

Recently we have made the Portland job type available to be completed by every designer. 

Final Design Process

1. Ensure that the account has been reviewed by the Structural team. If not, send the account for structural review. 

2. Structural notes will be found in the notes underneath the review dates, in chatter, cases, or special service objects.

   1. If the Structural team requires additional survey information in order to complete their reviews, they will upload their notes into the same areas listed above. You will then review the rest of the Survey information (Electrical, Roof and Site photos) and compile all necessary items for the resurvey request.

3. The structural team will upload photos showing where upgrades are required, where modules can be placed, and where you should avoid placing modules. 

4. The designer should only fill out the pertinent sections of the design tool so the layout can be approved by the homeowner. Those sections are as follows:

   1. General Inputs

   2. Final Engineering Design on the Cover Sheet

   3. Customer FD Sheet