How To Order the Right Labels for a Large Solar Project

All solar projects require labeling to abide by health and safety regulations. For large solar projects, however, you’ll need to order the right labels to accommodate the size and specialized parts of the system. Gather enough materials for your next solar installation by assessing the area and the components installed in the system with this guide.

Why Do Solar Labels Matter?

Every solar installation must comply with local and national safety regulations, such as the National Electrical Code (NEC) in the United States. For both small and large projects, improper labeling could result in fines or operational delays.

Labels provide details about system components, wiring, and functions. They provide clear warnings, instructions, and guidelines. All of this information alerts people interacting with the equipment—including installers, safety inspectors, and maintenance workers—to hazardous zones and specific voltages in the system.

For example, solar installations, especially large-scale commercial grids, involve extensive cabling and interconnected parts. Each of the components require labels, so workers can quickly identify parts, troubleshoot issues, and perform repairs safely.

How To Determine Labeling Requirements

Start by analyzing the scope of the project and specific system components to determine the labels to order for a large solar project.

Assess Project Size and Layout

The size and layout of the solar project dictate the type and number of labels required. Large installations with intricate designs necessitate high quantities and varied types of labels. Consult project blueprints to map out the layout—including cable runs, panels, combiner boxes, and inverters—to account for all elements.

Identify the System Components

From photovoltaic (PV) panels to disconnect switches, each component demands labels to provide operational details and safety warnings. For expansive projects, there may be multiple switches or breakers that connect to different parts of the system. It’s important to attach labels to each of these systems to direct workers performing maintenance across the entire system.

Choose Bulk Orders for Large Projects

Efficient project execution depends on careful label planning. In between projects, it’s important to stock up on solar labels so that your team doesn’t run out in the middle of an installation.

To avoid ordering too little or too much inventory, estimate the required label quantities based on the volume of components in the system. Include spare labels for unexpected damage or future replacements. This extra step in the planning process will prepare you for the installation process.

Customize Solar Labels

No solar system is exactly alike, from the voltage to the disconnect points. Not to mention, large grids require additional components to compensate for their electrical output.

Custom labels are commonly necessary for less common parts and specialized setups. This could include systems that require high-quality batteries due to the size of the grid or weather hazard signs due to the climate.

These custom labels also benefit on-site staff who may require additional resources to operate the system. For example, multilingual or large font labels provide legibility for staff members who regulate and maintain the grid. Invest in high-quality labels that improve workplace efficiency and meet employee expectations.

Types of Labels Needed for Solar Systems

Solar labels come in various formats, depending on their application. In some cases, you may need additional warning signs for the components or information regarding the varying voltages in the system. Knowing the categories simplifies the ordering and installation process.

Informative Labels

For simple identification, informative labels provide the specifications and operational performance of the system. Examples include inverter labels that display output ratings, combiner box labels showing connection details, and panel-specific tags indicating generation capacity.

These labels are useful for commercial businesses as they allow businesses to track the system for any reductions in energy output. If individuals notice a trending decline, this signifies that the grid may need to undergo troubleshooting or repairs. For quick and easy access to the system’s statistics, these informative labels provide promising results.

Hazard Labels

Safety hazard labels warn operators and technicians of high voltage, shock risks, and fire hazards. These labels must be durable and highly visible to adhere to industry-standard colors and symbology for immediate recognition. Components that require hazard labels include junction boxes, photovoltaic arrays, and high-voltage batteries.

Hazard labels are especially handy for maintenance workers and first responders who are navigating the grid. To reduce injuries, label these components in accordance with safety guidelines.

Material and Durability Considerations

Solar labels must withstand environmental factors that naturally occur in outdoor projects. Especially for large systems, these projects expand across hundreds or thousands of acres and undergo severe weather, such as strong winds and heavy rainfall. Selecting the right materials preserves the label’s longevity and readability.

UV and Weather Resistance

Outdoor solar projects sit exposed to harsh sunlight, wind, and rain. Due to these conditions, low-quality solar labels are likely to crack or lose their legibility over time. To prevent fading, install labels made of UV-resistant materials for clear readability regardless of the climate.

Adhesive Strength

In fluctuating temperatures or dust exposure, solar labels should cling to the surface of the solar grid without peeling. Choose labels that offer strong adhesives, so they remain intact for many years.

Label Placement Best Practices

Proper label placement promotes visibility for operators and adheres to local safety regulations. As you determine which components require proper labeling, stick these labels in areas that are secure and reachable by staff.

Accessibility and Visibility

Labels should be easily visible to operators walking through the grid without the need to disassemble any equipment. Placement guidelines recommend locations near access points, such as switchgear and panel enclosures. They should also include bright coloring and a reflective surface, so people can recognize the labels from a distance.

Standardized Alignment

Using alignment tools, stick the label to the surface at a consistent height. This way, operators can quickly glance around the site for additional labels.

Along with height alignment, place the label flat to the surface, so it’s free of bubbles or bends. A smooth application will guarantee the label’s longevity.

Solar labels benefit businesses as they lessen downtime and operator errors during maintenance and repairs. Grant your clients peace of mind knowing that their system includes all the resources they need to accurately utilize their solar grid.

For a bulk supply of solar labels, partner with our team at Get Solar Labels for your next large project. Our business provides hazard and informative solar labels with strong adhesives and readable designs.