Construction Timing and Expectations
Creating a detailed construction schedule that allows all the project elements to be coordinated in a timely manner is fundamental to any successful construction project. The construction schedule should take into account that many tasks cannot be started before others are finished. It should also account for special schedule considerations related to renewable energy systems.
Key elements of most new construction or major renovation projects include landscape, structural, architectural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, communication systems, and renewable energy systems. Maintaining the highest quality of construction across all elements is fundamental to any successful construction project.
Incentives for the project construction team can be created so that the project is completed on time or ahead of schedule and at the highest level of quality. The incentives typically offered are additional money for completing tasks ahead of schedule and/or at a higher level than standard construction.
- Considerations for Renewable Energy Systems during Construction
- Working with Building and Inspection Officials
Considerations for Renewable Energy Systems during Construction
Renewable energy systems are relatively specialized and can require special considerations during the project construction phase. Often, specialized equipment and labor crews are required to install renewable energy systems. There are also additional scheduling considerations to account for when renewable energy systems are being employed.
The following table lists the specialized equipment, labor, considerations, and scheduling considerations for various renewable energy systems. It is not an exhaustive list, but serves as a starting point.
| Renewable Energy Technology | Specialized Equipment | Specialized Labor | Special Considerations | Scheduling Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passive Solar Thermal | Knowledge of thermal mass/ Trombe walls |
|
First renewable energy technology to consider in planning | |
| Roof-Mounted Photovoltaics (PV) | Usually just a forklift, but might required crane on taller buildings | Electrician familiar with DC wiring and PV installation; NABCEP certified installer |
|
If mounted instead of ballasted, PV footings go in after the roof structure is complete but before actual roofing membrane is installed |
| Wind | Crane and excavation equipment for larger turbines; special climbing harness | Wind turbine experts; electrician familiar with wind installation and climbing tower |
|
If mounted instead of ballasted, PV footings go in after the roof structure is complete but before actual roofing membrane is installed |
| Geothermal | Drilling rig | Plumber, excavator | Larger surface area near project may be unavailable during certain phases of installation. | |
| Solar Ventilation Preheat | HVAC/ mechanic familiar with solar air systems | Same possible roof mount issues as PV | ||
| Solar Water Heating | Forklift | Plumber familiar with solar installation |
|
Panel footings go in after the roof structure is complete but before actual roofing membrane is installed |
Working with Building and Inspection Officials
Because of their newer and evolving nature, renewable energy technologies are often viewed with suspicion by various building and inspection officials. Costly change orders and work shut downs can be avoided by involving these officials earlier in the planning process, reviewing their often-justified concerns, and making corrections before and during construction. By first respecting the officials' far-reaching authority to completely halt the construction process, everyone involved can avoid creating a situation where the officials ever feel it necessary to fully exercise their power to the detriment of the project.
These building and inspection officials often have extensive knowledge and background in the trades they represent and can become an invaluable design resource to the project instead of an impediment. Because of the incredible variation in types of equipment and systems they must inspect, they generally do not have time to devote to the latest developments in renewable energy technologies. The use of standard building, plumbing, and wiring methods when possible will help build their confidence in the work and alleviate the perception that renewable energy technology is different than other more familiar types of construction. The inspection process can often involve many partial inspections at various stages of construction, so it is important to know the various inspectors, when they will be coming, and what they expect.
It is imperative to have knowledgeable, experienced experts that can amicably deal with the questions and concerns on a timely basis. Design of all renewable energy systems should already comply with all national and local building codes and standards. Any compliance concerns raised by officials should be dealt with seriously to determine if it is a design error. If not, this can be an opportunity to expand the official's knowledge of a new technology.
Knowing in advance what special concerns each particular official may have is also very important. What works in California for example, may well be frowned upon in another jurisdiction, so hiring a contractor with a strong positive relationship with the local authorities can create a much smoother project.
In addition to compliance with building codes and standards, adhering to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards and maintaining a professional workplace can also improve relationships with inspectors.