What are the benefits to manufacturers of certifying solar thermal systems under ICC-SRCC’s OG-300 program?

INCENTIVE PROGRAM ACCEPTANCE. Certification to OG-300 is required by many programs throughout the U.S. that provide incentives like rebates and tax credits. Notable locations that call for OG-300 certification include the California CSI Thermal Program, Massachusetts Commonwealth Solar Program, Oregon Residential Energy Tax Credits, EPA ENERGY STAR, and many others. See the DSIRE Website for information on incentive programs in specific locations around the U.S.

CODE COMPLIANCE. Several model building codes require installed systems to comply with ICC-SRCC Standard 300 (the standard that provides the technical basis of the OG-300 program). Therefore, by certifying your system to OG-300, you are demonstrating compliance with ICC-SRCC Standard 300 and meeting these codes. Examples include the IAPMO Uniform Solar Energy Code and the ICC International Residential Code. Note: Many codes have other requirements above and beyond OG-300 compliance. OG-300 only provides assessment to the ICC 900/SRCC 300 standard. For evaluation to all of the requirements in various codes and standards see the ICC-SRCC Codes and Standards Listing Program.

THIRD-PARTY PERFORMANCE MODELING. OG-300 certification includes high-quality system modeling to provide estimates of the performance of the system and the energy savings. ICC-SRCC models all OG-300 systems using the same conditions so that users can easily compare the performance of different systems. In that way it’s similar to the MPG ratings used for cars. Third-party certification and modeling provides users with confidence that the results are fair and accurate, from the experts at ICC-SRCC.

SAFETY AND DURABILITY. OG-300 certification addresses more than just modeling. During the course of certification, ICC-SRCC’s engineers review the components and arrangement of the system to be sure that they comply with the minimum requirements set in the ICC 900/SRCC 300 Standard. This provides users with assurance that the system meets the standard’s comprehensive requirements for safety, durability and minimum performance.

WEB-BASED CERTIFICATES. All systems certified under the OG-300 program are provided with an OG-300 certificate and are listed on the ICC-SRCC website, www.solar-rating.org. The certificates provide the certified performance ratings for the system and a complete schematic of the approved system. Code officials and incentive programs recognize ICC-SRCC’s website as the authoritative source of up-to-date information on OG-300 certified systems. They use the information and certificates there to verify certification, and to confirm that systems are installed in compliance with the certification. This results in faster and more accurate inspections.