If you’ve ever walked up to a residential or commercial solar system and noticed the clean, durable labels on the equipment, you’ve seen solar placards in action. They may not be flashy, but they’re one of the most important parts of a safe and code-compliant solar installation. In this post, we’ll break down what solar placards are, why they matter, and what you should look for when ordering them.
🔆 What Are Solar Placards?
Solar placards are durable labels or signs that mark critical components of a solar PV system. They provide safety information, equipment identification, and emergency guidance for electricians, inspectors, and first responders.
Unlike cheap stickers that fade or peel, professional-grade placards are made from engraved acrylic or other durable materials that withstand heat, UV exposure, and outdoor conditions.
⚡ Why Are They Required?
Solar placards aren’t optional—they’re required by building codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC). The goal is simple:
- Clarity for inspectors during final sign-off
- Safety for firefighters in case of an emergency
- Easy maintenance for electricians down the road
Without proper placards, systems can fail inspection, delay interconnection, or even pose safety risks.
🔨 Types of Solar Placards
Depending on the size and complexity of a system, you might need:
- Main Service Disconnect Placards – to identify shut-off switches
- Rapid Shutdown Placards – required by NEC 690.56(C)
- PV System Directory Placards – showing system layout or site maps
- Warning Placards – alerting to electrical hazards
🛠 Why Quality Matters
Not all placards are created equal. Vinyl stickers may fade or peel within months. High-quality UV-stable acrylic with industrial adhesive ensures your placards last the life of the system.
At Luggie, we use:
- 1/16” acrylic with precision engraving
- 3M adhesive backing for permanent mounting
- Weatherproof materials built for rooftops and outdoor environments
✅ The Bottom Line
Solar placards may be small, but they play a huge role in compliance, safety, and professionalism. For contractors, using quality placards saves time, avoids rework, and shows clients that every detail is handled with care.
Need custom solar placards for your next install? Contact us today at jensen@luggie.design to get compliant, durable signage shipped fast.