Here's what Intertek's expert blogger, Dr. Paul Robusto, Photovoltaic Business Development Manager has to share today:

If you manufacture Photovoltaic Module Racking Systems or Tracking Systems in the US, you probably know that the UL 2703 and 3703 subject standards are fast becoming industry requirements. Until recently, there has been no approved standard or requirement for Canada. But that is now changing. Effective October 23, 2012 CSA International issued listed technical requirements for Photovoltaic Module Racking Systems (AE-001-2012) and for Photovoltaic Tracking Systems (AE-002-2012) which mandates that products sold on the Canadian market meet these requirements.

The Canadian Standard for the Racking System requirements apply to the Photovoltaic Module and Panel Racking System which are intended to be used as part of the bonding path for the module or the panel accessible metal. The specification includes a technical engineering construction review which includes evaluating polymeric materials, metal parts, bonding and grounding, gaskets and seals, mechanical loading and markings. Environmental testing is done per CAN/CSA IEC 61646 for Thermal Cycling and Humidity Freeze Testing. The standards also reference specifications in CSA Standard C22.2 No. 61730-1 and -2.

Read more about other changes that affect racking and tracker systems at http://www.intertek.com/blog/2012-12-13-canadian-us-racking-tracker-requirements/