Grounding Pv Solar Panels

But before we address each of these it s important to understand the actual definition of ground.

Grounding pv solar panels.

Of all the elements of a u s. Devices and systems used for mounting pv modules that are also used to provide grounding of the module frames should be identified for the purpose of grounding solar panels. Proper grounding of a photovoltaic pv power system is critical to ensuring the safety of the public during the installation s decades long life. Pv mounting systems and devices.

If lightning were to strike the solar panels outside the electric current may go into the panel grounding system if you are lucky or it may travel along the positive and negative wires going back to the inverter inside your house. You also have two thick copper wires negative and positive going from your inverter to your solar panel array outside that also has its own grounding system but is not bonded with the house grounding system. Solar installation the grounding portion of the system may well be the most important. Drive a grounding rod at least 8 feet deep into the earth near the system.

Use a clamp to attach the copper wire to the grounding rod. Although all components of a pv system may not be fully functional for this period of time the basic pv module can produce potentially dangerous currents and voltages for the life of the system. Chassis or mechanical and electrical. Equipment grounding is generally mandatory.

Basically there are two types of grounding in a pv system equipment grounding and conductor grounding. Second a properly grounded system will help protect you and your employees from unintentional shocks and possible deaths. Third it can help prevent fires in the system post installation avoiding potential lawsuits from angry homeowners. Once there it could arc again to the house wiring.

This is providing a path to ground for metal parts module frame mounting system etc that could be inadvertently energized by a faulted conductor. First it is required to ground all pv systems. Metal mounting structures other than building steel used for grounding purposes should be identified as equipment grounding conductors or have identified bonding jumpers or devices connected between the separate metal sections bonded to the grounding system. There are two types of ground.

There are three main reasons for grounding in an off grid power system. Appropriate bonding and equipment grounding limits the voltage imposed on a system by lightning line surges and unintentional contact with higher voltage lines. Safety v oltage transients and t h e sheer fact that they are required for some loads.