Grounding Pv Solar Panels

Once there it could arc again to the house wiring.

Grounding pv solar panels.

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. First it is required to ground all pv systems. 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.

Drive a grounding rod at least 8 feet deep into the earth near the system. Equipment grounding is generally mandatory. For outdoor grounding you need to use thick bare copper wire that can handle large electrical currents like lightening. Regardless of system voltage equipment grounding is required on all pv systems.

Safety v oltage transients and t h e sheer fact that they are required for some loads. Second a properly grounded system will help protect you and your employees from unintentional shocks and possible deaths. Use a clamp to attach the copper wire to the grounding rod. Appropriate bonding and equipment grounding limits the voltage imposed on a system by lightning line surges and unintentional contact with higher voltage lines.

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. Third it can help prevent fires in the system post installation avoiding potential lawsuits from angry homeowners. 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. Of all the elements of a u s.

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. Solar installation the grounding portion of the system may well be the most important. Basically there are two types of grounding in a pv system equipment grounding and conductor grounding. Leave around 6 above ground to properly attach your copper wire to the grounding rod.

Chassis or mechanical and electrical. Pv mounting systems and devices. There are two types of ground.