Earthing PV ELV DC micro inverter
Posted: Sun Jul 19, 2020 8:53 pm
Micro inverter/solar installation. Is it necessary for the PV panel frames to be earthed? 1 micro inverter per panel, PV panels at ELV.
The information in 5033:2012 is making me think it’s not necessary, when the PV/DC voltage is less than ELV. I’m referring to clause 4.4.2.1. and figure 4.3-decision tree.
I’ve come across a site where the previous installing electrician has earthed the struts the PV panels are mounted on, however there is no earth continuity to the actual PV panel frames that are clamped onto the struts. I usually see purpose made washers with serrated teeth that penetrate the painted or anodised surface of the frames, creating an adequate earth connection.
The same clause in the 2014 version leads me to believe they should be earthed, the wording is different in clause 4.4.2.1. But I can’t really rely on this version as it’s not mandated in the ESR.
It would’ve just been easier to earth them all at the time of install to save any bother I think. But unfortunately that hasn’t been done in this case, hence why I’m querying it. Any thoughts on this much appreciated. TIA.
The information in 5033:2012 is making me think it’s not necessary, when the PV/DC voltage is less than ELV. I’m referring to clause 4.4.2.1. and figure 4.3-decision tree.
I’ve come across a site where the previous installing electrician has earthed the struts the PV panels are mounted on, however there is no earth continuity to the actual PV panel frames that are clamped onto the struts. I usually see purpose made washers with serrated teeth that penetrate the painted or anodised surface of the frames, creating an adequate earth connection.
The same clause in the 2014 version leads me to believe they should be earthed, the wording is different in clause 4.4.2.1. But I can’t really rely on this version as it’s not mandated in the ESR.
It would’ve just been easier to earth them all at the time of install to save any bother I think. But unfortunately that hasn’t been done in this case, hence why I’m querying it. Any thoughts on this much appreciated. TIA.