REC Peak Energy 72 Installation Manual - UL 1703
Rev C.3 - 02.16
Ref: NE-06-06-C
4
eLeCtRICAL INstALLAtIoN
ElECtRICal REQuIREmEnts
i) system Requirements
ReC Peak energy 72 solar panels are only for use where they meet the specific technical requirements of the complete system. ensure other
components do not cause mechanical or electrical damage to the panels.
ii) Connection
If panels are connected in series, they should have the same amperage rating. If panels are connected in parallel, they should have the same
voltage rating.
iii) string configuration
when using string configuration, plan and execute it according to the inverter manufacturer’s instructions. the number of panels connected to
an inverter should be within the inverter voltage limits and operating range. Do not exceed the total system voltage permitted by the inverter
manufacturer, nor under any circumstance exceed the maximum system voltage of the panels (1000 v for the ReC Peak energy 72 series and
1500 v for the ReC Peak energy 72 xv series). the maximum reverse current is 20 A and the maximum series fuse rating is 20 A.
iv) wiring layout
to minimize voltage surges (e.g. indirect lightning strikes), cables of the same string should be bundled together so loops are as small as
possible. string configurations must be checked before commissioning. If open circuit voltage (v
oC
) and short circuit current (I
sC
) deviate
from specification, this may indicate a configuration fault. Correct DC polarity should be observed at all times.
v) Junction box, connectors and materials
the panel junction box is rated IP67. All connectors and cables must be secure and tight as well as electrically and mechanically sound.
uv-resistant cables and connectors approved for outside use must be used. Conductor gauge must ensure DC power losses (voltage drop)
are kept to a minimum (< 1%). observe all local regulations when selecting cables. for field connections, use minimum 12 Awg (4 mm²) or
copper wires insulated for a maximum operating temperature of 194°f (90°C).
vi) Cable management
Cables must be secured using uv-resistant cable ties or other sunlight-resistant device. Loose and unsecured cables should be protected from
damage (e.g. mechanical, abrasion, sharp objects, animals). As far as possible, avoid exposing cables to direct sunlight and permanent tension.
REC prohibits any modification to the panel, including the cutting of cables in order to change the connector type or the opening
of the junction box unless explicitly authorized by REC. Doing so will invalidate the warranty.
vii) Electrical Ratings
under normal conditions, a photovoltaic panel is likely to experience conditions that produce more current and/or voltage than reported
at stC. the requirements of the National electric Code (NeC) in Article 690 must be followed to address these increased outputs. In
installations not under the requirements of the NeC, the values of I
sC
and v
oC
marked on the panels must be multiplied by a factor of 1.25 when
determining component voltage ratings, conductor ampacities, overcurrent device ratings and size of controls connected to the Pv output.
safEty mEasuREs
wiring installation must be in accordance with the NeC, ANsI/NfPA 70 (or CsA C22.1, safety standard for electrical Installations, Canadian
electrical Code, Part 1 where applicable). All relevant electrical installation codes and regulations must be observed regarding working at heights and
fall protection.
i) safety in the working area
Installation of ReC Peak energy 72 panels may involve rooftop work. ensure all local regulations regarding working at heights are followed.
Before beginning work on a photovoltaic system, ensure all working surfaces are structurally sound and capable of bearing the weight of
employees and required equipment. Remember to isolate the system from the grid before carrying out any maintenance or repair work.
ii) preventing current generation
to prevent the panels automatically generating current (electricity) when exposed to light, shield the system with a non-transparent cover
during installation, maintenance or repair work.
iii) specific hazards of DC electricity
solar panels generate direct current (DC). once current is flowing, breaking or opening a connection (e.g. disconnecting two panels) can
cause an electrical arc. unlike low voltage AC wiring, DC arcs are not self-extinguishing. they are potentially lethal burn and fire hazards:
•
follow panel and inverter manufacturers’ installation, handling and operating instructions.
•
Remove/open the inverter AC fuse/circuit breaker before disconnecting from the public grid.
•
switch off or disconnect the inverter and wait for the time specified by the manufacturer before commencing work. High-voltage
components need sufficient time to discharge.
iv) safety requirements
the voltage produced by a single panel and panels connected in series (voltages added together) or in parallel (currents added together) can
be dangerous. Although the fully insulated plug contacts on the panel’s output cables provide touch-safe protection, the following points
must be observed during handling to avoid the risk of sparking, fire hazards, burns and lethal electric shocks.
•
excercise extreme caution when wiring panels and look out for damaged or dirty cables etc.
•
Never insert metallic or other conductive objects into plugs or sockets.
•
ensure that all electrical connections are completely dry before assembly.
•
keep all materials, tools and working conditions dry and tidy.
•
use appropriate safety equipment e.g. nonslip footwear, insulated gloves and insulated tools.
•
solar panels produce current when exposed to sunlight. Do not connect the system to the inverter during solar exposure.
