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15.
Array Grounding
A properly installed solar array of any size or configuration needs to be solidly grounded.
You should not rely only on the mounting pole for proper or effective grounding.
Grounding of your pole top should accomplish the following:
1. Bonding the solar module frame to the rack itself, and
2. Grounding the rack to an Earth Ground via a Grounding Electrode Conductor (GEC).
The components required to properly ground an array may vary from one jurisdiction to
another and are normally supplied & installed by the installer.
The diagrams below show the basic grounding system. The GEC is shown in green for
illustration purposes but is normally a bare #8 Stranded copper conductor.
Note: Insulated wire can be used but must be stripped at each termination point.
Single Panel GND Wire Route
Module Frame Ground Lug
StrongBack Ground Lug
Ground Rod Clamp
5/8”x8’ Rod
Rod Clamp
Foundation
StrongBack
To Rod
Module Frame
Rib or Rail
2
nd
Module
#8 Bare Stranded CU