Does a PV inverter have overvoltage protection?

The inverter is manufactured with internal overvoltage protection on the AC and DC (PV) sides. If the PV system is installed on a building with an existing lightning protection system, the PV system must also be properly included in the lightning protection system.

Do I need a surge protection module for a solar inverter?

It is compulsory to install SPD (surge protection devices) at the ac output of a single phase and three-phase solar inverters. The surge protection module will protect the inverter from high voltages that might be detrimental for the MOSFET and IGBT (internal semiconductors). We recommend the following devices with din-rail mounting.

Why are solar PV inverters so expensive?

Inverters are expensive, but for industrial applications, an even more expensive failure is the cost of downtime. When lightning strikes a solar PV system, it causes an induced transient current and voltage within the solar PV system wire loops.

Why do PV farms need inverters?

TABLE 1. SPD selection. PV farms are comprised of very sensitive equipment that needs expansive protection. Because PV farms create direct current (dc) power, inverters (which are necessary to convert this power from dc to ac) are an essential component to their electrical production.

Does a PV inverter need a strike?

However, the inverter is typically the most expensive component within a PV system, which is why it is essential to properly select and install the correct SPD on both the ac and dc lines. The closer the strike is to the inverter, the more damaged the inverter will be. FIGURE 1. Lightning strike location.

Do PV systems need a surge protection system?

PV systems are at high risk of lightning strikes due to their installation in exposed locations and must therefore be protected against surges in accordance with EN 61643-32. To avoid system failures, high repair costs and loss of sales due to surge damage, powerful PV arresters are the best solution.