Solar/Photovoltaic DC Systems: Information for Electrical Workers and Firefighters
Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are common and continue to gain popularity. This article helps electrical workers and firefighters understand basic operating principles and hazards of PV dc arrays. The effects of solar radiation and temperature on power output are discussed including; PV-module testing standards; methods for calculating the number of modules in a PV string; some National Electrical Code (NEC) guidelines that are aimed toward improving array safety; dc-array commissioning, periodic maintenance, and testing; arc-flash-hazard potential ways firefighters can work safely around PV arrays; potential risks posed by moonlight and other light sources; some unique dc-system hazards. We also present statistics on PV dc-array electrical incidents and injuries.
- Research Organization:
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Golden, CO (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC36-08GO28308
- OSTI ID:
- 1605707
- Report Number(s):
- NREL/JA-5B00-76374; MainId:20103; UUID:a4b51650-c967-ea11-9c31-ac162d87dfe5; MainAdminID:8579
- Journal Information:
- IEEE Industry Applications Magazine, Journal Name: IEEE Industry Applications Magazine Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 26
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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