SolarEdge system has integrated SafeDCTM feature which ensures complete safety when working with photovoltaic modules.
SolarEdge offers a PV power harvesting system that consists of power optimizers connected to each module, a PV inverter and module-level monitoring. Additionally, SolarEdge systems have a built-in safety feature that reduces safety risks.
When power optimizers are connected, modules continue in “operation mode” only as long as a signal from the inverter is constantly renewed. In the absence of this signal, power optimizers automatically go into safety mode, shutting down DC current as well as voltage in module and string wires. In safety mode, the output voltage of each module equals 1VDC.
For example, if firefighters disconnect a PV system from the power grid during daylight and the PV system consists of 10 modules per string, the string voltage will decrease to 10VDC.
Because the maximum string length in a SolarEdge system is 50, the string voltage is limited to 50VDC, safely below the risk level. Even under single faults, the solution has been certified to have SELV (< 120VDC) voltages.
SolarEdge power optimizers allow automatic and fail-safe reduction of DC-voltage to a safe
voltage (below 120VDC) within the required time. This function is integral to the system and therefore does not require any additional hardware or fire proof constructional measures, leading to a reduction of installation costs.
Module-level shutdown occurs automatically in any of these cases:
- A building is disconnected from the power grid
- The inverter is turned off
- Power optimizer thermal sensors for each module detect a rising temperature (threshold 85 ̊C)
SAFEDCTM – DC SAFETY
The SolarEdge system with integrated SafeDCTM feature ensures complete safety for firefighters working with PV modules, eliminates the risk of electrocution, and is the only inverter solution that is certified in Europe as a DC disconnect.
