4 FAQs about Lightning protection rating for solar-powered communication cabinet inverter

Where should lightning protection be installed at a PV inverter?

Figure 1 illustrates the highly recommended locations for lightning protection at a PV inverter. Two Strikesorb® modules (Class I/II) are installed at +DC and -DC to ground to protect the inverter against lightning strikes that create surge currents on DC lines.

Can lightning protection be combined with SMA inverters?

Also, special features of combining overvoltage protection devices with SMA inverters are described. The document covers lightning protection in as far as it influences overvoltage protection. Lightning protection systems are intended to prevent damage to buildings from lightning strikes.

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.

What happens if a lightning strike hits a solar inverter?

A lightning strike at point B will only damage the inverters. Therefore, both the AC and DC lines require the suitable SPD to be properly chosen and installed. The number of SPDs installed in a solar PV system varies depending on the distance between the panel and the inverter.

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