Where should a PV inverter be installed?

An inverter supplied from a PV array must preferably be installed in a dedicated circuit in which: no current-using equipment is connected, and no provision is made for the connection of current-using equipment, and no socket-outlets are permitted. An inverter must not be connected by means of a plug with contacts which may be live when exposed.

How do I choose a solar inverter?

Determine where the inverter will be located. Determine the cabling route and therefore estimate the lengths of the cable runs. Full Specifications of the system including quantity, make (manufacturer) and model number of the solar modules and inverter. An estimate of the yearly energy output of the system.

What are the requirements for a power inverter?

Inverter should meet the requirements specified in IEEE Std. 929-2000 or other national standard or the interconnecting utility requirements. Phase current imbalance should be less than 5% measured at 50% and 100% rating. Unbalanced phase currents may cause overheating of the utility transformer.

Are all PV products covered by IEC61730 'photovoltaic (PV) module safety qualification?

In future it is expected that all PV products will increasingly be covered by International standard IEC61730: 2004 ‘Photovoltaic (PV) module safety qualification’.

What is a photovoltaic inverter test?

Tests cover the inverter operation, performance and safety, the photovoltaic array installation, the system operation and applicable instrumentation. The tests described are suitable for inverter and/or system acceptance purposes or can be performed at any time for troubleshooting or to evaluate inverter/system performance and operation.

What's new in the DTI solar PV guide?

Since the first edition (2002) the guide has been updated to reflect the significant experience gained with-in the UK PV industry under the DTI solar PV grants programmes. Other major changes covered include: