{"id":879,"date":"2025-04-19T10:48:37","date_gmt":"2025-04-19T02:48:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/?post_type=blog&#038;p=879"},"modified":"2025-04-19T11:23:19","modified_gmt":"2025-04-19T03:23:19","slug":"surge-protection-for-solar-photovoltaic-systems","status":"publish","type":"blog","link":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/blog\/surge-protection-for-solar-photovoltaic-systems\/","title":{"rendered":"Protezione contro le sovratensioni per sistemi solari fotovoltaici"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2 data-start=\"52\" data-end=\"119\">Perch\u00e9 i dispositivi di protezione contro le sovratensioni sono essenziali per gli impianti solari fotovoltaici<\/h2>\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"121\" data-end=\"486\">Le posizioni remote, i layout estesi e le superfici esposte degli impianti solari fotovoltaici (PV) li rendono altamente vulnerabili ai rischi ambientali, in particolare alle tempeste elettriche. Uno dei rischi maggiori \u00e8 rappresentato dai danni causati dai fulmini diretti o indiretti, che possono portare a tempi di inattivit\u00e0 prolungati del sistema, guasti agli inverter e gravi perdite di ricavi.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"488\" data-end=\"819\">To mitigate these risks, it's crucial to install surge protection devices (SPDs) for solar PV systems at strategic points, including the solar inverter and array junction boxes. These solar surge protection solutions act as a first line of defence, preventing destructive overvoltages from damaging sensitive equipment.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 data-start=\"826\" data-end=\"893\">Come selezionare e installare i giusti dispositivi di protezione da sovratensione fotovoltaica<\/h2>\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"895\" data-end=\"1176\">I sistemi fotovoltaici funzionano in condizioni specifiche che richiedono dispositivi di protezione da sovratensione FV appositamente progettati per applicazioni CC ad alta tensione, spesso fino a 1500 V. A differenza dei sistemi CA, l\u2019ambiente CC nei pannelli solari \u00e8 continuo e presenta sfide uniche.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1178\" data-end=\"1274\">Per scegliere l\u2019SPD corretto per il tuo impianto solare fotovoltaico, considera i seguenti fattori critici:<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"1276\" data-end=\"1676\">\r\n \t<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1276\" data-end=\"1336\">\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1278\" data-end=\"1336\">La densit\u00e0 dei fulmini nell'area di installazione<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1337\" data-end=\"1385\">\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1339\" data-end=\"1385\">Intervallo di temperatura operativa del sistema<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1386\" data-end=\"1444\">\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1388\" data-end=\"1444\">La tensione CC nominale del sistema (spesso fino a 1500 V)<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1445\" data-end=\"1500\">\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1447\" data-end=\"1500\">La corrente di cortocircuito (Isc) del campo fotovoltaico<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1501\" data-end=\"1583\">\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1503\" data-end=\"1583\">Il tipo di esposizione alla sovratensione (fulmine transitorio, diretto o indiretto)<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1676\">\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1586\" data-end=\"1676\">La corrente di scarica nominale richiesta (In) e la classe di protezione (ad es. SPD di tipo 1+2)<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1678\" data-end=\"1893\">Per garantire una protezione efficace, il livello di protezione della tensione (Up) dell'SPD selezionato deve essere almeno 20% inferiore alla rigidit\u00e0 dielettrica delle apparecchiature collegate, come l'inverter o il combiner box.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1895\" data-end=\"2114\">L'implementazione della giusta protezione contro i fulmini per il solare fotovoltaico non \u00e8 solo una misura di sicurezza: \u00e8 essenziale per mantenere l'operativit\u00e0 del sistema, estendere la durata delle apparecchiature e proteggere il proprio investimento nelle energie rinnovabili.<\/p>\r\nIt is important to use an SPD with a short circuit withstand current greater than the short circuit current of the solar array string that the SPD is connected to. The SPD that is provided on the dc output must have a dc MCOV equal to or greater than the maximum photovoltaic system voltage of the panel.\r\n\r\nWhen a lightning strikes at point A (see Figure 1), the solar PV panel and the inverter are likely to be damaged. Only the inverter will be damaged if the lightning strikes at point B. 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.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/product\/brpv3-600-type-2-surge-protection-device-for-pv-upto-600v\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2054\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-2054 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Surge-Protection-Devices-For-Solar-PV-1024x1024.webp\" alt=\"Dispositivi di protezione da sovratensione per solare fotovoltaico\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/a>\r\n<h2><strong>SPD lato CC e CA per quadri elettrici e inverter<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nSurge-protection devices are installed on the DC and AC sides of central and string inverters, in combiner boxes and to protect signal lines (measurements and communications). Depending on the atmospheric exposure of the PV plant to lightning, engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractors and designers may prescribe either standard type 2 IEC SPDs (indirect impact 8\/20 \u03bcs) or more robust type 1+2 SPDs (tested to withstand direct lightning impacts in 10\/350 \u03bcs waveform).\r\n\r\nDC side protection at combiner boxes and inverters typically has a Y-connection DIN-rail configuration in order to provide common and differential mode protection.\r\n\r\nOn the AC side, overvoltage protection of the inverter is likewise required. Whether at the inverter itself or at the AC combiner box, exposure to voltage surges is generally addressed by using standard DIN-rail type 2 SPDs in TN S, IT or even TT configurations.\r\n\r\nMoreover, depending on the PV installation, type 1+2 AC may be favored in some cases by EPC contractors and designers, in order to achieve a longer lifetime for SPDs and even protection where conditions are harsher in terms of the expected direct lightning impact. This will typically be the case in areas with a very high isoceraunic level, often associated with high altitudes.","protected":false},"featured_media":880,"parent":0,"menu_order":138,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false},"blog_category":[9],"class_list":["post-879","blog","type-blog","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","blog_category-industry-news"],"acf":{"des":"The remote locations, exposed surface areas and extensive layouts of solar power plants put them at high risk of damage from the elements, particularly electrical storms.","txt":"<h2 data-start=\"52\" data-end=\"119\">Why Surge Protection Devices Are Essential for Solar PV Systems<\/h2>\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"121\" data-end=\"486\">The remote locations, expansive layouts, and exposed surfaces of solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants make them highly vulnerable to environmental hazards \u2014 especially electrical storms. One of the biggest risks is damage caused by direct or indirect lightning strikes, which can lead to extended system downtime, inverter failure, and major revenue losses.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"488\" data-end=\"819\">To mitigate these risks, it's crucial to install surge protection devices (SPDs) for solar PV systems at strategic points, including the solar inverter and array junction boxes. These solar surge protection solutions act as a first line of defence, preventing destructive overvoltages from damaging sensitive equipment.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 data-start=\"826\" data-end=\"893\">How to Select and Install the Right PV Surge Protection Devices<\/h2>\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"895\" data-end=\"1176\">Photovoltaic systems operate under specific conditions that require PV surge protection devices specifically engineered for high-voltage DC applications \u2014 often up to 1500V. Unlike AC systems, the DC environment in solar arrays is continuous and presents unique challenges.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1178\" data-end=\"1274\">To choose the correct SPD for your solar PV system, consider the following critical factors:<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul data-start=\"1276\" data-end=\"1676\">\r\n \t<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1276\" data-end=\"1336\">\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1278\" data-end=\"1336\">The lightning flash density in the installation area<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1337\" data-end=\"1385\">\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1339\" data-end=\"1385\">The system\u2019s operating temperature range<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1386\" data-end=\"1444\">\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1388\" data-end=\"1444\">The system\u2019s DC voltage rating (often up to 1500V)<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1445\" data-end=\"1500\">\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1447\" data-end=\"1500\">The short-circuit current (Isc) of the PV array<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1501\" data-end=\"1583\">\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1503\" data-end=\"1583\">The type of overvoltage exposure (transient, direct or indirect lightning)<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1676\">\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1586\" data-end=\"1676\">The required nominal discharge current (In) and protection class (e.g. Type 1+2 SPD)<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1678\" data-end=\"1893\">To ensure effective protection, the voltage protection level (Up) of the selected SPD must be at least 20% lower than the dielectric strength of the connected equipment, such as the inverter or combiner box.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1895\" data-end=\"2114\">Implementing the right lightning protection for solar PV is not just a safety measure \u2014 it\u2019s essential for maintaining system uptime, extending equipment lifespan, and protecting your investment in renewable energy.<\/p>\r\nIt is important to use an SPD with a short circuit withstand current greater than the short circuit current of the solar array string that the SPD is connected to. The SPD that is provided on the dc output must have a dc MCOV equal to or greater than the maximum photovoltaic system voltage of the panel.\r\n\r\nWhen a lightning strikes at point A (see Figure 1), the solar PV panel and the inverter are likely to be damaged. Only the inverter will be damaged if the lightning strikes at point B. 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.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/product\/brpv3-600-type-2-surge-protection-device-for-pv-upto-600v\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2054\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-2054 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Surge-Protection-Devices-For-Solar-PV-1024x1024.webp\" alt=\"Surge Protection Devices For Solar PV\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/a>\r\n<h2><strong>DC &amp; AC Side SPDs for combiner boxes and inverters<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nSurge-protection devices are installed on the DC and AC sides of central and string inverters, in combiner boxes and to protect signal lines (measurements and communications). Depending on the atmospheric exposure of the PV plant to lightning, engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractors and designers may prescribe either standard type 2 IEC SPDs (indirect impact 8\/20 \u03bcs) or more robust type 1+2 SPDs (tested to withstand direct lightning impacts in 10\/350 \u03bcs waveform).\r\n\r\nDC side protection at combiner boxes and inverters typically has a Y-connection DIN-rail configuration in order to provide common and differential mode protection.\r\n\r\nOn the AC side, overvoltage protection of the inverter is likewise required. Whether at the inverter itself or at the AC combiner box, exposure to voltage surges is generally addressed by using standard DIN-rail type 2 SPDs in TN S, IT or even TT configurations.\r\n\r\nMoreover, depending on the PV installation, type 1+2 AC may be favored in some cases by EPC contractors and designers, in order to achieve a longer lifetime for SPDs and even protection where conditions are harsher in terms of the expected direct lightning impact. This will typically be the case in areas with a very high isoceraunic level, often associated with high altitudes."},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog\/879","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/blog"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/880"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=879"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"blog_category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/it\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog_category?post=879"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}