SolarEdge is leading the way in safety innovation Go Back
Author: Marisan Hallett Date: 13 October 2023
A solar system installed according to regulations and best practices can be safe and stress-free, however, recent fires sparked concerns about the safety of solar power.
South Africa’s surging solar imports
The rapid growth of the solar market in South Africa is evident in the substantial increase in solar panel imports, totalling a new record of R 8.4 billion** in the second quarter of 2023. Additionally, Nedbank has played a significant role by investing over R1.2 billion in private power generation while participating in the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) worth R 26 billion, further boosting the growth of renewable energy in the country**.
Incidents spark caution in investors
Recent media highlighted fires associated with solar power, causing apprehension among potential investors.
The Vodacom head office fire on 9 July 2023 was reportedly linked to solar panels, but these claims were quickly dismissed. In another case, electrical arcing from solar panels caused a factory roof fire, necessitating the isolation of the panels before firefighters could successfully extinguish the blaze.
Arcing occurs within the photovoltaic (PV) system, often due to damaged, degraded or improperly connected connectors and cables. Electrical arcs can electrify the entire installation, causing the mounting system to become charged and pose a risk of electric shocks to anyone who comes into contact with it.
SolarEdge is synonymous with safety
Fortunately, SolarEdge is a trusted provider of advanced safety features designed to instil confidence in even the most cautious home or business owners. Their commitment is prominently reflected by their innovative approach to addressing potential risks by offering two key built-in features: SafeDCTM and arc fault detection and interruption. These innovative features work together, effectively reducing the risks associated with fires in solar systems and assuring secure and dependable solar energy solutions.
SolarEdge inverters with built-in protection mechanisms are specially designed to mitigate the impact of potential arcing faults that may lead to fire hazards. These advances swiftly initiate an automatic shutdown. Users can manually restart the system while it remains in standby mode, ensuring a safe and thorough assessment before operation resumes. This multifaceted functionality enhances personal safety and safeguards equipment while preventing potential structural damage from arcing incidents within PV solar systems.
SolarEdge’s key safety features
- The SafeDCTM reduces the voltage of each solar module to a touch-safe DC level during inverter shutdowns and grid failures.
- The Rapid Shutdown mechanism discharges conductors to safer voltage levels within 30 seconds, giving first responders safer access to the roof in an emergency.
- Built-in protection prevents arc faults through the automatic inverter and module-level shutdown.
- Thermal sensors within the Power Optimizer Connectors monitor and detect faulty wiring.
- Module-level monitoring gives automatic notifications on system issues and greater visibility of individual panel performance.
- Battery Thermal Sensors mitigate the risk of the battery overheating.
** https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/709246/new-solar-record-for-south-africa/
** https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/702831/danger-for-inverters-and-solar-in-south-africa/
Image: Photo by Soren H on Unsplash
