Full Description

This document sets out design requirements for photovoltaic (PV) arrays including DC array wiring, electrical protection devices, switching and earthing provisions. The scope includes all parts of the PV array and final power conversion equipment (PCE), but not including energy storage devices, loads or AC or DC distribution network supplying loads.

The object of this document is to address the design safety requirements arising from the particular characteristics of photovoltaic systems. Direct current systems, and PV arrays in particular, pose some hazards in addition to those derived from conventional AC power systems, including the ability to produce and sustain electrical arcs with currents that are not greater than normal operating currents.

In systems supplying AC loads or circuits, the safety requirements mentioned in this document are however critically dependent on the inverters associated with PV arrays complying with the requirements of IEC 62109-1, IEC 62109-2 and IEC 62109-3.

Installation requirements are also critically dependent on compliance with the IEC 60364 series (see Clause 4).

PV arrays of less than 100 W and less than 35 V DC open circuit voltage at STC are not covered by this document.

PV arrays in grid interconnected systems connected to medium or high voltage systems are not covered in this document, except as required by IEC TS 62738. Variations and additional requirements for large-scale ground mounted PV power plants with restricted access to personnel are addressed in IEC TS 62738.

Additional requirements may be needed for more specialized installations, for example concentrating systems, tracking systems or building integrated PV.

This document also includes extra protection requirements of PV arrays when they are directly connected with batteries at the DC level.

Attention is drawn to the co-existence of IEC 60364-7-712 and IEC 62548. Both standards have been developed in close coordination, respectively by IEC technical committees 64 and 82.