Before we get into the details of conductors, currents, and circuit protection on the AC side of the PV system, let’s step back and try to get a bigger picture of where are some of the dangers or hazards that need to be considered.
A supply-side interconnection is any connection to the service conductors on the supply-side of the service disconnecting means. The 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC) contains nine categories of equipment. A list of allowed supply-side interconnections is provided in NEC 230.82.
The CE Code states, "Electrical equipment used in electrical installations within the jurisdiction of the inspection department shall be approved and shall be of a kind or type and rating approved for the specific purpose for which it is to be employed."
The electrical grid as we know it hasn’t changed much in the last 100 years, but we have changed as a society and so has the technology we use.
Q. I know cord and plug-connected appliances are tested for leakage current but are hard-wired appliances tested for leakage current, as well?
One of the most advanced microgrids in North America can be found at Bubolz Nature Preserve in Northeast Wisconsin. The microgrid serves as a research and development project as well as a learning lab for teaching the next generation about the cutting-edge energy technology that is available today.
Test your knowledge of how the NEC-2017 handles different types of GFCIs in this GFCI quiz from Crystal Hunter in this issue of IAEI News.
I’m very excited that all of our Board of Directors and a number of our industry partners could attend, as the building renovations would not have been possible without their kind donations and support.