Publications Details
Analyses of grounded and ungrounded photovoltaic power systems
Photovoltaic (PV) modules and photovoltaic balance of systems equipment are designed, manufactured, and marketed internationally. Each country or group Of countries has a set of electrical safety codes, either in place or evolving, that guide and regulate the design and installation of PV power systems. A basic difference in these codes is that some require hard (low-resistance) grounding (the United States and Canada) and others opt for an essentially ungrounded system (Europe and Japan). The significant design and safety issues that exist between the two grounding concepts affect the international PV industry`s ability to economically and effectively design and market safe, reliable, and durable PV systems in the global market place. This paper will analyze the technical and safety benefits, penalties, and costs of both grounded arid ungrounded PV systems. The existing grounding practice in several typical countries will be addressed.