Wrenches,There has been some mention on this list lately of locating Soladeck
and/or other combiner boxes under arrays. This has me wondering if folks are
doing this only for a cleaner looking roof array or if there are other
reasonable intentions (lack of available roof space).
Other than a cleaner look, i see no benefit to doing this. (don't get me wrong,
a cleanly installed array is something to be proud of) However if the box ever
needs to be accessed, you have to remove at least one module to get to it,
dealing with the whole 'breaking the bond' issue; having to remove the module,
replacing the WEEB clip or undoing and then re-torquing the lug set screw,
re-installing module, etc. If you just wanted to quickly check something in
the box (voltage, torque, whatever) it is no longer a quick and easy task.
So the Canadian Electrical Code says in Section 0.....Definitions
Accessible (as applied to equipment) - admitting close approach because the
equipment is not guarded by locked doors, elevation, or other effective means.
Accessible (as applied to wiring methods) - (a) not permanently closed in
by the structure or finish of the building; and (b) capable of being
removed without disturbing the building structure or finish.
My interpretation here is that; (a) the box is not 'permanently closed in',
just inconveniently closed in. and,(b) you are not disturbing the structure or
finish, as you will be replacing the module as soon as you are finished in the
box.
Many pieces of equipment and/or panels require that you remove a single piece
or a multi-piece cover to access the wiring. The pv module is like a large
'cover' in this case. So i do not see this as a code violation. Do you?
I'm not familiar with the NEC, is it's definition of 'accessible' similar to
the CEC's?
Is this combiner mounting location under the array common practice for some of
you, or only done when roof space for a combiner box is limited?
I am going to run this scenario by one of our inspectors, i just thought i'd
get some feedback from other Wrenches first.
cheers,benn
DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. b...@daystarsolar.ca780-906-7807 HAVE A SUNNY DAY
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