Re: [RE-wrenches] Splices in service panel
Hi Mac, Our strictest local inspector allows us to do just what you are describing, per NEC 312.8. For the label described in 312.8(3), we make a custom label that reads: "Warning: This panel contains feed-through conductors. OCPD for these feed-through conductors are located ..." and then indicate physical location of new subpanel (e.g. directly below this panel, etc.). I hope that helps. Cheers, Mark Mark Westbrock| VP, Branch Manager | Employee Owner NABCEP™ Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP™ Certified Technical Sales Professional NM EE98J Licensed Electrician 510 S. Main St., Las Cruces, NM 88001 cell 575.640.2432 | office 575.524.2030 m...@positiveenergysolar.com <your.em...@positiveenergysolar.com> www.PositiveEnergySolar.com <http://www.positiveenergysolar.com/> >> On Thu, Sep 8, 2016 at 8:00 PM, Mac Lewis <maclew...@gmail.com> wrote: >> >>> Hello wrenches, >>> >>> We run into many scenarios where we are locating a critical load panel >>> adjacent to an existing service to make it easy to move the loads. I've >>> always taken it for granted (as have the electricians that we use) that we >>> can't do a splice in the main panel and extend the load wiring to the >>> critical load panel. Is there code violation for doing a splice in the >>> main panel and extending the leads to the critical panel? You would be >>> treating the service panel as a pass-trough/splice box for those critical >>> loads. >>> >>> It makes me wonder because of all of the prewired transfer switch >>> packages with wire whips already attached that seem to be designed to do >>> just that. >>> >>> Code references would be appreciated. >>> >>> Thanks >>> >>> -- >>> >>> >>> >>> Mac Lewis >>> >>> *"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates* >>> >>> ___ >>> List sponsored by Redwood Alliance >>> >>> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >>> >>> Change listserver email address & settings: >>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >>> >>> List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re >>> -wrenc...@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html >>> >>> List rules & etiquette: >>> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm >>> >>> Check out or update participant bios: >>> www.members.re-wrenches.org >>> >>> >>> >> >> >> -- >> >> ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Undersize wire on REC meter lug
Most 200A meter cans have a minimum wire size of #6. The Milbank K4977-EXT tap connector might do the trick to get you down to #12 if your utility will allow it: http://www.milbankworks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/TapConnectors_6-13_Web.pdf . I think that it will work without a wire under the main lug. We love the Milbank U5934XL <http://www.milbankworks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/SolarSockets_8-13_Web2.pdf>, which accepts down to #12. It is our standard for residential REC meter cans. Cheers, Mark ---- Mark Westbrock| VP, Branch Manager | Employee Owner NABCEP™ Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP™ Certified Technical Sales Professional NM EE98J Licensed Electrician 510 S. Main St., Las Cruces, NM 88001 cell 575.640.2432 | office 575.524.2030 m...@positiveenergysolar.com <your.em...@positiveenergysolar.com> www.PositiveEnergySolar.com <http://www.positiveenergysolar.com/> On Fri, Sep 2, 2016 at 2:24 PM, Jerry Shafer <jerrysgarag...@gmail.com> wrote: > Daniel > What is the minimum size the lug will except > Jerry > > On Fri, Sep 2, 2016 at 9:33 AM, Daniel Tittmann <dan...@greenwired.com> > wrote: > >> wondering if anyone has a simple lug solution for a problem i found my >> self in. >> with out looking I used a meter socket for a REC meter that is not rated >> for #12 AWG wire. it is on a 20 breaker but wire size is too small for the >> lugs. Is there a simple Lug solution that will pass muster or do I need to >> up size wire or swap out the meter socket? >> >> problem with up sizing the wire is we ran 1/2 conduit so we can only go >> up to #10. without overfilling or replacing the conduit run. >> Hoping there is experience out there that can point me to a simple >> solution. >> Thanks >> >> Daniel Tittmann >> CTO >> Greenwired >> www.greenwired.com >> dan...@greenwired.com >> 707-923-2001 (office) >> 707-206-5088 (Cell) >> >> ___ >> List sponsored by Redwood Alliance >> >> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >> >> Change listserver email address & settings: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re >> -wrenc...@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html >> >> List rules & etiquette: >> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm >> >> Check out or update participant bios: >> www.members.re-wrenches.org >> >> >> > > ___ > List sponsored by Redwood Alliance > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change listserver email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches. > org/maillist.html > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out or update participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > > ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] 120% rule for hybrid inverters
Hi Mac, The wording changed because in the 2011 NEC 705.12(D) you had to use the size of your backfeed breaker in calculating the busbar loading, but in 2014, 705.12(D)(2)(3)(b) now says "125 percent of the inverter output circuit current and the rating of the OCPD protecting the busbar shall not exceed 120%". So, the 2014 wording basically allows all inverters to follow the exception that used to be there for hybrid inverters. I hope that helps. Cheers, Mark Mark Westbrock| VP, Branch Manager | Employee Owner NABCEP™ Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP™ Certified Technical Sales Professional NM EE98J Licensed Electrician 510 S. Main St., Las Cruces, NM 88001 cell 575.640.2432 | office 575.524.2030 m...@positiveenergysolar.com <your.em...@positiveenergysolar.com> www.PositiveEnergySolar.com <http://www.positiveenergysolar.com/> <http://www.positiveenergysolar.com> On Fri, Aug 12, 2016 at 7:26 AM, Mac Lewis <maclew...@gmail.com> wrote: > Hello wrenches, > > I am looking for the exception to the 120% rule in the 2014 code that > allowed for compliance to the 120% rule to be based on the > utility-interactive current as opposed to the backfeed breaker size for > hybrid inverter. I hope this still exists, but I'm having a hard time > finding it in the 2014 code. In 2011 it was 705.12(D)2 Exception. That > was nice clear language that all inspectors accepted, I'm hoping the same > exists for the 2014 code. > > Thanks in advance code experts > > > > -- > > > > Mac Lewis > > *"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates* > > ___ > List sponsored by Redwood Alliance > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change listserver email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches. > org/maillist.html > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out or update participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > > ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] speaking of warranties
We have observed exactly that phenomenon on some Canadian modules that are a couple of years old, but connected to a string inverter. We used an IV curve tracer to test all of of the modules and they tested out fine. That system actually has an expansion with Suniva modules and the Canadians with the strange cell patterns actually tested out with a better observed vs. expected ratio than the Sunivas, which do not show the worm-tracks on their cells. Cheers, Mark Mark Westbrock| VP, Branch Manager | Employee Owner SunPower by Positive Energy Solar NABCEP™ Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP™ Certified Technical Sales Professional NM EE98J Licensed Electrician 510 S. Main St., Las Cruces, NM 88001 cell 575.640.2432 | office 575.524.2030 m...@positiveenergysolar.com <your.em...@positiveenergysolar.com> www.PositiveEnergySolar.com <http://www.positiveenergysolar.com/> On Thu, Jun 30, 2016 at 7:31 AM, William Dorsett <wmdors...@sbcglobal.net> wrote: > Visiting a Canadian Solar array we put up a couple years ago, where there > appears to be 1/32” wide tracks crossing cells on several of the modules, > (look like little worm holes) branching and in one module they are > particularly thick just over an Enphase 215. Tracings in a few spots are > slightly discolored and appear raised instead of flat. Top glass and the > bottom cover sheet is apparently untouched. I would think possible a close > lightening hit but none of the MOV’s (SOV’s?) in the Midnight Solar > lightening arrester are blown. > > > > Have others of you seen similar damage? I am assuming this could become an > insurance instead of a warranty issue. > > > > Bill Dorsett > > Manhattan, KS > > > > *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On > Behalf Of *Chris Worcester > *Sent:* Wednesday, June 29, 2016 6:27 PM > *To:* 'RE-wrenches' > *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] speaking of warranties > > > > Speaking of warranties, is BP still warrantying the 3160’s circa 2002, any > new contact info available? > > > > Chris Worcester > > Solar Wind Works > > NABCEP Certified PV Installer > > Office 530-582-4503 > > Cell 530-448-9692 > > Fax 530-582-4603 > > www.solarwindworks.com > > ch...@solarwindworks.com > > > > *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > <re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org>] *On Behalf Of *Marco > Mangelsdorf > *Sent:* Wednesday, June 29, 2016 2:03 PM > *To:* 'RE-wrenches' > *Subject:* [RE-wrenches] speaking of warranties > > > > Aloha all, > > > > I’ve found what I find to be reasonable installation warranty language > covering installation workmanship and materials. > > > > Please contact me off-line if you’re interested in getting that verbiage. > > > > marco > > > -- > > [image: Avast logo] <https://www.avast.com/antivirus> > > This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. > www.avast.com <https://www.avast.com/antivirus> > > > > ___ > List sponsored by Redwood Alliance > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change listserver email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out or update participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > > ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Solar cooker plans request
About nine years ago, my wife and I built a Navahorno from the plans featured in Home Power #37 (1993). The article is linked here: http://www11.zetatalk.com/docs/Solar/Cooking/Solar_Cookers_2004.pdf http://www11.zetatalk.com/docs/Solar/Cooking/Solar_Cookers_2004.pdf The materials should be readily available to your friend in Guatemala. It was fun to build and served us well until we could afford to buy a Global Sun Oven, which gets much hotter. My recollection is that our Navahorno never achieved a temperature above about 300F, but the article claims a high temp of 330F. I'm sure results vary for each individual oven, and of course, climatic conditions. Cheers, Mark *Mark Westbrock* Branch Manager Employee-Owner NM EE98J Journeyman Electrician NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP Certified PV Technical Sales Positive Energy, Inc. 510 S. Main St. Las Cruces, NM 88001 office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 m...@positiveenergysolar.com westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com On Thu, Mar 12, 2015 at 4:04 AM, Bill Loesch solar1onl...@charter.net wrote: Hi Allan, You might remember Sharkey, one of the original, perhaps founding RE-wrenches, who has craftsman skills that would easily qualify at an artist level. He built his own solar thermal panel and in the end acknowledged that (even with his outstanding skills) would have been wiser to buy (rather than build) the finished product. The last time I looked, at least one of the solar cooker manufacturers built their model to be collapsible into a much smaller package than the traditional bread box which certainly would aid in storage and shipping. An actual sample is IMHO so very superior to any plans/drawings in as much as it allows the new user to maximize their creative skills to reverse engineer their local knockoff AND compare their results with what is available from an existing commercial product. One of the details that I remember from some 15 years ago was the gasketing on the commercially manufactured unit that kept the heat in the box quite well. In the 13th edition of the Solar Living Sourcebook, copyright 2008, the author mentions The non-profit Solar Cookers International group provides cookers and simple cardboard and aluminum foil construction plans to developing countries. A Google search yielded the result below. solarcookers.org Good luck, Bill Loesch Solar 1 - Saint Louis Solar314 631 1094 On 12-Mar-15 1:54 AM, Allan Sindelar wrote: Wrenches, Our closest rural neighbor spends part of each year in Guatemala. She emailed me a request: I have a friend who can help me construct a solar oven or cooker if we can find good plans. Illustrations are the most important. I have access to pine lumber, glass, but nothing too technologically advanced. I also want to buy panels when I get back to NM to install on my home here. I have an electrician friend with experience here. Any help is greatly appreciated This is a bit off of our usual topics, but still consistent with RE. Can anyone send a good web link or other resource that meets this request? I will forward it on. Thanks, Allan -- *Allan Sindelar* al...@sindelarsolar.com NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician Founder (Retired), Positive Energy, Inc. *505 780-2738 505%20780-2738 cell* ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings:http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette:www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios:www.members.re-wrenches.org No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2015.0.5646 / Virus Database: 4306/9282 - Release Date: 03/12/15 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios
Re: [RE-wrenches] Corrugated Roof Brackets
Hi Jay, Just use your roofing sealant of choice: fill the pilot hole, leaving a nice big dab on the surface. Because all holes are in the peaks of the corrugations, the penetration point should see very little water there. In my opinion, this is less risky than trying to seal the corrugations with a dynaflash. Although the manufacturer's literature also shows using this product with pro-panel type roofs, for those we prefer either standoffs with dyna-flash or Schletter Fix-Ts. Cheers, Mark *Mark Westbrock* Branch Manager Employee-Owner NM EE98J Journeyman Electrician NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP Certified PV Technical Sales http://positiveenergysolar.com/ Positive Energy, Inc. 510 S. Main St. Las Cruces, NM 88001 office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 m...@positiveenergysolar.com westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com http://www.nabcep.org/installer-locator?state=NM http://www.nabcep.org/installer-locator?state=NM http://www.solarreviews.com/installers/positive-energy-solar/ http://www.bcorporation.net/ On Thu, Mar 5, 2015 at 3:40 PM, jay peltz j...@asis.com wrote: Hi Mark, I'm curious how you seal the hole. thanks jay peltz power On Mar 5, 2015, at 9:46 AM, Mark Westbrock westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com wrote: We like the SnapNrack corrugated roof blocks http://www.snapnrack.com/series-500-metal-roof-mount-system. They are simple, effective, and not too expensive (I think around $3.50 each). The only trick is that you need access to the roofing members because you will need to add blocking or sister up trusses so that you have a structural member directly below a corrugation peak. *Mark Westbrock* Branch Manager Employee-Owner NM EE98J Journeyman Electrician NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP Certified PV Technical Sales Positive Energy, Inc. 510 S. Main St. Las Cruces, NM 88001 office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 m...@positiveenergysolar.com westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com On Thu, Mar 5, 2015 at 9:00 AM, AE Solar autonomousenerg...@gmail.com wrote: Hey Wrenchers, Anyone have feedback or preferences on mounting systems for corrugated roofs? I'm looking at the S-5! CorruBracket http://www.s-5.com/clamps/index_2624.cfm. Its for a very small system on a hunting cabin. The pitch is probably about 20 degrees and and I'm concerned about leaks over time. Any recommendations are appreciated. Thanks Adam Adam Katzman Autonomous Energies 4872 State Route 9G Germantown NY, 12526 www.autonomousenergies.com (518) 567-1468 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Corrugated Roof Brackets
We like the SnapNrack corrugated roof blocks http://www.snapnrack.com/series-500-metal-roof-mount-system. They are simple, effective, and not too expensive (I think around $3.50 each). The only trick is that you need access to the roofing members because you will need to add blocking or sister up trusses so that you have a structural member directly below a corrugation peak. *Mark Westbrock* Branch Manager Employee-Owner NM EE98J Journeyman Electrician NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP Certified PV Technical Sales Positive Energy, Inc. 510 S. Main St. Las Cruces, NM 88001 office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 m...@positiveenergysolar.com westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com On Thu, Mar 5, 2015 at 9:00 AM, AE Solar autonomousenerg...@gmail.com wrote: Hey Wrenchers, Anyone have feedback or preferences on mounting systems for corrugated roofs? I'm looking at the S-5! CorruBracket http://www.s-5.com/clamps/index_2624.cfm. Its for a very small system on a hunting cabin. The pitch is probably about 20 degrees and and I'm concerned about leaks over time. Any recommendations are appreciated. Thanks Adam Adam Katzman Autonomous Energies 4872 State Route 9G Germantown NY, 12526 www.autonomousenergies.com (518) 567-1468 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] TL Inverters Rapid Shutdown
Hi Greg, *Re: SPS integrated outlet* We have not had any inspectors take issue with the SPS, and we have installed dozens of them. The SPS is completely isolated from the electrical system of the rest of the house and the grid. As you know, our city inspectors here have a pretty high level of attention to detail, but once it was explained to them, they had no problem with it. *Re: Rapid Shutdown function* We had a meeting with SMA about this last week, and we are hoping to see the introduction (with pricing and availability) by next week. They explained that theirs may be the only rapid shutdown device on the market that uses DC instead of AC for the control circuit. Because of this, if the grid goes down, the device will continue to operate with the NO contactors closed and thus the SPS circuit may still be utilized. Of course, if the rapid shutdown function is engaged, then the SPS will be deenergized. Installer will need to run a communications cable up to the roof, so either 600V rated CAT5 cable in your DC conduit, or a separate conduit. I hope all is well with you down in Texas. Cheers, Mark *Mark Westbrock* Branch Manager Employee-Owner NM EE98J Journeyman Electrician NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP Certified PV Technical Sales Positive Energy, Inc. 510 S. Main St. Las Cruces, NM 88001 office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 m...@positiveenergysolar.com westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com On Fri, Jan 16, 2015 at 10:31 AM, Gregory Seelhorst gseelho...@gmail.com wrote: Wrenches - I wanted to bring up the topic of SMA TL inverters, SPS outlets, and Rapid Shutdown function. In light of some AHJs where the 2014 NEC is already in effect, I would appreciate how anyone has insight on how to address the topics below: *Re: SPS integrated outlet* - Citing 2014 NEC 690.61 and 690.10(B), is there any resistance to SMA's Technical paper on the topic (attached) and what is being done to appease them or make corrections any notices. Also would appreciate if you have suggestions on warning placards (to the effect of ‘this outlet only works when the switch is in the ‘ON’ position, inverter will not backfeed in the ‘OFF’ position), please contact me off-line if you like. *Re: Rapid Shutdown function* – It has come to my attention that there is (or soon to be) a Rapid Shutdown capability function which will comply with 690.12. The question being, *can or must this be used in conjunction with the SPS?* Just wanted clarification of this functionality. My understanding is that if other Rapid Shutdown devices (DC contactors, Midnite Solar relays, etc.) are used, the SPS function can not be used. My question is that *if the Rapid Shutdown function is optional or a requirement when deploying the SPS function.* Regards, Greg Seelhorst On Thu, Oct 9, 2014 at 11:41 AM, Randy ra...@positiveenergysolar.com wrote: Hi Wrenches, We are being forced to adopt 690.12 Rapid Shutdown requirement based on several explanations given to our industry: 1. otherwise we would be ignoring the life safety and put our fire fighters lives in peril 2. This product can be constructed from readily available, over-the-counter code compliant components. This (is) to be the intent of CMP4 when compiling the NFPA 70. We do not want to act like an industry that appears to be fighting against safety. And we know there are a few products that are code compliant, micro-inverters (don’t comply with 705.12 (D) (6) because there are no products), Solaredge, and Tigo (is it approved?) yet this is not how we choose products. And the SMA SPS inverter is not going to work in a 690.12 environment without complications as far as I can see. Appreciate comments that might support the right decision. Thanks, Randy Randy Sadewic Cell:505 570-0137 ra...@positiveenergysolar.com [image: http://positiveenergysolar.com/admin/content/uploads/PES-logo-3.jpg] *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *Steve Jefferson *Sent:* Tuesday, October 07, 2014 8:33 AM *To:* RE-wrenches *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] TL Inverters The first gen of TL’s did have a somewhat tight window for the DC window. However, the new SBTL-US-22 (3kW – 7700kW, with secure power supply) Start Voltage is 125, MPPT is 175-480 (max of 600Vdc) Also, for larger needs, the STP (12kW – 24kW) start voltage is 150, MPPT is 300-800V (max of 1000Vdc). SMA America, LLC Steve Jefferson Service Line Supervisor 3925 Atherton Ave Rocklin, CA 95765 - 3714 U.S.A. Tel: +1 916 625 3185 (direct) Fax: +1 916 625 0871 Mobile: +1 916 622 4253 Email: steve.jeffer...@sma-america.com www.SMA-America.com http://www.sma-america.com/ [image: cid:image001.png@01CF1CFA.FE18BEB0] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQWzPuyqhzofeature=youtu.be This email and any attachments
Re: [RE-wrenches] SMA TL meter communication interference?
I would point your utility to the SMA spec sheet that shows that the inverter is FCC Part 15 (Class A B) compliant. *Mark Westbrock* Field Manager Employee-Owner NM EE98J Journeyman Electrician NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP Certified PV Technical Sales Positive Energy, Inc. 510 S. Main St. Las Cruces, NM 88001 office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 m...@positiveenergysolar.com westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com http://www.nabcep.org/installer-locator?state=NM On Fri, Oct 17, 2014 at 7:51 AM, Kristopher Schmid sol...@legacysolar.com wrote: Hi All, I seem to remember seeing this posted a while back, but i was unable to get the archive search function to work on my browser. I have a recent install of an SMA SB5000TL-US-240VAC where the utility is claiming that the inverter is interfering with their communication with the meter. Anyone have experience with this? Solutions? Thanks! -- Shine On! Kris Schmid Legacy Solar, LLC 864 Clam Falls Trail Frederic, WI 54837 www.legacysolar.com 715-653-4295 NABCEP Certified PV Installer Licensed Wisconsin Master Electrician BSEE ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] TL inverter with long DC Feeder
If you don't want to combine strings at the array, then I would use a Square D HU361 for each string. It is a lot of hardware, but not too expensive and very straightforward for a lay person to shut off without risk. Cheers, Mark *Mark Westbrock* Field Manager Employee-Owner NM EE98J Journeyman Electrician NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP Certified PV Technical Sales http://positiveenergysolar.com/ Positive Energy, Inc. 510 S. Main St. Las Cruces, NM 88001 office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 m...@positiveenergysolar.com westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com http://www.nabcep.org/installer-locator?state=NM http://www.nabcep.org/installer-locator?state=NM http://www.solarreviews.com/installers/positive-energy-solar/ http://www.bcorporation.net/ On Mon, Oct 6, 2014 at 1:13 PM, All Solar, Inc. allso...@scswifi.net wrote: How about the Midnite Solar four pole disconnect? Can't remember the model number but recently installed one on a two string TL input circuit. They are made for disconnecting both positive and negative. Jeremy Rodriguez, President All Solar, Inc. 1463 M Penrose Colorado 81240 719-372-3808 office 719-372-3804 fax www.asolarelectric.com Sent by Jeremy's iPhone. Sorry for typos and shorthand! On Oct 6, 2014, at 12:40 PM, William Miller will...@millersolar.com wrote: Wrenches: We are getting up to speed on using transformer-less inverters. I have advocated long for the additional safety offered by these inverters but I am realizing the trade-offs with the new technology: The implementation gets more complicated with the requirement for PV wire, OCPD and disconnecting means for plus and minus and plus providing Arc Flash rated equipment. I am currently designing a system that will locate the PV about 400 feet from the residence. The system will utilize 2 Solectria 5200 watt inverters at the residence. I would like to provide disconnecting means for the 4 strings at the array, in case of any needed service or excavating. Preferably I’d like the disconnecting means to be deployable by a lay person (i.e. the gardener). Finding an 8 pole, arc flash, 600 VDC rated disconnect is not easy. I could install an Outback 8 circuit combiner with 8 touch-safe fuse holders. The new combiners have had dead-fronts for a while now. The gardener needs only to have a Philips screw driver to open this cover. Any better ideas out there? Thanks, William image002.jpg Lic 773985 millersolar.com http://www.millersolar.com/ 805-438-5600 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Mounting PV array on Quonset hut
Hi all, We have a client request to mount a 5 kW array on his brand new Quonset hut. We can come up with a racking solution using strut and our standard Unirac components, but I am betting that someone out there has come up with a good weather tight solution for mounting a PV array on a Quonset hut. Does anyone have any suggestions and/or photos of such an installation? Thanks, Mark *Mark Westbrock* Field Manager Employee-Owner NM EE98J Journeyman Electrician NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP Certified PV Technical Sales http://positiveenergysolar.com/ Positive Energy, Inc. 510 S. Main St. Las Cruces, NM 88001 office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 m...@positiveenergysolar.com westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com http://www.nabcep.org/installer-locator?state=NM http://www.nabcep.org/installer-locator?state=NM http://www.solarreviews.com/installers/positive-energy-solar/ http://www.bcorporation.net/ ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Combining Multiple Inverters
I agree that the exact placarding will depend on your AHJ, but you will certainly want one that says something like This breaker panel is for combining solar inverter outputs. Do not add any additional breakers or make any circuit connections. *Mark Westbrock* Field Manager Employee-Owner NM EE98J Journeyman Electrician NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional NABCEP Certified PV Technical Sales http://positiveenergysolar.com/ Positive Energy, Inc. 510 S. Main St. Las Cruces, NM 88001 office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 m...@positiveenergysolar.com westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com http://www.nabcep.org/installer-locator?state=NM http://www.nabcep.org/installer-locator?state=NM http://www.solarreviews.com/installers/positive-energy-solar/ http://www.bcorporation.net/ On Fri, Jul 11, 2014 at 3:45 PM, Jason Szumlanski ja...@fafcosolar.com wrote: I'd spring a few extra bucks for the QO line of panels. Better bus bar, better breakers, more common breakers (availability), etc. To answer your question, it depends on the interconnection method. Load side? Line side? Fusible disconnect or safety switch ahead of it? And some jurisdictions have their own opinion. On Thu, Jul 10, 2014 at 5:08 PM, Corey Shalanski cshalan...@joule-energy.com wrote: Wrenches, We have reevaluated our approach to combining multiple inverters and have settled on a SqD HOM612L100RB as a suitable solution - it is readily available from our local supply house for ~$25 and accommodates up to three full-size 2-pole breakers. What - if any - labels do you install on these panels: AC (Solar) Combiner Panel? 705.12(D)(4)? Other recommendations? Thanks. -- Corey Shalanski Joule Energy New Orleans, LA ᐧ On Fri, Jun 27, 2014 at 12:41 PM, re-wrenches-requ...@lists.re-wrenches.org wrote: Message: 6 Date: Fri, 27 Jun 2014 12:41:52 -0400 From: Jason Szumlanski ja...@fafcosolar.com To: RE-wrenches re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Combining Multiple Inverters Message-ID: cajjtg3qzaxb-ugkkotupptd81ncnxv0uzid_frjfap5jo4f...@mail.gmail.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8 Dave, I looked at the BR24L70RP a while back. It's really a 2-space, 4 cuircuit panel. I think my conclusion was you actually need a single quadplex breaker with common trip center and outer breakers to get (2) 2-pole breaker functionality. The quadplex breakers come in a variety of mixed rating (i.e. 15A center and 20A outer breakers). They are not readily stocked and not cheap. We stuck with Sq D QO load centers for that reason. Am I missing something? Jason Szumlanski ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] adjustable cordless impact drivers
Hi Jay, We use a Makita BFL300F nut runner. They are expensive and hard to find, but a great tool for torquing down top clamps. It is nice and long for reaching over modules. We got ours from EF Bailey. Cheers, Mark Mark Westbrock Las Cruces Branch Manager NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer NM ER-1J Journeyman Electrician Positive Energy, Inc. Las Cruces, NM office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com On Sat, Aug 4, 2012 at 1:56 PM, jay peltz j...@asis.com wrote: Hi All, Has anyone found a adjustable impact or drill that can be torque set? IE for installing racking/ modules? thanks, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] #10 THWN-2
-2 indicates that the insulation is rated for hot wet; that is that it is rated for 90C and wet conditions. See NEC Table 310.13(A). We also use Encore Wire. The sticker on the spool has THHN in big print, but then in small print below it says Type MTW or THHN or THWN-2. The insulation also says Type MTW or THHN or THWN-2. Mark Mark Westbrock NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer NM ER-1J Journeyman Electrician Positive Energy, Inc. office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com Mick Abraham wrote: I'm sorry to broadcast my ignorance, but: Could someone explain to me the significance of the -2 marking? Reply off-list if you wish to save bandwidth...but other List members may also be wondering... Thanks, Mick Abraham, Proprietor www.abrahamsolar.com http://www.abrahamsolar.com Voice: 970-731-4675 On Fri, Jul 23, 2010 at 10:48 AM, Nick Soleil nicksoleilso...@yahoo.com mailto:nicksoleilso...@yahoo.com wrote: I have specified THWN-2 for years, but occasionally will not be able to source it! Sent from my iPhone On Jul 23, 2010, at 11:37 AM, Peter Parrish peter.parr...@calsolareng.com mailto:peter.parr...@calsolareng.com wrote: We went through a similar problem with some beach communities here in SoCal. Because of the high humidity (all winter and summer mornings) they wanted THWN-2 for all conduit runs (as well as PVC instead of EMT). At first we were charged a premium for THWN-2 compared to THHN. But then we found a source at All Phase Electrical Supply Burbank CA (a part of CED) for THWN-2 #10 stranded @ $162.40/k-ft. Brand is En(m?)core Wire. THWN-2 listing is printed on the insulation. - Peter Peter T. Parrish, Ph.D., President California Solar Engineering, Inc. 820 Cynthia Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90065 CA Lic. 854779, NABCEP Cert. 031806-26 peter.parr...@calsolareng.com mailto:peter.parr...@calsolareng.com Ph 323-258-8883, Mobile 323-839-6108, Fax 323-258-8885 ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org mailto:RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org mailto:RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase performance
The over-reporting of energy that Randy refers to below was much higher than any discrepancy based on monitoring resolution. We have a pyranometer at the site, and Enphase reported energy production as high as 38% higher that predicted from irradiance data, as well as 38% higher than the string inverter portion of the same system. Individual microinverters showed instantaneous power output as high as 285 W from a nominal 190 W unit. Enphase explained that there was a software glitch that was resulting in "double counting". It took them over two months to correct this issue, time which is lost from our experimental comparison of string vs. microinverter. They indicated that this seemed to be an isolated situation, but I wonder how many Enphase customers are reporting miraculous performance from their system without verifying via another meter. Screen shot of a day's power production of 22 M190 microinverters (nominal 4180 watts AC): Mark Mark Westbrock NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer NM ER-1J Journeyman Electrician Positive Energy, Inc. office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com We definitely experienced an overstatement. We have a client who installed 5kW on a string inverter and 5kW on enphase and it is that side-by-side comparison that enabled us to positively identify a problem. There was a significant overstatement of output. We finally got a Enphase person who told us it was a software glitch. The problem appears to be fixed. They explained to us that our problem was isolated without giving us a detailed explanation of what happened. Since that problem was fixed, we have seen no difference in output between a string inverter and enphase. Randy Kirpal Khalsa wrote: This same issue has come up over the years for us..first with PV Powered inverters and then noticed in Fronius as well..We have noticed in most of our grid tied systems that are connected thru a "revenue grade meter" for Oregon Energy Trust production reporting, that the inverter always has a higher performance than indicated on the "utility grade meter". We have seen the discrepency as high as 10%. Over time this adds up to significant kWh differences. In our experience the inverter always has the higher kWh reporting, we have attributed this to the inverter wanting to report a good production number, to boost their efficiency claims..maybe even more than is accurate.I have asked PV Powered and Fronius about this and their line is that to put a "revenue grade meter" into the inverter would be cost prohibitive..interesting as the readily available revenue grade meters are only $30-$60. I would gladly pay that much extra if I didn't have to wire in an additional meter. I don't think this problem is unique to the Enphase units (i haven't installed any of these), I think all inverters should be required to install the revenue grade meters to give accurate reporting of actual production. Similar to how states have a "weights and scales" accuracy certification, energy consumption and production meters should be similarly calibratable. -- Sunny Regards, Kirpal Khalsa NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer Renewable Energy Systems www.oregonsolarworks.com 541-218-0201 m 541-592-3958 o ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase performance
The "Maximum Output Power" listed on the M190 spec sheet is 190 watts. Upon observing output exceeding 190 watts, we questioned Enphase tech support and were told that the "actual" max output is 199 watts. Similarly, the actual max output for the M210 is reported to be 219 watts, although the spec sheet specifies 210 watts. This contradiction between "specified" and "actual" is troubling, both for proper overall system design and proper sizing of overcurrent protection, per 690.8(B)(1). Mark Westbrock NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer NM ER-1J Journeyman Electrician Positive Energy, Inc. office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com Chris Worcester wrote: Do the Enphase inverters clip the output power to their rating like other manufacturers? So a M190 can only put out 190 watts max? I have had this question for a bit now on system performances using Enphase in designs during our cold spring and fall days. Sincerely, Chris Worcester Solar Wind Works NABCEP Certified PV Installer Phone: 530-582-4503 Fax: 530-582-4603 www.solarwindworks.com ch...@solarwindworks.com "Proven Energy Solutions" From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Mark Westbrock Sent: Friday, May 07, 2010 10:33 AM To: RE-wrenches Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase performance The over-reporting of energy that Randy refers to below was much higher than any discrepancy based on monitoring resolution. We have a pyranometer at the site, and Enphase reported energy production as high as 38% higher that predicted from irradiance data, as well as 38% higher than the string inverter portion of the same system. Individual microinverters showed instantaneous power output as high as 285 W from a nominal 190 W unit. Enphase explained that there was a software glitch that was resulting in "double counting". It took them over two months to correct this issue, time which is lost from our experimental comparison of string vs. microinverter. They indicated that this seemed to be an isolated situation, but I wonder how many Enphase customers are reporting miraculous performance from their system without verifying via another meter. Screen shot of a day's power production of 22 M190 microinverters (nominal 4180 watts AC): Mark Mark Westbrock NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer NM ER-1J Journeyman Electrician Positive Energy, Inc. office: 575-524-2030 cell: 575-640-2432 westbr...@positiveenergysolar.com www.positiveenergysolar.com We definitely experienced an overstatement. We have a client who installed 5kW on a string inverter and 5kW on enphase and it is that side-by-side comparison that enabled us to positively identify a problem. There was a significant overstatement of output. We finally got a Enphase person who told us it was a software glitch. The problem appears to be fixed. They explained to us that our problem was isolated without giving us a detailed explanation of what happened. Since that problem was fixed, we have seen no difference in output between a string inverter and enphase. Randy Kirpal Khalsa wrote: This same issue has come up over the years for us..first with PV Powered inverters and then noticed in Fronius as well..We have noticed in most of our grid tied systems that are connected thru a "revenue grade meter" for Oregon Energy Trust production reporting, that the inverter always has a higher performance than indicated on the "utility grade meter". We have seen the discrepency as high as 10%. Over time this adds up to significant kWh differences. In our experience the inverter always has the higher kWh reporting, we have attributed this to the inverter wanting to report a good production number, to boost their efficiency claims..maybe even more than is accurate.I have asked PV Powered and Fronius about this and their line is that to put a "revenue grade meter" into the inverter would be cost prohibitive..interesting as the readily available revenue grade meters are only $30-$60. I would gladly pay that much extra if I didn't have to wire in an additional meter. I don't think this problem is unique to the Enphase units (i haven't installed any of these), I think all inverters should be required to install the revenue grade meters to give accurate reporting of actual production. Similar to how states have a "weights and scales" accuracy certification, energy consumption and production meters should be similarly calibratable. -- Sunny Regards, Kirpal Khalsa NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer Renewable Energy Systems www.oregonsolarworks.com 541-218-0201 m 541-592-3958 o ___ List sponsore
