Three-phase grounding of solar power generation system

What is a solar substation grounding guide?

Abstract: This guide is primarily concerned with the grounding system design for photovoltaic solar power plants that are utility owned and/or utility scale (5 MW or greater). The focus of the guide is on differences in practices from substation grounding as provided in IEEE Std 80.

How is a PV power generation system connected to a low-voltage ungrounded system?

Specifically, the PV power generation system is connected to the low-voltage ungrounded system, the IMD is linked to the DC line from the PV array to the input side of the power converter, and the GPT is linked to the AC output side of the PV power generation system. Parameters and simulation conditions of each system are summarized in Table 1.

Why is proper grounding of a photovoltaic power system important?

Proper grounding of a photovoltaic (PV) power system is critical to ensuring the safety of the public during the installation’s decades-long life. Although all components of a PV system may not be fully functional for this period of time, the basic PV module can produce potentially dangerous currents and voltages for the life of the system.

What is electrical & PV grounding?

Before discussing the subject of grounding, the term “grounding” requires definition. There are two types of grounding in electrical and PV systems—equipment grounding and system grounding. Equipment grounding is known in the ROW as safety grounding or protective earthing.

What is the purpose of the grounding system design guide?

Scope: This guide is primarily concerned with the grounding system design for ground-mount photovoltaic (PV) solar power plants (SPPs) that are utility owned and/or utility scale (5 MW or greater). The focus of the guide is on differences in practices from substation grounding as provided in IEEE Std 80.

Do PV systems need to be grounded?

The NEC requires that all exposed or accessible PV equipment and circuits be properly connected to earth (grounded) using specified methods and equipment. Source circuits in PV systems may be grounded or ungrounded as explained in this paper. As installed PV systems age, grounding issues emerge that impact system safety.