MALAYSIAN "Ms 1837:2005 STANDARD INSTALLATION OF GRID - CONNECTED PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) SYSTEM Ics: 27.160 Descriptor: solar energy engineering, gd-connected PV systam © Copyright 2005 DEPARTMENT OF STANDARDS MALAYSIALicensed fo SPRING Singapore / Dowrloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user cent only, copying and netwerklng prohibited DEVELOPMENT OF MALAYSIAN STANDARDS The Department of Standards Malaysia (DSM) is the national standardisation and acoreditation body. The main function of the Department is to foster and promote standards, standardisation and accreditation as a means of advancing the national economy, promoting industrial efficiency and development, benefiting the health and safety of the public, protecting the consumers, facilitating domestic and international trade and furthering international cooperation in relation to standards and standardisation. Malaysian Standards are developed through consensus by committees which comprise of balanced representation of producers, users, consumers and others with relevant interests, as may be appropriate to the subject in hand. To the greatest extent possible, Malaysian Standards are aligned to or are adoption of international standards. Approval of a standard as a Malaysian Standard is governed by the Standards of Malaysia Act 1996 (Act 549). Malaysian Standards are reviewed periodically. The use of Malaysian Standards is voluntary except in so far as they are made mandatory by regulatory authorities by means of regulations, local by-laws or any other similar ways. The Department of Standards appoints SIRIM Berhad as the agent to develop Malaysian Standards, The Department also appoints SIRIM Berhad as the agent for distribution and sale of Malaysian Standards. For further information on Malaysian Standards, please contact: Department of Standards Malaysia OR SIRIM Berhad Level 1 & 2, Block C4, Parcel C (Company No. 367474 - V) Federal Government Administrative Centre 1, Persiaran Dato’ Menteri 62502 Putrajaya P.O. Box 7035, Section 2 MALAYSIA. 40911 Shah Alam Selangor D.E. Tel: 60.3 88858000 Tel: 603 5544 6000 Fax: 60 3 88885060 Fax: 60 3 5510 8095 http www.dsm.qov.my to: vw sim. E-mail: central@dsm.qov.myLicensed to SPRING Singapore / Downlcadad on 15-May-2008 / Single user license only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 CONTENTS Page Committee representation. Wi Foreword. _W SECTION 1; SCOPE AND GENERAL. rabtedipbetasntnaelantestdentonnestansiensaion 1.1 Scope. 4.2 Objective.. 4.3 Normative references. 14 Definitions. SECTION2:; GENERAL REQUIREMENTS... 7 SECTION 3: PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS. 7 31 General 3.2 Bypass diodes 3.3 Over-current protection 34 Disconnecting means... 35 Emergency switching device 36 Earth fault protection 3.7 Lightning protection, 3.8 Over-voltage protection... anes 40 SECTION 4: WIRING REQUIREMENTS. 4.4 Compliance with wiring standards... 2) 42 System voltage... sig) 4.3 Wiring installation 28 44 Cable selection a 14 45 Wiring identification 215 SECTIONS: COMPONENT REQUIREMENTS. 54 PV modules. 52 Inverterrequirements 2. 53 PV array and PV sub-array connection boxes.. 54 Switching devices. 55 Fuses... 56 PVKWhmeter..Licensed fo SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user cense only copying and nelwerking profited MS 1837:2005 CONTENTS (continued) Page SECTION6: EARTHING, anne a 61 — General. 62 —Earthing electrode... 63 Equipment earthing. SECTION7: MARKING REQUIREMENTS... TA General sess " 7.2 PVarray and PV sub-array connection boxes. 73 Disconnection devices... . 7.4 Fire emergency information 75 Shutdown procedure. SECTION 8: DOCUMENTATION. SECTION 9: — COMMISIONING. 20 9.1 General. . os 9.2 Wiring and installation integrity. 93 —_ a4 95 ern tO) Table 1 Current rating of PV array circuits... Figures 4 Schematic diagram of a grd-connected PV system. 2 PV string wiring with minimum loop area ... B1 Example of sign required on PV array connection box (7.2)... B2 Example of sign required adjacent to PV array main switch (7.3.2). B3 Example of sign required adjacent to inverter main switch (7.3.3) B4 Example of fire emergency information sign (7.4.1)... B5 Example of shutdown procedute (7.5)... Annexes A Characteristics of PV arrays... 24 B Examples of signs Maintenance requirements ... con 28LUcensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user license only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 Committee representation ‘The Electrotechnical Industry Standards Commitee (ISC E) under whose authority tis Malaysian Standard was veloped comprises representatives from the folowing organisations ‘Association of Consuling Engineers Malaysia ‘Gepariment of Standards Malaysia Feiraton of Malaysian Consumers Association Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers sabalan Kerja Raya ‘Malaysian Gable Manufacturers Association Malaysian Electcal Appliances and Distributors Association Mier of Domestic Trade and Consumer Afaire Moist of Intemational Trade and Industry Pusat Tenaga Malays ‘Suruhanjaya Kemunkast dan Multimedia Malaysia Surunanjaya Tenaga ‘Tenaga Nasional Berhad ‘The Electrical and Electronics Assocation of Malaysia ‘The Instution of Engineers, Malaysia Univers Teknologi Malaysia ‘The Technical Commitee on Generation, Conversion, Transformation and Storage of Electrical Energy which supervised the development ofthis Malaysian Standard consists of representalves (rom the following organisations Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (GP Autobat Sdn Bhd Jabatan Kerja Raya 'SIRIM Berhad (Secretariat) 'SIRIM QAS Intomational Sdn Bhd (Electrotechnical Testing Section) 'SIRIM QAS International Sdn Bhd (Product Crtfiation Section) ‘Suruhanjaya Tenaga ‘Tenaga National Berhad ‘TNB Remaco Sdn 8h ‘The Eletical and Electronics Association of Malaysia ‘Te Instution of Engneers, Malaysia Universit Malaya Unversit Teknoiog| Malaysia ‘The Working Group on Utly Intefaced Solar Photovoltaic System which developed this Malaysian Standard consis of rpcesertalves from the following organisations: BP Soler Malaysia Sdn Bhd Jabalan Ker Raya Pusat Tenaga Malaysia ‘SIRIM Berhad (Envirorment and Bioprocess Technology Center) SIRIM Berhad (Secretariat) ‘Suruhenjaya Tenaga ‘Too Eloctical and Electronice Associaton of Malaysia ‘Tha Selar Energie Technic Sn Bhd NB Distribution Sdn Bhd ‘TNB Rosearch Sdn Bhd Universi Kabangsaan Malaysia Universit Malaya Universit Tekroiog Malaysia Univers Teknoiog MARALcensed to SPRING Singspore / Doxnloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user icenso only copying and networking profited Ms 1837:2005 FOREWORD This Malaysian Standard was developed by the Working Group on Utility Interfaced Solar Photovoltaic System under the authority of the Electrotechnical Industry Standards Committee. Compliance with a Malaysian Standard does not of itself confer immunity from legal obligations,Licensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user Iicense only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 INSTALLATION OF GRID-CONNECTED PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) SYSTEM SECTION 1: SCOPE AND GENERAL 14 Scope This Malaysian Standard sets out the general installation requirements for grid-connected Photovoltaic (PV) arrays with direct current (d.c.) open circuit voltages up to 1 000 V between Positive and negative conductors or up to £1 000 V with respect to earth. NOTES: 4. This incudes the fallowing PV aay configurations: 2) single string of modules; )_mutisting PV array; and ©) PV array divided into several sub-arrays. 2, Dc. systems, and photovollaic systems in parcular, pose some hazards In adlton to those derived from Conventional allemate cutent(a.c) power systems, incuding the ably to produce and sustain electcal arcs with ‘currents tha are not much greater than normal operating currents. This standard addresses the safety requremenis ‘arsing rem the particular characteristics of photovoltaic systems. Those cheractersles are presented in ANnex A. 12 Objective The objective of this standard is to provide guidelines on grid-connected PV system installation, electrical safety and fire protection requirements for: ) uninformed persons, including owner(syoccupier(s) and users of the premises where photovoltaic arrays are installed; b) informed workers (e.g. electricians) working on these systems; and ©) emergency workers, 4.3 Normative references ‘The following normative references are indispensable for the application of this standard. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the normative references (including eny amendments) applies. MS 589, Specification for 13 A plugs, socket-outlets, adaptors and connection units Ms 981, Specification for safety signs and colours: Colour and design Ms 982, Specification for fre safety signs, notices and graphic symbols MS IEC 60364, Electrical installation of buildings MS IEC 60529, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP code)Licensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user icense onl, copying and networking profited MS 1837:2005 MS IEC 61000-3-2, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) ~ Limits for harmonic current ‘emissions (equipment input current s 16 A per phase) MS IEC 61000-6, Electromagnetic compatibiliy (EMC) - Part 6: Generic standards BS EN 50176, Electronic equipment for use in power installations MS IEC 61024-1, Protection of structures against lightning — Part 1: Generel principles MS IEC 61643-12, Low voltage surge protective devices ~ Part 12: Surge protective devices connected to low voltage power distnbution systems — Selection and application principles IEC 60364-7-712, Electrical installations of buildings ~ Part 7-712: Requirements for special installations or locations — Solar photovoltaic (PY) power supply systems IEC 61218, Crystalline silicon terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules - Design qualification and ‘type approval IEC 61646, Thin-flm terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules — Design qualification and type approval 44 Definitions 14.1 Accessible, readily Capable of being reached quick’y and without climbing over or removing obstructions, mounting upon a chair, or using a movable ladder, and in any case not more than 2.0 m above the around, floor or platform: 1.4.2 Available, readily Capable of being reached for inspection, maintenance or repairs without necessitating the dismantling of structural perts, cupboards, benches or the like. 1.4.3 By-pass diode ‘A diode that is connected in parallel with a PV module, 14.4 Cable AAsingle cable core, or two or more cable cores laid up together, either with or without filings, reinforcements, or protective coverings. 14.5 Cable, shielded A cable with surrounding earthed metallic layer to confine the electric field within the cable and/or to protect the cable from extemal electrical influence. NOTE. Metalic sheaths, armours end earthed concent conductors may also serve as shields. 4.4.6 Cable core ‘The conductor with its insulation but not inclucing any mechanical protective covering.Lenses to SPRING Singepore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user icanse only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 147 Class Il equipment Equipment in which protection against electric shock does not rely on basic insulation only, bt in which additional safety precautions such as double insulation or reinforced insulation are provided, there being no provision for protective earthing or reliance upon installation Conditions. Such equipment may be one of the following types: ) Equipment having durable and substantially continuous enclosures of insulating material which envelops all metal parts, with the exception of small paris, such as nameplates, screw and rivets, which are isolated from live parts by insulation at least equivalent to reinforced insulation; such equipment is called insulation-encased Class Il equipment. b) Equipment having a substantially continuous metal enclosure, in which double insulation is used throughout, except for those parts where reinforced insulation is used, because the application of double insulation is manifestly impracticable; such equipment is called metal-encased Class II equipment, ©) Equipment that is a combination of the types described in a) and b). NoTES: 4. The enclosure of nsutatlonencased Class Il equipment may form part of the whole of the supplementary ‘nsuation or ofthe reinforced Ineuation, 2. Ifthe equipment with double insulation o relnforced Ineuatlon throughout has an earthing terminal or eating Contact, its considered to be of Class | construction. 3. Glass Il equipment may be provided with meers for maintaining the continuly of pretecve cults, insulated {rom accessible conductive parts by double insulation or rorforced insulation 4. Class Il equipment may have parts operating at SELV (separated extra low vatage), 1.48 Connection box ‘An enclosure where cables are joined and/or connected to electrical equipment and/or protective devices. 1.4.9 Installation earthing When a PV array is installed on a building, the installation earthing is the earthing bar or earthing rod of the building. 4.410. Inverter A system that converts the electrical power delivered by the PV array into the appropriate frequency andlor voltage to be delivered to the load, andior injected into the electricity grid. 14.11 Iscmoo ‘The short circuit current of a PV module or PV string at standard test conditions (STC), as specified by the manufacturer on the product specification plate. NOTE, As PV strings are a group of PV madules connected In series, the short crcultcurent of sting ls equal to uenceLicensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 16-Nay-2008 / Single wear licence only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 ! 1.442 lecsammay “The short circuit current of a PY sub-array at STC, anid is equal to: leos.aneay=Iscwoox Ssa ‘where Ssa isthe number of parallel-connected PV strings in the PV sub-array. 1443 scanmar “The short circu current of the PV array at STC, and is equal to: Iecanear = Isc woo x Sa \where Sa i the total number of parallel-connected PV strings in the PV array. 1.4.14 Live part ‘A conductor or conductive part intended to be energised in normal use, 1.445 Paneay ‘The nominal power of the PV array calculated as the sum of the nameplate power ratings of all the PV modules that constitute the array. 1.4.16 PV array ‘An electrically integrated assembly of PV modules, and other necessary components, to form a dec. power supply unit. A PV array may consist of a single PV string, or several parallel. Connected strings, or several parallel-connected PV sub-arrays and their associated electrical components, The boundary of a PV array is the connection of the PV array cable to a piece of equipment that forms part of the inverter and which is dedicated to that particular PV array. ‘Two or more PV arrays, which are not interconnected in parallel on the generation side of the inverter, shall be considered as independent PV arrays. 4.4.17 PV array cable ‘The output cable of a PV array thal connects the PV array connection box to the inverter. 1.4.48 PV array, isolated A PV array where there is electrical separation between the PV array output circuit and the ac. system. NOTE. Electrical seperation of power cel s usually achieved by means ofa poner transformer. 4.4.19. PV array connection box ‘An enclosure where all the PV strings of a PV array or all the PV sub-arrays of a PV array are ‘electrically connected in parallel and where protection devices may be located, if nevessary.Licensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single usericense enly, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 4.420 PV array voltage ‘The PV array voltage is considered to be equal to Voc annav (see 1.4.36). NOTE, The open excut votage ie dependent on the cel temperature 4.4.21 PV cell ‘The basic unit of photovoltaic conversion; @ semiconductor device that can convert light directly into elactrical energy. 4.4.22 PV kWh meter AkWh meter which records kWh units of a.c. electricity generated by 2 PV system. 1.4.23 PV module ‘An assembly of several PV cells electrically connected to form a larger photovoltaic conversion device, and which are encapsulated together to protect them from the environment. A PV module is the smallest ready-to-use photovoltaic conversion device. 1.4.24 PV module connection box ‘An enclosure affixed to a PV module, where the electrical connections to the PV module are made. 4.4.25 PV string ‘Accrcuit formed by one or more series connected PV modules. The series connection of PV modules to form a PV string is intended to provide the required circuit voltage. 14.26 PV string cable ‘A cable connecting the modules in a PV string, or connecting the string to a junction box or to the d.c. terminals of the inverter. 1.427 PV sub-array A group of PV strings connected in parallel, that comprise a partial section of the PV array, ‘where the output current of that group of strings is carried by a dedicated output cable before, being connected in parallel with other sub-arrays. NOTE. Notall PV arrays are divided into sub-arrays. 1.4.28 PV sub-array cable ‘The output cable of a PV sub-array that carries only the output current of its associated sub- array in normal operation, and that connects the PV sub-array with the other PV sub-array that constitute the PV array. NOTE. PY sub-array cables are only relevant for PV arrays thal are dvded into subarrays.fuser license only, copying and networking profited Licensed to SPRING Singapore / Cownloaded on 16-May-2008 / Si MS 1837:2005 4.4.29 PV sub-array connection box An enclosure where all the PV strings of a PV are electrically connected in parallel and where Protection devices may be located if necessary. NOTE. PV sub-aray junction boxes only relevant for PV arrays that are vided into sub-arays. 1430 PV system ‘An electrically integrated assembly of PV array, inverter (or power conditioning unit) and other necessary components to form 2 power generation unit. 1.431 Ripple-free d.c. For sinusoidal ripple voltage, a ripple content not exceeding 10 % r.m.s. NOTE. Therefore the maximum peak value does not exceed 140 V fer @ nominal 120 V rpple‘rae dc. system and 70 fora nominal 80 ripple-ree dc. eysom, 1.432 SELV (separated extra-low voltage) ‘An extra-low voltage system which is electrically separated from earth, and from other systems, in such a way that a single fault cannot give rise to the risk of electric shock. 1.4.33. SPD (surge protective device) ‘A dovice that is intended to limit transient over-vollages and divert surge currents. It contains at least one non-linear component. 1.4.34 STC (standard test conditions) A standard set of reference conditions used for the testing and rating of photovoltaic cells and modules. The standard test conditions are: @)_ PV coll temperature of 25 °C; b) irradiance in the plane of the PV cell or module of 1 000 Wim”; and light spectrum corresponding to an atmospheric air mass of 1.5. 1.4.35 Vocnoo The open circuit voltage of a PV module at STC, as specified by the manufacturer in the product specification. 1.4.36 Voc annav ‘The open circuit voltage at STC of a PV array, and is equal to: Vor array = Voouon x M where M is the number of series-connected PV modules in any PV string of the PV array,LUcensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user sense only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 NOTE. This standard assumes thal all stings within @ PY array are connected in parla hence the open cult voltage of PY sub-arays and PY slings Is equal lo Vocsanay- 1.4.37 Voltage Differences of potential normally existing between conductors and between conductors and earth are as follows: )_extra-low voltage (ELV) - Not exceeding 50 V a.c. or 120 V tipple-free d.c.; and b)_ low voltage (LV) - Exceeding extra-low voltage, but not exceeding 1 000 V a.c. or 1500 V de. NOTE. When calculating the veitage ofa PV aay, Vecaruy is to be used SECTION 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ‘The installation of a grid-connected PV system shall be in accordance with Figure 1. This figure shall be extensively referred to throughout this standard, SECTION 3: PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS 34 General The installation of grid-connected PV systems shall comply with the requirements of MS IEC 60364 or IEC 60364-7-712. The provisions of this section are aimed at ensuring that these requirements are met, taking into account a range of system topologies and earthing arrangements. 3.2 By-pass diodes By-pass diodes shall be used in the PV modules. If by-pass diodes are not embedded in the PV module encapsulation, they shall comply with all the following requirements: a) have a voltage rating at least 2 x Voc woo of the protected module; b) have a current rating of at least 1.3 x Ise woo! ©) be installed according to the module manufacturer's recommendations; 4) be installed so no live parts are exposed; and ©) be protected from degradation due to environmental factors.MS 1837:2005 nk a A i “4 3 i 3 I 33] |f t S ze] |" B 8 5 snvorter NG ‘Surge protective device (SPD) Py ary cable: expe, dati insted, [Ov session, sh PV sting oer-curent protection device dc. Figure 1. Schematic diagram of a grid-connected PV system arting requ} min 6 mn? singe core Cu (irene PY moduios se mata caeho) paraquoid Sunyonysu pue Bua ‘fue asusoy 1687 es / aode-AeNst Uo FepeqLMEG / siOdeDUIS ONS 61 PESUBITLUcensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user lsonse only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 3.3 Over-current protection 3.3.1 Discrimination Over-current protection within the PV string shall be graded in such a way that lower level protection trips first in the event of fault currents flowing from higher current sections to lower ‘current sections of the PV array. NOTE. Whon circuit broakors wit over-curent protection elements are used, they also provide the disconnecting ‘means required in 3.4, 33.2 PV etrings In all cases, all PV strings shall be protected with an over-current protection device. These over-current protection devices shall be installed in both active conductors. Suitably rated Gircuit-breakers used for over-current protection may also provide load breaking disconnecting faciities (see 3.4). The rated trip current (Ine) of over-current protection devices for PV strings shall be as specified by the PV module manufacturer or, Imap shall be determined by the following formula: 1.8 x Iscnoo She $2 X lsc woo 33.3 PVarray and PV sub-arrays Over-current protection device is not required for PV array and PV sub-arrays. 34 Disconnecting means 344 General Disconnecting means shall be provided in PV arrays according to 3.4.2, to isolate the PV array from the inverter and vice versa and to allow for maintenance and inspection tasks to be carried out safely. NOTE. This clause does nt apply to moduls inverters where the inverters an iniegral part ofthe PV module. 3.4.2 Selection and installation Only device with d.c. rating which is able to extinguish electrical arc shall be used. Suitably rated circuit-breakers used for over-current protection may also provide load breaking disconnecting facilities. Other disconnection and isolation devices having the characteristics described in 5.4 may be used as a disconnection means. Fuse systems used for over-current protection are acceptable non-load breaking disconnecting means if they have removable fusing elements, preferably with a disconnection mechanism (fuse-combination unit).Licensed to SPRING Singapore Doundoaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user icense any, copying end networking prohibited Ms 1837:2005 3.42.1 PVstrings and PV sub-arrays No separate disconnection device is required if suitably rated circuit breakers are used for the over-current protection which also provides load breaking disconnecting facilites. 3422 PVarray AA readily available load-breaking disconnection device, which interrupts both positive and negative conductors, shall be insalled in the PV array cable. This device shall be lockable in the off position. 3.4.23 Inverter A suitably a.c. rated and readily available load-breaking disconnection device, which interrupts both positive and negative conductors, shall be installed in the cable connected to the Inverter a.c. terminal, This device shall be lockable in the off position. 3.5 Emergency switching device The PV array (d.c.) load-breaking disconnection device and the inverter (a.c.) load-breaking sisconnection device shall be used as the emergency switching devices, and therefore shall be readily accessible and be clearly identified according to 7.4.2. ‘The emergency switching device shall comply with the requirements for devices for ‘emergency switching including emergency stopping as contained in MS IEC 60364 or IEC 60364-7-712. The emergency switching device shall open all active conductors of the PV array cable and shall prevent further supply by the PV array to its associated d.c. wiring. Ifthe emergency switching device is manually operated, the remote operating device shall be located in a readily accessible point and be identified in accordance with 7.4.2. NOTE. This clause is intended to eliminate the shock risk to fre brigade personnal inthe evant ofa fire emergoncy in the promises, by disconnecting cthorwise potentially lve dc. wig inside the premises or in readily accessible sren9 cuside tho bullaing, 3.6 Earth fault protection All metal casings and frames shall be earthed according to MS IEC 60364 or IEC 60364-7- 712. 3.7 Lightning protection Lightning protection measures may be required in some PV installations. The need for lightning protection shall be assessed in accordance with MS IEC 61024-1. A lightning protection system has the task of preventing severe damage caused by fire or mechanical destruction if a direct lightning strike occurs on a building or structure. Lightning protection systems consist of three essential components: a) an air termination system, consisting of metallic masts or rods of sufficient height to divert lightning currents through their structure; b)_@ down conductor of sufficient cross-sectional area to conduct lightning currents to earth; and 10LUcensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user lcanse only, copying and networking protibited MS 1837:2005 ©) an earth termination system. For ground mounted or freestanding PV arrays, the need for a lightning protection system shall be assessed in accordance with MS IEC 61024-1, and if required, it shall be installed in compliance with that standard. ‘The installation of a PV array on a building has a negligible effect on the probabilty of direct, lightning strikes and therefore it does not necessarily imply that a lightning protection system shall be installed if none is already present. However, if the physical characteristics or prominence of the building do change significantly due to the installation of the PV array, itis required that the need for a lightning protection system be assessed in accordance with MS IEC 61024-1, and if required, it shall be installed in compliance with that standard. If lightning protection system is already instelled on the building, it shall be verified that the PV array and associated equipment are within the protection zone of the system in accordance with MS IEC 61024-1. If the PV array is not within the protection zone of the existing lightning protection system, additional air termination(s) shall be provided in accordance with IEC 61024-1, When a PV array is protected by a lightning protection system, the metal structure of the PV array shall be bonded to the lightning protection system, unless the minimum safety Clearances as specified in MS IEC 61024-1, can be achieved. 3.8 Over-voltage protection Over-voltage protection measures include: @)_equipotential bonding: b) avoidance of wiring loops; ©) installation of SPDs; and 4) shielding. 3.8.1. Wiring loops To reduce the magnitude of lightning induced over-voltages, the PV array wiring shall be laid in such a way that the area of conductive loops is minimum (see example in Figure 2). 3.82 Surge protective device (SPD) 38241 General guide SPDs are a very common method of protecting electrical systems and equipment against over-voltages. When these devices are used, the recommendations of MS IEC 61643-12 shall be observed Many commercial PV inverters are fitted with SPDs on the PV input (d.c.) terminals, and this shall be considered when specifying the over-voltage protection of the PV array. "4Ucenses to SPRING Singapore / Donnloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user license only, copying and nelwerking profitited MS 1837:2005 3.8.2.2 Selection ‘The selection of SPDs shall be in accordance to MS'IEC 61643-12. 3.8.2.3 Usage and installation ‘The usage and installation of SPDs shall be in accordance to MS IEC 61643-12, 3.8.2.4 SPD specifications to protect PV array and inverter (d.c. terminal) ‘The specifications for SPDs to protect PV arrays and inverter (d.c. terminal) are as follows {refer to list of parameters for SPDs selection in IEC 61643-12): a) SPDs of Class Il (in this context, Class Il refers to the test specifications of SPDs rather than insulation class). b) Have a maximum continuous operating voltage (U.) with U.> 1.3.x Voesrc cen: ©) Have a maximum continuous operating current (I) with I. > 1.3 X lsc srecen- 4) Have a maximum discharge current (Ina) With Imax 2 15 kA. @) Have a voltage protection level (U,) with 1.3 x Vac src cen < Up< 1-1 KV. 3.8.2.5 SPDs specifications to protect inverter (a.c. terminal) ‘The specifications for SPD to protect inverter (a.c. terminal) shall be suitably rated for a.c. use and in accordance to MS IEC 61643-12. 3.8.3. Shielding When the PV array frame is bonded to a lightning protection system, the PV array cable shall be shielded by one of the following methods, and the shielding conductor shall be connected to earth at both ends: a) with a metallic cable armour or shield with an equivalent cross-sectional area of 6 mm* Cu; or b)_ with a metallic conduit suitable as a bonding conductor; or ©) with an equipotential bonding conductor with a cross-sectional area of at least 6 mm? NOTE, @:mCu should be able to withstand 20 KA for 1 ms. SECTION 4: WIRING REQUIREMENTS 4.1 Compliance with wiring standards ‘The wiring to the PV array shall comply with the requirements of MS IEC 60364 or IEC 60364-7-712. NOTE. Pantcutar attention needs to be given othe protection of wing systems against extemal influences, 12Licensed fo SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user license only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 42 System voltage Voc aneay Shall not exceed the maximum allowed ‘operating voltage of the PY modules (as specified by the manufacturer). 4.3 Wiring Installation 434 General ‘Wiring of PV arrays shall be laid in such a way thet the possiblity of line to line and line to earth faults occurring is minimised. All connections shall be verified for tightness and polarity during installation to reduce the risk of faults and possible arcs occurring during commissioning and operation. 43.2 Wiring loops The PV array wiring should be laid in such a way that the area of conductive loops is minimised (e.g. by laying cables in parallel as shown in Figure 2); see also 3.8.1. = Figure 2. PV string wiring with minimum loop area 43.3. String, sub-array and array wiring ‘The wiring of PV strings, sub-arrays and array shall satisfy the following requirements 1a) Double insulated and flex type cables shall be used. b) Cables shall be protected from mechanical damage. ©) Cables shail be clamped (to relieve tension and to prevent conductors coming free from the connection). 43.4 Wiring installation in connection boxes ‘The following provisions apply to the installation of wiring systems in connection boxes: 13Licensed to SPRING Singapore! Downloaded on 15-May-2006 / Single user icense only, copying and networklng prohibited MS 1837:2005 2) Where conductors enter a connection box without conduit, a tension relief system shall be Used to avoid cable disconnections inside the connection box (for example by using @ gland connector). : b) Allcable entries, when installed, shell maintain the IP rating of the enclosure. NOTE. Water condensation inside connection boxes may be a problom in some locations and provision may eed a be provided to drain water built-up. ©) For LV PV arrays, where a relurn conductor is routed through module connection boxes, such return conductor(s) shall be double-insulated cables, and the cable and its insulation shall maintain double insulation status over its entire length, particularly through connection boxes (i.e. these provisions also apply to the joints). 43.5 Location of PV array and PV sub-array connection boxes PV array and PV sub-array connection boxes, where installed, shall be readily available, 44 Cable selection 444° Cablesize 4441 General Cable sizes for PV string cables, PV sub-array cables and PV array cables shall not be less than 2.5 mm® and shall be determined with regard to both, the minimum current capacity (see Clause 4.4.1.2) and maximum voltage drop requirements (see 4.4.1.3). The larger cable size obtained from these two criteria shall be applied. 4.4.1.2 Current carrying capacity (CCC) ‘The minimum cable sizes for PV array wiring, based on CCC, shall be based upon a current raiing according to Table 1 Table 1. Current rating of PV array circuits ‘Type of cable ‘Minimum current upon which eable cross-sectional area| Should be chosen PV ering cable 2xlecuco PV subvarray and aray cable _| 1.3% lscsamar wan (f relevant orev) NOTE. The operating temperature of PV modules and consequerly their associated wiring can be significantly Pigher than the ambient temperature. A minimum temperature rise above maximum expected ambient temperature of ++40°C shouldbe considered for cabes installed near or in contact with PV modules. 4.4.1.3 Voltage drop The voltage drop between the PV array and the inverter shall be less than 5 %. NOTE. Voltage drop in cables Is a measure of the lasses In PV eray wiring and hence affects the efcency ofthe PV power system, 14LUcensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user iconse oly, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 442 Insulation ‘The insulation of cables used within the PV array stall: 2) have a voltage rating of al least 1.2 x Voc aneavi NOTE. The use of double insulated and shielded cable ie required for wiring of PV arrays where Vos mama 2 420V de, tominimise the ik of faute within tho wing, )_ have a temperature rating according to the application; and NOTE. PV modules frequently operate at temperatures ofthe ower of 40°C above ambient temperature. Cable Insulation of wiring instaed in contac with, or near, PV modules needs 1o be rated accordingly. )_be UV resistant, or be protected from UV light by appropriate protection (e.g. installed in UV resistant conduit). 4.5 Wiring identification Appropriate identification shall be provided for PV array cabling where it can be confused with other wiring systems. SECTION 5: COMPONENT REQUIREMENTS 51 PV modules 544 Reliability Crystalline silicon PV modules shall comply with IEC 61215. Thin film PV modules shall comply with IEC 61646, 5.1.2 Equipment class PV modules shall be Class Il, 5.4.3 Reverse current PV modules shall be capable of conducting continuously a reverse current equal to 2.6 x Isc vuoo without damage. 52 Inverter requirements Inverters shall comply with requirements in accordance to MS IEC 61000-9-2, MS IEC 61000- 6 and BS EN 50178. Inverters shal be isolated in the event of mains supply failure. 53 PV array and PV sub-array connection boxes 53.1 Environmental effects PV array and PV sub-array connection boxes exposed to the environment shall be at least IP 665 compliant in accordance with MS IEC 60529, and shall be UV resistant. 18Licensed to SPRING Singepore / Bonnloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user icense only, copying and networking probiited MS 1837:2005 5.4 Switching devices 544 General a All switching devices shall comply with al the following requirements: a) be rated for d.c. use and able to extinguish electrical arcs; b)_ have a voltage rating equal to, or greater than, 1.2 x Voc anravi ¢)_ not have exposed metalic ive parts in connected or disconnected state; and 4) interrupt ail poles. 5.42 Current breaking devices In addition to the requirements of 5.4.1, circuit breakers and any other load breaking disconnection devices used for protection andor disconnecting means shall comply with the following requirements: ) not be polarity sensitive (as fault currents in a PV array may flow in the opposite direction ‘of normal operating currents); 2) _be rated to interrupt full load and prospective fault currents from the PV array and any other connected power sources such as batteries, generators and the grid, if present; and b) when over-current protection is incorporated, the trip current shall be rated according to 33. 5.4.3. Plugs, sockets and couplers Plugs, sockets and couplers shall comply with all the following requirements: a) be rated for d.c. use; b) have a voltage rating equal or greater than 1.2 x Voc anwavi ©) be protected from contact with tive parts in both the connected and disconnected state ((..be shrouded); ) have a current rating equal to, or greater than, the cable to which they are fitted; €) require a deliberate force to disconnect; f) have a temperature rating suitable for their installation location; 9) if muttipotar, be polarised; h)_ comply with Class If; and i) if exposed to the environment, be rated for outdoor use, be UV resistant and be at least IP 65 compliant 16Licensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2006 / Sing ueer license only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 Plugs and socket outlets normally used for connection to a.c. mains power as described in MS 589, shall not be used in PV arrays wiring. 55 Fuses Fuses used in PV arrays shall comply with all the following requirements: a) be rated for d.c. use: b) have a voltage rating equal to, or greater than, 1.2.x Vocawayi and ©) be rated to interupt full load and prospective fault currents from the PV array and ‘connected power sources such as batteries, generators and the grid, if present. NOTE. When fuses are provided for overcurrent protection, the use of fuse load bresk switch-aisconnectors(Wuse- combination unis) is recommended 5.5.1 Fuse holders Fuse holders shall comply with all the following requirements: ) have a voltage rating equal to, or greater than 1.2 x Voc ana: b) have a current rating equal to, or greater thn, the corresponding fuse; and ©) provide a degree of protection not less than IP 2X. 5.6 PV kWh meter The PV kh meter is used to record kW/h units of a.c. generated electricity by a PV system. ‘The meter shall be connected between the inverter a.c. terminal and the inverter main switch (ac. load breaking disconnection device). The PV kWh meter shall be suitable to record kWh units of ac. electricity. The meter accuracy shall be of Class 2 (#2 %). SECTION 6: EARTHING 64 General ‘There are three possible reasons for earthing a PV array: 2) equipotential bonding to avoid uneven potentials across and installation; b) protective earthing to provide a path for faut currents to flow; and ©) lightning protection. ‘An earth conductor may perform one or more of these functions in an installation. The dimensions and location of the conductor are very dependent on its function. 47Lcensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded an 15-¥ay-2008/ Single user lconse only. copying and networking proiited Ms 1837:2005 62 Earthing electrode 1a separate earthing electrode is provided for he PV array, this electrode shall be bonded to the installation earthing 63. Equipment earthing 63.4 Earthing of equipment Equipment earthing refers to the bonding to earth of all frames of the PV array including any structural metalwork. Equipment earthing shall be done with at least a 6 mm? earthing ‘conductor. 63.2 Earthing conductors All PV array earthing conductors shall comply with the material, type, insulation, identification, installation and connection requirements as specified in MS IEC 60364 or IEC 60364-7-712. SECTION 7: MARKING REQUIREMENTS 74 General Al signs required by 7.2 to 7.4 shall: a) comply with MS 981 and MS 982; b) be indelible: )_ be legible from atleast 0.8 m unless otherwise specified in the relevant clauses; and 4) be constructed and affixed to remain legible for the life of the equipment it is attached or related to. NOTE. Examples of signs are given in Annex B. 7.2 PVarray and PV sub-array connection boxes A sign containing the text PV D.C.’ shall be attached to PV array and PV sub-array connection boxes, 7.3 Disconnection devices 734 General Disconnection devices shall be marked with an identification name or number in accordance with the PV array wiring diagram, All switches shall have the ON and OFF positions clearly indicated. 73.2. PVarray main switch ‘The PV array main switch (d.c, load breaking disconnection device) shall be provided with a sign affixed in a prominent location with the following text: PV D.C. MAIN SWITCH’ 18Licensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user icenee only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 7.3.3 Inverter main switch ‘The inverter main suitch (a. load breaking discohnection device) shall be provided with @ sign affixed in a prominent location with the following text: ‘PV A.C. MAIN SWITCH’. 7.4 Fire emergency information 7.44 General For PV arrays that are installed on buildings and have a rated power greater than 500 W or with Voc apeay greater than 50 V, a sign next to the building main switchboard shall be provided. This sign shall specify the procedure for the fire brigade to enter the building without the risk of electric shock from the PV array and the operation of the emergency switching device, if relevant. This sign shall be legible from at least 1.5 m. 7.4.2 Manually operated emergency switching device When a manually operated switching device is used, the means of operating such device, such as handles or push-buttons for emergency switching, shall be clearly indicated. The signs to identify the switching devices (see 7.3.2 and 7.3.3) shall be placed next to them and shall be legible from at least 1.5 m, 7.8 Shutdown procedure ‘Assign, that contains shutdown instructions for the PV system, shall be located in a prominent location. The sign shall include the name and location of the relevant disconnection devices. ‘The sign shall also include the following PV array information: a) open circuit voltage; and b) short circuit current. SECTION 8: DOCUMENTATION ‘The PV system installer shall prepare the following documents and a copy shall be handed to the PV system owner: a) a basic circuit diagram that includes the electrical ratings of the PV array, including the information required by 7.4; b) a copy of the emergency shutdown procedure including the location of relevant switching devices; ©) as-built diagram that includes the PV array, the inverter and the major components; 4) PV system or parts certification 2s required by relevant authorities and provided by manufacturer; ) all specifications of the PV array. the inverter and the system components; and ) PV system maintenance requirements (see Annex C). 19LUcersad to SPRING Singapore | Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user license only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 SECTION 9: COMMISSIONING 9.1 General Commissioning tests are required to ensure that the PV array complies with the safety requirements of this standard. 9.2 Wiring and installation integrity ‘The PV array wiring shell be inspected for compliance with the wiring requirements of MS IEC 60364 or IEC 60364-7-712, and the witing requirements set out in Section 4 of this standard, and corrected if necessary. 93 Open circuit voltage 93.1 General This testis intended to ensure that wiring polarity and continuity of the PV array are correct. 93.2 Procedure The open circuit voltage of every string shall be measured before connecting to other strings. All PV string open circuit voltages shall be within 5 % variation; otherwise the connections shall be verified for polarity, continuity and possible faults and repaired. Once the verification is complete and satisfactory, the PV strings can be connected in parallel ‘The same procedure shall be carried out to verify PV sub-array open circuit voltages (if relevant) and PV array open circuit voltage before connecting the PV array to the inverter. NOTE. All measurements should be made when practicable under iradiance conditions. Conditions close to solar noon are preferable, 94 PV kWh meter ‘The meter shall be tested for functionality and the initial value shall be recorded. 9.5 Commissioning records The following commissioning records shall be given to the owner, and if necessary to the relevant authorities: a) a certificate stating that the work done on the installation meets the requirements of this, standard; b) a record ofthe final open circuit veltage measurements; ©) a record of the measured values of current and/or resistance before and after any adjustments to the earth fault protection system (ifrelevant); and d) a record of the initial value of the PV kWh meter. 20LUcensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user icense ony, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 Annex A (informative) Characteristics of PV arrays At. PVarrays A141 dc. versus a.c, behavior ‘One of the most important characteristics of direct current (d.c.) in relation to safety is that dc. ares, caused by switching or faults, are much more difficult to extinguish than a.c. arcs. This implies that all switchgear and over-current protection devices in the PV array need to be rated for used in d.c. circuits (d.c. switchgear is less readily available and its cost increases significantly, as the d.c. operating voltages increase), 1.2. Series parallel configuration To reduce mismatch and improve PV array yield, all PV strings within a PV array should be of the same technology and have the same number of series connected PV modules. Also, all PV modules within the PV array should have similar rated electrical characteristics including short circuit current, open circuit voltage, maximum power current, maximum power voltage and rated power (all at STC). 13 Low fault level PV cells (and consequently PV arrays) behave like current sources under low impedance faults. Thus in PV arrays without battery storage, currents much greater than normal full load ‘currents will not flow even under short circuit fault conditions, making short circuit detection impossible. Therefore, electric arcs can be formed in a PV afray with fault currents that will not trip an over-current device. The implications for PV array design that arise from these PV array characteristics are: a) the changes of line to line faults, earth faults and inadvertent wire disconnections in the system need to be minimised; and b) earth fault detection and disablement could be required as part of the system protection functions depending on the array size and location, to eliminate the risk of fre. 1.4 Operating temperature PV modules can operate well above ambient temperature under normal operating conditions. ‘A common steady state temperature rise for silicon modules operating at the maximum power point under 1 000 Wim? solar irradiance and with adequete ventilation is 25 °C. This temperature rise can go up by 35 °C when modules are open circuited (Le. the PV array has been put out of operation due to a arid failure in the case of grid connected systems), The temperature rise can be even higher when irradiance levels are greater than 1 000 Wim? and ‘when modules have poor ventilation. The following are two main requirements on the PV array design derived from this operating characteristic of PV modules: 24Lcensed to SPRING Singepore / Donnloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user icense only, copying and networking probiited MS 1837:2005 a) PV module efficiency reduces as their operating temperature increases (for crystalline silicon solar cells the maximum power decreases between 0.4 % and 0.5 % per each degree C rise in operating temperature). Therefore adequate ventilation of the PV array should be a design goal, in order to ensure optimum performance for both modules and associated components. ) All the components and equipment that may be in direct contact or near the PV array (conductors, inverters, connectors, elc.) need to be capable of withstanding the expected ‘maximum operating temperature of the PV array. 2, Grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems. ‘The systems have the following characteristics: a) Generally they do not use batteries for energy storage because the grid behaves as an infinite bus that can receive or supply power. b) PV arrays in these systems tend to be low voltage. ©) Awide range of inverter topologies can be found an the market. Some of them Include an isolation transformer, and some of them are transformerless; some of them require the PV array to be earthed and some of them require it not to be earthed. 22Licensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 16-May-2008 / Single use license only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 Annex B (informative) Examples of signs B1. Overview This annex provides examples of appropriate signs as specified in Section 7. PV D.c. Figure B1. Example of sign required on PV array connection box (7.2) PV D.c. MAIN SWITCH Figure 82. Example of sign required adjacent to PV array main switch (7.3.2) PV AC. MAIN SWITCH Figure B3. Example of sign required adjacent to inverter main switch (7.3.3) 23ser Keane only, copying and natwerking prohiited LUcensed to SPRING Singapore Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single u MS 1837:2005 FIRE EMERGENCY INFORMATION DISCONNECT THE GRID MAINS POWER INTO THE BUILDING BEFORE ENTERING THE PREMISE. THIS WILL ALSO DISCONNECT THE PV SYSTEM POWER SUPPLY INTO THE BUILDING FOLLOW THE PV SYSTEM SHUTDOWN PROCEDURE TO FULLY DISCONNECT THE PV SYSTEM Figure B4. Example of fire emergency information sign required on the main switchboard (7.4.1)Licensed to SPRING Singapore / Downlcadel! en 16-May-2008 / Single use license only, copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 PV SYSTEM SHUTDOWN PROCEDURE STEP 1: Turn off the ‘PV A.C. MAIN SWITCH’ located next to the a.c. terminals of the inverter. STEP 2: Turn off the ‘PV D.C. MAIN SWITCH’ located next to the d.c. terminals of the inverter. Warning: Do not open plug and socket connectors or PV string isolators under load PV Array Open Circuit Voltage: Vue PV Array Short Circuit Current: Aac Figure B5. Example of shutdown procedure (7.5) 25Licensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user license only, copying and networking profited MS 1837:2005, ANNEX C (informative) Maintenance requirements Ct. Safety Attention should be given in the maintenance procedures to the following safety requirements: a) emergency shutdown procedure; b)_ obey all waming signs; ©) shut system down and interrupt PV array according to the manual shutdown procedure; 4) split strings into extra low voltage sections (if relevant); and ) _wam of the live parts that cannot be de-energised during daylight. C2. Periodic maintenance The following maintenance activities should be considered for inclusions in the maintenance procedures, according to the location, size and design of the PV array. 8) Cleaning of the PV array might be periodically required in locations where it is likely to collect dust or other shading materials. b) Periodic inspections should be carried out to check witing integrity, electrical connections, ‘corrosion and mechanical protection of wiring. ©) Verify open circuit voltage, and if possible short circuit current values. )_ Verify functioning of earth fault protection (if relevant). €) Measure wet insulation resistance. f) Check PV array mounting structure(s).. 9) Test operation of switches regularly. hh) Check for module defects (fracture, moisture penetration, browning, etc.). |) Verify status of SPDs (if relevant), NT - 38579Licensed to SPRING Singapore / Downloadad on 15-May-2008 / Single user icense only copying and networking prohibited MS 1837:2005 C3, Operation and maintenance procedures Operation and maintenance procedures should inclde the following: @) a short description of the function and operation of all installed equipment. More detailed information should be available from the manufacturer's documentation [see d)]; b) emergency and maintenance shutdown procedures; ©) periodic maintenance requirements including procedures and schedule; and 4) equipment manufacturer's documentation (data sheets, handbooks, etc.) for all equipment supplied. arLUcensed to SPRING Singapore / Domnloaded on 15-May-2008 / Single user ioense only, copying and netwerking praibited Acknowledgements MS 1837:2005 Technical Committee on Generation, Conversion, Transformation and Storage of Electrical Energy members: Encik Rumai Abdullah (Chairman) Encik Abdul Karim Abdul Razak (Secretary) Ir Vijayanand Thrunavakarsar Encik Johnnie Wong Ir Mohd Fazii Osman Puan Sharifah Jusoh Encik Abdul Hfiz Ahmed Ir Zakuan Ibrahim Enolk Zulkeply Wahid Encik Vincent Tan Hong Chuan IrV. Jeowa Dr Hamzah Arof Prof Madya Faridah Mohd Taha Tenaga Nasional Berhad SIRIM Berhad Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers GP Autobat Sdn Bhd Jabatan Kerja Raya SIRIM QAS International Sdn Bhd (Electrotechnical Testing Section) SIRIM QAS International Sdn Bhd (Product Certification Section) Suruhanjaya Tenaga ‘TNB Remaco Sdn Bhd ‘The Electrical and Electronics Association of Malaysia ‘The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia Universiti Malaya Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Working Group on Utility interfaced Solar Photovoltaic System members: IrAhmad Hadri Haris (Cheirman) Encik Abdul Karim Abdul Razak (Secretary) Encik 8. Gobinathan/ Encik Borhannuddin Marzuki Puan Sabariah Hussain/ Ir Aminuddin Johari Encik Hamdan Mokhtar Ir Hj Abdul Aziz Abdul Rahman Ir Chew Shee Fuee Encik Jeyaram Subramaniam Encik Halim Osman Prof Dr Kamaruzzaman Sopian Prof Dr Nasrudin Abd Rahim Prof Madya Dr Zainal Salam Prof Madya Dr Sulaiman Shaari Prof Madya Dr Titik Khawa Abdul Rahman Pusat Tenaga Malaysia/TNB Research Sdn. Bhd. SIRIM Berhad BP Solar Malaysia Sdn Bhd Jabatan Kerja Raya SIRIM Berhad (Environment and Bioprocess Technology Center) ‘Suruhanjaya Tenaga The Electrical and Electronics Association of Malaysia The Solar Energie Techrik Sdn Bhd ‘TNB Distribution Sn Bhd Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Universiti Malaya Universit Teknologi Malaysia Universiti Teknologi MARA (Faculty of Applied Sciences) Universiti Teknologi MARA (Faculty of Electrical Engineering)