TNO Declares SolarEdge Safety Features Exceed International Regulations
When it comes to renewable energy, safety is a tenet on which there should be no compromise. While PV is considered a safe technology, it’s important to be sure that the system comes equipped with the most advanced safety features available, delivered by a reliable company that is renowned for safety.
That is why we were excited by the opportunity to have our safety suite tested and validated by TNO, one of the largest, internationally recognized independent research organizations, specializing in applied science in the energy segment.
What did they test?
TNO tested three separate features of the SolarEdge multilayer safety suite: Sense Connect, AFCI, and SafeDC™. SolarEdge applies other forms of temperature anomaly identification and fault detection such as pinpoint monitoring, which through the inverter, monitors each module and runs temperature sensing, but only the most significant components of the safety solution were selected for testing. Each of these technologies performs a specific function and when used together, provides a comprehensive safety solution for the system.
SafeDC™ - Safe Site Voltage
Within minutes, SafeDC™ is designed to automatically reduce the power of each of the solar modules to touch-safe level during grid failures or inverter shutdowns. Faulty wiring in some types of installations with string inverters could mislead a maintenance team into believing that an installation is not energized when in fact, the modules are still operational and running at high voltage. However, SolarEdge solutions are designed to eliminate that risk; with SafeDC™ the modules are deactivated through the Power Optimizer. This is critical for maintenance workers and first responders who require fast and safe access to the installation. SafeDC™ also mitigates the risks of parallel arcs and creates a safer environment during installation.
Arc Fault Circuit Detection and Interruption
Our AFCI feature is designed to detect and stop an electric arc from forming by automatically turning the inverter off and shutting down strings of up to 400m at the module level. The SolarEdge AFCI feature is in compliance with the UL1699B standard.
Sense Connect
Our S-Series Power Optimizers introduced patented SolarEdge Sense Connect technology that is designed to monitor the PV connections while the installation is producing solar power, detect irregularities in PV connector temperature, and shut the inverter off before an electric arc event can occur or connectors are damaged. Installers are notified and directed to the exact event location, saving considerable maintenance time.
How did TNO perform their tests?
TNO performed multiple tests on each of the 3 technologies at numerous power levels, simulating various conditions of real-life scenarios.
Results
SolarEdge was pleased with the results which confirmed that SolarEdge safety mechanisms successfully passed all the performed tests. TNO remarked that “Sense Connect and SafeDC™ are complementary safety measures which exceed global safety standards.” They are validated by TNO for detecting and terminating arcs before and after they occur.
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