24
General Installation Manual
ANNEX 1: INSTALLATIONS USING
MODULE LEVEL POWER
ELECTRONICS
This section is applicable to EverVolt
modules referred to in this installation
manual.
Module Level Power Electronics
(MLPE) is the name given to the
range of module-level components
that can be installed in PV system
circuits installed on or in buildings to
reduce shock hazard for emergency
responders.
From January 2019, Section 690.12
of the National Electrical Code (NEC)
(in the U.S.A.) requires the module-
level rapid shutdown of solar systems
(replacing the previous arraylevel
shutdown requirement of NEC 2014).
This means that all conductors within
an array’s in (300 mm) boundary have
to be reduced to 80 V or less within 30
seconds of rapid shutdown initiation.
MLPE devices may be used on EverVolt
modules where desirable or mandatory
(note that the certification testing of
solar modules does not include testing
with MLPE devices).
When installing an MLPE device on an
EverVolt module, follow the
instructions provided by the device
manufacturer and the instructions
specific for EverVolt modules
given below. Failure to follow the
manufacturer and the EverVolt
instructions may invalidate the
warranty.
INSTALLATION
-MLPE devices are suitable for use
wherever solar modules are suitable
for installation. Observe any limitations
set by the MLPE manufacturer. (e.g.,
minimum mounting gap between
MLPE and rooftop).
-When attaching an MLPE device to a
solar module, it must be secured to the
module frame. Follow MLPE
manufacturer instructions to ensure
optimum mounting of MLPE device
and prevent any slippage during
operation.
-MLPE devices may also be attached to
the mounting construction. In such
cases, refer to the instructions provided
by the manufacturer.
-Wherever possible, the installation of
the MLPE device should not cover the
product label on the rear of the
module.
-MLPE devices may only be installed on
EverVolt modules in the areas shown
in the diagram below (Figure 24):
• To avoid damage to the module and
to allow for thermal expansion,
there must be a minimum gap of
0.1 in (2.5 mm) between the MLPE
device and the module backsheet.
• The mounting holes in the module
frame must not be used for the
installation of MLPE devices.
• The drilling of extra holes in the
frame is not permitted and will
invalidate the module warranty.
CONNECTION
• First ensure the installation of the
MLPE device is secure and safe.
• Following the device
manufacturer’s instructions to
connect the cables from the
MLPE device to the solar module
correctly (usually positive to
positive [+ to +] and negative to
negative [- to -]).
• Connection to the next module in
the array should be done from the
‘free’ cables.
SAFETY
• Immediately disconnect the
device if there is a problem during
installation.
Figure 24. MLPE device installation zones
0 - 18.9 in [0 - 480 mm]
0 - 18.9 in [0 - 480 mm]
0 - 40 in [0 - 1016 mm]
0 - 18.9 in [0 - 480 mm]
0 - 18.9 in [0 - 480 mm]
0 - 40 in [0 - 1016mm]
GR
GR
GR
Installation of MLPE device in the red
zone is not permitted.
Installation of MLPE device in the green
zone is permitted.
