REC Installation Manual - REC Alpha Panels - IEC 61215 /61730
Rev 13 - 11.22
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ANNEX 1: INSTALLATIONS ON WATER PLATFORMS
The REC solar panels covered by this manual may be installed on water platform-type mounting systems (note that the certification testing of solar
panels does not include testing on these types of systems). When installing REC solar panels on fixed position (e.g., anchored) water platforms, for
example, floating pontoons, follow the instructions below specific to such applications. Failure to do so will invalidate the warranty.
INSTALLATION ENVIRONMENT
i) Installation site
• REC solar panels may only be installed on closed bodies of fresh water where water salinity does not exceed 25 mS/cm at 25°C (15 PSU). This
specifically excludes mounting on sea and ocean applications.
• The maximum permitted wave height must not exceed 1 m from the crest to the trough of the wave.
ii) Floating platforms
• When using a floating platform, follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding installation, maintenance, inspection and cleaning at all times.
iii) Minimum installation height
• The minimum installation height of REC solar panels on floating platform systems is 15 cm and is defined as the height between the water
surface and the lowest edge/part of the panel during normal operation. This will help to shield the panel from direct water spray.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
i) System installation
• All cables used for the installation must have sufficient length and slack to prevent damage due to water level changes and wave motions.
ii) Mounting panels
• Installation of REC solar panels must be in accordance with the aforementioned standard mounting instructions.
• The junction box should be oriented as far as possible from the water surface according to system design and the junction box, cables and
connectors must be protected from direct water splash.
• The installation must allow for sufficient spacing between individual panels, in order to avoid all contact as caused by the natural movement
and flexing of the floating structure.
iii) Panel protection
• In areas with high avian activity, additional bird repelling devices may be installed as long as they do not adversely affect system performance, e.g.,
shading or to the local environment etc.
• If using lightning protection equipment on the floating installation, all relevant local regulations must be respected.
MAINTENANCE
• Regularly inspect the installation to ensure all panels are securely mounted.
SAFETY
• Immediately disconnect the system if the installation or the floating platform exhibits deviation from standard operating conditions.
• In the event of the floating platform being submerged, disconnect the DC connection at the inverter immediately. Do not attempt to salvage
panels when sunlight is present.
NOTE
For all installations on water platforms, first advise REC before the start of installation in case of any site specific instructions or constraints.
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NOTE
Negative system grounding is required for REC solar panels installed on a floating platform.
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NOTE
For installations with high avian activity, system cleaning may be required at more frequent intervals to reduce shading of panels caused by bird defecation.
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