Lightning protection is required when laying photovoltaic panels on the iron shed roof

This paper identifies the fundamental aspects of lightning interaction on PV and to summarize the lightning protection system requirement according to the standards and guidelines. The necessities of lightning protection on the PV systems and its barrier, the need for different lightning protection system on PV systems as well as its .

Lightning is a common cause of failures in photovoltaic (PV) and wind-electric systems. A damaging surge can occur from lightning that strikes a long distance from the system or between clouds. But most lightning damage is preventable. In this article, you will learn how to protect your solar power system from lightning.

This paper can help engineers design effective lightning protection system for PV systems and select appropriate protective devices. Solar photovoltaic (PV) system is one of the promising renewable energy options for substituting the conventional energy. PV systems are subject to lightning damage as they are often installed in unsheltered areas .

When photovoltaic modules are installed on a roof equipped with a lightning conductor, a direct link between the metallic parts of the modules and the existing conductor is necessary to avoid a building up connection risk. If the roof cladding is metallic, it should be connected with the equipotential conductor.

Photovoltaic arrays are typically installed on rooftops, near power transmission lines, constructed of aluminum frames, and must be free from objects that shade them. Optimum exposure to sunlight also means increased vulnerability during electrical storms. Studies indicate that lightning is the number one cause of catastrophic failures in solar .

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6 FAQs about [Lightning protection is required when laying photovoltaic panels on the iron shed roof]

Do PV panels need a lightning protection system?

Consequently, they are frequently subjected to lightning strikes, which may cause damage to PV arrays, service interruption, and additional cost for PV replacement. Therefore, an adequate lightning protection system (LPS) must be installed to protect the PV panels.

Does a solar power system have a lightning protection system?

Figure 5 shows an appropriate integrated lightning protection system for a sample solar power system located on a building at roof level, while figure 6 depicts a free field solar panel farm equipped with a lightning protection system. Both examples include the discussed air termination network, SPDs and earthing system.

Can Lightning affect a roof top PV system?

It has been shown that for buildings with roof top PV systems only the avoidance of lightning attachment to unprotected parts of the building is not sufficient. Lightning currents passing through the lightning protection system may still affect the PV power system through inductive coupling.

Are PV systems vulnerable to lightning?

Similar to other power systems [ , , , , ], PV systems are vulnerable to lightning because they are always installed in unsheltered open areas. Recent studies on lightning protection of PV systems have drawn much attentions [ 9 ].

What happens if a PV system is not protected against lightning?

Many PV systems may not be properly protected against lightning. Due to this exposure, the PV systems may be liable to suffer a crucial impact in a way that can lead towards severe damage for instances; failure of the electrical and electronic parts in the building or PV installation and disruption of their normal operation.

Can lightning cause a photovoltaic system failure?

Lightning can cause photovoltaic (PV) system failures as lightning that strikes the system from a great distance away, or even between clouds, can generate high-voltage surges.

Lightning protection is required when laying photovoltaic panels on the iron shed roof