Solar PV

What is the classification code on an EICR for Solar PV installed on one side of a split load RCD consumer unit? 

  • What is the level of danger you think this poses ? - that will depend what else is on that RCD, and perhaps on the power level and installation method of the PV inverter.

    Are other things wrong?  - Are the  isolators and so forth suitable, is the overload protection appropriate etc.

    Are there also batteries as part of the installation ?

    Mike

  • Provided the RCCB switches N as well as lines (551.7.1 (ii)) - what's the non-compliance?

    Depending on the inverter, a B-type might be needed, but that's a separate issue.

       - Andy.

  • Probably need more information/context and also maybe some pictures.

    When was the CU/DB installed?

    When was the solar PV installed?

    Was it installed by an accredited MCS approved installer?

    Is there battery storage?

    Other points of note

    Is there Type 2 SPD present?

    Is there AC and DC isolation on the PV install?

    Type of cable used for array and is it clearly labelled up as DC power

    Is there a copy of G98?

    Personally I think that Solar PV should be fitted to a fully RCBO populated board (CU/DB)  with SPD.  Caveat bi-directional.  This is as a starting point for Diversity and Earth Leakage.

  • Are you thinking along the lines of DC currents present and masking fault currents, preventing the RCD from operating?  

  • If the inverter is capable of DC feedback 

  • Surely the PV output (± battery) does not have to join at the origin?

    If the PV array shares a distribution circuit, does it need RCD protection at all?

  • Does it come down to the inverter having simple separation. Transformer-less inverters may be able to feed a DC fault current into the AC side (Reference COP) The DC element May blind the split board RCD and potential leave other circuits without RCD protection.