Quick Answer
The California Electrical Code (CEC) governs solar grounding practices, specifically in Title 24 Part 6, which covers electrical systems, and Section 690.65, which outlines requirements for grounding and bonding of PV systems. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61855 standard is also referenced. NFPA 70 also applies.
Solar Grounding Requirements in California
The California Electrical Code (CEC) requires a grounding system for photovoltaic (PV) systems, which includes the use of a grounding electrode conductor (GEC) and a grounding electrode. The GEC must be sized according to the National Electric Code (NEC) Table 250.66, which states that it must be at least 6 AWG for systems up to 80 kW, and 4 AWG for systems above 80 kW.
Bonding Requirements for Solar Panels
The CEC also requires bonding of all metal parts of the PV system to the grounding electrode. This includes the PV arrays, inverters, and other metal components. The bonding connections must be made at the grounding point, which is usually at the grounding electrode. The bonding conductor must be sized according to NEC Table 250.122, which states that it must be at least 4 AWG for systems up to 80 kW, and 2 AWG for systems above 80 kW.
Grounding and Bonding Techniques for California Solar Installations
To ensure proper grounding and bonding of a solar PV system in California, installers must use a combination of techniques, including the use of copper grounding electrodes, GECs, and bonding conductors. The system must be designed to meet the CEC requirements, and the installation must be inspected and verified by a licensed electrician. Additionally, installers must use a grounding resistance test to verify that the system’s grounding system meets the required resistance levels, which is typically 5 ohms or less.
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