Quick Answer
Yes, grounding requirements change for solar systems in flood-prone areas due to increased risk of corrosion and water damage, necessitating higher grounding electrode resistances and more stringent bonding requirements.
Enhanced Grounding Requirements for Flood-Prone Areas
In areas prone to flooding, the risk of water damage and corrosion to grounding electrodes and conductors increases. As a result, the National Electric Code (NEC) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) specify higher grounding electrode resistances for solar systems in these areas. According to NEC 250.52, the maximum allowed grounding electrode resistance in flood-prone areas is 25 ohms, compared to 35 ohms for other areas.
Special Considerations for Bonding
In addition to enhanced grounding requirements, bonding is also critical in flood-prone areas to prevent electrical shock and ensure the safe operation of solar systems. NEC 250.30 requires that all metal components of the solar array, including modules, frames, and grounding electrodes, be bonded together with a conductor that meets the requirements of NEC 250.64. In areas subject to flooding, a minimum bonding conductor size of 6 AWG is recommended, with a maximum bonding resistance of 1 ohm.
Design and Installation Considerations
When designing and installing solar systems in flood-prone areas, it’s essential to consider the unique challenges posed by this environment. This includes selecting materials and components that are resistant to corrosion and water damage, such as stainless steel or PVC-coated grounding electrodes and conductors. Installers should also follow the manufacturer’s instructions for grounding and bonding, and ensure that the system is properly inspected and tested before energization.
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