Electrical codes

sundownr

Do most city electrical codes require a junction box under each panel?

Thanks.

ggunn

Re: Electrical codes

sundownr wrote: »

Do most city electrical codes require a junction box under each panel?

Thanks.

I'm not sure what you are asking. Every PV module has a junction box on the back. Strings of modules in a non-microinverter system are daisy chained with their integral conductors, and strings may be (with some inverters, and depending on string count, and as long as wiring does not enter a building) home run to an inverter with no other junction boxes.

TnAndy

Re: Electrical codes

I doubt most cities have even begun to address solar.
When the inspector for our local county system came to look at mine, I could tell he didn't have a clue what he was looking at.

His only concern was a disconnect near the new meter base ( they meter solar input separate here ) so they could cut out the solar side should that become necessary.

sundownr

Re: Electrical codes

TnAndy wrote: »

I doubt most cities have even begun to address solar.
When the inspector for our local county system came to look at mine, I could tell he didn't have a clue what he was looking at.

His only concern was a disconnect near the new meter base ( they meter solar input separate here ) so they could cut out the solar side should that become necessary.

I have no doubt many city/county inspectors lack solar knowledge... so this was a good answer. Thanks.

sundownr

Re: Electrical codes

ggunn wrote: »

I'm not sure what you are asking. Every PV module has a junction box on the back. Strings of modules in a non-microinverter system are daisy chained with their integral conductors, and strings may be (with some inverters, and depending on string count, and as long as wiring does not enter a building) home run to an inverter with no other junction boxes.

I do have an old solar panel with only wires, no junction box, on back of panel and I wanted to use this panel. This is why I asked if new codes require enclosed wiring (i.e. junction box) on all panels.

My real problem is second guessing what my city/county codes require... so I will ask for these codes from my city/county. I was also curious if anybody was ever challenged by an inspector on solar wiring and what they were challenged for.

Thanks.

BB.

Re: Electrical codes

If it is a really old panel--It may not be rated for 600 VAC operation (hipot) which is required for virtually all Grid Tied systems (micro inverter may not require it--but they probably will not be UL/NRTL approved either--also needed for a grid tied/inspected installation)... Many of the older panels are only rated for ~70 VDC maximum (battery system voltage).

-Bill

niel

Re: Electrical codes

in addition to what bb said many small cheap panels have no use or need for either a j box or any certifications because they weren't meant for the bigger applications we normally see and discuss. bb is right that many older pvs are like that, but i am sure some of these little ones meant to charge up aa batteries, cell phones, etc don't have the j boxes either as it adds an unnecessary expense, step, and size to the little panels.

System2

Re: Electrical codes

I think it makes sense to have a j box