During the recently concluded RENREGY 2014 Renewable Energy expo at Chennai Trade Center, I came across a stall put up by CITEL. It seems, they manufacture surge protectors for PhotoVoltaic systems (Solar PV systems). They have specific SPD models for different types of PV Systems.
CITEL supplies surge protectors for PV systems for the following applications:
But why are surge protectors required for PV Systems?
They are required to protect Solar PV systems (Inverters, etc.) from transient over-voltage/electrical surges during lightning strikes. These devices also protect against Temporary Over Voltage (ToV). Depending on the application, surge protectors maybe required on both the AC and DC sides of the Inverter that connects to the grid and solar panels, respectively (among other locations).
Please note: Surge Protection Devices (SPD) are not a substitute for grounding. All PV installations need to be properly grounded, and SPDs work along with the grounding mechanism to provide additional protection against lightning damages.
Surge protection devices in Public Buildings:
An Introduction to CITEL VG Surge Protectors for PV Systems:
