What is the level of lightning protection for photovoltaic panels

Do PV systems need lightning protection?

With all the barriers discussed in Section 3.3, the need for lightning protection on PV systems must be evaluated on the basis of the risk analysis and protection costs. Table 10 presents the recommended standards related to PV systems including PV installations, lightning protection systems and electrical installations. Table 10.

Are PV systems vulnerable to lightning?

Similar to other power systems [ , , , , ], PV systems are vulnerable to lightning because they are always installed in unsheltered open areas. Recent studies on lightning protection of PV systems have drawn much attentions [ 9 ].

How will a lightning protection system affect PV power generation?

All this kind of destruction will undoubtedly affect the economic aspects or the return on investment that could be earned from PV power generation as well as the cost of repair or replacement to recover from the damage, all of which can be mitigated by implementing a lightning protection system (LPS) .

Are there standards for lightning protection system installation?

No doubt that there are standards govern the lightning protection system installation for building and the solar PV itself which can be obtained from the International Electrotechnical Committee (IEC) and various other national and international standards, respectively.

Why is lightning protection important for photovoltaic installations?

The lightning protection of photovoltaic installations is of great importance, in order to warrant the uninterrupted operation of the system and avoid faults and damages of the equipment. Atmospheric discharges influence the proper operation of the photovoltaic generators and their installation, involving also sensitive electronic equipment.

Are lightning protection systems effective?

Experience shows that where lightning protection systems are installed, more often than not their design is poor and the protection they provide, ineffective. The problem becomes more serious for the industry, as the number of photovoltaic power plants increases.