This is my first post to a forum so please excuse any errors.
I have just ordered two MPP Solar PIP Max 11kw Inverters and was planning to use these with 24 x JA Solar JAM54D41-435/LB Mono N-Type bi-facial panels. However, upon reading the installation manual for JA panels they say that their modules must have the DC Cathode (-ve) connection of the array grounded vis:
"JA Solar Modules should only be used in configurations where the DC cathode of the Modules array is connected to ground. Failure to comply with this requirement will reduce the performance of the system and invalidate JA Solar’s Limited Power Warranty for Modules.”
The MPP Solar PIP Max AIO inverter manual states:
“WARNING Because this inverter is non isolated, only three types of PV modules are acceptable: single crystalline, poly crystalline with class A rated and CIGS modules. To avoid any malfunction, do not connect any PV modules with possible current leakage to the inverter. For example, grounded PV modules will cause current leakage to the inverter. When using CIGS modules, please be sure NO grounding.”
I queried this with both MPP Solar and JA Solar. MPP responded quickly and after a couple of brief email exchanges they confirmed that the JA Solar panels should not be used with their PIP Max AIO inverter. Unfortunately JA Solar have not responded at all despite reminder emails.
Grounding the JA panels does appear to be a total No-No to the MPP Inverter. It also sounds like not grounding the DC connection of the array doesn't seem to be a safety or damage issue to the JA array but is one of an impact on the performance of the panels. JA only don't guarantee the performance warranty, it doesn't affect the normal hardware product warranty. I don't understand, the JA panels are mono crystalline and seem to otherwise comply with the MPP inverter requirements if not grounded. So, why would not grounding them affect performance?
Looking at other manufacturers they don't seem to have the same restriction? The JA Solar panels are on offer here in the UK at a very good price which is why I favour using them together with the fact that they are bi-facial and would probably aid power power production in the winter periods here. If I just connect these panels without the grounding will I see a degradation in performance of the panels? Or, am I best to just steer clear of JA Solar panels?
I'd be interested if anyone can offer some advice? Especially if there are users out there that have MPP or similar AIO HF Non-Isolated inverters in use with JA Solar panels with and without the required grounding connection.
Many thanks in anticipation of your responses.
Chris
I have just ordered two MPP Solar PIP Max 11kw Inverters and was planning to use these with 24 x JA Solar JAM54D41-435/LB Mono N-Type bi-facial panels. However, upon reading the installation manual for JA panels they say that their modules must have the DC Cathode (-ve) connection of the array grounded vis:
"JA Solar Modules should only be used in configurations where the DC cathode of the Modules array is connected to ground. Failure to comply with this requirement will reduce the performance of the system and invalidate JA Solar’s Limited Power Warranty for Modules.”
The MPP Solar PIP Max AIO inverter manual states:
“WARNING Because this inverter is non isolated, only three types of PV modules are acceptable: single crystalline, poly crystalline with class A rated and CIGS modules. To avoid any malfunction, do not connect any PV modules with possible current leakage to the inverter. For example, grounded PV modules will cause current leakage to the inverter. When using CIGS modules, please be sure NO grounding.”
I queried this with both MPP Solar and JA Solar. MPP responded quickly and after a couple of brief email exchanges they confirmed that the JA Solar panels should not be used with their PIP Max AIO inverter. Unfortunately JA Solar have not responded at all despite reminder emails.
Grounding the JA panels does appear to be a total No-No to the MPP Inverter. It also sounds like not grounding the DC connection of the array doesn't seem to be a safety or damage issue to the JA array but is one of an impact on the performance of the panels. JA only don't guarantee the performance warranty, it doesn't affect the normal hardware product warranty. I don't understand, the JA panels are mono crystalline and seem to otherwise comply with the MPP inverter requirements if not grounded. So, why would not grounding them affect performance?
Looking at other manufacturers they don't seem to have the same restriction? The JA Solar panels are on offer here in the UK at a very good price which is why I favour using them together with the fact that they are bi-facial and would probably aid power power production in the winter periods here. If I just connect these panels without the grounding will I see a degradation in performance of the panels? Or, am I best to just steer clear of JA Solar panels?
I'd be interested if anyone can offer some advice? Especially if there are users out there that have MPP or similar AIO HF Non-Isolated inverters in use with JA Solar panels with and without the required grounding connection.
Many thanks in anticipation of your responses.
Chris