CanadianSolar CSI - User Manual

Questions and Answers

T
Tina RobinsonAug 17, 2025
What to do if my CanadianSolar CSI shows NO-GRID error?
- J
  Joanna WilliamsonAug 17, 2025
  If your CanadianSolar Inverter displays a NO-GRID error, first, check the connections and the grid switch. Second, check the grid voltage inside the inverter terminal.
B
Brandy WagnerAug 20, 2025
How to troubleshoot a CanadianSolar CSI Inverter with no power?
- J
  John TranAug 20, 2025
  If your CanadianSolar Inverter has no power, follow these steps: 1. Check the PV input connections. 2. Check the DC input voltage (single phase >120V, three phase >350V). 3. Check if PV+/- is reversed.
T
Todd WardAug 22, 2025
What causes OV-TEM error on a CanadianSolar CSI and how to fix it?
- E
  Erica StoneAug 22, 2025
  If your CanadianSolar Inverter shows OV-TEM, take the following steps: 1. Check the inverter's surrounding ventilation. 2. Check if there’s direct sunshine on the inverter in hot weather.
T
Thomas AndrewsAug 25, 2025
What does ILeak-PRO 01/02/03/04 mean on my CanadianSolar CSI?
- S
  Stacy KennedyAug 26, 2025
  If your CanadianSolar Inverter displays ILeak-PRO 01/02/03/04, here’s what you should do: 1. Check the AC and DC connections. 2. Check the inverter's internal cable connections.
J
James LopezAug 27, 2025
What causes OV-G-V01/02/03/04 error on a CanadianSolar CSI Inverter?
- K
  kylelarsenAug 27, 2025
  If your CanadianSolar Inverter is showing OV-G-V01/02/03/04, it could be due to: 1. The resistance of the AC cable being too high (replace with a larger size grid cable). 2. The protection limit being incorrectly set (adjust the protection limit if allowed by the electrical company).
M
Megan MayerAug 30, 2025
How do I fix PV ISO-PRO 01/02 error on my CanadianSolar CSI Inverter?
- M
  matthewmurphyAug 30, 2025
  If your CanadianSolar Inverter displays PV ISO-PRO 01/02, try the following: 1. Remove all DC input, reconnect, and restart the inverter one by one. 2. Identify which string is causing the fault and check the isolation of that string.
R
Ryan TranSep 1, 2025
Why is my CanadianSolar CSI Inverter LCD showing initializing all the time?
- B
  barrtaylorSep 1, 2025
  If the LCD of your CanadianSolar Inverter is stuck on initializing, check the following: 1. Ensure the connectors on the main board or power board are securely fixed. 2. Ensure the DSP connector to the power board is securely fixed.
J
Jason MilesSep 4, 2025
How to resolve UN-G-V01/02 error on a CanadianSolar CSI Inverter?
- C
  cindy56Sep 4, 2025
  To address the UN-G-V01/02 error on your CanadianSolar Inverter, use the user define function to adjust the protection limit, if it’s allowed by the electrical company.
C
Carlos KelleySep 6, 2025
What to do if my CanadianSolar Inverter displays OV-DC01/02/03/04 error?
- K
  Kevin WrightSep 6, 2025
  If your CanadianSolar Inverter is showing OV-DC01/02/03/04, reduce the number of modules in series.
C
Carrie DavisSep 9, 2025
What causes OV-BUS error on a CanadianSolar CSI Inverter?
- J
  Joshua BarnesSep 9, 2025
  If your CanadianSolar Inverter displays OV-BUS, you should: 1. Check the inverter inductor connection. 2. Check the driver connection.

This document describes the Canadian Solar three-phase grid-tied PV inverter, suitable for utility-scale PV projects. The manual covers models CSI-15K-T220GL02-E, CSI-20K-T220GL02-E, CSI-40K-T480GL02-E, and CSI-50K-T480GL02-E.

Function Description

The Canadian Solar three-phase inverter converts direct current (DC) generated by photovoltaic (PV) arrays into alternating current (AC) for grid connection. It is designed for permanent installation and operates according to applicable safety and technical guidelines, as well as local and national electrical safety standards. The inverter features an integrated DC switch and includes functionalities for monitoring, control, and protection.

Important Technical Specifications

The inverter models covered have varying specifications:

CSI-15K-T220GL02-E:

Max. DC input voltage: 1100 Volts
Rated DC voltage: 600 Volts
Start-up voltage: 180 Volts
MPPT voltage range: 200-1000 Volts
Max. input current: 3*26 Amps
Max short circuit input current: 3*40 Amps
MPPT number/Max input strings number: 3/6
Rated output power: 15000 Watts
Max. output power: 15000 Watts
Max. apparent output power: 15000 VA
Rated grid voltage: 3/PE, 220 Volts
Rated grid output current: 39.4 Amps
Max. output current: 43.3 Amps
Power Factor (at rated output power): 0.8leading~0.8lagging
THDi (at rated output power): <3%
Rated grid frequency: 50/60 Hertz
Max. efficiency: 98.8%
EU efficiency: 98.3%
Dimensions (W*H*D): 647*629*252mm
Weight: 45kg
Topology: Transformerless
Self consumption (night): <1W
Operating ambient temperature range: -25°C to +60°C
Relative humidity: 0-100%
Ingress protection: IP65
Cooling concept: Natural convection
Max. operation altitude: 4000m
Grid connection standard: En50549, G99, AS4777.2-2015, VDE0126-1-1, IEC62727, VDE4105-2018, NB/T 32004, IEEE1547
Safety/EMC standard: IEC62109-1/-2, EN61000-6-2, EN61000-6-3, UL1741
DC connection: MC4 connector
AC connection: OT Terminal (max 185 mm²)
Display: LCD, 2×20 Z
Communication connections: RS485, Optional: Wifi, GPRS, PLC
Warranty: 5 years (extend to 20 years)

CSI-20K-T220GL02-E:

Similar to 15K model, but with Rated output power: 20000 Watts, Max. output power: 20000 Watts, Max. apparent output power: 20000 VA, Rated grid output current: 52.5 Amps, Max. output current: 57.7 Amps.

CSI-40K-T480GL02-E:

Rated grid voltage: 3/PE, 480 Volts
Max. input current: 4*26 Amps
Max short circuit input current: 4*40 Amps
MPPT number/Max input strings number: 4/8
Rated output power: 40000 Watts
Max. output power: 40000 Watts
Max. apparent output power: 40000 VA
Rated grid output current: 48.1 Amps
Max. output current: 53.0 Amps. Other specifications are similar to the 15K/20K models where not explicitly stated.

CSI-50K-T480GL02-E:

Similar to 40K model, but with Rated output power: 50000 Watts, Max. output power: 50000 Watts, Max. apparent output power: 50000 VA, Rated grid output current: 60.1 Amps, Max. output current: 66.2 Amps.

Usage Features

Installation:

Location Selection: Inverters should be installed in a clean, dry place, free from dust and dirt, with good air circulation. Avoid small, closed spaces, areas with highly flammable materials or gases, and direct sunlight/raining to prevent overheating. Recommended ambient air temperature around the unit should not exceed 104°F/40°C.
Mounting: The inverter must be mounted vertically on a surface capable of bearing its weight. A minimum clearance of 500mm should be maintained between inverters and other equipment, and the bottom of the inverter should be at least 500mm from the ground.
Electrical Connections: Quick-connect terminals are used. Connections include DC input, AC output, grounding, and communication ports (COM1 for monitoring, METER for meter, DRM for DRM). All electrical connections must comply with local and national standards.
- Grounding: Requires two ground protection methods: through grid terminal connection and external heat sink connection. Recommended cable size is ≥ 16mm² outdoor copper-core cable. For multiple inverters in parallel, all should connect to the same ground point.
- PV Side Connection: Ensure PV array open circuit voltage is within limits and polarity matches DC+ and DC- symbols. Use appropriate DC cables (recommended 4.0-6.0 mm² or 12-10AWG).
- Grid Side Connection: For AC connection, 10-35mm² cable is required, with cable resistance lower than 1.5ohm.
- Monitoring Connection: Supports Wi-Fi or GPRS via optional Canadian Solar communication devices. RS485 daisy chain configuration is supported for multiple inverters.
- Logic Interface (UK Only): Required by G98 and G99 standards, allowing the inverter to operate normally when a switch is closed, and reduce output power to zero within 5s when opened. Pin5 and Pin6 of the RJ45 terminal are used for this.

Operation:

Start-up: First, switch ON the AC grid supply main switch, then switch ON the DC switch on the inverter. The inverter will initialize, check internal parameters and AC grid parameters, and then start generating power (30-300 seconds depending on local requirements).
Stop: Turn OFF the AC switch, then put the DC SWITCH on the inverter to the "OFF" position.
Front Panel Display: Features LED status indicator lights (POWER, OPERATION, ALARM) and a two-line Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) showing operation status, data, service messages, and alarm messages.
Keypad: Four keys (ESC, UP, DOWN, ENTER) for scrolling through options, modifying settings, and accessing menus.
Main Menu: Provides access to Information, Settings, Advanced Info., and Advanced Settings.
- Information: Displays operational data such as DC voltage/current, grid voltage/current, instant status, output power, reactive/apparent power, grid frequency, total/monthly/daily/yesterday's energy, inverter serial number, work mode, DRM number, and input current values for each PV string.
- Settings: Allows setting time/date and inverter address (for multiple inverters).
- Advanced Info. (Technicians Only): Requires a password ("0000") to access. Displays alarm messages, running messages, software version, daily/monthly/yearly energy, daily records, communication data, and warning messages.
- Advanced Settings (Technicians Only): Requires a password ("0010") to access. Includes options for:
  - Selecting Standard: Choose grid reference standard (e.g., G59/3, UL-480V, AS4777-15). "User-Def" function allows manual adjustment of grid limits, but only by service engineers and with local energy supplier permission.
  - Grid ON/OFF: Start or stop power generation.
  - Clear Energy: Reset history yield.
  - Reset Password: Set a new password for "Advanced info." and "Advanced information".
  - Power Control: Set active and reactive power, output power with restore, reactive power with restore, and select PF curve.
  - Calibrate Energy: Revise total energy value.
  - Special Settings: Includes Working Mode Set, Power Rate Limit, Freq Derate Set, 10mins Voltage Set, Power Priority, Initial Settings.
  - Restore Settings: Reset all special settings to default.
  - HMI Update: Update LCD program.
  - External EPM Set: For external EPM.
  - Restart HMI: Restart the Human Machine Interface.
  - Debug Parameter: For manufacturer maintenance personnel.
  - DSP Update: Update the Digital Signal Processor.
  - Compensation Set: For compensation settings.
  - I/V Curve: Scan I/V characteristic curves of each PV string, set scanning voltage start point and interval.
AFCI Function (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter): Built-in function to detect arc faults on the DC circuit and shut down the inverter to prevent fire. Can be enabled/disabled and AFCI level adjusted (technicians only). If an arc fault is detected, the inverter shuts down and displays an alarm. Installer must inspect DC circuit and cables.

Maintenance Features

Regular Maintenance: The inverter does not require regular maintenance.
Cleaning: Cleaning dust from the heat-sink is recommended to improve heat dissipation and extend lifespan. Use a soft brush. The LCD and LED indicators can be cleaned with a damp cloth.
Safety during Maintenance: Do not touch the inverter's surface when operating as it can be hot. Turn off the inverter and wait 15 minutes for it to cool down before any maintenance.
Troubleshooting: The inverter is designed with self-diagnostic capabilities. In case of failure, the LCD will display an alarm message, and the inverter may stop feeding into the grid. A table of alarm messages, failure descriptions, and solutions is provided. If an alarm persists after restarting, contact the local distributor or service center with specific inverter information (serial number, installation date, problem description, PV array configuration, contact details).
No User Serviceable Parts: The inverter cover should not be removed by unauthorized personnel. Servicing should be referred to qualified and accredited service technicians to avoid electric shock and voiding the warranty.