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SunPower disclaims responsibility for losses due to improper installation, handling, or use.
Details UL Listing information for SunPower PV modules, including compliance with UL standards.
Summarizes SunPower's limited warranty for PV modules, excluding misuse and improper installation.
Warning about DC voltage in module cables, risk of arcing, injury, or death from improper connections.
Covers essential safety rules: avoid standing on modules, protect from damage, handle with care, and disconnect safely.
Specifies the fire rating of the module and its classification for PV systems based on UL standards.
Instructions for grounding module frames and array systems according to NEC and UL standards for shock prevention.
Guidance on proper grounding techniques for specific SunPower module installations.
Explains how to wire modules in series to achieve desired voltage output, with voltage limits.
Details combining modules in parallel for current output, including fusing requirements.
Explains compliance with NEC 2017 for rapid shutdown using SunSpec compliant receivers.
Covers requirements for module installation locations, including operating temperature and ventilation.
Lists operating environments not recommended for SunPower modules and excluded from warranty.
Recommends landscape orientation for Performance Series modules for better performance.
Details various mounting methods, frame types, clamp force, and end mounting requirements.
Discusses environmental factors affecting bifacial gain and recommends checking with hardware suppliers.
Explains how albedo, irradiance, and shading affect bifacial gain and module output.
Provides guidelines for safe module handling, storage, and protection against damage or discoloration.
SunPower disclaims responsibility for losses due to improper installation, handling, or use.
Details UL Listing information for SunPower PV modules, including compliance with UL standards.
Summarizes SunPower's limited warranty for PV modules, excluding misuse and improper installation.
Warning about DC voltage in module cables, risk of arcing, injury, or death from improper connections.
Covers essential safety rules: avoid standing on modules, protect from damage, handle with care, and disconnect safely.
Specifies the fire rating of the module and its classification for PV systems based on UL standards.
Instructions for grounding module frames and array systems according to NEC and UL standards for shock prevention.
Guidance on proper grounding techniques for specific SunPower module installations.
Explains how to wire modules in series to achieve desired voltage output, with voltage limits.
Details combining modules in parallel for current output, including fusing requirements.
Explains compliance with NEC 2017 for rapid shutdown using SunSpec compliant receivers.
Covers requirements for module installation locations, including operating temperature and ventilation.
Lists operating environments not recommended for SunPower modules and excluded from warranty.
Recommends landscape orientation for Performance Series modules for better performance.
Details various mounting methods, frame types, clamp force, and end mounting requirements.
Discusses environmental factors affecting bifacial gain and recommends checking with hardware suppliers.
Explains how albedo, irradiance, and shading affect bifacial gain and module output.
Provides guidelines for safe module handling, storage, and protection against damage or discoloration.
The provided document describes SunPower photovoltaic (PV) modules, offering safety and installation instructions for their use in the United States and Canada. These modules are designed to convert sunlight into electricity and are suitable for both residential and commercial applications. The manual covers various module series, including E-Series, X-Series, P-Series, A-Series, M-Series, MAX2, MAX3, and NE modules, noting their compatibility with high-efficiency transformerless inverters and their lack of grounding restrictions.
SunPower PV modules are designed to generate direct current (DC) electricity from sunlight. They are flat-plate modules intended for installation on buildings or as freestanding units. The modules contain bypass diodes, which help to mitigate power loss in shaded conditions. Different module series are available, with varying electrical characteristics and physical dimensions, catering to diverse installation needs. Some modules, specifically those with "-MLSD" in their product name, include a pre-installed SunSpec compliant rapid shutdown receiver from Tigo Energy Inc., which, when used with approved equipment, allows the array to meet rapid shutdown requirements for safety.
The modules can be connected in series or parallel to achieve desired voltage and current outputs, respectively. However, installers must not exceed the maximum system voltage specified in the module datasheets and product labels. For parallel connections, each series string or module may require fusing if the resulting maximum fuse size exceeds the allowed fuse rating.
Proper grounding of the module frame or array is crucial to reduce the possibility of electrical shock and must comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and any applicable local codes. SunPower recommends specific grounding methods, including attaching a lay-in lug to a grounding hole on the module frame using stainless steel hardware, or using SunPower IFF clips. For certain mounting systems like Unirac SOLARMOUNT, specific grounding clips (BURNDY Wiley WEEB-UMC, WEEB-UGC-1, or Unirac UGC-2) are recommended. Other grounding methods may be used in conjunction with UL2703-tested mounting systems, provided they are part of the listed mounting product's instructions.
Modules must be mounted in locations that ensure operation within specified temperature ranges, typically -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to +185°F), or -40°C to +75°C (-40°F to +167°F) for modules with MLSD. Adequate ventilation behind and underneath the modules is important, especially in hot environments. To maximize energy production, permanent and partial shading of cells should be avoided or minimized.
The modules are designed to withstand specific positive (up/down, e.g., wind) and negative (downward, e.g., static or snow load) design pressures. Mounting configurations vary by module size and frame type, with detailed instructions on attachment locations and load ratings provided. Modules can be mounted at any angle from horizontal to vertical, with a minimum tilt of 10 degrees recommended to reduce soiling. The junction box should always be in the uppermost position to prevent water entry.
Clearance between module frames and the structure, or between installed modules, is specified to ensure proper air circulation and performance. The module frame must remain fully intact, and no alterations or additional mounting holes should be made, as this can compromise the frame's integrity and void the warranty.
Mounting methods include using factory frame holes with stainless steel bolts and nuts, or using clamps or clips on the longer sides of the module. Specific torque values for hardware are provided to ensure secure attachment without deforming the frame or risking glass breakage. End mounting, which involves attaching the shorter side of the module frame to a supporting rail, is also an option for certain modules.
Some SunPower modules are bifacial, meaning they can generate electricity from both their front and rear surfaces. Bifacial gain is influenced by environmental and installation parameters such as albedo (light reflected from the ground), irradiance, shading losses, and installation height. Installers should consult the module datasheet for electrical outputs related to bifacial gain and use appropriate software for simulation.
Annual inspection of all modules by a trained SunPower dealer or support personnel is recommended to ensure safe electrical and mechanical connections and freedom from corrosion. Periodic cleaning of the module glass is advised, especially in regions with low annual precipitation, as it can improve performance.
To clean the modules, use potable, non-heated water with normal or pressurized water (up to 1500 psi). For fingerprints, stains, or dirt accumulation, over-the-counter glass cleaners (like Windex) or a 3% soap-and-water solution can be used. For smaller systems, wet the glass with the solution, let it sit for five minutes, then re-wet and use a soft sponge or seamless cotton cloth to wipe the surface in a circular motion. For larger systems, wet the modules with the cleaning solution, let them stand for five minutes, and then use a soft-bristled brush with a soft squeegee. Harsh industrial-strength cleaning materials, abrasive tools, or sharp instruments should not be used, as they can damage the module and void the warranty.
During handling and storage, modules should be protected from direct contact with abrasive surfaces and liquids. The front glass surface is sensitive to oils and abrasions. Modules with anti-reflective coated glass should be handled with gloves to avoid fingerprints, which, if they occur, will naturally disappear over time or can be reduced with washing. Module coverage with colored plastic tarps or similar materials during installation is not recommended due to potential permanent front glass discoloration. Vacuum lifting pads can also cause permanent marks on the front glass. Modules should never be lifted or moved using the cables or the junction box.
The system should not be energized until all mounting scaffolding, fences, or railings are removed from the roof. Systems should be disconnected during maintenance activities that could cause shading, such as chimney sweeping or antenna installations.
General| Cooling Method | Natural convection |
|---|---|
| Protection Level | IP65 |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Maximum Output Power | 7.6kW |
| Operating Temperature Range | -25°C to 60°C |
