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SunPower Maxeon - Electrical Characteristics and Connections; Module Electrical Specifications; Grounding and AC Circuitry

SunPower Maxeon
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MAXEON SOLAR TECHNOLOGIES, LTD.
537620 Rev.I
©2024 Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd. All rights reserved. Specifications included in this document are subject to change without notice. 4
the module or visit www.sunpower.maxeon.com for the product
datasheet.
As a reminder for DC modules: a photovoltaic module may produce
more current and/or voltage than reported at STC. Sunny, cool
weather and reflection from snow or water can increase current and
power output. Therefore, the values of Isc and Voc marked on the
module should be multiplied by a factor of 1.25 when determining
component voltage ratings, conductor ampacities, fuse sizes, and
size of controls connected to PV output. An additional 1.25 multiplier
may be required by certain local codes for sizing fuses and
conductors. SunPower recommends the use of open circuit voltage
temperature coefficients listed on the datasheets when determining
Maximum System Voltage.
3.1 Fire Rating
The AC Module has the same fire rating as DC modules.
2,0 Electrical Connections
Modules must only be connected using the correct Enphase AC cable
and integrated connectors. Do not alter any connectors.
Ensure that the cabling is not under mechanical stress (comply with
bending radius of 60 mm) and must not be bent on the direct exit
of the connector or junction box. The AC Module cable system
features locking connectors which, after connected, require the use
of a tool to disconnect. This defends against untrained personnel
disconnecting the modules when under load. Enphase AC cable
connectors are rated and tested to interrupt load current; however,
Maxeon Solar Technologies recommends that you always open the
utility dedicated branch circuit breaker to remove power before
plugging or unplugging any connectors; install an AC isolator in
accordance with local codes.
4.1 Equipment Grounding
Module grounding is required as per IEC 60364-7-712 and where
deemed mandatory within the local regulatory framework. The
purpose of the module grounding is both for protection and
functional reasons. The functional aspect of this requirement is to
enable the Inverter or power conditioning device to provide earth
fault detection and any alarm indication. Maxeon Solar
Technologies recommends using one of the following methods of
grounding the module frame. In addition, to avoid corrosion due to
dissimilar metal interfaces, Maxeon Solar Technologies
recommends stainless steel hardware between copper and
aluminum. Testing should be done to validate grounding with
temperature, salt environment and high current.
1) Grounding using specified grounding holes: Use the mounting
frame provisioned grounding holes for connecting the module
to the racking with a suitably sized earthing conductor.
2) Grounding with clamp / claw: Clamp or claw can be installed
between the module and racking system. Align a grounding
clamp to the frame hole, and place a grounding bolt through
the grounding clamp and frame. Ensure the clamp used when
is fastened, will effectively pierce the anodized coating of the
module and ensure suitable conductivity.
3) Modules may be grounded by attaching a lay-in lug to one of
the grounding holes on the module frame, and attach the
ground conductor to the lug. Use stainless steel hardware (bolt,
washers, and nut). Use an external-tooth star washer between
the lug and the module frame in order to pierce the anodizing
and establish electrical contact with the aluminum frame. The
assembly must end with a nut that’s torqued to 2.3-2.8 Nm (for
a M4 bolt). A lock washer or other locking mechanism is
required to maintain tension between the bolt and the
assembly. The conductor must be attached to the ground lug
using the lug’s set screw.
4) Modules may be grounded using a ground clip or ground
washer or as part of a module clamp. These grounding
clips/washers must be able to effectively pierce the anodized
coating of the module frame and establish suitable electrical
conductivity.
All above solutions are possible but should be tested with the
mounting structure for grounding purpose.
4.2 Connection to AC Circuits
It is the installer’s responsibility to verify grid compatibility in your
installation region (240/380 or 4-wire 2-pole). The AC Modules must
be connected to a utility source at the correct voltage and
frequency in order to operate and produce power. They are not
standalone generators and do not create AC voltage thus are not
capable of operation independent of a utility-generated AC signal.
The AC Modules must be connected only to a dedicated branch
circuit. The AC cables and connectors are certified and rated for the
maximum number of AC units in parallel only. When connecting
modules, DO NOT exceed the following single AC branch circuit
maximum number of modules.
The maximum number of microinverters that can be installed on
each AC branch circuit can be found in the Product's datasheet. This
circuit must be protected by overcurrent protection. Plan your AC
branch circuits to meet the following limits for maximum number of
AC Module per branch when protected with a 20 amp (maximum)
over current protection device.
Maximum* IQ Micros per AC
branch circuit (240 VAC)
Region: EU
Maximum* IQ Micros per AC
branch circuit (230 VAC)
Region: APAC
IQ7A or IQ8A: 10
IQ8MC: 11
IQ7A OR IQ8AC: 11
IQ8MC: 12
Limits may vary. Refer to local requirements to define the number
of microinverters per branch in your area.
CAUTION! To reduce the risk of fire, connect
only to a circuit provided with 20 A maximum
branch circuit overcurrent protection.
Below are the major installation steps:
1. Install the Field-wireable connector pair, optional J-Box
2. Position the Enphase Q Cable
Per module:
3 Position AC module and pop-out microinverters.
Refer to Section 5.3 for illustation
4 Connect microinverters to Q Cable connector
5 Install AC Modules
6 Manage Q cable to module frame and rail
Per row:
7 Create installation map
8. Terminate Q cable at last microinverter
9. Connect to J-Box
10. Energize system

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