Grounding, Bonding & Fault Protection
Equipment grounding conductors, bonding jumpers, GFDI, grounding electrode systems, SPDs, and manufacturer requirements.
- Explain the purpose of equipment grounding conductors in PV systems
- Describe GFDI and DC AFCI fault detection devices
- Identify grounding electrode system requirements for PV
- Explain surge protective device applications
- State why manufacturer grounding instructions must be followed
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Equipment Grounding Conductors & Bonding
EGC Purpose in PV Systems
The purpose of an equipment grounding conductor (EGC) in PV systems is to provide a low-impedance fault current path from all exposed metallic parts (module frames, racking, inverter enclosures) back to the grounding system. This ensures that a ground fault causes sufficient current to trip protective devices quickly.
Equipment Bonding Jumpers
An equipment bonding jumper between racking rails ensures electrical continuity across the entire mounting structure. Each module frame must be bonded to the racking, and the racking must be bonded to the building grounding system through the EGC.
Verifying Before Landing PV Breaker
Before landing a PV breaker in a panel, you must verify that the bus rating can accommodate the additional backfed current per the 120% rule, that the breaker is listed for the panel, and that proper bonding and grounding connections exist.
The EGC provides the fault current return path for all PV metallic components. Bonding jumpers ensure electrical continuity across racking rails and module frames. Always verify bus rating and grounding before installing PV breakers.