Description
Protecting a solar power generation system from the harmful effects of an EMP or solar event requires addressing two threats.
Conducted Threat:
If the solar power generation system is connected to the utility power grid, it can be damaged by a powerful CONDUCTED pulse that flows as a result of an EMP or solar event.
Radiated Threat:
Every solar power generation system, even those not connected to the utility power grid, can be damaged by a powerful RADIATED pulse resulting from an EMP.
The protections outlined here (and in the attached video) help to protect against both of these threats.
Addressing the Threats
To address these two threats, three different products are used:
– Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) – shunts unwanted energy during overvoltage condition using varistors
– Filters – suppresses unwanted medium-frequency energy using passive components
– Ferrites – suppresses high-frequency energy using magnetic materials
When combined, they offer excellent protection, not only against an EMP or solar CME, but also against more common threats, such as a nearby lightning strike.
Check out the following video on how these products are used together to protect solar power generation systems.
Where to Buy the Protective Components
Surge Protection Device – While there are many quality SPDs, we recommend the Siemens FS140. We do not sell it, but it is widely available on the web for around $200. Please read about the product prior to purchasing to make sure that it meets your desired specifications.
Filters – We recommend Schaffner Power Line Filters. Again, we don’t sell the Schaffner filters, but they are widely available on the web. Prices range from around $70 to $200. There are numerous models available, depending on your system’s current requirements:
– FN2200-25-33 (25 Amps Rated)
– FN2200-50-34 (50 Amps Rated)
– FN2200-75-34 (75 Amps Rated)
– FN2200-100-35 (100 Amps Rated)
*Be sure to read the product specification sheet before purchasing to make sure what you buy is compatible with your system.
Broadband Ferrites – Various-sized broadband ferrites are sold on this website. If you’re uncertain of which size you need, we recommend buying ferrites with a 1″ inner diameter to ensure that they will clamp around the PV wire bundle. They do not need to fit snugly to the wires to be effective. To purchase Broadband Ferrites individually, go to Broadband Ferrites or purchase as a Bundle.
High-Saturation Ferrites – We sell a custom-modified ferrite that has a much higher saturation current level, making it ideal to use on high-current applications. In the case of High-Saturation Ferrites, a ferrite is placed around each wire, rather than the wire bundle. To purchase individually, go to Whole-House Ferrites.
