enphase M215 Installation And Operation Manual
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL
141-00021, Rev 01
Enphase Microinverter
Model M215™
(M215-60-230)
M215 Installation and Operation
Copyright © 2012 Enphase Energy 141-00021 Rev 01
2
Corporate Headquarters Contact Information
Enphase Energy Inc.
1420 N. McDowell Blvd.
Petaluma, CA 94954
Phone: +1 707-763-4784
http://www.enphase.com
info@enphaseenergy.com
United Kingdom Contact Information
Enphase Energy UK Ltd.
Fairbourne Drive, Atterbury
Milton Keynes, MK10 9RG
United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0) 1908 828928
http://www.enphase.com/uk
info@enphaseenergy.com
Other Information
For warranty text refer to http://www.enphase.com/uk/warranty
.
Product information is subject to change without notice. All trademarks are recognised as the property of their
respective owners.
Copyright © 2012 Enphase Energy. All rights reserved.
M215 Installation and Operation
Copyright © 2012 Enphase Energy 141-00021 Rev 01
3
Table of Contents
Important Safety Information..........................................................................................................................4
!
Read this First ..................................................................................................................................4!
Safety Instructions ............................................................................................................................4!
The Enphase Microinverter System................................................................................................................5!
How the Microinverter Works............................................................................................................6!
System Monitoring........................................................................................................................6!
Optimal Reliability .........................................................................................................................6!
Ease of Design .............................................................................................................................6!
Enphase Microinverter Installation..................................................................................................................7!
Compatibility and Capacity ...............................................................................................................7!
Electrical Compatibility..................................................................................................................7!
Capacity .......................................................................................................................................7!
Parts and Tools Required .................................................................................................................8!
Enphase Equipment .....................................................................................................................8!
Other Items...................................................................................................................................8!
Lightning Surge Suppression............................................................................................................8!
Installation Procedure .......................................................................................................................9!
Step 1 – Measure AC Voltage at the Electricity Network Connection ................................................9!
Step 2 – Install the AC Branch Circuit Junction Box........................................................................10!
Step 3 – Position the Enphase Engage Cable .................................................................................11!
Step 4 – Attach the Microinverters to the Mounting Rail..................................................................12!
Step 5 – Dress the Engage Cable ...................................................................................................13!
Step 6 – Connect the Microinverters...............................................................................................14!
Step 7 – Terminate the Unused End of the Engage Cable...............................................................15!
Step 8 – Connect the Engage Cable to AC Junction Box(es) ..........................................................16!
Step 9 – Complete the Installation Map ..........................................................................................17!
Use the Enphase Installation Map ...............................................................................................17!
Alternative: Create Your Own Map.............................................................................................17!
Step 10 – Connect the PV Modules................................................................................................17!
Step 11 – Build the Virtual Array .....................................................................................................18!
Commissioning and Operation.....................................................................................................................19!
Commission the System.................................................................................................................19!
Operating Instructions ....................................................................................................................19!
Troubleshooting...........................................................................................................................................20!
Status LED Indications and Error Reporting....................................................................................20!
Startup LED Operation: ..............................................................................................................20!
Post-Startup LED Indications:.....................................................................................................20!
Reported Faults: .........................................................................................................................20!
Troubleshoot an Inoperable Microinverter .......................................................................................21!
Disconnect a Microinverter from the PV Module .............................................................................22!
Install a Replacement Microinverter.................................................................................................23!
Technical Data.............................................................................................................................................24!
Technical Considerations................................................................................................................24!
Technical Specifications .................................................................................................................25!
Enphase Installation Map................................................................................................................27!
Sample Wiring Diagram – M215, 230 Vac, Single-Phase ................................................................28!
Sample Wiring Diagram – M215, Three-Phase................................................................................29!
M215 Installation and Operation
Copyright © 2012 Enphase Energy 141-00021 Rev 01
4
Important Safety Information
Read this First
This manual contains important instructions for use during installation and maintenance of the Enphase M215™
Microinverter.
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, and to ensure the safe installation and operation of the Enphase
Microinverter, the following safety symbols appear throughout this document to indicate dangerous conditions
and important safety instructions.
WARNING! This indicates a situation where failure to follow instructions may be a safety hazard
or cause equipment malfunction. Use extreme caution and follow instructions carefully.
NOTE: This indicates information particularly important for optimal system operation. Follow
instructions closely.
Safety Instructions
• Do not use Enphase equipment in a manner not specified by the manufacturer. Doing so may
cause death or injury to persons, or damage to equipment.
• Perform all electrical installations in accordance with all applicable local electrical standards.
• Be aware that only qualified personnel should install or replace Enphase Microinverters.
• Do not attempt to repair the Enphase Microinverter; it contains no user-serviceable parts. If it fails,
please contact Enphase customer service to obtain an RMA (return merchandise authorisation)
number and start the replacement process. Tampering with or opening the Enphase Microinverter
will void the warranty.
• Before installing or using the Enphase Microinverter, please read all instructions and cautionary
markings in the technical description and on the Enphase Microinverter System and the PV
equipment.
• Obtain proper approval for the installation from the authorities having jurisdiction.
• Be aware that the body of the Enphase Microinverter is the heat sink. Under normal operating
conditions, the temperature is 15°C above ambient, but under extreme conditions the microinverter
can reach a temperature of 80°C. To reduce risk of burns, use caution when working with
microinverters.
• Do NOT disconnect the PV module from the Enphase Microinverter without first removing AC
power.
• Be aware that the M215 has field adjustable voltage and frequency trip points that you must set
before the system can produce power. Only an authorised installer with the permission and
following requirements of the local electrical authorities should make adjustments.
M215 Installation and Operation
Copyright © 2012 Enphase Energy 141-00021 Rev 01
5
The Enphase Microinverter System
The Enphase Microinverter System is the world’s most technologically advanced inverter system for use in gridconnected applications. This manual details the safe installation and operation of the Enphase Microinverter.
The three key elements of an Enphase Microinverter System include the:
• Enphase M215 Microinverter
• Enphase Envoy™ Communications Gateway
• Enphase Enlighten™ web-based monitoring and analysis software
This integrated system maximises energy harvest, increases system reliability, and simplifies design, installation
and management.
M215 Installation and Operation
Copyright © 2012 Enphase Energy 141-00021 Rev 01
6
How the Microinverter Works
The Enphase Microinverter maximises energy production from your photovoltaic (PV) array. Each Enphase
Microinverter is individually connected to one PV module in your array. This configuration means that an
individual Maximum Peak Power Point Tracker (MPPT) controls each PV module. This ensures that the
maximum power available from each PV module is exported to the electricity network regardless of the
performance of the other PV modules in the array. That is, although individual PV modules in the array may be
affected by shading, soiling, orientation, or PV module mismatch, the Enphase Microinverter ensures top
performance for its associated PV module. The result is maximum energy production from your PV system.
System Monitoring
Once you install the Envoy Communications Gateway and provide an Ethernet connection to your broadband
router or modem, the Enphase Microinverters automatically begin reporting to the Enphase Enlighten web
server. The Enlighten software presents current and historical system performance trends, and it informs you of
PV system status.
Optimal Reliability
Microinverter systems are inherently more reliable than traditional inverters. The distributed nature of a
microinverter system ensures that there is no single point of system failure in the PV system. Enphase
Microinverters are designed to operate at full power at ambient temperatures as high as 65° C (150° F). The
microinverter housing is designed for outdoor installation and complies with the IP67 regulation:
IP67 protective factor definition: Entirely protected against the effects of dust and immersion.
Ease of Design
PV systems using Enphase Microinverters are very simple to design and install. You will not need string
calculations, and you can install individual PV modules in any combination of PV module quantity, type, age and
orientation. You won’t need to install cumbersome traditional inverters. Each microinverter quickly mounts on
the mounting rail, directly beneath each PV module. Low voltage DC wires connect from the PV module directly
to the co-located microinverter, eliminating the risk of personnel exposure to dangerously high DC voltage.
M215 Installation and Operation
Copyright © 2012 Enphase Energy 141-00021 Rev 01
7
Enphase Microinverter Installation
Follow the instructions in this section to install Enphase M215™ Microinverters.
WARNING: Be aware that only qualified personnel should connect the Enphase Microinverter
to the electricity network.
WARNING: Be aware that installation of this equipment includes risk of electric shock. Normally
earthed conductors may be unearthed and energised when an earth fault is indicated.
Compatibility and Capacity
The Enphase M215 Microinverters are electrically compatible with most 60-cell PV modules. For more
information, see Technical Data on page 24 of this manual.
WARNING: The M215 may be paired only with a 60-cell PV module.
Refer to the Enphase website (http://www.enphase.com/support/downloads
) for a list of electrically compatible
PV modules and approved mounting rail systems. To ensure mechanical compatibility, be sure to order the
correct connector type for both microinverter and PV module from your distributor.
Electrical Compatibility
Model Number
Works with PV Module Type
PV Module Connector Type
M215-60-230-S22
60 cell
MC-4 Type 2 Locking
Capacity
Maximum number of M215s per 20 amp AC Branch Circuit
Service type
Max M215s per AC branch circuit
230V single-phase
17
400V three-phase
27
M215 Installation and Operation
Copyright © 2012 Enphase Energy 141-00021 Rev 01
8
Parts and Tools Required
In addition to the microinverters, PV modules, mounting rail, and associated hardware, you will need the
following.
Enphase Equipment
• Enphase Envoy™ Communications Gateway
• Engage Cable, as needed
NOTE: Order the correct Engage Cable type. Use 5G2.5 Engage Cable at sites with threephase service, or use 3G2.5 Engage Cable at sites with single-phase service. Check the
labelling on the drop connectors to verify the voltage type.
• Sealing caps, as needed (for any unused drops on the Engage Cable)
• Terminators, as needed (one needed at the end of each AC branch circuit)
• Enphase disconnect tool (number 2 and 3 Phillips screwdrivers can be substituted)
Other Items
• AC Junction boxes
• Gland or strain relief fitting (one per AC junction box)
• Bonding (Earthing) conductor
• Torque wrench, sockets, spanners for mounting hardware
• Adjustable spanner or open-ended spanner (for terminators)
• Tool for PV module locking connectors
• Handheld mirror (to view indicator lights on the undersides of the microinverters)
• Laptop or other computer for Envoy set up
Lightning Surge Suppression
Lightning protection and resulting voltage surge are protected in accordance with BS 7671. It is assumed that
the PV modules are installed in accordance with related standards and that the microinverter is a part of a
broader lightning protection system in accordance with BS 7617.
In some areas, the statistical frequency of lightning strikes near a PV installation is high enough that lightning
protection must be installed as part of an Enphase system. In some areas, a surge protection device might be
mandatory following a risk analysis, according to local regulation, BS 7671.
M215 Installation and Operation
Copyright © 2012 Enphase Energy 141-00021 Rev 01
9
Installation Procedure
Installing the Enphase Microinverter System involves several key steps. Each step listed below is detailed in the
following pages.
Step 1 – Measure AC Voltage at the Electricity network connection
!
Step 2 – Install the AC Branch Circuit Junction Box!
Step 3 – Position the Enphase Engage Cable
Step 4 – Attach the Microinverters to the Mounting Rail
!
Step 5 – Dress the Enphase Engage Cable
Step 6 – Connect the Microinverters
Step 7 – Terminate the Unused End of the Engage Cable
!
Step 8 – Connect the Engage Cable to AC Junction Box(es)!!
Step 9 – Complete the Installation Map!
Step 10 – Connect the PV Modules
Step 11 – Build the Virtual Array
WARNING: DO NOT connect Enphase Microinverters to the electricity network or energise the
AC circuit(s) until you have completed all of the installation procedures as described in the
following sections.
NOTE: Enphase Microinverters will not begin exporting power until the Envoy Communications
Gateway is installed and has detected all of the microinverters at the site. In addition, the grid
profile must be configured and the Envoy must have propagated these settings to the
microinverters. For instructions on this procedure, refer to the Envoy Installation and Operation
Manual at http://www.enphase.com/support/downloads
.
Step 1 – Measure AC Voltage at the Electricity Network Connection
Measure AC line voltage at the electricity network connection to confirm that it is within range. Acceptable
ranges are shown in the following table.
Single-Phase Service
Three-Phase Service
L1 to L2 to L3
360 to 440 Vac
L1 to neutral
207 to 253 Vac
L1, L2, L3 to neutral
207 to 253 Vac
NOTE: Be sure the Engage Cable you are using matches the electricity network connection at
the site. Use 5G2.5 Engage Cable at sites with three-phase service, or use 3G2.5 Engage
Cable at sites with single-phase service. Check the labelling on the drop connectors to verify
the voltage type.
M215 Installation and Operation
Copyright © 2012 Enphase Energy 141-00021 Rev 01
10
Step 2 – Install the AC Branch Circuit Junction Box
DANGER: Risk of Electrical Shock. Be aware that installation of this equipment includes risk of
electric shock. Do not install the AC junction box without first removing AC power from the
Enphase System.
WARNING: Only use electrical system components approved for wet locations.
WARNING: Do NOT exceed the maximum number of microinverters in an AC branch circuit as
listed on page 7 of this manual. You must protect each microinverter AC branch circuit with a
20A maximum breaker.
a. Size the AC cable/wire size to account for voltage drop. Select conductor diameter based on the
distance from the beginning of the microinverter AC branch circuit to the breaker in the AC mains.
All components of system wiring must be considered, including internal voltage drop within the
length of Engage Cable. Typically, three wire sections and several wire terminations must be
quantified. There is also some resistance associated with each circuit breaker. As all of these
resistances are in series, they add together. Since the same current is flowing through each
resistance, the total voltage drop is total current times the total resistance. For a single-phase
system, the total resistance is equal to two times the one-way resistance. For a three-phase
system, each of the three line currents and resistances must be calculated.
Standard guidelines for voltage drop on feeder and AC branch circuit conductors might not be
sufficient for microinverter AC branch circuits that contain the maximum allowable microinverters.
This is due to high inherent voltage rise on the AC branch circuit.
For more information, refer to our Technical Brief, Voltage Drop Considerations for M215, at
http://www.enphase.com/support/downloads
.
b. Install an appropriate junction box at a suitable location on the mounting system. You can centre
feed the branch, or you can install the junction box at the end of a row of PV modules.
c. Provide an AC connection from the AC junction box back to the electricity network connection
using equipment and practices as required by local jurisdictions.
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