enphase M215-60-2LL-S22-IG, M215-60-2LL-S24-IG, M215-60-2LL-S22-NA, M215-60-2LL-S23, M215-60-2LL-S23-NA Installation And Operation Manual

INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL

Enphase M215 Microinverter

141-00012, Rev 06

M215 Installation and Operation

2

Contact Information

Enphase Energy Inc.
1420 N. McDowell Blvd.
Petaluma, CA 94954

http://www.enphase.com
[e-mail]
[e-mail]

FCC Compliance

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant
to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can
be determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference
by one or more of the following measures:

 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
 Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
 Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is

connected.

 Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance may void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Other Information

Product information is subject to change without notice. All trademarks are recognized as the property of
their respective owners.

User documentation is updated frequently; Check the Enphase website
(http://www.enphase.com/support) for the latest information.

For warranty text refer to http://www.enphase.com/warranty.
For Enphase patent information refer to http://enphase.com/company/patents/.
© 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved.

Audience

This manual is intended for use by professional installation and maintenance personnel.

 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. 141-00012 Rev 06

M215 Installation and Operation

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Table of Contents

Important Safety Information .......................................................................................................................................... 5

Read this First .................................................................................................................................................. 5

Product Labels ................................................................................................................................................. 5

Safety and Advisory Symbols .......................................................................................................................... 5

Safety Instructions ........................................................................................................................................... 5

The Enphase Microinverter System ............................................................................................................................... 8

How the Microinverter Works ........................................................................................................................... 9

System Monitoring ....................................................................................................................................... 9

Optimal Reliability ........................................................................................................................................ 9

Ease of Design ............................................................................................................................................ 9

Planning for Microinverter Installation .......................................................................................................................... 10

Compatibility and Capacity ............................................................................................................................ 10

Mechanical Compatibility ........................................................................................................................... 10

Grounding Considerations ......................................................................................................................... 11

Utility Service Requirements...................................................................................................................... 11

Branch Circuit Capacity ............................................................................................................................. 11

Lightning and Surge Suppression .................................................................................................................. 11

Parts and Tools Required .............................................................................................................................. 12

Enphase Equipment .................................................................................................................................. 12

Other Items ................................................................................................................................................ 12

Enphase Microinverter Installation ............................................................................................................................... 13

Step 1: Register the System .......................................................................................................................... 14

Step 2: Connect the Envoy ............................................................................................................................ 15

Step 3: Install the AC Branch Circuit Junction Box ........................................................................................ 16

Step 4: Plan, Cut, and Position the Engage Cable ........................................................................................ 17

Step 5: Attach the Microinverters to the PV Racking ..................................................................................... 18

Step 6: Ground the Microinverters (if required) .............................................................................................. 19

Step 7: Dress the Engage Cable ................................................................................................................... 20

Step 8: Connect the Microinverters ................................................................................................................ 21

Step 9: Terminate the Unused End of the Engage Cable ................................................................ .............. 22

Step 10: Connect the Engage Cable to AC Junction Box(es) ........................................................................ 23

Step 11: Complete the Installation Map ................................................................................................ ......... 24

Step 12: Connect the PV Modules ................................................................................................................. 24

Commissioning and Operation ..................................................................................................................................... 25

Energize the System ...................................................................................................................................... 25

Check the Envoy's progress .......................................................................................................................... 25

Configure the Grid Profile (if required) ................................................................................................ ........... 25

Build the Virtual Array .................................................................................................................................... 26

Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................................................................... 27

Status LED Indications and Error Reporting .................................................................................................. 27

Startup LED Operation: ............................................................................................................................. 27

Post-Startup LED Indications..................................................................................................................... 27

DC Resistance Low – Power Off Fault ...................................................................................................... 27

GFDI Fault ................................................................................................................................................. 28

Other Faults ............................................................................................................................................... 28

Troubleshoot an Inoperable Microinverter ..................................................................................................... 28

Disconnect a Microinverter ............................................................................................................................ 30

Install a Replacement Microinverter ............................................................................................................... 31

Engage Cable Planning and Ordering .......................................................................................................................... 32

Selecting Cable Type ..................................................................................................................................... 32

Connector Spacing Options ........................................................................................................................... 32

Voltage Type and Conductor Count Options ................................................................................................. 33

Cabling Length Options ................................................................................................................................. 33

Planning for Cable Lengths and Type ............................................................................................................ 33

 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. 141-00012 Rev 06

M215 Installation and Operation

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Technical Data ............................................................................................................................................................. 35

Technical Considerations ............................................................................................................................... 35

Specifications ................................................................................................................................................. 35

M215-60-2LL-S22-IG, S23-IG, and S24-IG Specifications ........................................................................ 35

M215-60-2LL-S22, S23 or S24 Specifications ........................................................................................... 37

Engage Cable Specifications ..................................................................................................................... 39

Enphase Installation Map ............................................................................................................................... 40

Sample Wiring Diagram: M215, 240 VAC ...................................................................................................... 41

Sample Wiring Diagram: M215, 208 VAC ...................................................................................................... 42

 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. 141-00012 Rev 06

M215 Installation and Operation

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Important Safety Information

Read this First

This manual contains important instructions for use during installation and maintenance of the Enphase M215
Microinverter™.

Product Labels

The following symbols appear on the product label and are described here:

WARNING: Hot surface.

DANGER: Risk of electrical shock.

Refer to product instructions.

Safety and Advisory Symbols

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.

DANGER! This indicates a hazardous situation, which if not avoided, will result in death or serious
injury.

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.

WARNING! This indicates a situation where failure to follow instructions may result in burn injury.

NOTE: This indicates information particularly important for optimal system operation. Follow

instructions closely.

Safety Instructions

DANGER: Before installing or using the Enphase Microinverter, read all instructions and cautionary

markings in the technical description, on the Enphase Microinverter System, and on the
photovoltaic (PV) equipment.

DANGER: 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.

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.

DANGER: The Engage Cable terminator cap must not be installed while power is connected.
DANGER: Electric shock hazard. The DC conductors of this photovoltaic system are ungrounded

and may be energized.
WARNING: Always de-energize the AC branch circuit before servicing. Never disconnect the DC

connectors under load. Disconnect DC connections first, and then disconnect AC connections.

 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. 141-00012 Rev 06

M215 Installation and Operation

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WARNING: 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.

WARNING: When pairing with an M215 (M215-60-2LL-S22-IG / S23-IG / S24-IG), the PV module
DC conductors must be labeled “PV Wire” or “PV Cable”.

WARNING: If the AC cable on the microinverter is damaged, do not install the unit.

WARNING: You must match the DC operating voltage range of the PV module with the allowable

input voltage range of the Enphase Microinverter.
WARNING: The maximum open circuit voltage of the PV module must not exceed the specified

maximum input DC voltage of the Enphase Microinverter.
WARNING: The M215 has field-adjustable voltage and frequency trip points that may need to be

set, depending upon local requirements. Only an authorized installer with the permission and
following requirements of the local electrical authorities should make adjustments.

WARNING: Only use electrical system components approved for wet locations.

WARNING: Only qualified personnel should troubleshoot, install, or replace Enphase

Microinverters or the Engage Cable and Accessories.
WARNING: Make sure protective sealing caps have been installed on all unused AC connectors.

Unused AC connectors are live when the system is energized by the grid. Sealing caps may not be
reused.

WARNING: Ensure that all AC and DC wiring is correct and that none of the AC or DC wires are
pinched or damaged. Ensure that all AC junction boxes are properly closed.

WARNING: The microinverter must be installed under the module, out of rain and sun. Do not
mount the microinverter in a position that allows long-term exposure to direct sunlight or in a
vertical orientation that allows water to collect in the DC connector recess. Do not install the
microinverter black side up or vertically, with the DC connectors facing up.

WARNING: When installing the Engage Cable, secure any loose cable to minimize tripping hazard.

WARNING: Do not leave AC connectors on the Engage Cable uncovered for an extended period. If

you do not plan to replace the microinverter immediately, you must cover any unused connector
with a sealing cap. Sealing caps may not be reused.

WARNING: Do not exceed the maximum number of microinverters in an AC branch circuit as listed
in the manual. You must protect each microinverter AC branch circuit with a 20A maximum
breaker.

WARNING: Do not connect Enphase Microinverters to the grid or energize the AC circuit(s) until
you have completed all of the installation procedures and have received prior approval from the
electrical utility company.

WARNING: Do not attempt to repair the Enphase Microinverter; it contains no user-serviceable
parts. If it fails, contact Enphase customer service to obtain an RMA (return merchandise
authorization) number and start the replacement process. Tampering with or opening the Enphase
Microinverter will void the warranty.

WARNING: Be aware that only qualified personnel may connect the Enphase Microinverter to the
utility grid.

WARNING: Use the terminator only once. If you open the terminator following installation, the
latching mechanism is destroyed. Do not reuse the terminator. Do not circumvent or manipulate the
latching mechanism.

WARNING: When stripping the sheath from the Engage Cable, make sure that the conductors are
not damaged. If the exposed wires are damaged, the system may not function properly.

 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. 141-00012 Rev 06

M215 Installation and Operation

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WARNING: Perform all electrical installations in accordance with all applicable local electrical
codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC), ANSI/NFPA 70.

NOTE: To ensure optimal reliability and to meet warranty requirements, the Enphase Microinverter
must be installed according to the instructions in this manual.

NOTE: The AC and DC connectors on the cabling are rated as a disconnect only when used with
an Enphase Microinverter.

NOTE: Check the labeling on the Engage Cable drop connectors to be sure that the cable matches
the electrical utility service at the site. Use 208 VAC (208 VAC three-phase) Engage Cable at sites
with three-phase 208 VAC service, or use 240 VAC Engage Cable at sites with 240 VAC single­phase service.

NOTE: There are two release-holes in the drop connector on the cable. These are not for mounting
but are used to disconnect the connector. Keep these release holes clear and accessible.

NOTE: Protection against lightning and resulting voltage surge must be in accordance with local
standards.

NOTE: Many PV modules have a central stiffening brace. In these cases, do not position the
connector and microinverter at the exact center of the PV module. Instead, position the drop
connectors so that the connectors do not conflict with the braces.

NOTE: If you need to remove a sealing cap, you must use the Enphase disconnect tool or a #3
Phillips screwdriver. Sealing caps may not be reused.

NOTE: The M215 works with 240 VAC single-phase utility service or with 208 VAC three-phase
utility service.

NOTE: When installing the Engage Cable and accessories, adhere to the following:

Do not expose the terminator cap or cable connections to directed, pressurized liquid



(water jets, etc.).

Do not expose the terminator cap or cable connections to continuous immersion.



Do not expose the terminator cap or cable connections to continuous tension (e.g.,



tension due to pulling or bending the cable near the connection).

Use only the connectors and cables provided.



Do not allow contamination or debris in the connectors.



Use the terminator cap and cable connections only when all parts are present and intact.



Do not install or use in potentially explosive environments.



Do not allow the terminator to come into contact with open flame.



Make sure that all terminator cap seals are seated correctly in the wire organizer.



Fit the terminator cap using only the prescribed tools and in the prescribed manner.



Use the terminator to seal the conductor end of the Engage Cable; no other method is



allowed.

NOTE: Do not use the shipping cap to cover unused connectors. The shipping cap does not
provide an adequate environmental seal. Enphase sealing caps are required to protect against
moisture ingress.

NOTE: Completely install all microinverters and all system AC connections prior to installing the PV
modules.

 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. 141-00012 Rev 06

M215 Installation and Operation

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The Enphase Microinverter System

The Enphase Microinverter® System™ is the world’s most technologically advanced inverter system for
use in utility-interactive applications.

This manual details the safe installation and operation of the Enphase Microinverter.

 With the M215-60-2LL-S22-IG, S23-IG, or S24-IG, the DC circuit within the M215 is isolated and

insulated from ground. Ground fault protection (GFP) is integrated into the microinverter. Because
of this, the M215-60-2LL-IG does not require a GEC. As a result, it takes less time to install than
other microinverters, saves money, and increases safety.

 If you are installing the M215-60-2LL-S22, S23, or S24, this microinverter requires a GEC or

other compliant grounding method.

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 maximizes energy harvest, increases system reliability, and simplifies design,
installation and management.

 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. 141-00012 Rev 06

M215 Installation and Operation

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How the Microinverter Works

The Enphase Microinverter maximizes energy production from your photovoltaic (PV) array. Each
Enphase Microinverter is individually connected to one PV module in your array. This unique
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 utility
grid 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 NEMA 6
environmental enclosure rating standard:

NEMA 6 rating definition: Indoor or outdoor use primarily to provide a degree of
protection against hose-directed water, the entry of water during occasional temporary
submersion at a limited depth, and damage from external ice formation.

NOTE: To ensure optimal reliability and to meet warranty requirements, the Enphase
Microinverter must be installed according to the instructions in this manual.

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 PV racking, 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.

 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. 141-00012 Rev 06

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Model Number

PV Module Connector Type

M215-60-2LL-S22-IG1

MC-4 locking connector

M215-60-2LL-S23-IG1

Tyco locking connector

M215-60-2LL-S24-IG1

SMK locking connector

M215-60-2LL-S222
M215-60-2LL-S22-NA2

MC-4 locking connector

M215-60-2LL-S232
M215-60-2LL-S23-NA2

Tyco locking connector

M215-60-2LL-S242
M215-60-2LL-S24-NA2

SMK locking connector

Planning for Microinverter Installation

The M215 is compatible with most 60-cell PV modules (to 270W or higher) and installs quickly and easily.
It works with either three-phase 208 VAC or single-phase 240 VAC services. The M215 ships with
integrated DC and AC cables and connectors. The DC connectors attach to the PV module, while the AC
connector attaches directly to the Engage Cable. No additional cabling is needed.

The Engage Cable is available in two connector spacing options and two voltage types to meet varying
site requirements. For Engage Cable ordering information, see “Engage Cable Planning and Ordering” on
page 32.

WARNING: For Be aware that installation of this equipment includes risk of electric
shock. Normally grounded conductors may be ungrounded and energized when a ground
fault is indicated.

Compatibility and Capacity

The M215 can be paired with most 60-cell PV modules. The M215 can also be paired with a 72-cell
module if the voltage and current from of the module stays within allowable ranges for the microinverter to
perform safely, notably in warm climates. For more information, see “Technical Data” on page 35 of this
manual. Refer also to the Enphase Compatibility Calculator at:

http://enphase.com/module-compatibility-calculator-m250-update/ to ensure PV module electrical

compatibility. To ensure mechanical compatibility, be sure to order the correct connector type for both
microinverter and PV module from your distributor.

WARNING: With the M215-60-2LL-S22-IG, S23-IG, or S24-IG, the PV module DC

conductors must be labeled "PV Wire" or "PV Cable” to be compliant with NEC 690.35(D)

for Ungrounded PV Power Systems.

Mechanical Compatibility

1

Microinverter does not require a GEC. Paired modules must use PV (photovoltaic) Wire.

2

Requires use of a Grounding Electrode Conductor (GEC).

 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. 141-00012 Rev 06

M215 Installation and Operation

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240 Volt AC, Split Phase

208 Volt AC, Three Phase

L1 to L2

211 to 264 VAC

L1 to L2 to L3

183 to 229 VAC

L1, L2 to neutral

106 to 132 VAC

L1, L2, L3 to neutral

106 to 132 VAC

Maximum number of M215s when protected with a 20 A OCPD

Service type

Max M215s per AC branch circuit

Split phase 240 VAC

17

Three phase 208 VAC

25

Residential

Commercial

 Citel DS72-RS-120 surge protector; data sheet
 Delta LA-302 lightning arrestor; website
 Leviton 51110 or 51110-001; whole house surge protection

panel; website

 Midnight solar surge protection device MNSPD-300 or

MNSPD-300FM (with flush mount box); website

 Citel DS73-RS-G surge protector; data sheet
 Delta LA-303 lightning arrestor; website

Grounding Considerations

With the M215-60-2LL-S22-IG, S23-IG, or S24-IG, the DC circuit within the M215 is isolated and insulated
from ground. Ground fault protection (GFP) is integrated into the microinverter. Because of this, the
M215-60-2LL-S22-IG, S23-IG, and S24-IG do not require a GEC. As a result, they take less time to install
than other microinverters, save money, and increase safety.

If you are installing the M215-60-2LL-S22, S23, or S24, a GEC or other compliant grounding method is
required.

TIP: If installing a mix of IG (Integrated Ground) and non-IG microinverters, install the
non-IG microinverters closer (electrically) to the junction box to minimize GEC use.

Utility Service Requirements

The M215 Microinverter works with split phase 240 VAC service or with three phase 208 VAC service.
Measure AC line voltage at the electrical utility connection to confirm that it is within the ranges shown:

Branch Circuit Capacity

Plan your AC branch circuits to meet the following limits for maximum number of M215s per branch when
protected with a 20-amp over-current protection device (OCPD).

Lightning and Surge Suppression

Enphase Microinverters have integral surge protection, greater than most traditional inverters. However, if
the surge has sufficient energy, the protection built into the microinverter can be exceeded, and the
equipment can be damaged. For this reason, Enphase recommends that you protect your system with
lightning and/or surge suppression devices (see table). In addition to having some level of surge
suppression, it is also important to have insurance that protects against lightning and electrical surges.

NOTE: Protection against lightning and resulting voltage surge must be in accordance
with local standards.

 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. 141-00012 Rev 06

M215 Installation and Operation

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Parts and Tools Required

In addition to the microinverters, PV modules, and racking, you will need the following.

Enphase Equipment

 Enphase Envoy® Communications Gateway (optional, but strongly recommended)

BEST PRACTICE: Connect the Envoy before the solar installation is complete.

When powered up and connected for the first time, the Envoy may retrieve an automatic
upgrade from Enphase. Because this upgrade may take up to 20 minutes, connect the
Envoy first (connect to both AC power and to the broadband router) so that the upgrade
completes well before the solar module installation is complete. For more information,
see the Envoy Communications Gateway Installation and Operation Manual.

 Engage Cable, as needed. (See “Engage Cable Planning and Ordering” on page 32.)

NOTE: Order the correct Engage Cable type. Installers must order Engage Cable for
either single-phase 240 VAC, typical for residential applications, or three-phase 208 VAC,
typical for commercial installations. All drop connectors on the Engage Cable bear labels
indicating the cable voltage designation.

 Cable clips
 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

 Outdoor-rated, weather-proof AC junction box(es)
 Gland or strain relief fitting (one per AC junction box)
 Continuous GEC (grounding electrode conductor). Required only for M215-60-2LL-S22,

S23, or S24. Not required for M215-60-2LL-S22-IG, S23-IG, or S24-IG.

 Number 2 and 3 Phillips screwdrivers
 Torque wrench, sockets, wrenches for mounting hardware
 Adjustable wrench or open-ended wrench (for terminators)
 Handheld mirror (to view LEDs on the undersides of the microinverters)

 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. 141-00012 Rev 06

M215 Installation and Operation

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Enphase Microinverter Installation

Installing the Enphase Microinverter System involves several key steps. Each step listed here is detailed
in the following pages. Follow the instructions in this section to install Enphase M215 Microinverters.

Step 1: Register the System
Step 2: Connect the Envoy
Step 3: Install the AC Branch Circuit Junction Box
Step 4: Plan, Cut, and Position the Enphase Engage Cable
Step 5: Attach the Microinverters to the PV Racking
Step 6: Ground the Microinverters (if required)
Step 7: Dress the Enphase Engage Cable
Step 8: Connect the Microinverters
Step 9: Terminate the Unused End of the Engage Cable
Step 10: Connect the Engage Cable to AC Junction Box(es)
Step 11: Complete the Installation Map
Step 12: Connect the PV Modules

WARNING: Always de-energize the AC branch circuit before servicing. Never disconnect

the DC connectors under load. Disconnect DC connections first, and then disconnect AC
connections.

WARNING: DO NOT connect Enphase Microinverters to the utility grid or energize the
AC circuit(s) until you have completed all of the installation procedures as described in
the following sections.

 2014 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. 141-00012 Rev 06