Solectria Renewables SGI 225, SGI 250, SGI 266, SGI 300, SGI 500 Installation And Operation Manual

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SGI 225 SGI 250 SGI 266 SGI 300 SGI 500

INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL

Revision B

Installation and Operation Manual Rev B

SGI Series Inverters

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

In this manual “Inverter” or “Inverters” refers to the inverter models: SGI 225, SGI 250, SGI 266, SGI 300 and SGI 500 unless one of the specific models is noted.

This manual contains important instructions that shall be followed during installation and maintenance of the SGI Inverter.

To reduce the risk of electrical shock, and to ensure the safe installation and operation of the inverter, the following safety symbols are used to indicate dangerous conditions and important safety instructions.

WARNING: This indicates a fact or feature very important for the safety of the user and/or which can cause serious hardware damage if not applied appropriately.

Use extreme caution when performing this task.

NOTE: This indicates a feature that is important either for optimal and efficient

use or optimal system operation.

EXAMPLE: This indicates an example.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 2

SGI Series Inverters

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

All electrical installations shall be performed in accordance with the local, American and Canadian electrical

codes ANSI/NFPA 70.

The Inverter contains no user serviceable parts. Please contact Solectria Renewables or a Solectria

Renewables authorized system installer for maintenance. (Appendix C for Solectria Renewables contact information and authorized system installers.)

Before installing or using the Inverter, please read all instructions and caution markings in this manual and on

the Inverter unit as well as the PV modules.

Connection of the Inverter to the electric utility grid must be completed after receiving prior approval from

the utility company (unless connection agreement) and must only be performed by qualified personnel.

Completely cover the surface of all PV-arrays with opaque (dark) material before wiring them. PV arrays

produce electrical energy when exposed to light and could create a hazardous condition.

The inverter enclosure and disconnects must be locked (requiring a tool or key for access) for protection

against risk of injury to persons. The enclosure includes a lockable handle and comes with a key. Keep the key in a safe location in case access to the cabinet is needed. (A replacement for a lost key can be purchased from Solectria Renewables.)

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

PRESCRIPTIONS DE SECURITE IMPORTANTES

Tous les travaux d’installation électrique doivent être exécutés en conformité aux normes

électriques locales ainsi qu’à la norme nationale américaine et canadienne ANSI/NFPA 70.

Le SGI ne contient aucune pièce requérant un entretient effectué

par l‘utilisateur. Pour toute maintenance, veuillez consulter Solectria Renewables ou un installateur agréé par Solectria Renewables (les coordonnées de Solectria Renewables et des installateurs agréés sont indiquées sur le site web de Solectria Renewables: www.solren.com.

Avant d’installer ou d’utiliser le SGI, veuillez lire toutes instructions et toutes les mises en garde présentes

dans ce manuel, sur le SGI et sur les modules PV.

Le raccordement du SGI au réseau électrique ne doit être effectuée qu’après avoir obtenu une entente

d’interconnexion auprès de la compagnie locale de distribution électrique et uniquement par du personnel

autorisé et qualifié.

La surface de tous les capteurs PV doivent être recouverte entièrement d’un matériel opaque

(noir) avant de procéder au câblage. Les capteurs PV exposés a la lumière produisent du courant électrique

susceptible de créer une situation de risque.

CONSERVEZ CES INSTRUCTIONS

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 3

SGI Series Inverters

Table of Contents

1 Introduction………………………………………………………………..…………… 5 2 Site Preparation and Inverter Placement..……………………..………… 7

2.1 Inverter Positioning……..…………………………………...……… 9

2.2 Mounting Details.……………………………………………..……… 10

2.3 DC and AC Wire Entry Points. …………………………………… 11

3 Installation………………………………….……………………………………………. 12

3.1 Checking for Shipping Damage…………………………………. 12

3.2 Inverter Mounting……………………………………………………. 13

4 Electrical Connections and Connecting to Grid.……………………..…. 16

4.1 Grounding Electrode Conductor……………………………….. 16

4.2 DC Wiring…..……………………………………………………………… 17

4.3 DC Ground Fault Detection and Interruption…………….. 21

4.4 AC Wiring………………………………………………………………….. 22

4.5 Connection to Electric Utility Grid……………………………… 22

4.6 AC Ground Fault Detection………………………………………... 24

4.7 Lightning and Surge Protection………………………………….. 24

4.8 SolrenView Monitoring………………………………………….…… 25

5 Commissioning the Inverter…………………..………….………………....…… 26

5.1 Turning on the inverter………………………………………………. 26

5.2 Operation…………………………………………………………………… 26

6 Display and LED……………………..………………………………..………………… 27

6.1 LCD Display………………………………………………………………… 27

6.2 LED Lights…………………………………………………………………… 30 7 Troubleshooting and LCD messages…………………………………………… 31 8 Warranty and RMA Policy.…………………………………..…………….…….… 33

8.1 Warranty Policy………………………………………………………….. 33

8.2 Return Material Policy………………………………………………… 37

9 Technical Data.…………………………………………………………………...……… 38

9.1 DC Input……………………………………………………………………… 38

9.2 AC Output…………………..…………………………………….………… 40

9.3 Other Specifications……………………………………………………. 40

10 Appendix A Data sheet link …….……………………………..…………...……… 43

Appendix B String Sizing link C ……............................................…… 43

Appendix C Contact Information…..……………………….……………….…… 43

Appendix D UL1741/CSA22.2 Listing Letter ………………………………… 44

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 4

SGI Series Inverters

PV Array

SGI Series Inverter

Electrical

Grid

1 Introduction

The SGI Series inverters (Smart Grid) are commercial, 3-phase grid-tied PV inverters designed to be inter-connected to the electric utility grid. By following this manual the Inverters can be installed and operated safely. This installation guide is used as reference for the commissioning and as a guideline on how to use the inverter most effectively.

Feeding power into the grid involves conversion of the DC voltage from the PV-array to grid compatible AC voltage by “inverting” DC to AC. This unit feeds power into a standard, 3-phase commercial, industrial, institutional or electrical utility facility’s electrical system which is connected to the electrical grid.

If the PV system and inverter are providing the same amount of electrical power that the facility is using then no power is taken from or fed into the utility grid. If the facility is using more power than the PV system is providing, then the utility grid provides the balance of power. If the facility is using less power than the PV system is generating, then the excess is fed into the utility grid.

Be sure to look into local regulations regarding Net Metering/inter-connection in your local area. Note that some utilities need to change their revenue kWh meter for proper Net metering measurement and billing.

Fig. 1.1 Grid tied inverter application

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 5

SGI Series Inverters

Figure 1.2 The SGI Inverter

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 6

SGI Series Inverters

2.0 Site Preparation and Inverter Placement

The Inverter is comprised of a rainproof industrial enclosure containing electrical and electronic components and AC and DC integrated disconnects.

NOTE: If the Inverter is mounted outside, please make sure the enclosure doors remain closed during the installation process in case of rain or snow. (Leaving these doors open voids the warranty.)

Criteria for device mounting:

Because the power electronics are within the rainproof main enclosure, the inverter can be

mounted outdoors.

The maximum life for the inverter can be achieved by mounting the unit in a clean, dry and

cool location.

For optimal electrical system efficiency, use the shortest possible AC and DC cables and use

the maximum allowable cable size.

Avoid installation in close proximity to people or animals, as there is audible high-frequency

switching noise.

Install the inverter in an accessible location following NEC codes for enclosure and

disconnect door clearances and proximity to other equipment.

For optimal inverter life and performance, do not mount the inverter in direct sunlight,

especially in hot climates, although the inverter is designed to function at full power continuously in up to 50oC ambient temperatures. In hot climates if the unit must be mounted in direct sunlight a metal sun-shield is recommended. It is recommended that the inverter is mounted on the north side of buildings or on the north side of a ground mount PV array . It is also recommended to face to door north or east if possible.

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 7

SGI Series Inverters

CAUTION: Please follow these guidelines:

Be sure to verify load capacity of floor, roof or concrete pad mounting area.

Inverter Model Weight Fork Lift SGI 500 6980 lbs. 8000 lbs SGI 300 5650 lbs. 6000 lbs SGI 225 255 266 5170 lbs 6000 lbs

Table 2.1 Weight and Required fork lift capacity

The ambient temperature must be between –25

C and +50oC for full power, continuous operation. (The inverter will automatically reduce power or may shut down to protect itself if ambient air temperature at the intake rises above 50oC).

The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires that the inverter be connected to a dedicated

circuit and no other outlets or device may be connected to this circuit. See NEC Section 690-64(b)(1). The NEC also imposes limitations on the size of the inverter and the manner in with it is connected to the utility grid. See NEC Section 690-64(b) (2).

The cooling air exhausts at the back of the unit. Nothing should block 6” clear space behind

the enclosure. Air should be able to flow from bottom to top along the back of the inverter.

It is also recommended to have 6” clearance on the left and right sides although this is not

required.

A minimum distance of 12 inches (300mm) must be clear above the inverter for ventilation. If you are installing the inverter in a utility vault or electrical closet, the air circulation must

be sufficient for heat dissipation – provide external ventilation, to maintain an ambient condition of less than 50oC. The ambient temperature should be kept as low as possible at all times.

Model Max. heat loss SGI 500 55000 Btu/hr SGI 300 32000 Btu/hr SGI 266 28000 Btu/hr SGI 250 26000 Btu/hr SGI 225 24000 Btu/hr

Table 2.2 indoor cooling requirements

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 8

SGI Series Inverters

Figure 2.1 SGI 225 – SGI 500 dimensions

41” with blower shrouds.

2.1 Inverter Positioning

Correct mounting position for the inverter is vertical with the mounting feet on the floor. This diagram shows the basic inverter dimensions:

2.2 Mounting Details

Using the mounting diagram Fig. 2.2, concrete pad mounting will be used. The inverter

includes mounting feet with 8 holes (1/2”, 12mm diameter) on a 105” x 34” rectangular pattern for attaching the inverter. Note that these 4 mounting holes are 2” inside each corner of the main inverter enclosure dimensions which are 37” x 109” (41” x 109” with

blower shrouds).

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 9

SGI Series Inverters

Figure 2.2 SGI Series mounting pattern (top view)

It is recommended to use eight hot dip galvanized grade 5 or 8 steel bolts or stainless steel bolts. The correct bolt size is 3/8” (10mm) diameter. Use a heavy lock washer and flat washer with each bolt. Alternatively, a “toe-plate” can be used at the end of each 4x4” tube foot. After mounting is completed, remove shipping aids from front shrouds and inside unit.

WARNING: Severe injury or death could occur if the inverter mounting fails and the unit tips over or falls on a person.

NOTE: The weight of the inverter will exert this added load to floor, roof or pad where mounted. Be sure to verify proper load capacity of mounting surface.

NOTE: If the roof/floor mounting only uses the inverter’s mounting feet, be sure

you use all 8 available foot mount bolt positions.

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 10

SGI Series Inverters

AC and DC Conduit Plate

Alternate AC Conduit Entry

Alternate DC Conduit Entry

2.3 DC and AC wire Entry Points

AC and DC wiring must enter through the provided conduit cutout in the bottom of the inverter enclosure. Alternative locations are the left side for DC and back panel for AC.

Figure 2.3 AC and DC conduit cut-outs

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 11

SGI Series Inverters

3.0 Installation

WARNING: Before installing the Inverter, read all instructions and caution markings in

this manual and on the Inverter as well as on the photovoltaic modules.

WARNING: Electrical installation shall be performed in accordance with all local electrical codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC), Canadian Electrical Code for Canada (CEC), ANSI/NFPA 70.

WARNING: Connecting the Inverter to the electric utility grid must only be completed after receiving prior approval from the utility company and installation performed only by qualified personnel/licensed electrician(s).

3.1 Checking for Shipping Damage

The inverter is thoroughly checked and tested rigorously before it is shipped. Even though it is bolted onto a rugged, oversized pallet or in a crate for delivery, the inverter can be damaged during shipping by poor handling, trucking or transfer station activity.

Please inspect the inverter thoroughly after it is delivered. If any damage is seen please immediately notify the shipping company to make a claim. If there is any question about potential shipping damage, contact Solectria Renewables. A photo of the damage may be helpful.

Do not accept the unit if it is visibly damaged or if you note visible damage when signing

shipping company receipt.

Note damage on shipping papers with the truck driver! Report damage immediately to

the shipping company.

Do not remove the unit from pallet/packaging. If it is determined that the unit must be returned an RMA# must be obtained from

Solectria Renewables.

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 12

SGI Series Inverters

3.2 Inverter Mounting

WARNING: The SGI may tip over if improperly moved potentially causing damage to

equipment, personnel injury or death.

- Note the center of gravity to guide lifting methods.

- Do not tilt the pallet or inverter while moving it.

- Please follow the following guidelines.

- Safety chains and straps must be used to prevent any possible tilting or shifting

of the inverter in any direction while being lifted.

WARNING: Do not install the inverter on or over combustible surfaces or materials.

3.2 Removing inverter from pallet and moving inverter:

It is recommended to keep the inverter secured to the pallet and moved as close as possible to the final location prior to removing the pallet. To remove the securing bolts use a 9/16“ socket and/or wrench. Completely remove each nut and bolt from the pallet.

The center-of-gravity of the inverter is well to the right of center, 36” from right side of the inverter directly under the left door of the transformer enclosure (right side enclosure).

Use an 8,000lb For the SGI500 and 6,000lb for SGI 225-SGI300 capable forklift or fork attachment on other equipment if lifting from the bottom. The forks should be set at a 50" inside spacing so they fit just to the left of the inverter's 4” x 4" aluminum tube feet.

Before lifting, make sure forks are against the left edges of both the right most foot and center feet and install safety chains (with failsafe hooks) to prevent inverter from sliding right on fork lift and from sliding off forklift (see diagrams).

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 13

SGI Series Inverters

B B A

Figure 3.1 forklift lifting positions

Use positions A when lifting or moving the inverter while attached to the pallet Use positions B when lifting or moving the inverter removed from the pallet.

Note that the lifting diagrams show the inverter being lifted while mounted on the shipping pallet. If the inverter is lifted without the shipping pallet, a properly rated safety strap must be placed over the top of the inverter firmly holding it down on the lifting devices forks. It is recommended to use two lifting straps, one holding the inverter to the left fork and another to the right fork.

Alternatively, the inverter can be lifted using the lifting eyes on the top. If using this lifting method, lift with vertical chains and hooks connected to a proper lifting device. Do not lift with an “A” chain between the two eyes left-to-right as this could bend the inverter’s roof, however 3-4 “A” chain sets can be used with each “A” chain on front and rear pairs of eyebolts with a each side of “A” having a chain length of 4 feet minimum Each “A” chain must be tensioned. The recommended method is a 3 or 4 beam hoist with 6-8 equal-length tensioned chains hanging down, one over each eye bolt. An A-frame can be used above the 3-4 beams. At a minimum, lift by the left two eyes, the right two eyes and 1-2 of the center eyes at the front and 1-2 of the center eyes at the back. Never lift only by the outer 4 eyebolts as this will damage the enclosure and doors.

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 14

SGI Series Inverters

Figure 3.2 Eyebolt lifting

NOTE: Failure to follow the instructions may cause structural damage to the inverter

and void the warranty.

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 15

SGI Series Inverters

4.0 DC Electrical Connections and Connection to the Electrical Utility Grid

WARNING: All electrical installations shall be performed in accordance with all local electrical codes and the National Electrical Code, Canadian Electrical Code for Canada and ANSI/NFPA 70. Only make AC connections directly to the AC breaker and DC connections to the DC sub combiner panel.

4.1 Grounding Electrode Conductor (GEC)

As with all PV systems, a Grounding Electrode Conductor must be installed per NEC690. This conductor should be sized according to NEC requirements. You should use an appropriate lug for the conductor and corrosion-prevention grease between lug and aluminum bracket.

A lug position is provided on the ground bond plate (use double wire rated lug) for AC output grounded conductor and grounding electrode conductor:

WARNING: Make sure to establish a solid connection from the inverter enclosure to the AC system ground before proceeding to connect any DC or AC wires.

WARNING: The wiring connections of the inverter to the DC voltage from the PV strings and the AC voltage of the utility must be performed with the AC and DC

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 16

Figure 4.1 AC grounding lug positions

SGI Series Inverters

SGI 500 : 8 positions,

225 – 400 A fuses

SGI 225 -300: 6 positions, 225 – 350A 600VDC fuses

8 positions,

225 – 250A 600VDC fuses

SGI 500 : 16 positions

110 – 200A 600VDC fuses

SGI 225 -300: 12 positions 110 – 175A 600VDC fuses

or SGI 225 -300: 16 positions 110 – 125A 600VDC fuses

SGI 500 : 32 positions

70 – 100A 600VDC fuses

SGI 500 : 24 positions

70 – 100A 600VDC fuses

SGI 225 -300: 24 positions

70 – 100A 600VDC fuses

Max. 16 (12) x 2AWG-

350kcmil, 75 C connections,

275 in-lbs

1-2 wires per fuse position

Max. 16 (12) x 2AWG-

350kcmil 75 C connections,

375 in-lbs

1 wire per fuse position

Max. 32 (24) x 6AWG-1/0 75 C

connections,

100 in-lbs

1 wire per fuse position

disconnects off, building AC source circuit panel/breaker off and the PV module strings disconnected (or modules covered up).

4.2 DC Wiring

Copper wire must be used for the DC (PV) positive and negative conductors. Your SGI comes with one of the following DC subcombiner options installed:

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 17

Table 4.1 DC sub-combiner options

SGI Series Inverters

SGI 500 : 8 positions

SGI 225 -300: 6 or 8 positions

6-8 lugs

SGI 500 : 16 positions

SGI 225 -300: 12 or 16

positions

6-8 lugs (dual wire)

SGI 500 : 24 or 32 positions

SGI 225 -300: 24 positions

12-16 lugs (dual wire)

Max. 16 (12) x 2AWG-

350kcmil, 75 C connections,

550 in-lbs

1-2 wires per lug

Max. 16 (12) x 2AWG-350kcmil

75 C connections, 550 in-lbs

2 wire per lug

Max. 32 (24) x 6AWG-1/0 75 C

connections,

50 in-lbs

1 wire per lug terminal

The negative subcombiner plate will accept up to thirty-two 75oC (167oF) rated aluminum set screw terminals and 75oC (167oF) rated aluminum or (tin plated) copper listed compression lugs. The following is a table of aluminum set screw lugs available from the factory specified with an inverter order.

Table 4.2 DC subcombiner grounded terminals

The negative DC connection is grounded within the inverter through the ground fault detection and interrupt circuit (GFDI). The PV negative should not be grounded at any other point in the system. The PV positive must never be grounded at any time. (Unless the inverter is configured for Positive Ground, check the labels prior to connecting cables)

WARNING: Fuses in the inverter’s DC disconnect must only be replaced with the

same type (600VDC rated) fuses as originally installed.

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 18

SGI Series Inverters

Up to 16 individual DC equipment ground connections can be made directly to the ground bond plate:

Figure 4.2 DC equipment ground combiner lug positions (16 x 14AWG-2/0 lugs)

Figure 4.3 DC equipment ground combiner lug position (1 x 0AWG-750MCM lug)

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 19

SGI Series Inverters

AC and DC Conduit Plate

Alternate AC Conduit Entry

Alternate DC Conduit Entry

Figure 4.4 AC and DC conduit cut-outs

Connect the PV combined strings to the DC subcombiner fuse holders (ungrounded DC conductor) and negative subcombiner plate (grounded DC conductor). Connect the DC equipment ground to the ground bond plate.

WARNING: Before connecting the connectors of the PV-panel to the DC disconnect enclosure fused PV sub-combiner check the correct polarity and admissible PV-panel voltage between the + and the - cable connectors of the PV panel.

The PV-panel open circuit voltage must be below 600V DC (V

< 600V DC) under all conditions

as per NEC 690-7. Please read the Technical Info section for details. Any DC voltage over 625 will damage the inverter and void the warranty.

Connect PV modules, strings, combiners or uncover them. Verify correct DC voltage polarity again and make sure the GFDI breaker stays in the lever-up position.

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 20

SGI Series Inverters

DC Ground Fault Current Pickup

Maximum Trip Time

SGI 225 - 250

4 A

1 s

SGI 266 - 500

5 A

1 s

GFDI on Breaker on

GFDI off Breaker off

4.3 DC Ground Fault Detection and Interruption

Your SGI inverter is equipped with an automatic DC Ground Fault detection and interruption circuit. When ground fault exceeding the pickup value is present in the PV array or in the DC wiring to the inverter, the DC GDFI breaker will trip and ground fault will be signaled by means of yellow LED and display.

Figure 4.5

Table 4.5

WARNING: If the GFDI breaker trips upon connection of one or more combined

strings you must locate and eliminate the ground fault in the array before proceeding. The DC ground fault is eliminated when the GFDI breaker can be engaged back into its lever-up position. Failure to obey these instructions will cause the negative conductor to rise to potentially unsafe voltage levels (unsafe for a human to touch; the inverter can withstand DC ground faults of 2400A).

WARNING: Even when the DC disconnect is in the off position, the ungrounded DC conductor leading up to the DC disconnect will remain live on the PV side as long as the PV modules are in daylight. The inverter side of the DC disconnect will also remain live after the disconnect has been shut off until 60 seconds after the LEDs turn off, as DC bus capacitors in the inverter discharge.

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 21

SGI Series Inverters

Model

Number of AC

terminals per phase

Minimum cable size

AWG

Maximum cable size

kcmil

Torque Specs (in.

lbs.)

SGI 225 2 3/0

500

450

SGI 250 2 3/0

500

450

SGI 266 2 3/0

500

450

SGI 300 2 3/0

500

450

SGI 500 3 2/0

400

450

SGI 225-480VAC

SGI 250-480VAC

SGI 266-480VAC

SGI 300-480VAC

SGI 500-480VAC

350A (10kA)

400A (10kA)

450A (10kA)

800A (10kA)

1% voltage drop single

conductor resistance

Min. AWG

for 200ft

Min. AWG

for 400ft

Min. AWG

for 800ft

SGI 250-480VAC

8.0 mOhm

350mcm

2x350mcm

4x350mcm

SGI 266-480VAC

7.5 mOhm

350mcm

2x350mcm

4x350mcm

SGI 300-480VAC

6.7 mOhm

400mcm

2x400mcm

4x400mcm

SGI 500-480VAC

4.0 mOhm

2x350mcm

3x500mcm

4x750mcm

4.4 AC Wiring

For 3-phase AC wiring, first verify clockwise phase sequence, and then use minimum 90oC (194oF) copper wire to connect to the inverter’s 3-phase AC breaker. See NEC 310.10 regarding temperature ratings of wire. Follow local code to determine minimum wire gauge and temperature rating of the wires. Voltage drop and other considerations may dictate that larger wire sizes be used.

Table 4.6 Wire size limits

4.5 Connection Wiring to the Electrical Utility Grid

The SGI Series Inverter must be connected to the grid with 3 conductors and an AC equipmentgrounding conductor.

Table 4.7 minimum AC breaker size

The grid impedance value at the connection point should be as low as possible to avoid an increase of the AC-voltage to non-permissible values while the inverter feeds to the grid. Less than 1% AC phase-to-phase voltage drop is recommended. Minimizing wiring impedance also results in higher system efficiency.

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 22

SGI Series Inverters

Example: Copper AWG needed to stay below recommended limit of 1% AC wire loss (400’ and

over requires splicing 2 wires to maintain this low desired system resistance)

All AC wiring must enter through the provided conduit cutout in the bottom on the inverter enclosure or the rear panel (see figure 4.4).

Connect the building 3-phase conductors into the bottom of the integrated AC breaker as shown in figure 4.6. Phase A should connect to the leftmost position of the breaker, phase B to the middle and phase C to the rightmost position.

A B C

Figure 4.6 AC Connection point

Energize the AC to the inverter by switching building/utility 3-phase breakers ON.

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 23

SGI Series Inverters

4.6 AC Ground Fault Detection

Your SGI inverter is not equipped with an AC Ground Fault detection circuit. Where required by local electrical code, the inverter AC output needs to be connected to the supply side of the installation’s AC ground fault protection.

4.7 Lightning and Surge Protection

The SGI series is designed with certain protections against surges in voltage including certification to ANSI/IEEE 62.41/62.42 (as required in the NY SIR), however added protection and solid grounding provisions are important for best protection against utility surges and surges created by indirect lightning strikes.

The installation of a UL listed lightning arrester of the correct specification is recommended on both the DC and AC inputs of inverter. This can be installed and wired using the manufacturer's directions. This device gives important added protection from indirect lightning strikes and resulting surges that provide protection beyond the inverter's IEEE 1547 requirements. It is suggested to drive a ground rod specifically for the PV array. It is also a very good idea to have the lightning protection system of the building checked and upgraded if needed before the PV system is installed. These added protections are especially important for area prone to thunder storms and possible nearby lightning strikes. Although these added precautions will not guarantee that there will be no damage from lightning, they can help prevent or limit potential damage.

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 24

SGI Series Inverters

4.8 SolrenView Monitoring

SolrenView is a state of the art web based inverter monitoring system. The SGI series inverters are equipped with SolrenView monitoring DAS as part of the display module. If the customer has ordered and subscribed to SolrenView monitoring this must be turned on and Ethernet (CAT5) cable connected to the display module. The Ethernet cable is then connected to a router for IP address assignment. Please see chapter 6.0 for display set up and static IP address configuration.

Connect the cat5 cable to the RJ45 jack on the lower right side of the display/SolrenView DAS

Figure 4.6 Ethernet connection For multiple inverters at one location it is necessary to connect an Ethernet cable to each inverter then to a router or switch for connection to the customer broadband internet device. To enable the SolrenView monitoring follow these steps using the display panel

1. Press

2. Press to MONITOR

3. Press to enter monitor set mode

4. Press to SRV Mode

to enter the display set mode

5. Press to activate the change mode

6. Press

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 25

to select Yes

SGI Series Inverters

7. Press to confirm

5.0 Commissioning the Inverter PV System

The inverter is mounted, all connections are made and you are ready to power it up.

NOTE: Make sure all tools, parts, etc. are removed from the vicinity of the inverter before turning on.

WARNING: Make a final check of all AC and DC wiring to the inverter and in the system.

NOTE: With the PV modules connected and inverter disconnects still off, it is a good final precaution to check PV voltage and polarity once more using a digital volt meter and probing the positive (+) and negative (-) PV connections. Verify clockwise AC phase rotation for L1, L2, L3 using a phase rotation meter.

5.1 Turning on the inverter:

Turn on the dedicated 3-phase circuit breaker on the building electrical panel. Turn on the Inverter’s 3-phase AC disconnect. Turn on the Inverter’s DC disconnect. Watch the LED indicators for initialization (green and red LEDs on), then slow blinking

green LED followed by faster blinking green LED. Watch the LCD display for prompts and system status.

Listen for contactor closing (inverter on-line). Listen for slight 60 Hz hum (transformer on-line). Following the blinking green LED and high frequency switching sound you should see a

solid green LED. This confirms that the inverter is operating normally. The LCD display will show the AC Power (PAC), Energy (EAC), current and voltage as well as DC voltage.

5.2 Operation:

The control electronics will be active as soon as DC (PV) voltage reaches 300V DC. The inverter will go on-line with the utility/building 3-phase grid when the DC voltage first exceeds 370V DC (strike voltage). Next, the inverter will load the array, bringing the DC voltage down from 370V DC to not less than 300V DC.

Once there is enough PV power at 300V DC to back feed 3-phase AC power switching will automatically feed power to the grid.

Installation and Operation Manual (Rev B) 26

SGI Series Inverters

Operating states, GFDI status and error indications shown by the LED indicators, which are described in chapter 6, “Power, GFDI and Error LED Indicators”.

6.0 LCD Display and LED Indicators

The inverter operates automatically without the need for user interaction or maintenance.

The Inverter automatically starts back feeding 3-phase AC power into the grid when there is sufficient DC voltage and PV power is available. The inverter runs through various checks before connecting to the grid. This will be displayed on the LED’s and the LCD display during start up.

6.1 LCD Display

Figure 6.1 LCD Display example

Button Description

: To move up a level from the current menu.

: To scroll up/down the individual menu items

: To enter into selected menu.

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SGI Series Inverters

6.1.2 Main/Default Screen

Eac: XXXX kWh Pac: XX W

Press or or to move from the main/default screen into the Start Menu

To enter into selected menu item, press the key.

Start Menu

1. Measurements

2. Set Inverter

3. Set Monitor

4. KYZ Meter

5. Display Info

Measurements Menu

This displays the data retrieved from the inverter. Use the buttons to move up and down

the list:

AC Energy Cumulative AC Energy (kWh) AC Power AC Power output (W) AC Voltage AC Voltage, 3-phase (V) AC Current (average) AC Current, 3-phase average (A) DC Voltage DC Voltage (V)

Pressing will take the screen back to the start menu.

Note: data will only be available when inverter is awake and communicating.

Apparent Power Apparent AC Power output (VA) Reactive Power Reactive AC Power output (VAr) VAR Avail. Available Reactive AC Power output (VAr) KVArh supplied Cumulative reactive energy generated (kVArh) KVArh absorbed Cumulative reactive energy received (kVArh) Heat Sink Heat Sink Temperatures ( DC Current #1-2 DC Current(A) #1- 2 DC Current #3-4 DC Current(A) #3-4 DC Current #5-6 DC Current(A) #5-6 DC Current #7-8 DC Current(A) #7-8

C) #1-3

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SGI Series Inverters

This starts the transmit process necessary for SolrenView monitoring. Note: Enabling this field when SolrenView service has not been confirmed or authorized may result in

unnecessary wear on the unit.

Set Inverter Menu

Displays inverter parameters, some of which may be modified with the keypad.

1. Inverter ID Serial port address/ID of the inverter

2. Baud Rate Serial port baud rate (19200 or 9600)

3. Power Level Inverter AC power output level

4. VAC Inverter VAC

5. Transformer Transformer model

6. Disable Power Disable AC Power

7. UL Reconnect Wait time in seconds

8. Vac Very High AC Voltage Critical High

9. Vac High AC Voltage High

10. Vac Low AC Voltage Low

11. Vac Very Low AC Voltage Critical Low

12. Fac Low AC Frequency Low

13. Fac Very Low AC Frequency Critical Low

14. Fac High AC Frequency High (Not adjustable)

15. Password 4-digit pin code to set limits

Note: data is only available when inverter is operating.

Monitor Menu

Displays monitor settings that may be modified with the keypad.

1. LAN Local Area Network configuration, applicable only for

SolrenView monitoring

1. DHCP Mode See SolrenView manual on DHCP

2. Static/Fallback IP If DHCP is turned on, this is then used as the fallback IP

3. Gateway IP IP address of LAN’s default gateway.

4. Netmask Subnet mask

2. Date/Time Manual time set. This may be overwritten by

scheduled NIST updates.

3. Reboot Reboots the monitor

4. Remote SRV

5. Reset SRV Settings are cleared to factory defaults. Caution: This will also

clear Revenue-grade KYZ counters.

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SGI Series Inverters

green: GFDI breaker tripped

GFDI breaker needs to be reset after DC ground fault is

removed in the array or the wiring leading up to the inverter

yellow:

see chapter 5

red:

6.2 LED Indicators

The LED indicators mounted on the front of the left enclosure just above the LCD give the installer and user a good, quick look at what state the inverter is in and if it is operating normally.

GREEN – indicates “power”, the unit is powered up and/or feeding power to the grid

RED – “ERROR” or “FAULT”, the inverter is not providing power due to an error or fault

YELLOW – RED together indicate that a ground fault has been detected and it must be located and repaired before the inverter will function. Check GFDI breaker if YELLOW LED remains solid.

If the GFDI breaker is tripped (lever in down position), it will need to be reset to return the inverter to proper operation.

Fig. 6.2 LED indicators

For other LED indications please contact Solectria Renewables Customer Support.

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SGI Series Inverters

The inverter is in Derating mode. Can be caused by high input power, high temperature, AC line impedence

Check string sizing, ambient temp, fans operating, vents are clear, AC wire sizing

A high voltage spike has occurred from the AC grid voltage. Usually from lightning

The inverter will need to be inspected and serviced by an authorized service provider.

The AC grid voltage is exceeding the high limit.

Measure the actual VAC compared to the LCD display VAC. If VAC is greater than acceptable limits inverter will restart when normal.

The AC grid voltage is less than the low limit.

Measure the actual VAC compared to the LCD display VAC. If VAC is less than acceptable limits inverter will restart when normal.

The AC grid frequency is exceeding the high limit.

If possible measure the frequency or contact local utility provider.

The AC grid voltage is less than the low limit.

If possible measure the frequency or contact local utility provider.

The AC contactor or sensing circuit has failed