Dernière mise à jour : 14 juillet 2026 | Version 1.0

En bref : Ce que les ingénieurs doivent savoir

Un système d'énergie solaire fiable ne dépend pas d'un seul dispositif de protection. Une protection efficace Protection électrique photovoltaïque nécessite une protection coordonnée sur l'ensemble du circuit CC, des modules et chaînes PV jusqu'au coffret de jonction, à l'onduleur et au système de distribution CA.

La logique de protection de base est la suivante :

Module PV → Chaîne PV → Fusible gPV → Coffret de jonction → Parafoudre CC → Sectionneur CC → Onduleur → Protection CA

Chaque composant répond à un risque électrique différent :

• fusibles gPV protéger les chaînes PV et les conducteurs contre les surintensités inverses dangereuses.
• Parafoudres CC (SPD) limiter les surtensions transitoires causées par la foudre et les événements de commutation.
• Sectionneurs CC assurer une déconnexion électrique sécurisée pour la maintenance et les urgences.
• Boîtes de raccordement PV intégrer les connexions de chaînes et de multiples fonctions de protection dans un coffret coordonné.
• Protection côté onduleur aide à empêcher un événement électrique local de devenir une défaillance à l'échelle du système.

Le principe d'ingénierie le plus important est simple :

Un fusible ne peut pas remplacer un parafoudre (SPD). Un parafoudre ne peut pas remplacer un fusible. Un sectionneur CC n'est pas un dispositif de protection contre les surintensités, et la sécurité d'un coffret de jonction dépend uniquement des composants et de la coordination interne.

La conception moderne des champs photovoltaïques est traitée par IEC 62548-1:2023+AMD1:2025, qui couvre le câblage des champs PV, la protection électrique, ainsi que les dispositions relatives au sectionnement et à la mise à la terre. La publication consolidée actuelle est la norme IEC 62548-1:2023 avec l'amendement 1:2025. IEC 60364-7-712:2025 traite des exigences d'installation électrique associées aux systèmes d'alimentation photovoltaïques.

Ce guide explique comment ces fonctions de protection interagissent et comment les ingénieurs, les entrepreneurs EPC, les intégrateurs de systèmes et les concepteurs en électricité peuvent construire une architecture de protection PV mieux coordonnée.

Table des matières

1. Qu'est-ce que la protection électrique solaire photovoltaïque ?
2. Pourquoi les systèmes photovoltaïques nécessitent une stratégie de protection différente
3. L'architecture complète de protection électrique photovoltaïque
4. Couche 1 : Protection des chaînes PV et fusibles gPV
5. Couche 2 : Dispositifs de protection contre les surtensions pour systèmes solaires photovoltaïques
6. Couche 3 : Sectionneurs CC
7. Couche 4 : Protection du coffret de jonction photovoltaïque
8. Couche 5 : Protection de l'onduleur solaire
9. Fonctionnement de la coordination entre parafoudre (SPD), fusible, sectionneur CC et coffret de jonction
10. Protection électrique solaire photovoltaïque pour systèmes CC 1000V et 1500V
11. Erreurs courantes dans la conception de la protection solaire photovoltaïque
12. Flux de travail pratique pour la sélection des protections photovoltaïques
13. Inspection et maintenance
14. Liste de contrôle pour la protection électrique solaire photovoltaïque
15. Questions fréquemment posées
16. Recommandations techniques finales

1. Qu'est-ce que la protection électrique solaire photovoltaïque ?

Protection électrique photovoltaïque est l'application coordonnée de dispositifs de protection électrique et de mesures de conception utilisés pour réduire les risques créés par les surintensités, les courts-circuits, les courants inverses, les surtensions transitoires, les défauts d'isolement, les opérations de commutation, les arcs électriques et les défauts d'équipement dans les systèmes photovoltaïques.

Une installation photovoltaïque n'est pas simplement un groupe de panneaux solaires connectés à un onduleur.

Il s'agit d'un système de production d'électricité doté de caractéristiques de fonctionnement uniques.

Contrairement à un circuit de charge CA conventionnel, un champ photovoltaïque produit de l'électricité dès qu'un ensoleillement suffisant est disponible. Le côté CC peut donc rester sous tension même lorsque l'alimentation CA a été déconnectée.

Cette différence a des conséquences majeures sur la conception de la protection.

Une stratégie de protection complète doit prendre en compte :

• La tension maximale du champ photovoltaïque
• Le courant de fonctionnement maximal
• Courant de court-circuit du module
• Nombre de chaînes en parallèle
• Courant inverse potentiel
• Capacité de transport de courant des câbles
• La tension maximale du système
• Caractéristiques électriques de l'onduleur
• Exposition à la foudre
• Acheminement des câbles
• Dispositif de mise à la terre
• Conditions environnementales
• Points de sectionnement requis
• Réglementations électriques locales
• Procédures de maintenance

Aucun composant de protection unique ne peut gérer tous ces risques.

Un système bien conçu utilise plusieurs couches de protection, chaque appareil remplissant une fonction spécifique.

C'est le fondement de la coordination. Protection électrique photovoltaïque.

2. Pourquoi les systèmes photovoltaïques nécessitent une stratégie de protection différente

Les systèmes photovoltaïques créent plusieurs conditions électriques fondamentalement différentes des circuits de bâtiment normaux.

2.1 Le côté CC peut rester sous tension

L'ouverture du disjoncteur CA principal ne supprime pas nécessairement la tension du champ photovoltaïque.

Lorsque la lumière du soleil atteint les modules, les strings peuvent continuer à générer une tension CC.

Le personnel de maintenance peut donc rencontrer des conducteurs sous tension entre :

• Modules photovoltaïques
• Câbles de chaîne
• Boîtes combinées
• Équipement de distribution CC
• Entrées CC de l'onduleur

C'est pourquoi des procédures appropriées d'isolation, d'étiquetage, de sélection d'équipement et de maintenance sont essentielles.

2.2 Les arcs CC sont plus difficiles à interrompre

Le courant alternatif passe naturellement par zéro deux fois au cours de chaque cycle électrique. Ce passage naturel par zéro peut faciliter l'extinction de l'arc.

Le courant continu ne présente pas le même passage périodique par zéro.

Par conséquent, les dispositifs de commutation destinés aux applications CA ne doivent pas être automatiquement considérés comme adaptés aux circuits CC photovoltaïques à haute tension.

Un appareil utilisé sur un système 1000V ou 1500V CC doit être spécifiquement conçu et dimensionné pour la tension, le courant et le service de commutation CC correspondants.

Ceci s'applique aux :

• Sectionneurs CC
• Disjoncteurs CC
• Porte-fusibles
• Fusibles
• Contacteurs
• Interrupteurs-sectionneurs
• Autres équipements de commutation

Incorrect Sélection d'un interrupteur-sectionneur CC peut entraîner une surchauffe, une défaillance de l'interruption du courant ou un arc électrique soutenu.

2.3 Les chaînes PV en parallèle peuvent créer un courant inverse

Une seule chaîne PV a un courant de défaut limité.

Cependant, lorsque plusieurs chaînes sont connectées en parallèle, les chaînes saines peuvent injecter du courant dans une chaîne défaillante.

Ce courant inverse peut dépasser :

• Capacité de transport de courant des câbles
• Les valeurs nominales des connecteurs
• Les limites de protection des modules

C'est l'une des raisons principales pour lesquelles les fusibles gPV pour chaînes sont utilisés dans les grandes installations photovoltaïques.

La question technique n'est pas simplement :

“ Quel courant un panneau solaire produit-il ? ”

La question la plus importante est :

“ Quel courant de défaut les autres chaînes en parallèle pourraient-elles injecter dans une chaîne endommagée ? ”

Cette différence est essentielle pour une coordination correcte des fusibles.

2.4 Les systèmes photovoltaïques sont fortement exposés aux surtensions induites par la foudre

Les installations solaires comprennent souvent :

• Grands champs photovoltaïques extérieurs
• Longues lignes de câbles CC
• Rooftop conductors
• Ground-mounted structures
• External communication cables
• Inverters connected to both DC and AC networks

These characteristics can increase exposure to transient overvoltages.

A nearby lightning event does not have to strike a solar panel directly to create damaging voltage impulses.

Electromagnetic coupling into long conductors can produce transient overvoltages capable of stressing:

• Circuits d'entrée de l'onduleur
• Systèmes de surveillance
• Communication equipment
• Control electronics
• Insulation
• Other sensitive components

This is why surge protection must be considered as a system design issue rather than simply an optional accessory.

2.5 PV Equipment Operates Outdoors for Long Periods

Electrical components in PV systems may be exposed to:

• Température ambiante élevée
• Solar radiation
• Poussière
• Humidité
• Condensation
• Salt mist
• Mechanical vibration
• Repeated thermal cycling
• Infiltration d'eau
• Insects and contamination

A protection device that is correctly rated electrically can still fail if the installation environment is ignored.

Fiable Protection électrique photovoltaïque therefore depends on both electrical coordination and suitable environmental design.

3. The Complete PV Electrical Protection Architecture

A simplified PV protection path can be represented as follows:

PV Modules
↓
Cordes PV
↓
String Protection / gPV Fuses
↓
Boîte combinée PV
↓
Protection contre les surtensions en courant continu
↓
DC Isolation
↓
Onduleur solaire
↓
AC Surge and Overcurrent Protection
↓
Distribution System / Grid

The exact architecture changes according to system size.

For example, a small residential string inverter system may not use a separate external combiner box.

A large commercial or utility-scale plant may include:

• Hundreds or thousands of PV strings
• Multiple combiner levels
• 1500V DC architecture
• Central inverters
• DC collection systems
• Multiple SPDs
• String monitoring
• Remote disconnect systems

The protection principle, however, remains the same.

Every risk should be assigned to the device designed to control it.

The most common design problems occur when these functions are confused, especially when engineers fail to distinguish between a DC fuse and DC SPD.

4. Layer 1: PV String and gPV Fuse Protection

4.1 What Does a gPV Fuse Protect?

A gPV fuse is specifically intended for photovoltaic applications.

Its purpose is primarily to protect:

• PV strings
• PV array conductors
• Associated DC equipment

against damaging overcurrents under the conditions that can occur in photovoltaic systems.

PV fuse-links are addressed by IEC 60269-6, which provides supplementary requirements for fuse-links used to protect PV strings and arrays in DC circuits up to 1500V.

The designation gPV is important.

A conventional AC fuse should not automatically be substituted for a fuse designed for photovoltaic DC applications.

PV systems can operate under:

• High DC voltage
• Relatively low but continuous current
• Courant inverse des chaînes parallèles
• High ambient temperatures
• Repeated daily thermal cycling

The fuse must be designed and tested for the application.

4.2 When Is String Fuse Protection Necessary?

Not every PV string automatically requires a fuse.

The need for string overcurrent protection depends on system design, including:

• Nombre de chaînes en parallèle
• Possible reverse current
• Module maximum series fuse rating
• Capacité de transport de courant du câble
• Equipment ratings
• Applicable standards and local codes

Consider a system with many parallel strings.

If one string develops a short circuit, the remaining strings may contribute reverse current into the faulted circuit.

The fuse should disconnect the faulted string before the current causes unacceptable thermal damage to cables, connectors or modules.

In a system with only one string, or in some limited parallel configurations, the available reverse current may not justify individual string fusing.

Therefore:

The number of PV strings alone should not be used as the only fuse-selection rule.

The engineer must evaluate the possible fault current and the withstand limits of the protected circuit.

4.3 Selecting the Correct gPV Fuse

A proper gPV fuse selection process should consider at least five parameters.

1. Rated DC Voltage

The fuse voltage rating must be suitable for the maximum possible system voltage.

Common PV fuse voltage classes include:

• 1000V DC
• 1500V DC

The selected rating must account for the maximum PV array voltage under expected operating conditions.

Cold weather is particularly important because PV module open-circuit voltage can increase as cell temperature decreases.

A system with a normal operating voltage below 1000V may still experience a higher maximum calculated voltage under low-temperature conditions.

For typical 1000V PV string applications, KUANGYA also provides 10×38 gPV fuse links for solar systems.

2. Rated Current

The fuse current rating should coordinate with:

• Courant de fonctionnement de la corde
• Courant de court-circuit du module
• Expected environmental conditions
• Capacité de transport de courant du câble
• Module manufacturer limitations

Selecting a fuse only because its rated current is slightly above normal operating current is not a sufficient engineering method.

The selected fuse must carry legitimate operating current without nuisance operation while still providing meaningful protection during an abnormal overcurrent condition.

3. Maximum Series Fuse Rating of the PV Module

PV module manufacturers generally specify a maximum protective fuse rating or similar limitation.

The selected fuse must not exceed the protection limits established for the module and system design.

A larger fuse may appear to reduce nuisance operation, but oversizing can reduce protection effectiveness.

4. Breaking Capacity

The fuse must be capable of safely interrupting the available fault current.

Although PV string currents are often lower than industrial short-circuit currents on large AC networks, the breaking capacity should still be verified rather than assumed.

5. Conditions environnementales

Fuse performance can be influenced by:

• Température de l'enveloppe
• Solar heating
• Ventilation
• Grouping of multiple fuse holders
• Installation orientation
• Altitude

A combiner box installed outdoors in a hot climate may experience a much higher internal temperature than the surrounding ambient air.

Protection selection should reflect the actual installation environment.

4.4 Why Oversizing a PV Fuse Is Dangerous

One common mistake is increasing the fuse rating whenever nuisance operation occurs.

This may hide the actual problem.

Repeated fuse operation can indicate:

• Incorrect fuse sizing
• Excessive enclosure temperature
• Poor connection quality
• Mismatched strings
• Damaged modules
• Cable faults
• Incorrect system design

Simply installing a larger fuse can allow damaging current to continue for longer.

Correct protection requires investigation, not automatic upsizing.

5. Layer 2: Surge Protection Devices for Solar PV Systems

5.1 What Does a Solar SPD Do?

A surge protective device limits transient overvoltage by diverting surge current away from sensitive equipment.

On the DC side of a PV installation, SPDs may help protect:

• Entrées CC de l'onduleur
• MPPT circuits
• Équipement de surveillance
• Équipement de distribution CC
• Other connected electronics

IEC 61643-31 covers SPDs intended for the DC side of photovoltaic installations up to 1500V DC, while IEC 61643-32 provides principles for SPD selection, installation and coordination in PV systems.

For an overview of the complete standard family, see our guide to IEC 61643 and Surge Protective Devices.

An SPD is not designed to perform the same function as a fuse.

It does not primarily protect against sustained overcurrent.

It responds to transient overvoltage events.

5.2 Where Do PV Surges Come From?

Transient overvoltages may result from:

Nearby Lightning

A lightning strike near a PV installation can induce a surge into long DC conductors through electromagnetic coupling.

Direct Lightning Effects

Systems exposed to direct lightning effects require a broader lightning protection assessment and appropriate coordination between the external lightning protection system and electrical SPDs.

Switching Events

Switching operations within electrical networks can also create transient overvoltages.

Long Cable Routes

Long DC cable routes can increase exposure to induced transient energy and create greater separation between protected equipment and the SPD.

5.3 Type 1 and Type 2 SPD: What Is the Difference?

A simplified distinction is:

DOCUP de type 1

Used where the installation must manage partial lightning current or where the lightning protection design requires Type 1 capability.

DOCUP de type 2

Used primarily to protect against induced and switching overvoltages.

Many PV installations use Type 2 DC SPDs where the risk assessment and system design do not require Type 1 capability.

However, device type should not be selected only by habit.

The correct choice depends on:

• Lightning protection system
• Emplacement d'installation
• Risk assessment
• Acheminement des câbles
• Building configuration
• Normes applicables

5.4 The Most Important SPD Selection Parameters

Tension de fonctionnement maximale continue

The SPD must withstand the maximum expected DC voltage of the PV array without entering an unsafe operating condition.

An SPD should not be selected only because its label says “solar.”

Its voltage characteristics must match the system.

Engineers working with 600V to 1500V photovoltaic systems can also review KUANGYA’s Type 2 PV surge protective device for typical DC-side protection applications.

Niveau de protection de la tension

The SPD should limit the transient voltage to a level compatible with the withstand capability of downstream equipment.

Protection coordination matters.

An SPD with an unsuitable protection level may not provide the intended protection to sensitive inverter electronics.

Courant de décharge nominal

This parameter indicates the SPD’s capability under standardized surge-current conditions.

It should be selected according to the expected surge environment and system design.

Maximum Discharge Current or Impulse Current Capability

Depending on SPD type, the device may be characterized for different surge waveforms and current capabilities.

Engineers should compare actual standardized parameters rather than selecting products solely on marketing descriptions such as “heavy duty.”

Configuration des pôles

The required SPD configuration depends on the PV system topology and earthing arrangement.

Common PV SPD configurations may include different numbers of poles or protective paths.

The system topology must be understood before the SPD is selected.

5.5 Why SPD Installation Location Matters

A correctly selected SPD can still provide poor protection if it is installed incorrectly.

Les facteurs importants sont les suivants :

• Connection conductor length
• Acheminement des câbles
• Separation from protected equipment
• Earthing path
• Coordination between multiple SPDs

Long connecting conductors introduce additional inductive voltage during fast surge events.

As a practical engineering principle:

Keep SPD connection paths as short and direct as the installation permits.

When the PV array and inverter are separated by a long cable distance, a single SPD at only one end may not always provide the desired protection for both ends.

The system should be evaluated as a complete electrical path.

6. Layer 3: DC Isolator Switches

6.1 What Is the Function of a DC Isolator?

A DC isolator provides a means of disconnecting part of the PV DC circuit.

It supports:

• Maintenance
• Inspection
• Equipment replacement
• Emergency procedures
• Safe system segmentation

A DC isolator does pas automatically replace:

• A fuse
• An SPD
• A circuit breaker

Its primary function is isolation.

This distinction is essential.

6.2 Why PV DC Isolation Is Technically Challenging

High-voltage DC switching can produce sustained electrical arcs.

A DC isolator used in a PV system must therefore be suitable for:

• Tension continue
• DC current
• Required utilization category
• Nombre de poteaux
• Switching configuration
• Conditions environnementales

Using an AC-rated switch in a high-voltage DC application can be extremely dangerous.

The physical appearance of two switches may be similar, while their internal switching capability is very different.

6.3 Common Causes of DC Isolator Failure

Loose Terminals

A high-resistance connection creates localized heating.

Over time, thermal cycling can worsen the connection and damage:

• Borniers
• Insulation
• Matériau de l'enveloppe
• Nearby conductors

Incorrect Device Rating

An isolator rated for a lower DC voltage may fail to interrupt the circuit safely.

Incorrect Wiring Configuration

Some multi-pole DC isolators depend on a specific pole arrangement to achieve their intended voltage rating.

Incorrect connection can reduce switching capability.

Water Ingress

Outdoor isolators may fail because of:

• Poor gland installation
• Damaged seals
• Incorrect enclosure orientation
• Condensation
• Inadequate ingress protection

Repeated Thermal Cycling

PV systems operate through daily heating and cooling cycles.

Mechanical connections that were initially acceptable can deteriorate if installation quality is poor.

6.4 Where Should the DC Isolator Be Installed?

The appropriate location depends on the system architecture.

Possible locations include:

• Near the PV array
• Inside a combiner box
• Near the inverter
• Integrated into the inverter
• At multiple points in large systems

The objective is to provide practical and safe isolation of the relevant circuit section.

A disconnect that is technically present but difficult to access during maintenance may provide limited operational value.

7. Layer 4: PV Combiner Box Protection

7.1 What Does a PV Combiner Box Do?

A Boîte de raccordement PV collects the outputs of multiple strings and combines them into one or more larger DC output circuits.

Depending on the design, it may include:

• gPV string fuses
• Porte-fusibles
• DC SPD
• Isolateur DC
• Disjoncteur DC
• Équipement de surveillance
• Capteurs actuels
• Modules de communication
• Barres omnibus
• Terminaux

The combiner box therefore sits at one of the most important coordination points in the PV DC system.

7.2 A Combiner Box Is More Than an Enclosure

A common purchasing mistake is comparing combiner boxes mainly by:

• Prix
• Nombre de chaînes
• Enclosure size

The actual engineering quality depends on what is inside.

Important questions include:

• Are the fuses correctly rated?
• Is the SPD suitable for the maximum DC voltage?
• Is the isolator correctly rated for the circuit?
• Are conductors properly sized?
• Are terminals suitable for the expected current?
• Is there sufficient thermal management?
• Is the enclosure appropriate for the environment?
• Is polarity clearly identified?
• Are creepage and clearance requirements addressed?
• Are internal connections mechanically secure?

A high IP rating alone does not guarantee electrical safety.

7.3 How the Fuse and SPD Work Together Inside the Combiner Box

The fuse and SPD have fundamentally different jobs.

Fusible gPV

Responds to sustained abnormal overcurrent.

DOCUP

Responds to short-duration transient overvoltage.

During normal operation:

• The fuse carries the string current.
• The SPD remains in a high-impedance state.

During an overcurrent fault:

• The correctly coordinated fuse should interrupt the affected circuit.

Lors d'un épisode de surtension :

• The SPD temporarily conducts surge current and limits voltage.

This is why describing an SPD as a “surge fuse” is technically misleading.

The two devices should be coordinated but should never be treated as interchangeable, and their position within a solar combiner box wiring diagram should reflect their different protection functions.

7.4 Thermal Management Inside the Combiner Box

A combiner box may contain many current-carrying components in a relatively small enclosure.

Heat can be produced by:

• Fuse resistance
• Fuse-holder contact resistance
• Barres omnibus
• Terminaux
• Disconnect devices
• Poor connections

Outdoor solar heating can increase the internal temperature further.

Designers should consider:

• Component derating
• Matériau de l'enveloppe
• Internal spacing
• Ventilation strategy
• Solar exposure
• Emplacement d'installation
• Maximum ambient temperature

Thermal problems often develop gradually.

A connection may operate for months before increasing resistance leads to severe overheating.

8. Layer 5: Protecting the Solar Inverter

Effective solar inverter protection is particularly important because the inverter is one of the most valuable and electronically sensitive components in the PV system.

It is also connected to two different electrical environments:

• The PV DC side
• The AC distribution or grid side

Protection should therefore be considered on both sides.

8.1 DC-Side Inverter Protection

Potential risks include:

• DC surge events
• Polarité incorrecte
• Surtension
• Insulation faults
• Faults in incoming DC circuits

The upstream protection architecture may include:

• fusibles gPV
• DC SPDs
• DC isolation
• DC breakers where required

The exact configuration depends on the inverter design and the PV array architecture.

8.2 AC-Side Inverter Protection

The AC side may require:

• Protection contre les surintensités
• Isolation
• Protection contre les surtensions
• Earthing
• Additional protective devices according to the installation

Protecting only the DC side does not create a fully protected inverter.

Surges can reach connected equipment through more than one electrical path.

8.3 Communication and Monitoring Circuits

Modern PV plants may also include:

• RS485 networks
• Ethernet
• Weather stations
• Data loggers
• Remote monitoring systems
• Sensors

These circuits should not be ignored when assessing surge pathways.

A system can continue generating electricity while losing critical monitoring or communication capability.

For utility and commercial projects, that can create significant operational problems even when the main inverter remains functional.

9. How SPD, Fuse, DC Isolator and Combiner Box Coordination Works

This is the central concept of Protection électrique photovoltaïque.

Protection devices should not be selected independently.

They must function as a coordinated system.

Protection Layer 1: Prevent or Limit Overcurrent Damage

Use appropriate:

• fusibles gPV
• Conductors
• Overcurrent protective devices

The goal is to protect the circuit against sustained abnormal current.

Protection Layer 2: Limit Transient Overvoltage

Use correctly selected:

• DC SPDs
• DOCUP AC
• Additional surge protection where required

The goal is to prevent transient voltage from exceeding equipment withstand capability.

Protection Layer 3: Provide Safe Isolation

Use:

• Sectionneurs CC
• Disconnecting devices
• Suitable switching equipment

The goal is to allow safe separation of equipment and circuit sections.

Protection Layer 4: Integrate and Contain

Use properly designed:

• Boîtes de raccordement PV
• DC distribution enclosures
• Suitable environmental protection

The goal is to combine protection functions in an organized and maintainable architecture.

Protection Layer 5: Protect Critical Equipment

Coordinate upstream protection with:

• Inverter ratings
• Cable ratings
• Module ratings
• Downstream AC equipment

The goal is not merely to protect individual components.

The goal is to control how the entire system responds to abnormal electrical conditions.

Example: Reverse Current Fault in One PV String

Consider ten parallel PV strings connected to one combiner box.

One string develops a serious electrical fault.

Possible sequence:

1. The faulted string stops operating normally.
2. Healthy parallel strings may contribute reverse current toward the fault.
3. The current in the affected circuit increases.
4. The correctly selected gPV fuse operates.
5. The faulted string is disconnected from the parallel array.
6. The remaining strings continue operating, depending on system design.

The SPD does not perform the primary isolation function in this event.

The DC isolator does not automatically trip like a fuse.

Each device has a separate role.

Example: Lightning-Induced Transient

Now consider a nearby lightning event.

Possible sequence:

1. A fast transient is induced in the PV DC cable.
2. The surge propagates toward the inverter.
3. The DC SPD conducts transient energy.
4. The voltage reaching protected equipment is limited.
5. The system returns to normal operation if the SPD remains serviceable.

The gPV fuse may not operate because the event is not simply a sustained string overcurrent.

Again, the correct protection depends on the correct device.

10. Solar PV Electrical Protection for 1000V and 1500V DC Systems

As PV plants move from 1000V to 1500V systems, protection-device coordination becomes increasingly important in large commercial and utility-scale projects.

Higher DC voltage can reduce current for a given power level and may reduce certain balance-of-system requirements.

However, increasing system voltage also increases protection demands.

10.1 Voltage Rating Must Be Verified Across the Entire Protection Chain

For a 1500V DC system, engineers must verify that all applicable components are suitable for the required voltage.

This may include:

• Modules photovoltaïques
• Connecteurs
• Cables
• Fusibles
• Porte-fusibles
• DOCUP
• Isolateurs
• Disjoncteurs
• Boîtes combinées
• Entrées de l'onduleur
• Terminaux

A 1500V SPD does not make a combiner box a 1500V system if another internal component is rated for only 1000V.

The complete assembly is limited by its weakest relevant component.

10.2 Clearance and Insulation Become More Important

Higher voltage places greater demands on:

• Insulation
• Creepage distance
• Dégagement
• Internal spacing
• Environmental control

Pollution and moisture can further influence insulation performance.

10.3 Switching DC at Higher Voltage Is More Demanding

Interrupting a high-voltage DC circuit requires equipment designed for that duty.

The correct isolator or breaker should be selected according to the actual circuit configuration.

10.4 Cold-Weather Voltage Must Be Considered

PV module voltage increases when module temperature decreases.

Designers should calculate the maximum array open-circuit voltage under the minimum expected temperature conditions.

Using only the module’s standard test condition voltage can lead to an underspecified protection system.

11. Common Solar PV Protection Design Mistakes

Mistake 1: Assuming the Inverter Provides All Protection

Many inverters include internal protective functions.

However, internal protection does not automatically eliminate the need for external:

• Protection des cordes
• Protection contre les surtensions
• Isolation
• Combiner-box protection

The full system architecture must be evaluated.

Mistake 2: Using an AC Fuse in a PV DC Circuit

An AC fuse should not be assumed suitable for high-voltage DC interruption.

Use a fuse specifically designed and rated for the PV application.

Mistake 3: Selecting an SPD Only by “1000V” or “1500V”

System voltage is only one parameter.

Engineers should also review:

• SPD type
• Tension maximale de fonctionnement en régime permanent
• Protection level
• Capacité de décharge
• System topology
• Installation position

Mistake 4: Installing the SPD with Long Connection Wires

Long conductors can reduce effective surge protection.

Connection paths should be designed to be short and direct.

Mistake 5: Treating the DC Isolator as a Circuit Breaker

An isolator and an overcurrent protective device are not automatically the same thing.

The device function must match the protection requirement.

Mistake 6: Oversizing the Fuse to Stop Nuisance Operation

A larger fuse may reduce protection.

The cause of repeated fuse operation should be investigated.

Mistake 7: Ignoring Combiner Box Temperature

High internal temperature can affect:

• Fusibles
• Terminaux
• DOCUP
• Other components

Thermal design should be evaluated under realistic outdoor conditions.

Mistake 8: Mixing 1000V and 1500V Components

One lower-rated component can compromise the entire high-voltage assembly.

Mistake 9: Protecting Only the DC Side of the Inverter

The inverter is connected to both DC and AC electrical systems.

A complete protection assessment should consider both.

Mistake 10: Designing Without a Coordination Diagram

Large PV systems should have a clear protection architecture showing:

• Protection locations
• Device functions
• Voltage ratings
• Current ratings
• Cable sections
• Isolation points
• Earthing paths

Protection should be designed as a system rather than purchased as a collection of unrelated products.

12. A Practical PV Protection Selection Workflow

A structured engineering workflow reduces selection errors.

Step 1: Define the PV Array

Record:

• Module model
• Module electrical characteristics
• Number of modules per string
• Nombre de chaînes en parallèle
• Maximum series fuse rating
• La tension maximale du système

Step 2: Calculate Maximum System Voltage

Envisager :

• Module open-circuit voltage
• Number of modules in series
• Temperature correction
• Project minimum temperature

Verify that the result remains within the rating of every relevant DC component.

Step 3: Evaluate String Overcurrent Risk

Determine:

• Nombre de chaînes en parallèle
• Courant inverse potentiel
• Cable rating
• Module protection requirements

Decide whether individual string fusing is required.

Step 4: Select the gPV Fuse

Vérifier :

• DC voltage rating
• Current rating
• Module limitations
• Capacité de rupture
• Conditions environnementales

Step 5: Assess Surge Protection Requirements

Evaluate:

• Exposition à la foudre
• External lightning protection
• Longueur de câble
• Equipment sensitivity
• Installation architecture

Then select the appropriate SPD type and ratings.

Step 6: Define Isolation Points

Determine where safe disconnection is required for:

• Maintenance
• Equipment replacement
• Emergency procedures

Select appropriately rated DC isolators.

Step 7: Design the Combiner Box

Coordinate:

• Number of inputs
• Fuse protection
• DOCUP
• Isolation
• Output current
• Enceinte
• Barres omnibus
• Cable entry
• Thermal conditions
• Maintenance access

Step 8: Coordinate with the Inverter

Check:

• Maximum DC input voltage
• Maximum input current
• MPPT configuration
• Internal protection
• External protection requirements

Step 9: Review the AC Side

Do not stop at the inverter DC terminals.

Evaluate:

• AC overcurrent protection
• AC surge protection
• Isolation
• Earthing

Step 10: Verify the Entire Protection Chain

Before commissioning, confirm that no component creates a weak point.

This final system-level review is what transforms individual devices into coordinated Protection électrique photovoltaïque.

13. Inspection and Maintenance

Protection devices require inspection throughout the life of the PV installation.

Inspect gPV Fuses and Fuse Holders

Cherchez :

• Décoloration
• Surchauffe
• Connexions desserrées
• Damaged fuse holders
• Unexpected repeated fuse operation

Inspect SPDs

Check:

• Status indicators
• Remote signaling where available
• Signs of overheating
• Bornes desserrées
• End-of-life condition

SPDs can degrade after repeated surge exposure.

Inspect DC Isolators

Vérifier pour :

• Dommages mécaniques
• Infiltration d'eau
• Surchauffe
• Abnormal operating resistance
• Bornes desserrées
• Smooth switching operation

Inspect Combiner Boxes

Cherchez :

• Humidité
• Poussière
• Corrosion
• Insect ingress
• Bornes desserrées
• Thermal damage
• Damaged cable glands
• Abnormal temperature

Thermal imaging can be useful for identifying developing high-resistance connections in operating equipment.

14. Solar PV Electrical Protection Checklist

Before approving a PV protection design, verify the following.

PV Array

• Maximum string voltage has been calculated.
• Minimum site temperature has been considered.
• Maximum system voltage is within all component ratings.
• Parallel string fault current has been evaluated.

Fusible gPV

• Fuse is designed for PV DC applications.
• Voltage rating is suitable.
• Current rating is coordinated with the circuit.
• Module maximum series fuse rating has been checked.
• Fuse holder rating is also suitable.

DC SPD

• SPD is designed for the PV DC system.
• Voltage characteristics are suitable.
• SPD type matches the protection strategy.
• Installation location has been reviewed.
• Connection conductors are appropriately routed.
• Earthing path has been considered.

Sectionneur CC

• Device is rated for the actual DC voltage.
• Current rating is suitable.
• Switching configuration is correct.
• Installation location supports safe maintenance.
• Environmental rating is appropriate.

Boîte de raccordement

• Number of string inputs is correct.
• Internal component ratings are coordinated.
• Output current rating is sufficient.
• Thermal conditions have been considered.
• Enclosure is suitable for the environment.
• Cable entry and sealing are correctly designed.

Onduleur

• Maximum DC input voltage is not exceeded.
• Input current limits are respected.
• DC and AC surge protection have been evaluated.
• External protection is coordinated with internal protection.

15. Frequently Asked Questions

What is Solar PV Electrical Protection?

Solar PV Electrical Protection is the coordinated use of fuses, SPDs, isolators, breakers, combiner boxes and other protective measures to reduce electrical risks throughout a photovoltaic system.

Does every solar string need a fuse?

Non.

The requirement depends on the number of parallel strings, possible reverse current, conductor ratings, module limitations and applicable design rules.

The fault-current scenario should be evaluated rather than assuming that every string always requires a fuse.

Can a circuit breaker replace a gPV fuse?

Sometimes a correctly selected PV DC circuit breaker may perform an overcurrent protection function, but devices are not automatically interchangeable.

The correct solution depends on:

• Tension
• Actuel
• Breaking capability
• System architecture
• Required protection characteristics

Can an SPD replace a fuse?

Non.

An SPD protects mainly against transient overvoltage.

A fuse protects against sustained abnormal overcurrent.

They perform different functions.

Does a fuse protect against lightning?

A fuse is not the primary protective device for transient overvoltage.

An appropriately selected SPD is used for surge protection.

What is the difference between a DC isolator and a DC circuit breaker?

A DC isolator primarily provides safe disconnection.

A circuit breaker may provide switching and protective functions depending on its design and ratings.

The terms should not be used interchangeably without checking the actual device function.

Where should a DC SPD be installed in a solar system?

Possible locations include:

• Boîte de raccordement PV
• Équipement de distribution CC
• Near the inverter

The correct arrangement depends on cable length, system architecture and surge protection design.

Is one SPD enough for an entire PV system?

Pas toujours.

Long cable distances, multiple system zones and exposure conditions may require protection at more than one location.

The complete surge path should be evaluated.

Should I use a 1000V or 1500V DC SPD?

The SPD must be selected according to the actual maximum PV system voltage and its required electrical characteristics.

A 1500V system requires components suitable for the relevant maximum voltage, but simply choosing the highest voltage label is not automatically the best protection strategy.

What is the purpose of a PV combiner box?

A PV combiner box combines the outputs of multiple PV strings and may integrate:

• String fuses
• DOCUP
• DC isolation
• Contrôle
• Other protection equipment

Can a high IP rating guarantee a safe combiner box?

Non.

Ingress protection is important, but electrical safety also depends on:

• Component selection
• Câblage interne
• Une gestion thermique
• Terminal quality
• Protection coordination

What standards are relevant to Solar PV Electrical Protection?

Depending on the project and jurisdiction, important references may include:

• IEC 62548-1 for PV array design requirements
• IEC 60364-7-712 for PV electrical installations
• IEC 60269-6 for PV fuse-links
• IEC 61643-31 for PV DC SPDs
• IEC 61643-32 for PV SPD selection and coordination

The applicable edition, national adoption and local electrical regulations should always be confirmed for the specific project.

16. Final Engineering Recommendations

Fiable Protection électrique photovoltaïque is not achieved by adding more protective devices without a system plan.

It is achieved by giving every device a clearly defined responsibility.

Utiliser le fusible gPV to address appropriate overcurrent and reverse-current risks.

Utiliser le DC SPD to limit transient overvoltages.

Utiliser le Isolateur DC to provide safe electrical disconnection.

Utiliser le Boîte de raccordement PV to integrate string collection and protection in a controlled electrical environment.

Then coordinate all of these elements with the inverter, cables, PV modules, AC system and project operating conditions.

The most important design question should never be:

“Which protection product should we add?”

The better question is:

“What electrical failure are we trying to control, which device is responsible for controlling it, and how does that device coordinate with the rest of the PV system?”

That system-level approach is the foundation of effective Protection électrique photovoltaïque.

For modern 1000V and 1500V photovoltaic projects, protection coordination becomes increasingly important as system voltage, power density and equipment value increase.

A well-designed PV system should therefore treat protection as an integrated architecture:

Detect the risk.
Limit the fault.
Isolate the affected circuit.
Protect critical equipment.
Maintain safe operation.

That is the difference between installing individual protective components and engineering a complete solar PV electrical protection system.