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Thursday, December 8, 2022
Question:
Hi Code Friends, when an electrician installs solar panels and solar equipment to a residence, is it the electrician’s responsibility to add a surge protector to the current home electrical panel (downstream from the solar electrical box that has its own surge protector and emergency shut off)? Thank you, Jennifer Linder
A
Answer:
Hello Jennifer, speaking strictly from an NEC® requirement perspective, the 2020 NEC® does not mandate the installation of Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) on PV systems.
Many PV systems are utility interactive and as such, the local utility may have specifications for system design and commissioning. It is always advisable to check with the local AHJ, and utility to see if there are any local codes/ordinances that would impact the installation.
The electrical contractor that obtained the permit for the installation would be responsible to meet the minimum requirements of the NEC® and/or any local applicable codes as they pertain to the project scope specified on the electrical permit. We cannot comment on any responsibility, beyond the minimum electrical code requirements.