The National Electrical Code requires shutdown devices to be added to virtually every single module. Such additional components on the module level would usually not be necessary for operating a solar system properly. However, solar installers are now forced into using technologies that have major downsides and unintended consequences:
Shutdown devices must be added to every single module. This increases complexity and cost of systems, as more hardware and more labor is required. On top of that, a duopoly controls 90% of the market for shutdown solutions, limiting customer choice and competition.
The current shutdown solutions increase fire risks and dangers for installers, fire fighters, and system owners.
Having to add a shutdown device to every single module increases the workers time spent on the roof significantly, which adds to the risks of falling, slipping, or tripping.
Current solutions for Module Level Shutdown (MLSD) compromise the reliability of systems, because a vast number of sensitive electronics is placed in the harsh environment of a roof. Each of these components has a failure rate and wear rate over the 20+ years of a system's lifetime. This can turn into a big liability for solar installers and cause distrust in our industry.
A majority of systems with shutdown solutions based on DC optimizers and microinverters (90% of residential installations) produces less energy than systems without these module level power electronics.
A majority of systems with shutdown solutions based on DC optimizers and microinverters (90% of residential installations) produces less energy than systems without these module level power electronics.
Module Level Shutdown in the National Electric Code has made solar systems more complex, less safe, and less reliable. Let's #FixMLSD and do it the right way.
Do you like this page?