The expansion of solar energy in Brazil comes with an indispensable challenge: ensuring that photovoltaic systems operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with technical standards. In a country with the highest incidence of lightning strikes in the world and constant variations in the electrical grid, investing in surge protection devices (SPDs) is essential to protect equipment and ensure the continuous operation of power plants.
Complying with national and international standards regarding the specification and installation of surge protection devices (SPDs) is not merely a formality, but a fundamental step to ensure the durability of systems and avoid losses. In Brazil, ABNT NBR 16690 establishes the design requirements for photovoltaic system installations.
ABNT NBR 5410 addresses low-voltage electrical installations and reinforces the need for surge protection, while ABNT NBR 5419 deals with protection against lightning strikes and the coordination between protection devices. Complementing this set, ABNT NBR IEC 61643-32 defines the specific conditions for the application of surge protection devices (SPDs) in photovoltaic systems, establishing technical parameters that guarantee the efficiency of the protection.
These standards make it clear that protection should not be limited to the inverter. The installation of adequate external protection is essential to dissipate electrical surges caused by lightning or grid switching. This measure significantly reduces the risk of inverter and other component burnout, preserving the investment and productivity of the plant. This fact can be verified in... study from UPE (University of Pernambuco), in partnership with CLAMPER.
In addition to safety, compliance with regulations brings direct benefits to performance and financial return. With external protection correctly installed, the system remains active even during storms or power surges, preventing interruptions in generation and reducing costs associated with maintenance and equipment replacement.
the investment in DPS It represents a small fraction of the total value of the power plant, but its impact on preventing losses is significant, because a single surge can compromise the entire photovoltaic system and cause losses far exceeding the cost of protection.
In an increasingly competitive market, delivering a project that complies with standards and is equipped with certified surge protection devices (SPDs) means offering confidence, safety, and longevity. That's the difference between an ordinary system and an installation of excellence.
More than just meeting technical requirements, investing in protection is about protecting customer return and strengthening the integrator's credibility.
Why take the risk and leave a photovoltaic system unprotected?
The opinions and information expressed are the sole responsibility of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position of the author. Canal Solar.
