PV Mounting Systems Certification

Mounting systems

Proper grounding of a photovoltaic (PV) power system is critical to helping ensure electrical safety during its lifetime. PV equipment needs to be properly bonded, in addition to code-compliant grounding, so that the low current flows on metal parts can facilitate the operation of over current and ground-fault protection devices.

UL 2703, the Standard for Mounting Systems, Mounting Devices, Clamping/Retention Devices, and Ground Lugs for Use with Flat-Plate Photovoltaic Modules and Panels covers mounting systems, including mounting devices, clamping devices and ground lugs for use with photovoltaic modules and panels and contains requirements for ground-mounted and roof systems as part of a nonstructural building component.

In addition, UL 2703 is used to determine the fire classification of a rooftop-mounted PV system (which includes both a specific PV module and the racking system) as required for compliance with the building code requirements, which is to maintain the fire performance integrity of the roof. It is looking at the overall installation resistance to external fire exposure.

Solar tracking

UL 3703, the Standard for Solar Trackers, involves rigorous inspection and evaluation of a tracker platform and also references UL 2703 for electrical requirements related to the mounting, bonding and grounding system.

IEC 62817 is a design qualification standard for solar trackers used in photovoltaic systems and may be used for trackers in other solar applications.

Additional solar tracking safety standards include IEC 60204-1, Safety of machinery – Electrical equipment of machines, and IEC 61010-1 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use.

EMC standards for tracker control

The following standards apply to electrical and electronic equipment in select industrial locations: 

• IEC 61000-6-2: Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Part 6-2: Generic standards - Immunity standard for industrial environments.
• IEC 61000-6-4: Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Part 6-4: Generic standards - Emission standard for industrial environments.