How is the highest voltage controlled within the area boundary during a rapid shutdown?

The highest voltage within the area boundary during a rapid shutdown of a photovoltaic (PV) system is limited to a maximum of 80V. This requirement is part of the safety regulations set forth in the NEC, specifically in Article 690, which addresses the installation of solar photovoltaic systems.

The rationale behind this limit is to ensure that, in the event of an emergency or when maintenance is required, the voltage remains at a level that minimizes the risk of electric shock to first responders and workers. By controlling the maximum voltage to 80V, it provides a safer environment while still allowing for effective operation of the solar photovoltaic system.

This limit applies even if the system is functioning normally; during a rapid shutdown, various devices are employed to deactivate the system and bring the voltage down to this safe level. It reflects a balance between operational efficiency and safety, ensuring that the system does not pose excessive risk under emergency conditions.

In contrast, switching off power to the entire system might not effectively bring voltage levels down to the required safety standards quickly, while an automatic voltage regulator primarily manages voltage fluctuations during normal operations rather than during shutdowns. Lastly, maintaining proper grounding is crucial for safety, but it does not directly control the highest voltage output during a shutdown scenario