What does Article 690 emphasize for PV systems installed in flood-prone areas?

Article 690 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) is particularly focused on ensuring the safety and reliability of photovoltaic (PV) systems, especially in environments that are prone to flooding. The key aspect emphasized in flood-prone areas is the need for elevating equipment or providing appropriate flood protection. This approach helps prevent water damage to the solar power system, which can lead to electrical hazards, equipment failure, and safety concerns for individuals and property.

By elevating PV components such as inverters, junction boxes, and disconnects above anticipated flood levels, or implementing flood protection measures like barriers, the system can remain operational and safe during adverse weather conditions. This focus on positioning and protecting equipment is critical for adhering to safety standards and ensuring the longevity and functionality of the solar installations in such challenging environments.

While waterproof equipment might seem beneficial, it does not address the potential risks associated with flooding comprehensively, as water can still infiltrate through other pathways or components. Additional drainage systems could mitigate flooding effects but do not directly protect the PV system itself and might not be a requirement according to the NEC. Limiting system size does not inherently resolve the risks associated with flooding, as even smaller systems can be at risk when exposed to floodwater. Thus, the emphasis