DIY Wiring Solar Panels on Roof
Wiring solar panels
1. Wiring solar panels in a series circuit
Connect the positive terminal of the first solar panel to the negative terminal of the next one.
a) One output string
For example, if you had 8 solar panels as connected like above, each was rated at 15 volts and 6amps, the final output would be 15*8=120 volts at 6amps.
b) More than one output strings
If the inverter has two inputs, you can wiring panels to have two outputs.
The output 1 would be 120 volts at 6amps
The output 2 would be 120 volts at 6amps.
Then the total final output (output1 + output2 = final output) would be 120+120=240 volts at 6+6=12amps.
2. Wiring solar panels in a parallel circuit
Connect all the positive terminals of all the solar panels together, and all the negative terminals of all the panels together.
The final output would be 15 volts at 6*4=24amps.
Using which way to wiring solar panels depends on the inverter's Max. DC voltage and Max. DC current. For example, the first wiring approach 1.a) needs an inverter that its max. DC voltage larger than 120 volts, and its max. DC current larger than 6 amps.
Note: Please thoroughtly read the manual of solar panel and inverter, and make deep research before choosing which wiring approach.
Steps for installing rail grounding system
1. Grounding two rails connected by rail splice kit
Use bonding jumpers to earth splice kit
2. Grounding rails
Use rail grounding earth mounting to earth rails
Ribs on the clip will penetrate rail anodization and create grounding path through rail
3. Grounding solar panels
a) Use grounding clips to bond solar panels to the grounded rails
Ribs on the clip will penetrate solar panel and rail anodization and create grounding path through rail
b) Grounding clips layout
i) For even number of solar panels in row
X denotes places to install grounding clips to mid-clamps
ii) For odd number of solar panels in row
X denotes places to install grounding clips to mid-clamps
Note: The above steps of grounding solar panels on roof are only suggestions. Please refer Consumer DIY safety for your DIY safety concerns. Newnergy recommends using Newnergy certified installers. Inverter installation must be done by registered electricians.