Multiple inverters & sub-panels on PV systems

[rynd2it]

Hi,

It is our understanding that if more than one inverter is part of a PV system, then the breakers for those inverters have to be in a (separate) sub-panel. Please let me know if this is correct.

The situation we have is a 400am main service with a breaker panel attached, there is a separate breaker panel connected to a breaker in the main service panel. My question is "could we put one inverter into each breaker panel or do we have to install a new separate sub-panel?" The inverters are SMA 6000US which have a max continous AC current of 25 amps, times 1.25 = 31.25 amps so I need 40 amp breakers for each inverter. 80 amps is within the max backfeed of the main service.

Photo attached of panels

Thanks

David

 

[rynd2it]

Bumping - I could use some help here please

 

[4SPARKS]

check art 690.64 specifically (B), (1) and (2)
this is 2008 NEC btw I think this is what you are looking for. According to that article you can go into same panel as long as amp ratings dont exceed 120% of busbar rating

 

[rynd2it]

Thanks, that seems to indicate that we do NOT need a separate sub-panel for multiple inverters, contrary to what we have always been told. Might be a local code by the utility, I'll check.

 

[rynd2it]

OK, got it at last. Local code requires ALL PV inverters to be capable of isolation with a single AC disconnect - therefore feed all inverters into a sub-panel and connec sub-panel to main via an AC disconnect. Simple really when you know ;-)