Solar: DC Source circuit wiring method

Merry Christmas
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Poolside

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I observed/assisted with the installation of a PV system the other day on home here in So. California. The CA code just went to the the 2005, but I didn't review the article until after the install. When I did, I noticed that 690.31(E) which was added to the 2005 NEC requires that the wiring from PV modules, which were "DC" modules (not the AC module with built-in inverter), are required to be in metal conduit within the building structure to the first disconnect.

Does anybody know the rationale behind this requirement? I read it as only conduit, so cable method (MC cable?) would not be acceptable?



- Greg
 
Poolside said:
Does anybody know the rationale behind this requirement? I read it as only conduit, so cable method (MC cable?) would not be acceptable?

- Greg
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MC Cable is not acceptable because it is not a raceway.

Google "John Wiles Solar", and go to his website if you
want to read more about Art. 690. He is the most
knowledgable person I have ever encountered wrt
Article 690, and was super helpful. He once published
an article saying MC was acceptable, but I had a later
email discussion with him, and he said that while there
was an effort to get MC allowed, it wasn't successful,
and he agreed that MC was not acceptable as it is
not a raceway. If you are interested, and PM me,
I might be able to PM you the email thread.
 
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