Good day all,

We have a 5kw solar system with a sunsynk hybrid inverter and 2 batteries. We had another installer out to check the system and he gave us a list of issues with the current installation (despite the fact that we got a CoC from the installer...). I know that SSEG rules in CoCT have changed from 1 October but we applied prior to this so the old rules should apply.

Here some of the points:

1) Separate AC & DC cabling in separate trunking

2) Install Earth-Neutral bonding contactor

3) Correct solar earthing & install earth rod

4) Replace fuse disconnector with correct size

5) Earth Batteries

6) Install AC surge protector.

I try now to understand whether the points mentioned are indeed a requirement even under the old rules or whether these are new requirements that would not apply (this is at least what the installer claims). Irrespective of the rules I would also like to understand is what is a must have from a security point of view.

Any advice is highly appreciated.

 

36 minutes ago, Michael_48 said:

Good day all,

We have a 5kw solar system with a sunsynk hybrid inverter and 2 batteries. We had another installer out to check the system and he gave us a list of issues with the current installation (despite the fact that we got a CoC from the installer...). I know that SSEG rules in CoCT have changed from 1 October but we applied prior to this so the old rules should apply.

Here some of the points:

1) Separate AC & DC cabling in separate trunking

2) Install Earth-Neutral bonding contactor

3) Correct solar earthing & install earth rod

4) Replace fuse disconnector with correct size

5) Earth Batteries

6) Install AC surge protector.

I try now to understand whether the points mentioned are indeed a requirement even under the old rules or whether these are new requirements that would not apply (this is at least what the installer claims). Irrespective of the rules I would also like to understand is what is a must have from a security point of view.

Any advice is highly appreciated.

 

I think these points are not really to do with COCT regulations but more to do with SANS standards. COCT are concerned with how your system interacts with the grid, SANS are concerned with safety. EG the requirement that AC and DC cables be kept separate is a requirement all over the country, and isn't stipulated at municipal level.

My electrician put in a separate earth rod for the batteries and inverter

He found the inverter neutral out is bonded to earth internally

I already had items 1 and 6

Thank you both, that is very helpful. Will talk to the installer again.