The SunSpec Alliance today announced that it has released the approved version of the open SunSpec Communication Signal for Rapid Shutdown Interoperability Specification. This new standard addresses a key U.S. National Electrical Code regulation requiring that all photovoltaic (PV) modules installed on rooftops after December 2018 must be able to cease generating within 30 seconds of being signaled by an operator.
The new specification, developed by more than 30 technology leaders including Maxim Integrated and Texas Instruments, defines a communication protocol that uses the cabling of the solar array to transmit messages over the DC (direct current) power lines between the PV modules and a master control device located near the inverter. PV module manufacturers implement the protocol on intelligent devices embedded in the junction box of each PV module. A master control device associated with the inverter communicates with the PV modules. Altogether, the specification enables plug and play interoperability and any-to-any rapid shutdown solutions at the lowest possible cost.
Companies announcing immediate plans to incorporate the technology into their product lines include ABB, Fronius, Maxim Integrated, Omron, Outback, SMA, and Texas Instruments. The full list of individuals participating in the development of the specification, including work group leader Larry Sherwood, can be found on page two of the document. Click here to download.
“After nearly two years of intense technical collaboration amongst competitors and business partners within the Alliance, the SunSpec Communication Signal for Rapid Shutdown Specification is now ready for implementation,” said Tom Tansy, Chairman of the SunSpec Alliance. “This open standard delivers multiple benefits to the Distributed Energy industry, most notably lower integration costs and the freedom to choose from an array of interoperable products,” Tansy concluded.
News item from Sunspec Alliance
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