[RFI] [cwops] Solar Panels

Tue Apr 16 14:23:38 EDT 2024

General rules: string inverters produce less RFI than panel mounted micro-inverters (not always true) ; Some recent inverters are marketed as "EMP proof" or "EMP protected" and in general are more well shielded against radiation (both ways) ; other brands reputed to be quiet - latest models for Sunny Boy and SolArk.

If you get a bid from an installer ask to take a radio to an existing install of the inverter you are considering and "sniff" for RFI. Maybe withhold final payment for your install until it proves to have no RFI at your place.

73 John N5CQ

-----Original Message-----
From: RFI <rfi-bounces+woyb10051=outlook.com at contesting.com> On Behalf Of Michael Carter via RFI
Sent: Tuesday, April 16, 2024 11:09 AM
To: main at cwops.groups.io
Cc: RFI List <rfi at contesting.com>
Subject: Re: [RFI] [cwops] Solar Panels

Hi Mark,

Pete is correct, but retrieving a long dialogue on this question will take some time.  Here's a brief synopsis:

The PV modules (panels) themselves are not sources of RFI.  The inverters or DC optimizers are potential sources.

Enphase micro-inverters are generally deemed RF quiet if properly installed.

Numerous problems have been reported
with SolarEdge installations.  The ARRL
Lab has been working with SolarEdge
to mitigate problems on a case-by-case
basis.  Steve Anderson, W1EMI of the
Lab staff is the point person handling
RFI issues with PV systems.

I don't recall any posts about NEP
micro-inverters - will have to search
a bit myself.

If you're in the market for a PV system
on your own property, it would be good
to have the sales contract specify that
RFI issues must be mitigated at the
contractors expense, including possible
removal of the system and reimbursement
to you in full.

73,
Mike, K8CN
________________________________
From: RFI <rfi-bounces+mike.carter=unh.edu at contesting.com> on behalf of Pete Smith N4ZR <pete.n4zr at gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, April 16, 2024 7:52 AM
To: main at cwops.groups.io <main at cwops.groups.io>; RFI List <rfi at contesting.com>
Subject: Re: [RFI] [cwops] Solar Panels

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Hi Mark - RFI at contesting.com has a ton of information in this area in its archive.

73, Pete N4ZR

On 4/16/2024 7:44 AM, Mark N5OT - UAND via groups.io wrote:
> Sorry this is a little off-topic,
>
> Today I met with an energetic solar panel salesman and need an
> Executive Summary on CWops' experience with any of the following
> commercial solar panel manufacturers and products. Since CWops have
> been discussing this lately, and RFI from solar arrays seems to be
> pretty rampant, I'm hoping some of youall reading this will have some
> knowledge to help me:
>
> Solar panels:
> Q-cell
> Tailsun
> Sonali
>
> Micro-inverters:
> NEP
> SolarEdge
> Endphase
>
> Mostly interested in any show-stopper info about RFI.  The system
> warranty would cover all the other stuff.  Also are these devices
> covered under federal regulations where the
> manufacturer/installer/supplier are the ones on the hook to "make it
> right" when I hear noise on my radio?
>
> Any advice greatly appreciated.
>
> 73 - Mark N5OT
>
>
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