REC PEAK Energy Series User manual

Installation
manual
REC PEAK ENERGYSERIES PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES

REC Peak Energy Series Installation Manual
Revision G.4- 01 2012
2
CONTENTS
. Introduction
. Electrical Installation
. Mechanical Installation
. Operating limitations
. Maintenance
. Legal Information

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INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing REC photovoltaic modules.The REC Peak Energy series modules are ideal for
solar systems designed to deliver long-lasting and reliable power output. These modules have been
created through smart design and manufactured to the highest quality and environmental standards.
With proper installation and maintenance, REC modules will provide you with clean renewable energy
for several decades.
Please read this manual carefully. It contains critical information on safety, as well as detailed
instructions for installing, operating and maintaining this module. Review the instructions and safety
notes carefully before beginning any work on the system. Failure to do so can lead to personal injury or
damage to property.

REC Peak Energy Series Installation Manual
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ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
Caution: Only qualified personnel should perform work on PVsystems, such as installation,
commissioning, maintenance and repairs. Be sure to follow the safety instructions for all
system components. It is also important to observe relevant local codes and regulations for
health and safety and accident prevention.
A) ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS
Application Class:
Modules are rated for use in application class A (general access, hazardous voltage, hazardous power
applications) according to IEC .
System Requirements:
REC photovoltaic (PV) modules should only be used in systems where they meet the specific technical
requirements of the system as a whole. Ensure that other system components will not cause mechanical
or electrical damage to the modules.
Connection:
• Ifthemodulesaretobeconnectedtogetherinseries,theyshouldhavethesameamperage.
• Ifthemodulesaretobeconnectedinparallel,theyshouldhavethesamevoltage.
String configuration:
If you use string configuration, plan and execute it according to the inverter manufacturer’s instructions.
The number of modules connected to an inverter should be within the inverter voltage limits and operating
range.The design of the string configuration(s) should comply with the inverter’s manufacturer’s guidelines
and must create a voltage less than the permied total system voltage.
Wiring layout and configuration
In order to minimize voltage surges which could be induced by indirect lightning strikes, DC cables of the
same string should be bundled together so that loops are kept as small as possible. String configurations
should be checked before system commissioning. If the open circuit voltage (Voc) and the short circuit
current (Isc) deviates from the specifications, this could indicate a configuration fault. Correct DC polarity
should be observed at all times.
Connection of plug connectors
All connections should be secure, tight and electrically and mechanically sound.
Accessories and materials
UV-resistant cables and connectors approved for outside use should be used. Ensure that they are
electrically and mechanically sound. Conductor gauge should be chosen so as to ensure that DC power
losses (voltage drop) are kept to a minimum (less than  is preferred). National Electrical Code (NEC)
and regulations need to be followed when selecting cables. For field connections, use minimum  mmor
 AWG copper wires insulated for a minimum of °C.
Protecting the cables
Cables should be secured to the array mounting system using UV-resistant cable ties, or other sunlight-
resistant device. Loose and unsecured cables should be protected from mechanical damage. Avoid, as far
as possible, exposing the cables to direct sunlight and permanent tension.

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Grounding (USA and Canada only)
You must ground all PV modules, using an electrical connection from the module frames to the ground. This
must be done according to the following standards:
• UseaUL-listedgroundinglug,suchasthetin-platedversionsofILSCOGBL-DB or CMC CL -DB
lay-in lugs, or their equivalent.
• Aachthegroundstotheexistinggroundingholesinthemoduleframes.
• Toensureaconductiveconnectionuseacombinationofscrew,starwasherandlocknuttomountthe
grounding lug onto the frame.
• Placethestarwasherbetweentheframeandthenut,useSize# stainless steel screw, washer and
locking nut to mount the lug to the module frame, and tighten with  -lbs (. Nm) torque.
• Thegroundingwiresizeshouldbebetween AWG and  AWG (.mm . mm).
• Canada:TheinstallationshallbeinaccordancewithCSAC22.1,safetystandardforelectrical 
installations, Canadian electrical code, part .
• Thetorqueforwirefasteningshouldbeinaccordancewiththefollowingtable:
GROUNDING DIMENSIONS ANDTORQUE
Wire size [AWG] Cross section [mm] Type Torque
[in-lbs]
Torque
[-lbs]
Torque
[Nm]
   .  . Stranded  . .
 . Stranded  . .
   .  . Stranded / Solid  . .
GROUNDING
Star Washer
Frame
Laminate
Grounding Cable

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B) RATINGS
Values at Standard Test Conditions
See Electrical data table for STC Characteristics (Irradiance level  W/m, Cell temperature °C,
spectrum AM ,).
Values for ISC, VOC and PMPP at STC are within tolerance of ±.
ELECTRICAL DATA @ STC REC225PE REC230PE REC235PE REC240PE REC245PE REC250PE
NOMINALPOWER  PMPP WP      
WATT CLASS SORTING  W / / / / / /
NOMINALPOWER VOLTAGE VMPP V , , , , , ,
NOMINALPOWER CURRENT IMPP A , , , , , ,
OPENCIRCUIT VOLTAGE VOC V , , , , , ,
SHORTCIRCUIT CURRENT ISCA , , , , , ,
Values at standard test conditions STC (airmass AM ., irradiance  W/m, cell temperature °C).
At low irradiance of  W/m (AM . and cell temperature °C) at least  of the STC module efficiency will be achieved.
MAXIMUM RATINGS
OPERATIONAL TEMPERATURE  ... °C
MAXIMUM SYSTEM VOLTAGE UL  V
MAXIMUM SYSTEM VOLTAGE IEC  V
DESIGN LOAD UL  . LBS/FT PA
MAXIMUM SNOW LOAD IEC   KG/M  PA
MAXIMUM WIND LOAD IEC   KG/M  PA
MAX SERIES FUSE RATING UL  A
MAX REVERSE CURRENT UL  A
MAX SERIES FUSE RATING IEC  A
MAX REVERSE CURRENT IEC  A
ELECTRICAL DATA @ NOCT REC230PE
BLK REC235PE BLK REC240PE BLK REC245PE BLK REC250PE BLK
NOMINALPOWER  PMPP WP     
NOMINALPOWER VOLTAGE VMPP V . . . . .
NOMINALPOWER CURRENT IMPP A . . . . .
OPENCIRCUIT VOLTAGE VOC V . . . . .
SHORTCIRCUIT CURRENT ISC A . . . . .
Nominal cell operating temperature NOCT ( W/m, AM ., windspeed  m/s, ambient temperature °C).
Values at NOCT (Nominal Operating Cell Temperature):
Underwriters Laboratories Information (U.S. and Canada only)

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Under normal conditions, a photovoltaic module is likely to experience conditions that produce more
current and/or voltage than reported at StandardTest Conditions. Accordingly, the values of ISC and VOC
marked on this module should be multiplied by a factor of . when determining component voltage
ratings, conductor ampacities, fuse sizes, and size of controls connected to the PVoutput.
Refer to section . of the US National Electric Code (NEC) for an additional multiplying factor of .
( derating) which may be applicable.
The multiplying factor for the open circuit voltage of the module (Voc) is according toTable . of the
NEC code.
C) ELECTRICAL SAFETY
All relevant electrical installation codes and regulations should be referred to and observed. A copy of
these instructions should be included in the system documentation.
Preventing the system from generating current
Solar modules automatically generate current (electricity) when exposed to light. To prevent this, shield
the system with a non-transparent cover during installation, maintenance or repair work.
Unique Hazards of DC Electricity
Solar modules generate direct current (DC) electricity. Once the current is flowing, breaking or opening
a connection (e.g. disconnecting a DC cable from the inverter) can cause a DC electrical arc. Unlike arcs
occurring in conventional low voltage AC wiring, DC arcs are not self-extinguishing.They are a potentially
lethal burn and fire hazard, capable of creating high temperatures that can destroy contacts and
connectors.
Always:
• Followthemoduleandinvertermanufacturer’sinstallation,handlingandoperatinginstructions
• Remove/opentheinverterACfuse/circuitbreakerbeforeyoudisconnecttheinverterfromthe
public grid
• Switchoordisconnecttheinverterandwaitforthetimespeciedbythemanufacturerbefore 
working on it - its high-voltage components need sufficient time to discharge.
Safety Requirements:
The voltage produced by individual modules and modules connected in series (voltages are added
together) or in parallel (currents are added together), can give rise to dangerous voltage and current.
Although the fully insulated plug contacts on the module’s output cables provide touch-safe protection,
you must observe the following points when handling the modules, in order to avoid the risk of sparking,
fire hazard, burn risk, and lethal electric shocks.
• Exerciseextremecautionwhenwiringthemodulesandlookoutfordamagedcableends,splitcable 
ends, dirt, etc.
• Neverinsertmetallicorotherwiseconductiveobjectsintotheplugsorsockets.
• Ensurethatallelectricalconnectionsarecompletelydrybeforetheyareassembled.
• Keepallmaterials,toolsandworkingconditionscleananddry.
• Alwaysuseappropriatesafetyequipmentsuchasinsulatedtoolsandinsulatedgloves.

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MECHANICAL INSTALLATION
Caution: Only qualified personnel should perform work on PVsystems, such as installation,
commissioning, maintenance and repairs. Be sure to follow the safety instructions for all system
components. It is also important to observe relevant local codes and regulations for health and
safety and accident prevention.
A) FIRE GUIDELINES
Utilize the following fire safety guidelines when installing REC PE series modules:
• RECPESeriesmoduleshaveaClassCFireRating.Amaximumslopeof5in/isrequiredtomaintain
the fire class rating.
• Checkwithlocalauthoritiesforguidelinesandrequirementsconcerningresafetyforanybuildingor
structure that the modules will be mounted on or aached to.
• Thesystemdesignshouldensurethatreghtingpersonnelcanaccessthesystemintheeventof 
a building fire. Check with local authorities for any applicable regulations concerning setbacks or other
placement restrictions that may apply for roof-mounted PV arrays.
• WerecommendthatyouuseDCGroundFaultInterrupters.Thismayalsoberequiredbylocaland 
national codes.
• Allelectricalappliancesaresubjecttorerisk.Themoduleshouldthereforebemountedoverare 
retardant roof covering rated for the application and the minimum distance to the roof top should be
 inches ( cm).
B) ORIENTATION
To maximize system output, install the modules at optimum orientation and tilt angles. The specifics of
this depend on the location and must be calculated by a qualified system designer.
The ideal angle for mounting the module should result in the sun’s rays falling perpendicular (i.e. at a
° angle) to the module surface. In each series string, all the modules should have the same orientation
and tilt.This will ensure that they do not under-perform, as a result of mismatching of each module’s
outputs.
The modules should not be exposed to artificially concentrated light.
Even minor or partial shading of the modules/array will reduce array/system output. A module is
considered shade-free when it is both:
• Freefromshadeorshadowsallyearround.
• Exposedtoseveralhoursofdirectsunlight,evenduringshortestdaysoftheyear.

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C) ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
The modules are designed to be installed in moderate/temperate climatic conditions.
The modules are not suitable for installation in potentially hazardous locations.
The modules should not be installed at the following locations:
• Nearsourcesofammablegasesandvapors,suchasgas/petrolstations,gasstoragecontainers,spray
paint facilities.
• Nearopenames.
• Underwaterorinafountainorothersimilarwaterfeature.
• Wheretheyareexposedtosalt.Recommendeddistancefromthesea:165feet(50m)
• Wheretheyareexposedtosulfur,suchasnearsulfurspringsorvolcanoes,becauseofthedangerof
corrosion.
• Wheretheycanbeexposedtocorrosivechemicals.
D) MODULE HANDLING
Modules should be handled with care, and the warnings and instructions on their packaging should be
observed. Follow these guidelines when unpacking, transporting or storing the modules:
• Recordthemoduleserialnumbersbeforeinstallationandnotetheinformationinthesystem 
documentation.
• Carrythemodulesusingbothhandsandavoidusingthejunctionboxasagrip.
• Donotallowthemodulestosagorbowundertheirownweightwhenbeingcarried.
• Donotsubjectthemodulestoloadsorstresses-andavoidsteppingonordroppingthem.
• Keepallelectricalcontactscleananddry.
• Ifyouneedtostoremodulestemporarily,keeptheminadry,properlyventilatedroom.
• Donotapplyanyforcestothebacksheet.
Note that if the module front glass is broken or laminate back sheet damaged, it can expose personnel to
hazardous voltages. Therefore:
• Ifyoumustmarkmodules,avoidusingsharporpointedobjects.
• Neverapplypaints,adhesives,ordetergentstothebackofthelaminate.
• Donotuseanysolarmodulethatisdamagedorhasbeentamperedwith.
• Neveraempttodisassemblethemodules.
E) MOUNTING
REC PE Series modules are designed strictly for capturing solar radiation and are not suitable for
installation as overhead or vertical glazing.
The distance between the modules and the installation surface must be at least  cm ( in) to ensure
adequate cooling.
The array mounting structure should be able to withstand anticipated wind and snow loads. At the boom
of the module frames there are openings which allow rain water to flow away.
NOTE: Do not cover the corner draining holes shown in the draining holes illustration

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The maximum load the module should be subjected to must not exceed the module design load of . lb/
 ( Pa) (UL) respectively maximum module load of  kg/m ( Pa) (IEC6).
Site-specific loads such as wind and snow need to be taken into consideration to ensure that this weight
loading is not exceeded.
The modules are built to withstand a downward force no greater than  Kg/m ( Pa) with long-side
mounting, no greater than  Kg/m ( Pa) with short-side mounting (fig ). Site-specific loads such
as wind or snow need to be taken into consideration to ensure that this limit is not exceeded.
NOTE: In areas of snow build-up modules can be subjected to forces in excess of the stated limit even
when snow depth does not appear extreme, thus causing damage to the framework. If the installation is
likelytobeaectedbythis,furthersuitablemodulesupportisrecommendedonthelowerrowofmodules.
DRAINING HOLES
ARRAY
GR
GR
GR GR
GR
-
+

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Fastening the modules to the mounting structure
Each module must be securely fixed to the mounting structure at a minimum of four points.
Clamps and rails
Use clamps of extruded aluminum with minimum yield strength of  ton / ( MPa) and minimum
tensile strength of  ton / ( MPa), i.e.  T alloy, with a minimum grip length of . inches
(. mm), minimum grip depth of . inches ( mm) and a minimum thickness of load carrying walls of
. inches ( mm). Use size /” stainless steel bolts with /” split washer and nut. The applied
torque to fasten the clamps must be within the range of   lbs ( Nm).
UL approved types of clamps are the ones manufactured by SolaRak, Module End Clamp (part number
- or -) and Module Mid Clamp (part number - or -). Follow the
mounting equipment manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations at all times.
The clamps should be fastened to C or H channel rails.
CLAMP SPECIFICATIONS
Thickness of walls for mechanical connections: min. 0.156 inch (4.0mm)
Thickness of walls exposed to buckling load: min. 0.08 inch (2.0mm)
Moment of Inertia for profile area about X-X: min. 0.4 inch4 (19.2cm4 )
Walls exposed to
load min . inch
Walls for mechanical
connectors
X
X
Walls exposed to
buckline load
Grip length
min . inch
Grip length
min . inch
Grip depth
min . inch
Grip depth
min . inch
RAIL SPECIFICATIONS

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There are three ways of mounting the modules to the mounting structure. For North American installa-
tions, the modules have been tested by UL for a maximum positive or negative design loading. Details are
found under the relevant section.
Option 1; Long side mounting using clamps
The clamps should be fastened between . and . inches ( –  mm) from the corner of the mod-
ule. See drawing below, Long side mounting.The distance between the end clamp and the end of the rail
should be minimum  in ( mm).
Mounting utilizing clamps on the two long sides of the module have been found to be in compliance with UL
 requirements for a maximum design load of  Pa (. lbs/).
Option 2; Short side mounting using clamps
The modules can be fixed on the short side given the following constraints:
• Modulesmustbexedinawaythatthelowershortsideofframeissupportedbythemounting 
structure (to reduce risk of damages due to sliding snow load).
• Drainingholesinframetobecompletelyopen(notinanywaycoveredofmountingstructure).
• Theclampsmustbemountedinadistancebetween4.9and9.8inches(125–250mm)fromthecorner
(as shown in the figure below).
• Thedistancebetweentheendclampandtheendoftherailshouldbeminimum1in(25mm).
• Themechanicalloadmustnotexceed2400Paatshortsidemounting.
• Theminimumoverlapbetweensupportrailandframemustbeatleast6mm.
Mounting utilizing clamps on the two short sides of the module have been found to be in compliance with
UL  requirements for a maximum design load of  Pa (. lbs/).
SHORT SIDE MOUNTING
LONG SIDE MOUNTING

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Option 3; Mounting holes
When mounting using the mounting holes, the module should be supported by two rails transversely at the
mounting holes.The module should be mounted using lock nut and washer or lock nut with flange.
Additional electrical bonding to Earth Ground is required for the metal support structure (see earlier
description of grounding). A torque wrench should be used to tighten nuts and bolts to specification.The
applied torque required when using ” bolts, as shown in the drawing below, Mounting using mounting
holes, must be within a range of   lbs ( Nm). All four existing mounting holes in the frame should be
used.The under construction should be of aluminium or galvanized steel to avoid galvanic corrosion.The
under construction should be appropriate for the local environment.
NOTE: The warranty will be voided if additional holes are made in the frame. All fixing and fastening
materials should be corrosion resistant.
Mounting utilizing four of the elongated holes (. mm x  mm) in the frame of the module, (which are
placed at a distance of  mm from the midpoint of the long side) have been found to be in compliance
with UL  requirements for a maximum design load of  Pa (. lbs/ ).
Preventing galvanic corrosion
To avoid galvanic corrosion, use of stainless steel fastening materials are the preferred choice, but
galvanized or hot dipped zinc plated fasteners are acceptable.
MOUNTING USING MOUNTING HOLES

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OPERATING LIMITATIONS
38
GR
GR
GR
GR
28
1665±2,5
900 382,5
950
991±2,5
17
45
11±0,2
6,6±0,2
20,5±0,5
Mounting holes
ELECTRICAL DATA  NOCT REC225PE REC230PE REC235PE REC240PE REC245PE REC250PE
NOMINALPOWER  PMPP WP      
NOMINALPOWER VOLTAGE  VMPP V , , , , , ,
NOMINALPOWER CURRENT  IMPP A , , , , , ,
OPENCIRCUIT VOLTAGE  VOC V , , , , , ,
SHORTCIRCUIT CURRENT  ISCA , , , , , ,
GENERAL DATA
TEMPERATURE RATINGS
ELECTRICAL DATA  STC REC225PE REC230PE REC235PE REC240PE REC245PE REC250PE
NOMINALPOWER  PMPP WP      
WATT CLASS SORTING  W / / / / / /
NOMINALPOWER VOLTAGE  VMPP V , , , , , ,
NOMINALPOWER CURRENT  IMPP A , , , , , ,
OPENCIRCUIT VOLTAGE  VOC V , , , , , ,
SHORTCIRCUIT CURRENT  ISCA , , , , , ,
MODULEEFFICIENCY  , , , , , ,
MECHANICAL DATA
Dimensions  x  x  mm
(. x . x . in)
Area . m(. 
Weight  kg (. lbs)
Nominal Operating Cell Temperature (NOCT)  . °C (±°C)
Temperature Coefficient of PMPP . /°C
Temperature Coefficient of VOC . /°C
Temperature Coefficient of ISC . /°C
Cell Type REC PE multi-crystalline cells
 strings of  cells -  by-pass diodes
Glass . mm solar glass with antireflection
surface treatment by Sunarc Technology
Back Sheet Double layer highly resistant polyester
Frame Anodized aluminium
Junction box IP
Cable mm solar cable, .m & .m
( &  in)
Connectors Hosiden mm (HSC /)
MCconnectable
Values at standard test conditions STC (airmass AM ., irradiance  W/m, cell temperature °C).
At low irradiance of  W/m (AM . and cell temperature °C) at least  of the STC module efficiency will be achieved.
Nominal cell operating temperature NOCT ( W/m, AM ., windspeed  m/s, ambient temperature °C).
MAXIMUM RATINGS
Operational Temperature - ... +°C
Maximum System Voltage V
Design Load (UL ) . lbs/2 (Pa)
Maximum Snow Load (IEC )  kg/m2 ( Pa)
Maximum Wind Load (IEC )  kg/m ( Pa)
Max Series Fuse Rating (UL ) A
Max Reverse Current (UL ) A
Max Series Fuse Rating (IEC ) A
Max Reverse Current (IEC 6) A

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LEGAL INFORMATION
A) LIABILITY DISCLAIMER
REC Solar AS accepts no liability for the usability and functionality of its solar modules if the instructions
in this guide are not followed. Since compliance with this guide and the conditions and methods of
installation, operation, use and maintenance of the modules are not checked or monitored by
REC Solar AS, REC Solar AS accepts no liability for damage arising from improper use or incorrect
installation, operation, use or maintenance.This does not apply to damages due to a module fault, in cases
of loss of life, bodily injury or damage to health or in the event of a grossly negligent breach of obligations
on the part of REC Solar AS and/or in the event of an intentional or grossly negligent breach of obligations
by a legal representative or vicarious agent.
MAINTENANCE
REC PE Series modules have been designed for easy maintainance. Normal rainfall will naturally clean
the modules, if the modules is installed in a position with a sufficient tilt.The need for cleaning will vary
with the location of the installation, amount of rainfall and pollution. To optimize the electrical output, it is
recommended to clean the modules when dirt can be seen on the glass surface.
If dirt remains on the module surfaces, it will cause cell shading, which can reduce system power output.
If necessary, cleaning can be done as a normal glass with non alkali window cleaner or cleaned with
denatured spirits and finished cleaning with rinse with water. Cleaning liquid/agents which are acidic
solutions (low pH value < ) can therefore also be used in diluted form to remove as example calcium
(except hydrofluoric acid!). Always finish cleaning with rinse with plenty of water.
For removal of moss or fungi and bacteria on the glass surface, the use of cleaning agent with active
component benzalkoniumchlorid could be used. Rodalon® sold through the company Brenntag is
recommended.
Please do not use any of the following:
• Alcalic(pHvalue>9)cleaningliquid/agents
• Hydrouoricacid(HF)
• Harshcleaningmaterialssuchasscouringpowder,steelwoolandclothwithcoursemetaltreadsinthe
weave, scrapers or other sharp instruments.
The system should be inspected regularly to ensure that:
• Fastenersaresecure,tightandfreeofcorrosion.
• Electricalconnectionsaresecure,tight,clean,andfreeofcorrosion.
• Themechanicalintegrityofthecablesisintact.
• BondingpointstoEarthGroundaretight,secure,andfreeofcorrosion
(which could break the continuity between the modules and ground).

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B) DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Renewable Energy Corporation ASA
Kjørboveien 29
PO Box 594
NO-1302 Sandvika
Norway
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.recgroup.com