SolarEdge SE12.5k User manual

Installation Guide
Three Phase System with
SetApp Configuration
For Europe and APAC
Version 1.5

Disclaimers
Important Notice
Copyright © SolarEdge Inc. All rights reserved.
No part of this document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or
transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photographic,
magnetic or otherwise, without the prior written permission of SolarEdge Inc.
The material furnished in this document is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, SolarEdge assumes no responsibility for the use of this material. SolarEdge
reserves the right to make changes to the material at any time and without notice. You
may refer to the SolarEdge web site (www.solaredge.com) for the most updated version.
All company and brand products and service names are trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective holders.
Patent marking notice: see http://www.solaredge.com/patent
The general terms and conditions of delivery of SolarEdge shall apply.
The content of these documents is continually reviewed and amended, where
necessary. However, discrepancies cannot be excluded. No guarantee is made for the
completeness of these documents.
The images contained in this document are for illustrative purposes only and may vary
depending on product models.
Disclaimers 1
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5

Emission Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits applied by the
local regulations.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment
does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance may void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5
2 Emission Compliance

Revision History
Version 1.5 (October 2020)
Changed the cable type required for the RS485 and Ethernet connection to CAT6.
Added a requirement to minimize the distance between the positive and negative
DC optimizer cables in Step 3: Connecting Power Optimizers in Strings on page 17.
Added the requirement for a special bracket, when installing close to the shoreline
in Mounting the Inverter on page 24.
For inverter clearance, added a link to Application Note - Clearance Guidelines in
Mounting the Inverter on page 24.
Updated the communication board TCPdetails in Creating an Ethernet (LAN)
Connection on page 42.
Revision History 3
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5

Contents
Disclaimers 1
Important Notice 1
Emission Compliance 2
Revision History 3
HANDLING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 6
Safety Symbols Information 6
IMPORTANTSAFETYINSTRUCTIONS 7
Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge Power Harvesting System 9
Power Optimizer 9
Inverter 10
Monitoring Platform 10
Installation Procedure 10
Installation Equipment List 10
Inverter Transport and Storage 11
Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers 12
Safety 12
Installation Guidelines 13
Step 1: Mounting the Power Optimizers 16
Step 2: Connecting a PV module to a Power Optimizer 16
Step 3: Connecting Power Optimizers in Strings 17
Step 4: Verifying Proper Power Optimizer Connection 18
Chapter 3: Installing the Inverter 19
Inverter Package Contents 19
Identifying the Inverter 19
Inverter Interfaces 20
Mounting the Inverter 24
Chapter 4: Connecting the AC and the Strings to the Inverter 28
Grid Connection Guidelines 28
Connecting the ACGrid to the Inverter 28
Connecting the Strings to the Inverter 30
Selecting a Residual Current Device (RCD) 31
Chapter 5: Activating, Commissioning and Configuring the System 33
Step 1: Activating the Installation 33
Step 2: Commissioning and Configuring the Installation 34
Step 3: Verifying Proper Activation and Commissioning 36
Reporting and Monitoring Installation Data 36
Chapter 6: Setting Up Communication to the Monitoring Platform 39
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5
4 Revision History

Communication Options 39
Communication Connectors 41
Removing the Inverter Cover 42
Removing the DC Safety Unit Cover (if applicable) 42
Creating an Ethernet (LAN) Connection 42
Creating RS485 Bus Connection 46
RS485 Bus Configuration 49
Verifying the Connection 49
Appendix A: Errors and Troubleshooting 50
Identifying Errors 50
Troubleshooting Communication 51
Power Optimizer Troubleshooting 52
Appendix B: Mechanical Specifications 54
Appendix C: Connecting the AC and DCStrings to the DC Safety Unit 55
Connecting the ACGrid to the Inverter 56
Connecting the Strings to the DC Safety Unit 57
Appendix D: SafeDC™ 59
Appendix E: External Fan Maintenance and Replacement 60
Fan Maintenance 60
External Fan Replacement 60
Appendix F: Replacing and Adding System Components 62
Replacing an Inverter 62
Replacing the DC Safety Unit 63
Adding, Removing, or Replacing Power Optimizers 66
Appendix G: Determining the Circuit Breaker Size 67
Using Transformers in Commercial Three Phase Inverter Installations 67
Determining the Size of an Inverter Circuit Breaker 68
Technical Specifications - Three Phase Inverters (Europe &APAC) 72
Support Contact Information 82
Revision History 5
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5

HANDLING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
During installation, testing and inspection, adherence to all the handling and safety
instructions is mandatory. Failure to do so may result in injury or loss of life and
damage to the equipment.
Safety Symbols Information
The following safety symbols are used in this document. Familiarize yourself with the
symbols and their meaning before installing or operating the system.
WARNING!
Denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure that, if not correctly
performed or adhered to, could result in injury or loss of life. Do not proceed
beyond a warning note until the indicated conditions are fully understood and
met.
CAUTION!
Denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure that, if not correctly
performed or adhered to, could result in damage or destruction of the
product. Do not proceed beyond a caution sign until the indicated conditions
are fully understood and met.
NOTE
Denotes additional information about the current subject.
IMPORTANTSAFETYFEATURE
Denotes information about safety issues.
Disposal requirements under the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
regulations:
NOTE
Discard this product according to local regulations or send it back to SolarEdge.
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5
6 HANDLING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

IMPORTANTSAFETYINSTRUCTIONS
SAVETHESEINSTRUCTIONS
WARNING!
The inverter cover must be opened only after switching the inverter ON/OFF/P
switch located at the bottom of the inverter to OFF. This disables the DC voltage
inside the inverter. Wait five minutes before opening the cover. Otherwise, there
is a risk of electric shock from energy stored in the capacitors.

WARNING!
Before operating the inverter, ensure that the inverter AC power cable and wall
outlet are grounded properly. This product must be connected to a grounded,
metal, permanent wiring system, or an equipment-grounding conductor must
be run with the circuit conductors and connected to the equipment grounding
terminal or lead on the product.
WARNING!
Opening the inverter and repairing or testing under power must be performed
only by qualified service personnel familiar with this inverter.
WARNING!
Do not touch the PV panels or any rail system connected when the inverter
switch is ON, unless grounded.
WARNING!
SafeDC complies with IEC60947-3 when installing the system with a worst case
SafeDC voltage (under fault conditions) < 120V.
The worst case voltage is defined as: Voc,max+ (String Length-1)*1V, where:
Voc,max = Maximum Voc (at lowest temperature) of the PV modules in the
string (for a string with multiple modules, use the max value)
String Length = number of power optimizers in the string
CAUTION!
This unit must be operated according to the technical specification datasheet
provided with the unit.
CAUTION!
HEAVY OBJECT. To avoid muscle strain or back injury, use proper lifting
techniques, and if required - a lifting aid.
IMPORTANTSAFETYINSTRUCTIONS 7
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5

NOTE
The inverter is IP65 rated . Unused conduit openings and glands should be
sealed with appropriate seals.
NOTE
Use PV modules rated according to IEC 61730 class A.
NOTE
The symbol appears at grounding points on the SolarEdge equipment. This
symbol is also used in this manual.
NOTE
A SolarEdge inverter may be installed in a site with a generator. SolarEdge
requires installing a physical or electronic interlock, which will signal to the
inverter when the grid has been disconnected. Interlock procurement,
installation, maintenance and support are the responsibility of the installer.
Damage to the inverter due to incorrect interlock installation or use of an
interlock that is incompatible with the SolarEdge system will render the
SolarEdge warranty invalid.
For more information, refer to
https://www.solaredge.com/sites/default/files/se-inverter-
support-of-voltage-sources.pdf.
NOTE
The following warning symbols appear on the inverter warning label:
Risk of electric shock
Risk of electric shock from energy stored in the capacitor. Do not
remove cover until 5 minutes after disconnecting all sources of
supply.
Hot surface – To reduce the risk of burns, do not touch.
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5
8 IMPORTANTSAFETYINSTRUCTIONS

Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge Power
Harvesting System
The SolarEdge power harvesting solution maximizes the power output from any type of
solar photovoltaic (PV) installation while reducing the average cost per watt. The
following sections describe each of the system’s components.
Figure 1: The SolarEdge power harvesting system components
Power Optimizer
The power optimizers are DC-DC converters connected to PV modules in order to
maximize power harvesting by performing independent Maximum Power Point
Tracking (MPPT) at the module level.
The power optimizers regulate the string voltage at a constant level, regardless of string
length and environmental conditions.
The power optimizers include a safety voltage function that automatically reduces the
output of each power optimizer to 1 Vdc in the following cases:
During fault conditions
The power optimizers are disconnected from the inverter
The inverter ON/OFF/P switch is turned OFF
The inverter AC breaker is turned OFF
Each power optimizer also transmits module performance data over the DC power line
to the inverter.
Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge Power Harvesting System 9
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5

Two types of power optimizers are available:
module add-on power optimizer – connected to one or more modules
smart modules - the power optimizer is embedded into a module
Inverter
The inverter efficiently converts DC power from the modules into AC power that can be
fed into the main ACservice of the site and from there to the grid. The inverter also
receives the monitoring data from each power optimizer and transmits it to a central
server (the monitoring platform; requires Internet connection).
Some inverters are available with an optional DC Safety Unit. The DC Safety Unit has a
manually operated switch for disconnecting the DC power of a SolarEdge system.
The DC Safety Unit is located below the inverter and is connected to the inverter with
AC and DC wires.
Monitoring Platform
The monitoring platform enables monitoring the technical and financial performance of
one or more SolarEdge sites. It provides past and present information on the system
performance both at the system and module levels.
Installation Procedure
The following is the procedure for installing and setting up a new SolarEdge site. Many
of these also apply to modification of an existing site.
1. Connecting Power Optimizers in Strings, page 17
2. Recording power optimizer serial numbers (optional), page 37
3. Mounting the inverter, Page 24
4. Connecting the AC and the Strings to the Inverter, page 28, or Connecting the AC
and the String to the DCSafety Unit, page 55
5. Commissioning and activating the installation, page 33
6. Connecting the inverter to the monitoring platform, page 38
Installation Equipment List
Standard tools can be used during the installation of the SolarEdge system. The
following is a recommendation of the equipment needed for installation:
Allen screwdriver for 5mm screw type for the inverter enclosure screws
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5
10  Inverter

Allen screwdriver for M5/M6/M8 screw types
Standard flat-head screwdrivers set
Non-contact voltage detector
Cordless drill (with a torque clutch)or screwdriver and bits suitable for the surface
on which the inverter and optimizers will be installed. Use of an impact driver is not
allowed.
Mounting hardware (stainless bolts, nuts, and washers) for attaching:
the mounting brackets to the mounting surface
the power optimizer to the racking
MC4 crimper
Wire cutters
Wire strippers
Voltmeter
For installing the communication options, you may also need the following:
For Ethernet:
CAT6 twisted pair Ethernet cable with RJ45 connector
If using a CAT6 cable spool: RJ45 plug and RJ45 crimper
For RS485:
Four- or six-wire shielded twisted pair cable
Watchmaker precision screwdriver set
Inverter Transport and Storage
Transport the inverter in its original packaging, facing up and without exposing it to
unnecessary shocks. If the original package is no longer available, use a similar box that
can withstand the weight of the inverter (refer to the inverter weight in the specification
datasheet provided with the unit), has a handle system and can be closed fully.
Store the inverter in a dry place where ambient temperatures are -13°F to 140°F /
-25°C to +60°C.
Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge Power Harvesting System 11
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5

Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers
Safety
The following notes and warnings apply when installing the power optimizers. Some of
the following may not be applicable to smart modules:
WARNING!
When modifying an existing installation, turn OFF the inverter ON/OFF/P
switch, the DC Safety Unit (if applicable) and the AC circuit breaker on the main
AC distribution panel.
CAUTION!
Power optimizers are IP68/NEMA6P rated. Choose a mounting location where
optimizers will not be submerged in water.
CAUTION!
This unit must be operated according to the operating specifications provided
with the unit.
CAUTION!
Cutting the power optimizer input or output cable connector is prohibited and
will void the warranty.
CAUTION!
All PV modules must be connected to a power optimizer.
CAUTION!
If you intend to mount the optimizers directly to the module or module frame,
first consult the module manufacturer for guidance regarding the mounting
location and the impact, if any, on module warranty. Drilling holes in the
module frame should be done according to the module manufacturer
instructions.
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5
12 Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers



CAUTION!
Installing a SolarEdge system without ensuring compatibility of the module
connectors with the optimizer connectors may be unsafe and could cause
functionality problems such as ground faults, resulting in inverter shut down. To
ensure mechanical compatibility of the power optimizers’ connectors with the PV
module’ connectors to which they are connected:
Use identical connectors from the same manufacturer and of the same type
on both the power optimizers and on the modules; or
Verify that the connectors are compatible in the following way:
The module connector manufacturer should explicitly verify compatibility
with the SolarEdge optimizer connector; and
A third-party test report by one of the listed external labs (TUV, VDE,
Bureau Veritas UL, CSA, InterTek) should be obtained, verifying the
compatibility of the connectors.
For more information, refer to
https://www.solaredge.com/sites/default/files/optimizer-input-
connector-compatibility.pdf

IMPORTANTSAFETYFEATURE
Modules with SolarEdge power optimizers are safe. They carry only a low safety
voltage before the inverter is turned ON. As long as the power optimizers are
not connected to the inverter or the inverter is turned OFF, each power
optimizer will output a safe voltage of 1V.

Installation Guidelines
For the minimum and maximum number of power optimizers in a string (string
length), see the power optimizer datasheets. Refer to the Designer for string length
verification. The Designer is available on the SolarEdge website at:
https://www.solaredge.com/products/installer-tools/designer#/.
The length of home-run cables from the first and last power optimizer to the inverter
(total cable length) may not exceed the following values:
Single Phase Inverters Three Phase Inverters
All - 1000 ft. /300 m SE17K and below - 1000 ft. /300 m
Above SE17K - 2300 ft. /700 m
Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers 13
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5

Do not use extension cables between a module and a power optimizer, between two
modules connected to the same power optimizer, or between two power optimizers
other than in the following cases:
Between a power optimizer and a module:
Power optimizers with the 4-type suffix in their part number (Pxxx-4xxxxxx) -
extension cables of up to 16 m can be installed per power optimizer (8 m for DC+
and 8 m for DC-).
Power optimizers manufactured starting from working week 42, 2019, as
indicated in the serial number (Example:S/N SJ5019A-xxxxxxxx - working week
50, 2019) - extension cables of up to 16 m can be installed per power optimizer (8
m for DC+ and 8 m for DC-).
Between two power optimizers or between a power optimizer and the inverter:
Extension cables can be installed between power optimizers only from row to
row, around obstacles or pathways within a row, and from the end of the string
to the inverter, as long as the total cable length is not exceeded.
For connecting power optimizers to the inverter, use cables with a minimum cross-
section of 11 AWG/ 4 mm² DC cables.
Frame-mounted power optimizers are mounted directly on the module
frame, regardless of racking system (rail-less or with rails). For
installation of frame-mounted power optimizers, refer to
http://www.solaredge.com/sites/default/files/installing_frame_
mounted_power_optimizers.pdf.
The steps in this chapter refer to module add-on power optimizers. For smart
modules, start from Step 3: Connecting Power Optimizers in Strings on page 17. Also
refer to the documentation supplied with the smart modules.
The power optimizer can be placed in any orientation.
If connecting more modules than power optimizer inputs in parallel, use a branch
cable. Some commercial power optimizer models have a dual input.
Position the power optimizer close enough to its module so that their cables can be
connected.
Make sure to use power optimizers that have the required output conductor length.
Completely shaded modules may cause their power optimizers to temporarily shut
down. This will not affect the performance of the other power optimizers in the
string, as long as the minimum number of unshaded power optimizers connected in
a string of modules is met. If under typical conditions fewer than the minimum
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5
14 Installation Guidelines

power optimizers are connected to unshaded modules, add more power optimizers
to the string.
To allow for heat dissipation, maintain clearance as specified below.
All power optimizers, except for the P860 and M1600 power optimizers
P860 and M1600 power optimizers
Figure 2: Power optimizer clearance
When installing modules in a confined space, for example, if installing Building-
integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) modules, ventilation measures may be needed to
ensure the power optimizers are not be exposed to temperatures outside their
specifications.

Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers 15
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5

Step 1: Mounting the Power Optimizers
For each of the power optimizers(1):
1. Determine the power optimizer mounting location and use the power
optimizer mounting brackets to attach the power optimizer to the
support structure . It is recommended to mount the power optimizer
in a location protected from direct sunlight. For frame-mounted
power optimizers follow the instructions supplied with the optimizers,
or refer to https://www.solaredge.com/sites/default/files/installing_frame_
mounted_power_optimizers.pdf.
2. If required, mark the mounting hole locations and drill the hole.
CAUTION!
Drilling vibrations may damage the power optimizer and will void the
warranty. Use a torque wrench or an electric drill with adjustable clutch that
meets the mounting torque requirements. Do not use impact drivers for
mounting the power optimizer.
Do not drill through the power optimizer or through the mounting holes.
3. Attach each power optimizer to the rack using M6 (1/4'') stainless steel bolts, nuts
and washers or other mounting hardware. Apply torque of 9-10 N*m / 6.5-7 lb*ft.
4. Verify that each power optimizer is securely attached to the module support
structure.
5. Record power optimizer serial numbers and locations, as described in Reporting and
Monitoring Installation Data on page 36.
Step 2: Connecting a PV module to a Power Optimizer
NOTE
Images are for illustration purposes only. Refer to the label on the product to
identify the plus and minus input and output connectors.
For each of the power optimizers:
Connect the Plus (+) output connector of the module to the Plus (+) input
connector of the power optimizer.
(1)Not applicable to smart modules.
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5
16 Step 1: Mounting the Power Optimizers

Connect the Minus (-) output connector of the module to the Minus (-) input
connector of the power optimizer.
Figure 3: Power optimizer connectors
Step 3: Connecting Power Optimizers in Strings
You can construct parallel strings of unequal length, that is, the number
of power optimizers in each string does not have to be the same. The
minimum and maximum string lengths are specified in the power
optimizer datasheets. Refer to the Designer for string length verification.

1. Connect the Minus (-) output connector of the string’s first power optimizer to the
Plus (+) output connector of the string’s second power optimizer.
2. To minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI), make sure to minimize the distance
between the positive and negative DC cables.
For detailed instructions, see:
https://www.solaredge.com/sites/default/files/se-emi-performance-
application-note.pdf.
3. Connect the rest of the power optimizers in the string in the same
manner.
WARNING!
If using a dual-input power optimizer and some inputs are not used, seal the
unused input connectors with the supplied pair of seals.
4. If you intend to monitor the installation, using the monitoring platform, record the
physical location of each power optimizer, as described in Creating Logical and
Physical Layout using Installation Information on page 37.
Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers 17
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5

Step 4: Verifying Proper Power Optimizer Connection
When a module is connected to a power optimizer, the power optimizer outputs a safe
voltage of 1V (±0.1V). Therefore, the total string voltage should equal 1V times the
number of power optimizers connected in series in the string. For example, if 10 power
optimizers are connected in a string, then 10V should be produced.
Make sure the PV modules are exposed to sunlight during this process. The power
optimizer will only turn ON if the PVmodule provides at least 2W.
In SolarEdge systems, due to the introduction of power optimizers between the PV
modules and the inverter, the short circuit current ISC and the open circuit voltage VOC
hold different meanings from those in traditional systems.
For more information about the SolarEdge system’s string voltage and
current, refer to the VOC and ISC in SolarEdge Systems Technical Note ,
available on the SolarEdge website at:
https://www.solaredge.com/sites/default/files/isc_and_voc_in_solaredge_
sytems_technical_note.pdf
To verify proper power optimizer connection:
Measure the voltage of each string individually before connecting it to the other
strings or to the inverter. Verify correct polarity by measuring the string polarity with
a voltmeter. Use a voltmeter with at least 0.1V measurement accuracy.
NOTE
Since the inverter is not yet operating, you may measure the string voltage
and verify correct polarity on the DC wires inside the DC Safety Unit.
For troubleshooting power optimizer operation problems, refer to Power Optimizer
Troubleshooting on page 52.
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5
18 Step 4: Verifying Proper Power Optimizer Connection

Chapter 3: Installing the Inverter
Install the inverter either before or after the modules and power optimizers have been
installed.
CAUTION!
Do not rest the connectors at the bottom of the inverter on the ground, as it
may damage them. To rest the inverter on the ground, lay it on its back, front
or side.
NOTE
Use only copper conductors rated for a minimum of 90°C/ 194°F.
For the SE10KUS, SE20KUS, SE33.3KUS three phase inverters where opposite
polarity DC conductors are routed in the same conduit, 1000V rated cables
must be used.
Inverter Package Contents
One inverter with DC Safety Unit (if applicable)
One mounting bracket
Two Allen screws for fastening the inverter to the mounting bracket
DC Safety Unit sealing cover (if applicable, for use in case of inverter replacement)
Quick Installation guide
Identifying the Inverter
Refer to the sticker on the inverter that specifies its Serial Number and its Electrical
Ratings. Provide the serial number when contacting SolarEdge support. The serial
number is also required when opening a new site in the monitoring platform.
Chapter 3: Installing the Inverter 19
Three Phase System MAN-01-00505-1.5