SolarEdge SE12.5k User manual

Installation Guide
Three Phase Inverter with
Synergy Technology
For Europe and APAC
Version 1.2

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 Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2

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 Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2
2 Emission Compliance

Contents
Disclaimers 1
Important Notice 1
Emission Compliance 2
Contents 3
Support and Contact Information 5
Version History 6
HANDLING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 7
Safety Symbols Information 7
IMPORTANTINVERTERSAFETYINSTRUCTIONS 8
Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge Power Harvesting System 10
Power Optimiser 10
Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology 11
Monitoring Platform 12
Installation Procedure 12
Installation Equipment List 12
Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers 14
Safety 14
Installation Guidelines 15
Step 1: Mounting the Power Optimizers 17
Step 2: Connecting a PV Module to a Power Optimiser 17
Step 3: Connecting Power Optimisers in Strings 18
Step 4: Verifying Proper Power Optimiser Connection 19
Chapter 3: Installing the Primary and Secondary Unit(s) 21
Primary Unit Package Contents 21
Secondary Unit Package Contents 21
Identifying the Units 21
Primary Unit Interface 22
Connection Unit Interface 26
Secondary Unit Interface 28
Mounting and Connecting the Primary and Secondary Unit(s) 28
Chapter 4: Connecting the AC and Strings to the Connection Unit 36
Grid Connection Guidelines 36
Connecting the AC Grid to the Connection Unit 37
Connecting the AC Grid and Grounding to the Connection Unit 38
Connecting the Strings to the Connection Unit 40
Selecting a Residual Current Device (RCD) 42
Chapter 5: Activating, Commissioning and Configuring the System Using the
Inverter SetApp 43
Contents 3
Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2

Step 1: Activating the Installation 43
Step 2: Commissioning and Configuring the Installation 44
Step 3: Verifying Proper Activation and Commissioning 49
Viewing System Status 49
Reporting and Monitoring Installation Data 58
Chapter 6: Setting Up Communication 61
Communication Options 62
Communication Connectors 63
Creating an Ethernet (LAN) Connection 66
Creating an RS485 Bus Connection 70
RS485 Bus Configuration 73
Verifying the Connection 73
Appendix A: Errors and Troubleshooting 76
Identifying Errors 76
Power Optimizer Troubleshooting 78
Troubleshooting Communication 80
Appendix B: Mechanical Specifications 82
Primary Unit and Connection Unit 82
Secondary Unit 82
Appendix C: SafeDC™ 83
Appendix D: External Fan Maintenance and Replacement 84
Fan Maintenance 84
External Fan Replacement 84
Appendix E: Replacing System Components 87
Replacing the Primary Unit 87
Replacing a Secondary Unit 89
Replacing the Connection Unit 89
Replacing Power Optimisers 91
Appendix F: Determining the Circuit Breaker Size 92
Revision History 92
Introduction 92
Using Transformers in Commercial Three Phase Inverter Installations 92
Determining the Size of an Inverter Circuit Breaker 94
Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology - Technical Specifications
(Europe and APAC) 96
-Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2
4 Contents

Support and Contact Information
If you have technical problems concerning SolarEdge products, please contact us:
Country Phone E-Mail
Australia ([phone] [e-mail]
APAC (Asia Pacific)([phone] [e-mail]
Belgium ([phone] [e-mail]
China ([phone] [e-mail]
DACH & Rest of Europe
([phone] [e-mail]
France ([phone] [e-mail]
Italy ([phone] [e-mail]
Japan ([phone] [e-mail]
Netherlands ([phone] [e-mail]
New Zealand ([phone] [e-mail]
Republic of Ireland ([phone] [e-mail]
United Kingdom ([phone]
US & Canada ([phone] [e-mail]
Greece ([phone]
[e-mail]
Israel ([phone]
Middle East & Africa ([phone]
South Africa ([phone]
Turkey ([phone]
Worldwide ([phone]
Before contact, make sure to have the following information at hand:
Model and serial number of the product in question.
The error indicated on the Inverter SetApp mobile application or on the
monitoring platform or by the LEDs, if there is such an indication.
System configuration information, including the type and number of modules
connected and the number and length of strings.
The communication method to the SolarEdge server, if the site is connected.
The inverter software version as appears in the status screen.
Support and Contact Information 5
Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2

Version History
Version 1.2 (February 2019)
Updated technical specifications
Removed the 'Recommended circuit breaker/ fuse size to use
at the grid connection point' table and other modifications
Added appendix 'Determining the Circuit Breaker Size' and paragraph
referencing to it, in the 'Grid Connection Guidelines' section.
Added step 'Disconnect the AC to the inverter by turning OFF the
circuit breakers on the distribution panel' in Replacing a Secondary
Unit
In the 'To connect AC and ground' procedure - added note about lug
requirements.
Version 1.1 (May 2018)
Modified the LED table: deleted 'no AC power' row ,in Inverter
firmware upgrade row: changed blinking to alternating, added a
comment and footnote and separated the Percentage of AC
Production table form the main table
Changed clearance between inverters to 5 cm.
Grid Connection Guidelines - 'In some countries, the SolarEdge
three phase inverters can be connected to 220 /230 V-L delta
grids. Added 220 /230 V-L
Mounting and Connecting the Primary and Secondary Unit(s)
added step 10 cable ring
Addition of possibility to use compatible connectors from third-party
manufacturers upon SolarEdge limitation
Changed inverter name to Three Phase Inverter with synergy
technology
Version 1 (December 2017)
-Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2
6 Version History

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.
HANDLING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 7
Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2

IMPORTANT INVERTER SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING!
The inverter cover must be opened only after shutting off the inverter ON/OFF
switch located at the bottom of the Primary Unit, above the Connection Unit.
This disables the DC voltage inside the inverter and opens the AC relays.
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 is grounded properly.
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 module in
the string (for a string with multiple module models, 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.
-Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2
8 IMPORTANT INVERTER SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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, however
must not operate at the same time as the generator.
Operating an inverter and a generator simultaneously will void the warranty.
SolarEdge requires installing a physical or electronic interlock, which will
prevent the generator and inverter from operating simultaneously. 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.
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.
For details refer to: http://www.solaredge.com/files/pdfs/lightning_surge_protection.pdf
IMPORTANT INVERTER SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 9
Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2

Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge Power
Harvesting System
The SolarEdge power harvesting solution is designed to maximize 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 Optimiser
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 switch is turned OFF
The safety switch on the Connection Unit is turned OFF
The inverter AC breaker is turned OFF
-Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2
10 Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge Power Harvesting System

Each power optimizer also transmits module performance data over the DC power
line to the inverter.
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
Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology
The Three Phase Inverter with synergy technology inverter (referred to as 'inverter' in
this manual ) 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 the
SolarEdge monitoring platform (requires Internet or Cellular connection).
The inverter is comprised of one Primary Unit with an integrated Connection Unit with
a DC Safety Switch (referred to as 'Connection Unit ' in this manual) for disconnecting
the DC power of a SolarEdge system, and of one or two Secondary Units, depending
on the inverter's capacity. The Secondary Unit(s) are connected to the primary unit
with AC, DC and communication cables.
Each unit operates independently and continues to work in case the others are not
operating.
You can set up a master- slave configuration, connecting up to 31 additional
inverters to one master inverter.
Figure 2: Primary Unit with two Secondary Units
Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge Power Harvesting System 11
Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2

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. Installing the Power optimizers, page 14
2. Mounting and Connecting the Primary and Secondary Unit(s), page 28
NOTE
It is recommended to connect communication connections (step 6 of this
installation) before connecting the AC, for easier access to the
communication board.
3. Connecting the AC and the Strings to the Connection Unit, page 36
4. Activating and Commissioning the System Using SetApp, page 43
5. Configuring the System Using SetApp , page 49
6. Setting Up Communication, page 61
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 cover,Connection Unit
cover, and inverter side screws
Allen screwdriver for M5/M6/M8 screw types
17/32 HEX Allen screwdriver for AC stud connector
SolarEdge supplied level
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 andoptimizers will be installed. Use of an impact
driver is not allowed.
Appropriate mounting hardware (for example: stainless bolts, nuts, and
-Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2
12 Monitoring Platform

washers) for attaching:
the Primary and Secondary Unit(s) mounting brackets to the mounting
surface
the power optimizers to the racking (not required for smart modules)
MC4 crimper
4xM8 ring terminals and suitable crimper
Wire cutters
Wire strippers
Voltmeter
For installing the communication options, you may also need the following:
For Ethernet:
CAT5/6 twisted pair Ethernet cable with RJ45 connector
If using a CAT5/6 cable spool: RJ45 plug and RJ45 crimper
For RS485:
Four- or six-wire shielded twisted pair cable.
Watchmaker precision screwdriver set
For secondary grounding:
Ring terminal crimper for the AC wire
Ring terminal
Serrated washer
Grounding screw
Two washers
Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge Power Harvesting System 13
Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2

Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers
Safety
The following notes and warnings apply when installing the SolarEdge 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 switch,
the Connection Unit 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.
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.
-Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2
14 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 SolarEdge optimizers’ connectors
with the PV modules’ 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.
Installation Guidelines
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 Optimisers in Strings on page
18 . Also refer to the documentation supplied with the smart modules.
The power optimizer can be placed in any orientation.
If connecting more modules than 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.
Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers 15
Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2

Make sure to use power optimizers that have the required output conductor
length:
Do not use extension cables between a module and a power
optimizer, between two modules connected to the same optimizer, or
between two optimizers other than in the cases specified below.
You can use extension cables between power optimizers only from
row to row, around obstacles within a row, and from the end of the
string to the inverter, as long as the maximum distance is not
exceeded.
The minimum and maximum string length guidelines are stated in 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#/.
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 optimizers are connected to unshaded modules, add more
optimizers to the string.
To allow for heat dissipation, maintain a 2.5 cm / 1" clearance distance
between the power optimizer and other surfaces, on all sides except the
mounting bracket side.
Figure 3: 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.
-Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2
16 Installation Guidelines

NOTE
The images contained herein are for illustrative purposes only and may vary
depending on product models.
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 appropriate 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 58.
Step 2: Connecting a PV Module to a Power
Optimiser
NOTE
Images are for illustration purposes only. Refer to the label on the product to
identify the plus and minus input and output connectors.
(1)Not applicable to smart modules.
Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers 17
Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2

For each of the power optimizers:
Connect the Plus (+) output connector of the module to the Plus (+) input
connector of the power optimizer.
Connect the Minus (-) output connector of the module to the Minus (-) input
connector of the power optimizer.
Figure 4: Power optimizer connectors
Step 3: Connecting Power Optimisers 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 datasheets. Refer to the SolarEdge Site
Designer for string length verification.
NOTE
Use at least 11 AWG/ 4 mm² DC cables.
The total conductor length of the string (excluding power optimizers’
conductors; including home runs and necessary extensions between
optimizers) should not exceed:
2300 ft./ 700 m from DC+ to DC- of the inverter
NOTE
The DC bus of each unit is separate and not shared for all units. Therefore in
addition to following the inverter design rules, each unit should follow the
unit design rules as detailed in the Technical Specifications.
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. Connect the rest of the power optimizers in the string in the same manner.
-Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2
18 Step 3: Connecting Power Optimisers in Strings

Figure 5: Power optimizers connected in series
3. If you intend to monitor the installation, using the SolarEdge monitoring platform,
record the physical location of each power optimizer, as described in Creating
Logical and Physical Layout using Installation Information on page 59.
Step 4: Verifying Proper Power Optimiser
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 poweroptimizers 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 .
Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers 19
Three Phase Inverter with Synergy Technology Installation MAN-01-00402-1.2