Sunpower Type E Flexible 100 Watt 12 Volt Solar Panel Instruction Manual

Type E Flexible 100 watt 12 Volt Solar Panel
Instruction ManualSafety and Installation Instructions for  
SunPower Type E, Type G and Type H AC Modules   
 United States and Canada 
 Contents are subject to change without notice. 

Type E Flexible 100 watt 12 Volt Solar Panel

 https://www.sunpower.maxeon.com/int/PVInstallGuideULAC

For the latest version visit www.sunpower.maxeon.com/int/PVInstallGuideULAC 
SunPower Corporation
www.sunpower.com 

Safety and Installation Instructions for AC Modules   
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Introduction

This document provides safety and installation instructions for the UL  Listed SunPower AC photovoltaic (PV) modules described herein, all of  which bear the UL logo on the product label: 

Important! Please read these instructions in their entirety before  installing, wiring, or using this product in any way. Failure to comply  with these instructions will invalidate the SunPower Limited  Warranty for PV Modules.

 1.1 Disclaimer of Liability 
The installation techniques, handling and use of this product are beyond company control. Therefore, SunPower does not assume responsibility for loss, damage, or  expense resulting from improper installation, handling, or use.
1.2 Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) Listing Information 
This product meets or exceeds the requirements set forth by UL 1703 or UL 61730, UL 1741 and UL 1741 SA for AC PV Modules. The UL 1703 Standard covers flat‐ plate PV modules intended for installation on buildings; or those intended to be  freestanding. The UL 1741 SA Standard covers inverters, converters, controllers,  and interconnection system equipment for use with distributed energy resources,  including AC modules. The NRTL listing does not include integration into a building  surface because additional requirements may apply. This product is not intended for use where artificially concentrated sunlight is applied to the module. The Type  E and the Type G AC module models comply with HECO Rule 14H, CA CPUC Rule
21, 1547‐2003 and 1547a‐2014.

1.3 Limited Warranty 
Module  limited  warranties  are  described in full in the SunPower warranty certificates  obtainable at www.sunpower.com. In summary, the Limited  Warranties do not apply to any of the following:
PV  modules  which  in  SunPower’s  absolute  judgment  have  been  subjected  to:  misuse, abuse, neglect, or accident; alteration, improper installation, application,  or removal. Including, but not limited to installation, application, or removal by  any  party  other  than  a  SunPower  authorized  Dealer;  non‐observance  of  SunPower’s   installation,  user’s  and/or  maintenance  instructions;  repair  or  modifications  by  someone  other  than  an  approved  service  technician  of  SunPower; power failure surges, lightning, flood, fire, accidental breakage or other events outside SunPower’s control.

Safety Precautions

Before installing this device, read all safety instructions in this document.
Disconnect the utility AC source from all modules in the array before making or breaking electrical connections.
Danger! AC modules generate internal direct current (DC) and output alternating current (AC); and are a source of voltage when under load and  when exposed to light. Electrical currents can arc across gaps and may  cause injury or death if improper connection or disconnection is made; or if  contact is made with module leads that are frayed or torn.

• Disconnect the utility AC source from all modules in the array before making or breaking electrical connections.
• Use only the AC locking connectors in order to defend against untrained personnel disconnecting the modules after they have been installed.
• All installations must be performed in compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and any applicable local codes.
• Installation should be performed only by qualified personnel.
• Remove all metallic jewelry prior to installing this product to reduce the chance of accidental exposure to live circuits.
• Use only insulated tools to reduce your risk of electric shock.
• Do not stand on, drop, scratch, or allow objects to fall on modules.
• Broken glass, J‐boxes, broken connectors, and/or damaged backsets are  electrical hazards as well as laceration hazards. If a module is cracked after  installation, a qualified person should remove the module from the array and  contact the supplier for disposal instructions.
• Do not install or handle modules when they are wet or during periods of high wind.
• Unconnected connectors must always be protected from pollution (e.g. dust, humidity, foreign particles, etc), prior to installation. Do not leave  unconnected (unprotected) connectors exposed to the environment. A clean  installation environment is essential in order to avoid performance  degradation.
• Do not block drain holes or allow water to pool in or near module frames
• Contact your module supplier if maintenance is necessary.
• Save these instructions!

Electrical Characteristics

All electrical characteristics and grid interaction data are shown in Section 7. It is the installer’s responsibility to set the grid profile—this can only be done with  internet access and the SunPower monitoring system.
If an installation involves a SunPower AC module which does not appear on this list please consult the product label on the back of the module or visit  www.sunpower.com for the product datasheet.

3.1 Fire Rating 
The AC module maintains the same Type 2 fire rating associated with DC modules.

Electrical Connections

Modules  must  only  be  connected  using  the  supplied  AC  cabling  and  integrated connectors.  Do  not  alter  any  connectors.  Plug  and  Socket  connectors  mated  together in a PV system must be of the same type (model, rating) from the same  manufacturer i.e. a plug connector from one manufacturer and a socket connector  from another manufacturer, or vice versa, shall not be used to make a connection.  Ensure that the cabling is not under mechanical stress (comply with bending radius  of ≥ 60 mm) and must not be bent on the direct exit of the connector or junction  box.  The  AC  module  cable  system  features  locking  connectors  which,  after  connected, require the use of a tool to disconnect. This defends against untrained  personnel disconnecting the modules when under load. AC cable connectors are  rated and tested to interrupt load current; however, SunPower recommends that  you always open the utility dedicated branch circuit protector to remove power  before  plugging  or   unplugging  any  connectors;  but  a  local  AC  disconnect  is  not  required by SunPower.
When installing AC modules the National Electric Code, ANSI/NFPA 70 wiring methods shall be used.
 4.1 Equipment Grounding   
To reduce the possibility of electrical shock, ground the module frame or array per NEC before wiring the circuit. In order to install in accordance with their UL  Listing, SunPower AC modules must be grounded using Listed grounding  hardware that meets requirements for grounding systems in UL 467, UL 1703, UL  1741, or UL 2703; on anodized aluminum frames. SunPower recommends using  one of the following methods of grounding the module frame. A‐Series ‐BLK  modules must be installed with the Ground Lug Assembly of the Mountainous  mounting system using the Iosco GBL‐4DBT grounding lug tightened to a torque of  85 in‐ lbs to bond the module frame to the rail. In addition, to avoid corrosion due to the use of dissimilar metals SunPower recommends stainless steel between  copper and aluminum.

1. Modules may be grounded through the use of an Mountainous™ mid clamp that bonds the module frame to the Mountainous rail. This method is UL  2703 Listed.  Mountainous rail sections must be bonded and connected to a  grounding conductor using methods and materials specified in the  Mountainous Residential Mounting System Installation Guide 508988.
2. Modules may be grounded by attaching a lay‐in lug (Iosco GBL‐4DBT, Burndy CL50‐DB‐T or Tyco Sulkily 1954381‐2) to one of the grounding holes on the  module frame, and attach the ground conductor to the lug. Use stainless  steel hardware (bolt, washers, and nut). Use an external‐tooth star washer  between the lug and the module frame in order to pierce the anodizing and  establish electrical contact with the aluminum frame. The assembly must  end with a nut that’s torqued to 20–25 in‐ lb (for a #10‐32 bolt). A lock washer or other locking mechanism is required to maintain tension  between the bolt and the assembly. The conductor must be attached to the  ground lug using the lug’s set screw. Refer to NEC 690.
   Note: Method 3 is evaluated to UL 1703 by ETL. As such, the use of these devices is not considered part of the UL Listing of these modules.
3. If the Univac SOLARMOUNT system is used, modules may be grounded by using either a BURNDY Wiley WEEB-UMC or WEEB-UGC-1 grounding clip in combination with Univac Mid or End clamps and 1/4-20 bolt and flanged nut, torqued to 120 in-lbs. If the Solar mount-I system is used grounding is achieved with the Univac UGC-2 grounding clips in combination with Univac Mid or End clamps and Sliders with a 1/4-20 bolt and flanged nut torqued to 120 in-lbs.
   Note: Method 4 was evaluated to UL 2703 by TUV. As such, the use of these devices is not considered part of the UL Listing of these modules.
4. Modules may be grounded using a WEEB-9.5NL ground clip between the module and supporting structure. This combination is secured with a 1/4″ stainless steel rivet or a 1/4-20 x 3/4″ zinc-plated bolt with zinc-plated K-nut torqued to min. 6 ft-lbs to secure the module to minimum 12 gab G90 coated steel or Z-purlin, either painted or unpainted. The WEEB-9.SNL is for single use only.
5. Other grounding methods may be used in conjunction with a module mounting system compliant with UL 2703. For these installations, the SunPower module and frame style must be tested and part of the instructions for the Listed mounting product. The SunPower module must be installed in accordance with these instructions as well as the mounting system’s Listed instructions.

4.2 Connection to AC Circuits      

It is the installer’s responsibility to verify grid compatibility (120/240 or 120/208  wye 3‐phase 4‐wire 2‐pole). SunPower AC modules must be connected to a utility  source   at  the  correct  voltage  and  frequency  in  order  to  operate  and  produce  power. They are not standalone generators and do not create AC voltage thus are  not  capable   of  operation  independent  of  a  utility‐generated  AC  signal.  The  AC  modules must be connected only to a dedicated branch circuit. The AC cables and  connectors are certified and rated for the maximum number of AC units in parallel  only.  When  connecting  modules,  DO  NOT  exceed  the  following  single  branch  circuit maximum number of modules:

• 240 VAC: 12 (single phase)
•  208 VAC: 10 (two pole wye)

This circuit must be protected by overcurrent protection.

CAUTION! To reduce the risk of fire, connect only to a circuit provided with 20 A maximum branch circuit  overcurrent protection in accordance with the National  Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70.

Below are the major installation steps:

1. Install the Field‐wipeable connector pair, optional J‐Box
2. Position the Enphase Q Cable
   Per module:
3. Position AC module and pop‐out microinverters. Refer to Section5.3 for illustration
4. Connect microinverters to Q Cable connector
5. Install AC Modules
6. Manage Q cable to module frame and rail
   Per row:
7. Create installation map
8. Terminate Q cable at last microinverter
9. Connect to J‐Box
10. Energize system

4.3 Cable Management 
Use cable clips or cable ties wraps to attach the AC cable to the racking. The cable must  be  supported  to  avoid  any  cable  undue sag as per local requirement.
For Performance 3 AC modules, be careful  to not unplug the DC cable remounted in  factory into specific cable supports.   

Dress any excess cabling in loops so that it  does  not  contact  the  roof.  Do  not  form  loops  smaller  than  4.75  inch  (12  cm)  in  diameter.

 4.4 Microinverters Connection 
Refer to the major installation steps defined in Section 4.2 and listen for a click:
1) when the microinverters are pop out and
2) when AC connectors engage
Inspect the AC connectors to ensure that they are not  broken,  misshapen,  or  otherwise  degraded  prior to connection.
Cover  any  unused  connectors  on  the  AC  cable  with  Enphase  Sealing  Caps.  Listen  for  a  click  as  the sealing caps engage. 

CAUTION! Install sealing caps on all unused AC connectors  as these connectors become live when the system is  energized. Sealing caps are required for protection against  moisture ingress.

 Module Mounting

This section contains information for SunPower Type E AC modules; Type G AC and SunPower Type H AC modules. Ensure that you use the correct information  for your module type.
The SunPower Limited Warranty for PV Modules is contingent upon modules being mounted in accordance with the requirements described in this section.
5.1 Site Considerations
SunPower modules should only be mounted in locations that meet the following requirements:
Operating Temperature: All SunPower AC modules must be mounted in environments that ensure that the modules will operate within the following maximum and minimum temperatures:

Design Strength: SunPower Type E, Type G and Type H AC modules are designed to meet a maximum positive (or upward, e.g. wind) and negative (or downward,  e.g.  static  load)  design  pressure  when  mounted  in  the  mounting  configurations specified in Section 5.2. (Design strength of 2400 Pa corresponds approximately to  a  wind   speed  of  130  km/h  (81  mph).  SunPower  AC  modules  have  also  been evaluated to UL 1703 for a positive or negative design load of 30 psf.)
Type E. The following image and table show where to mount to the Type E module frame; and defines mounting ranges and the resulting load ratings  achieved for each range:

* Design load values may be used as ASD design loads.
Type G and Type H. 
Important! The following image and tables show where to mount to the Type G and H module frame and the allowable load ratings corresponding to the  mounting zones chosen. To use the tables, identify the two mounting zones in  which you wish to mount. You may choose to mount at any location in zones A, B,  and C, as long as the mounting points are symmetric about one axis of the  module. Identify the combination of mounting zones you have chosen in the  table and then refer to the corresponding load rating. Note also that load ratings  are different for modules supported by rails; versus systems that attach modules  without rails. 

Table1.  Mounting Configuration and Load Resistance 

(1) If mounting in multiple zones, must use the lower value of the two zones.
(2) Test loads are evaluated at 1.0 factor of safety, and Design loads are calculated using 1.5 factor of safety (Test load = 1.5 x Design load).  Design  load values may be used as ASD design loads.
When mounting modules in snow‐prone or high‐wind environments, special care should be taken to mount the modules in a manner that provides sufficient design  strength while meeting local code requirements.
Excluded Operating Environments and Reconfigurations  
Certain operating environments are not recommended for SunPower AC modules, and are excluded from the SunPower Limited Warranty for these modules. Contact  SunPower  if  there  are  any  unanswered  questions  concerning  the  operating  environment.
5.2 Mounting Configurations 
Modules  may  be  mounted  at  the  appropriate  orientation  to  maximize  sunlight exposure.
In order to prevent water from entering the junction box (which could present a safety  hazard),  modules  should  be  oriented  such  that  the  junction  box  is  in  the  uppermost position and should not be mounted such that the top surface faces  downward.  In  addition,  ensure  the  module  orientation  also  prevents  the  microinverter from direct exposure to rain, UV and other harmful weather events  (ice/snow).
Clearance between the module frame and mounting structure or grade is required to  prevent  wiring  damage  and  to  enable  air  to  circulate  behind  the  module.  A  minimum  of  2″  (5  cm)  is  required  between  the  module  frame  and  structure  or  ground.
SunPower AC modules are only NRTL Listed for use when their factory frames are fully intact. Do not remove or alter any module frame. Creating additional  mounting holes may damage the module and reduce the strength of the frame.
Modules may be mounted using the following methods only:

1. Pressure Clamps or Clips: Mount the module with the clips attached to the  longer  sides  of  the  module.  Refer  to  the  allowable  ranges  in  Section  5.0.  Installers must ensure the clamps are of sufficient strength to allow for the maximum design pressure of the module.
2. End Mount: End mounting is the capture mounting of the module’s shorter sides to a supporting rail. The end‐mounting rail and clips or clamps must be  of  sufficient  strength  to  allow  for  the  maximum  design  pressure  of  the  module.  Verify  this  capacity  with  the  mounting  system  vendor  before installation.
3. SunPower, SunPower‐specified, or SunPower‐supplied mounting systems: 
   Modules mounted with strict adherence to SunPower documentation, using  hardware systems supplied by or specified by SunPower.

5.3 Handling of Modules during Installation 
Never lift or move the modules using cables or the junction box under any circumstances. Do not place modules face forward in direct contact with abrasive  surfaces such as roofs, driveways, wooden pallets, railings, or walls. The front  surface of a module is sensitive to oils and abrasive surfaces, which may lead to  scratches and irregular soiling.
SunPower recommends handling modules with gloves and not touching the front surface. Any fingerprints resulting from installation can be reduced by following  the washing guidelines in Section 6.0. A given module’s product datasheet specifies  the glass type it uses.
Before  installing  the  AC  module,  the  microinverters  must  be  lifted  from  the shipping position, faces you. Using both hands, lift the microinverter up. You will  hear four clicks as the microinverter locks into the installation position. Ensure the  four latches are locked, and the microinverter is not tilted.

Maintenance   

Visually inspect all modules annually to verify the integrity of both the electrical and the mechanical connections; and to verify the absence of corrosion. This visual  inspection  should  be  performed  by  an  authorized  SunPower  Dealer  or  trained  SunPower support personnel.
Periodic cleaning  of  modules  is  recommended  but  is  not  required.  Periodic cleaning has resulted in improved module performance, especially in regions whitlow levels of annual precipitation (fewer than 18.25 inches annually). Consult your Dealer or supplier about recommended cleaning schedules for your area. To clean module, spray it with potable, non‐heated water. Normal water pressure is more than adequate, but pressurized water (up to 1500 psi) may be used. Fingerprints stains, or accumulations of dirt on the front surface of the module may be removes’ follows: rinse the area and wait 5 minutes. Re‐wet the area and then use a soft sponge or seamless cloth to wipe the glass surface in a circular motion. NEVER use harsh cleaning materials such as scouring powder, steel wool, scrapers, blades, or other  sharp  instruments  to  clean  module  glass.  Use  of  such  materials  on  the modules will void the product warranty.

Electrical Characteristics and Grid Interaction

Type E. 

Voltage and Frequency Limits for Utility Interaction
Condition	Simulated Source		Maximum Time (sec) at 60 Hazy before cessation of current to the simulated utility
	Voltage (V)	Frequency (Hz)
A	< 0.50 Vnor	Rated	0.16
B		Rated	2
C		Rated	1
D	1.20 Vnor ≤V	Rated	0.16
E	Rated	f > rated +0.5	0.16
F	Rated	f < rated −0.7	0.16
G	Volt‐Var	Accuracy	x

a – Non‐adjustable maximum clearing times
b – Nominal voltage equals 240 V line to line
c – Trip Limit accuracy: Voltage ± 1.0% based on 240 V nominal, frequency ‐ ± 0.1 Hz

 Type G. 

Voltage and Frequency Limits for Utility Interaction
Condition	Simulated Source		Maximum Time (sec) at 60 Hazy before cessation of current to the simulated utility
	Voltage (V)	Frequency (Hz)
A	< 0.50 Vnor	Rated	0.16
B		Rated	2
C		Rated	1
D	1.20 Vnor ≤V	Rated	0.16
E	Rated	f > rated +0.5	0.16
F	Rated	f < rated−0.7	0.16
G	Volt‐Var	Accuracy	6%

a – Non‐adjustable maximum clearing times
b – Nominal voltage equals 240 V line to line
c – Trip Limit accuracy: Voltage ± 1.0% based on 240 V nominal, frequency ‐ ± 0.1 Hz

Type H.

Voltage and Frequency Limits for Utility Interaction
Condition	Simulated Source		Maximum Time (sec) at 60 Hazy before cessation of current to the simulated utility
	Voltage (V)	Frequency (Hz)
A	< 0.50 Vnor	Rated	0.16
B		Rated	2
C		Rated	1
D	1.20 Vnor ≤V	Rated	0.16
E	Rated	f > rated +0.5	0.16
F	Rated	f < rated−0.7	0.16
G	Volt‐Var	Accuracy	6%

a – Non‐adjustable maximum clearing times
b – Nominal voltage equals 240 V line to line
c – Trip Limit accuracy: Voltage ± 1.0% based on 240 V nominal, frequency ‐ ± 0.1 Hz

Type G.

Gen 5.1 Frame Profile

Gen 5.2 Frame Profile

Type H. 

Gen 5.2 Frame Profile

Gen 5.2 Frame Profil   ©2022 SunPower Corporation.
All rights reserved. Specifications included
in this document are subject to
change without notice.

References

• Home Solar plus Storage Solutions | SunPower
• sunpower.maxeon.com/int/PVInstallGuideULAC