The requirements for photovoltaic systems (PV) system disconnects were almost entirely rewritten with the 2017 revision of the National Electrical Code (NEC). If you just got comfortable with the revised requirements, you might not be thrilled that it's déjà vu all over again with the 2020 revision.
One goal is to protect unqualified persons from the system and vice versa. We find this new disconnect requirement in two places:
“Where disconnecting means of systems above 30V are readily accessible to unqualified persons, any enclosure door or hinged cover that exposes live parts when open shall be locked or require a tool to open.”
You'll find it in reference to the PV system disconnecting means [Sec. 690.13(A)] and in reference to the disconnecting means for PV equipment [Sec. 690.15(A)]. So basically, the cover of a disconnect in a PV system must not be easily opened by an unqualified person.
The 2020 revision also requires these disconnects to be lockable [Sec. 690.13(E)] and [Sec. 690.15(C)].
The system disconnect must simultaneously disconnect all conductors that are not solidly grounded [Sec. 690.13(E)], while equipment disconnects must simultaneously disconnect all current-carrying conductors that are not solidly grounded [Sec. 690.15(C)].
About the Author
Mark Lamendola
Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.
Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.
Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.