Balance of System Design Tools

Login Status

Not logged in

» Login

Just enter your email address and you will be added to our growing list of members!

Found a bug?
Let us know here!

Have a comment
Or suggestion?

Balance of System Toolbox

The balance of system toolbox is a combination of system design suggestions and Canadian Electrical Code (CEC Rule 50-000(1)) requirements for the installation of (primarily) solar photovoltaic systems except those that meet requirements of Class 2 circuits (as described in Rule 16-200(1)(a) and (b)*.

For your convenience, this section has been sub-divided into the following sections:

Inverters - selection, sizing,
Charge Controllers - selection, sizing,
Batteries - selection, sizing, code compliance, venting considerations
Breakers/Fuses - selection, sizing, current rating, overcurrent protection
Wiring - selection, sizing, ampacity, conductors, termination
Marking - Labelling and other CEC requirements
Lightning Arrestors - Installation and code compliance

In practical terms, these suggestions and requirements cover all but very small 12 vdc systems typically used in RV's or boats. Otherwise, almost all permanently installed systems fall under the jurisdiction of Rule 50-000(1). However, these recommendations are intended for reference only, and should not be used to substitute the need for a trained and qualified professional, or your local electrical inspector.

*Class 2 circuits where current, voltage and power are limited so they do not present as great a shock and fire hazzard as those available from power circuits, or "A device having characteristics which will limit the current under normal operating conditions or under fault conditions to a value not exceeding 100/V amperes, where V is the open circuit voltage;... " (CEC handbook).

-note: Appendix B of the CEC places the additional requirements of Section 18 (of the CEC) on all solar PV systems, regardless of voltage and current ratings if installed in hazardous locations.

Notice:

You are expressly warned to consider and adopt all safety precautions and avoid all potential hazards. You assume all risks in connection with any of the information or instruction contained here! We recommend the use of trained professionals in the design and installation of any electrical system.