I am not in Florida, but I did just get a building permit to install my 12,000 BTU EG4 in Georgia. We will see how it goes. I submitted just enough to just do what I would call "Phase 1", meaning no solar at this time, only utility power. That way I can at least get it going and test it out. Then if successful, I will submit a "Phase 2" for the solar addition. Most of the YouTube videos tend to gloss over code compliance with the EG4. After I did my research, I became concerned about all the requirements. I think I have arc fault covered using an Outback ACS Plus. The only thing is that it only has one contactor, so that itself does not control all the conductors; however, along with Tigo module electronics, it should shut them down. I have not decided which ones to use yet, the optimizers or the fire protection only ones. My state is on the 2020 code, and there is just no way around arc fault if you put them on your roof because the EG4 needs over 2 panels and over 80 volts. 690.11 spells it out. 690.12 says we also need rapid shutdown. The Outback ICS Plus will hopefully cover me for both since an arc fault will trigger a rapid shutdown in my setup.
As for the comment by Zanydroid, I may very well have the issue mentioned regarding the AHJ, so we will see. I did get a copy of the "Intertek Authorization to Mark" document from EG4 which indicates is has UL1741 16-Sept 2020 edition markings for Inverters, Controllers, and Interconnection of System Equipment for use with Distributed Energy Resources. Hopefully that will satisfy them if it comes up. I think it will likely help the better prepared I am.
Then there is ground fault detection in 690.41. That one is a pain. It seems the Morningstar makes a product that will work, but it is only indoor rated so I am still trying to figure out the best way to implement it. I would have to run the DC conductors inside, or get an outdoor enclosure just for that box.
Overall, this is adding a LOT of expense and complexity, although I saved some money by getting a couple of devices on sale or from eBay. I have bench tested the Outback rapid shutdown initiator and it is pretty cool. I do like the idea of having an arc fault shutdown.
Although it may sound like overkill. I have actually had one solar fire already in 2017, so that scared the heck out of me. A tiny battery in a solar powered yard flower got overcharged on a sunny day. The battery blew up and set my dry winter grass on fire. I was lucky my wife saw it and we ran outside and put out the fire with a garden hose. Hopefully this will not happen again.
RDuke
