SunSpec Rapid Shutdown Certification
Only the “SunSpec Certified” mark warrants verification of a complete and successful implementation of the SunSpec Communication Signal for Rapid Shutdown Functional Specification.
A manufacturer’s or other 3rd party’s declaration of “SunSpec compliance” or “SunSpec compatibility” is not equivalent to a SunSpec issued certificate.
The SunSpec Certified program for Rapid Shutdown verifies compliance to the SunSpec Communication Signal for Rapid Shutdown Functional Specification to meet the requirement established by National Electrical Code (NEC) 2017. PV module-level power control and safety (“rapid shutdown”) is required in 24 states starting in January 2019 and will affect millions of PV panels and all solar inverters. This standard is tested using UL 1741 SA criteria. Please visit the SunSpec Rapid Shutdown Program.
SunSpec Rapid Shutdown Certification Testing must be conducted by one of our Authorized Test Labs (ATLs). Each test lab is free to determine its own testing and fee structures. Once a Certification Application and payment have been submitted to SunSpec a shared space is opened where your ATL test engineer can submit test results for our analysis. SunSpec evaluates the test results for compliance to SunSpec Communication Signal for Rapid Shutdown Functional Specification and theSunSpec Communication Signal for Rapid Shutdown Test Specification and then awards the Certificate!
The SunSpec Rapid Shutdown package includes:
- Rapid Shutdown Fact Sheet (PDF)
- SunSpec Communication Signal for Rapid Shutdown Functional Specification
- SunSpec Communication Signal for Rapid Shutdown Test Specification
- PICS Template
Complete form to access specifications
Applicable Components
SunSpec Rapid Shutdown is typically implemented in association with Inverters and PV modules though other configurations are possible.
Integrated Component View
Market Benefits of the Rapid Shutdown Specification and Certification Program
Provides simple, robust, and reliable solution to shut down the voltage at module level to 1V per module (NEC2017 requires < 80V).
Lowest cost solution to what is a fundamental market requirement.
Reduces installation and interconnection cost with Plug-and-Play system components.Reports system health every time the sun comes up or the system is re-activated.
Open standard protects consumers with competitive pricing, multi-vendor choices, differentiated options and value availability. Ensures system service and upgrades with choice of vendors and interoperable components.Increases consumer safety and confidence in DER technology.
Rapid Shutdown News and Updates
SunSpec Alliance Webinar: 2023 Work Group Project Road Map
We will discuss the 2023 SunSpec Work Group Roadmap to recruit expert contributors for the next phase of DER standards development. When: Tue, January 31, 2023, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM PSTWhere: Online...
SunSpec Alliance update on work to simplify rapid shutdown signaling systems
Original Article Published by Solar Builder Magazine In a few short years, the industry’s concept of a Distributed Energy Resource (DER) has morphed from an uncomplicated rooftop solar PV system...
Four SunSpec Specifications Now in Countdown to APPROVAL
We're excited to announce that four SunSpec specifications have entered the final countdown of moving from TEST to APPROVED status. During this 45-day window for technical comments and IPR Review,...
SunSpec Communication Signal for Rapid Shutdown Whitepaper
SAN JOSE, Calif., February 9th, 2021-- In 2015, 30 members of the SunSpec Alliance formed a technical working group to address the industry-wide need for a standardized data communication solution...
Standardization: The sign of a maturing solar industry
Original Article Published by PV Magazine By Tom Tansy The model of industry-wide standardization is one that the solar industry should look to achieve. A set of reliable rapid-shutdown standards...
SunCast Podcast Episode 290: How SunSpec is Advancing Rapid Shutdown for Solar
Take a listen to the first of two SunCast Podcast episodes featuring Chairman of the SunSpec Alliance, Tom Tansy. In this episode, Tom discusses SunSpec's role in the advancement of rapid shutdown...