SunSpec Rapid Shutdown Certification
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
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...
5 Benefits to Standardized Solutions for Rapid Shutdown
Original Article Published by Solar Power World Online Rapid shutdown compliance has become a bit of a pain point for professionals in the solar industry, but there is good reason for this rule when...
SunSpec to Offer Solar Rapid Shutdown Course Through UC San Diego Extension
Original Article Published by Solar Power World Online. By Kelsey Misbrener The SunSpec Alliance announced a nine-week online course focused on educating solar PV industry participants about NEC...
SunSpec Partners with UC San Diego on Solar PV Rapid Shutdown Course
The Nine-Week Class Will Help Students Better Understand Today’s Solar PV Requirements SAN JOSE, Calif., August 5, 2020－The SunSpec Alliance is pleased to announce a nine-week online course focused...
Watts Up Podcast Featuring SunSpec Alliance
Watts Up Podcast Episode hosted by GRNE Solar Featuring SunSpec Alliance Check out the newest Watts Up podcast episode hosted by GRNE Solar featuring our very own Tom Tansy! Since 2009, SunSpec has...
How Standardized Solutions for Rapid Shutdown Mitigate Supply Chain Issues
Published in Solar Builder Magazine. Between COVID-19 and escalating trade tensions, especially between the U.S. and China, the global supply chain is experiencing a period of unsteadiness. But...