Rapid Shutdown Solar Requirements: How Devices Ensure Compliance

Those involved in PV projects know that rapid shutdown solar is not a trivial matter of "optional installation"—if it fails to meet local laws and regulations, project acceptance will be directly blocked, and there will even be no way to connect to the grid for power generation. However, compliance requirements vary across countries and regions—one moment requiring "secondary power cutoff," the next demanding "module-level monitoring." How can these diverse requirements be met? In fact, the key lies in choosing a suitable system: a high-quality rapid shutdown solar device will have compliance requirements "built-in," helping you avoid the trouble of repeatedly revising plans. Today, from a practical perspective, we will explore the key compliance requirements for rapid shutdown solar.

I. First, Understand: What Are the Compliance "Red Lines" in Different Regions?

The first step in compliance is to understand local standards—this is not a one-size-fits-all issue. For example:

• U.S. NEC 2020/2023: Requires PV systems to "reduce the module-side voltage to below 30V within 30 seconds," and must support "remote triggering" (e.g., firefighters can operate it from the ground); rooftop systems must be equipped with module-level shutdown.

• China GB/T 37408-2019: Clearly stipulates that the DC side of commercial PV power stations must have a rapid shutdown function, with a shutdown response time not exceeding 10 seconds; it must also be linked to the monitoring system to upload fault data.

• EU IEC 62109: In addition to voltage and time requirements, it strictly regulates the device’s anti-interference performance and protection rating (e.g., IP65 or higher, capable of withstanding high temperature and humidity).

If a device is not designed with specific standards in mind, it is easy to violate regulations. For instance, a previous project exported to the U.S. used rapid shutdown devices that only met domestic standards. Since they did not support remote triggering, the local fire department required replacements, resulting in maintenance costs of hundreds of thousands of yuan.

II. Compliance Requirement 1: Shutdown Speed & Voltage Must Meet the "Timeline"

All regional standards list "shutdown speed" and "voltage reduction range" as core requirements—this is critical to ensuring firefighter safety. For example, NEC requires voltage reduction to below 30V within 30 seconds, while China’s GB standard mandates it within 10 seconds. Even if a device has excellent other functions, slow response will result in failed approval.

How Can Devices Meet This? It depends on the collaboration between hardware and algorithms. Fonrich’s rapid shutdown solar devices adopt self-developed "dual-trigger chips." After detecting a fault, they can complete voltage reduction within 3 seconds (3 times faster than the stricter GB standard), and the voltage stabilizes at around 25V, covering both domestic and international standards.

III. Compliance Requirement 2: Trigger Modes Must Be "Comprehensive"—No "Blind Spots"

Regulations also have clear requirements for trigger modes: devices must not rely on a single method, but support "triple triggering" (automatic + manual + remote). For example, in case of fire, firefighters can trigger shutdown not only through the system’s automatic arc detection but also by manually pressing an on-site switch or via remote operation from the main control room—avoiding the risk of "untriggerable" situations.

How Can Devices Meet This? Fonrich’s solution is fully considered: it has on-site physical buttons, supports remote triggering via a mobile App, and can also link with inverters and fire protection systems (e.g., when the fire alarm sounds, the rapid shutdown solar system activates automatically).

IV. Compliance Requirement 3: Must Support "Traceability"—No Lack of Fault Data

Currently, many standards require "traceability": details such as the time, location, and cause of shutdown triggering must be recorded for review by supervisory authorities. Even if a device shuts down successfully, it may get stuck in acceptance if it lacks data recording functions—due to "inability to confirm compliance."

How Can Devices Meet This? Fonrich’s rapid shutdown devices locally store all shutdown events and can upload data to the SafeSolar cloud platform in real time. The information can be exported at any time for review by supervisory authorities.

V. Compliance Requirement 4: Sufficient Compatibility—No "Conflict" with Existing Systems

Compliance is not just about the rapid shutdown solar device itself; it must also be compatible with other power station equipment, such as inverters, combiner boxes, and monitoring systems. Poor compatibility may lead to issues like "inverter error reports after shutdown" or "failed data transmission," which also result in failed approval.

How Can Devices Meet This? Fonrich’s devices are designed for "full-brand compatibility," supporting over 60 mainstream inverter brands including Huawei, Sungrow, and GoodWe. They can be directly connected without modifying the original circuit or software.

VI. Compliance Requirement 5: Protection Rating Must Meet Standards—Withstand Outdoor Environments

Both domestic and international standards have requirements for the protection rating of rapid shutdown solar devices—e.g., IP65 or higher (dustproof and waterproof), and operable in environments ranging from -30℃ to 85℃. After all, most devices are installed outdoors; if they cannot withstand harsh weather, they are prone to malfunctions, affecting compliance.

How Can Devices Meet This? Fonrich’s devices have an IP68 protection rating (the highest level), and their casings are made of UV-resistant ABS material. They can operate stably even in extreme conditions such as intense sun exposure in Hainan or severe cold in northeastern China.

Conclusion: Choose the Right Device, and Compliance Will Come "Naturally"

In fact, compliance for rapid shutdown solar is not that complicated. The key is to choose a device that "covers all requirements"—you don’t need to figure out how to align with standards, as the device already meets requirements for shutdown speed, trigger modes, data recording, and compatibility. Fonrich’s rapid shutdown solar solution is designed this way: it aligns with mainstream global standards from the start. Whether you are working on a domestic project or exporting overseas, it can meet compliance requirements without repeated modifications.

Do not choose non-compliant devices to save a small amount of money. The losses from failed acceptance and rework will far exceed the savings. Choosing the right rapid shutdown solar device is the guarantee for the smooth progress of your project and long-term power generation.