Large Utility-Scale Photovoltaic Solar Power Plant Grounding System Safety Design - General Practices and Guidance

This paper presents basic guidelines on design considerations for large utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) solar power plant (SPP) substation and collector grounding systems for safety aspects. While SPP grounding design is similar to both traditional power plants and substations, it's much larger scale allows and requires design optimization for an economical approach. This paper highlights items unique to utility-scale SPP and provides guidance and recommendations for realistic design approaches. Specific guidance is included for very large PV plants where existing software limitations present additional challenges. Examples of sample project challenges and solutions are also included.