Lightning Protection of Photovoltaic Systems: Computation of the Developed Potentials

In this paper, the performance of a lightning protection system (LPS) on a grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) park is studied by simulating different scenarios with the use of an appropriate software tool. The aim of this paper is to highlight the importance of an LPS and optimize its design for the protection of equipment and personnel in case of a direct lightning strike. In particular, developed potential due to lightning strikes is examined considering isolated and non-isolated external LPS. Moreover, the effect of the separation distance on the lightning performance of the PV installation is investigated for different soil structures and grounding systems. The extracted results are expected to support the design and implementation of a secure PV park and endorse its uninterrupted operation considering techno-economically balanced protection measures.

Automated summary

This study investigates the performance of a lightning protection system on a grid-connected photovoltaic park through simulations of different scenarios. The research highlights the importance of optimizing the design of the LPS to protect equipment and personnel from direct lightning strikes. The results aim to support the design and implementation of a secure PV park for uninterrupted operation with balanced protection measures.