Disconnects

Solar disconnects are devices that interrupt the power flow in a photovoltaic energy system. There are two different types of disconnects in a typical solar installation. A DC disconnect prevents the DC power created by solar panels from reaching the power inverter and is useful for the infrequent occasions when a solar energy system undergoes maintenance. An AC disconnect prevents the AC power from an inverter from reaching the electric grid. An AC disconnect is often wall-mounted, sitting between the inverter and the utility company’s electric meter. The AC disconnect may be a stand-alone switch or a breaker in the service panel.