storagefaults.comstoragefaults.com

SolarEdge•Optimizer

Analysis by Marcus & Team

SolarEdge Optimizer Cross-Talk Issue

Diagnosing SolarEdge optimizer cross-talk: voltage anomalies, incorrect power readings, and grid interference in residential PV systems. Expert solutions and safety tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How can I tell if my system is affected by optimizer cross-talk?

Check your SolarEdge monitoring portal for unusual voltage or power readings from individual PV modules, especially if they seem to reflect production from a neighboring system. Report this to your installer.

•What tools are needed to diagnose optimizer cross-talk?

A calibrated multimeter, clamp meter, and access to the SolarEdge monitoring platform are essential. An insulation resistance tester may also be helpful for identifying grounding issues. A qualified electrician is MANDATORY.

•Is cross-talk dangerous?

While cross-talk itself may not be immediately dangerous, it indicates a potential wiring or communication problem that can affect system performance and safety. Address the issue promptly with a qualified electrician.

Related questions

Loading related questions...

Marcus leads the technical research department at Storage Faults. Together with a team of systems analysts, he specializes in translating complex solar storage error codes into actionable diagnostic steps for the US market.

← Back to list

Possible Causes:

Shared or closely routed DC wiring between adjacent PV systems, creating signal coupling.
Proximity of SolarEdge inverters and optimizers from different systems without adequate shielding.
Grounding issues or neutral imbalances contributing to common-mode noise.
Faulty optimizer(s) transmitting spurious signals or exhibiting communication errors.
Software or firmware bugs in the SolarEdge inverter or optimizer firmware leading to data misinterpretation.
External electromagnetic interference (EMI) from nearby electrical equipment.

Pro Tip:

Access the SolarEdge inverter's commissioning toolkit via the SetApp to view real-time optimizer data and communication status. This tool allows for individual optimizer testing and troubleshooting without needing to physically access the PV modules. Check the optimizer serial numbers reported by the inverter against the actual optimizer serial numbers to identify any misreporting or configuration errors.

Technical Background:

SolarEdge optimizers use a proprietary communication protocol to transmit module-level voltage, current, and power data to the inverter. This communication typically occurs via DC power lines (power line communication - PLC). Cross-talk occurs when the signals from one PV system's optimizers interfere with or are misinterpreted by the inverter of another, nearby system due to proximity or signal leakage. Hybrid inverters rely on accurate module-level data for MPPT, performance monitoring, and rapid shutdown initiation.

Important Warnings:

High DC voltage (up to 600V+) is present in PV systems. Only qualified electricians with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) should perform diagnostic or repair work. Follow NEC rapid shutdown requirements (NEC 690.12) and use proper DC disconnect procedures before working on any PV system components. Arc flash hazards exist when working with energized DC circuits. Never disconnect DC connectors under load.

Solution:

1

Verify correct DC wiring separation between PV systems according to NEC 690.4(F). Ensure conductors from different PV systems are not bundled together or sharing conduit.
2

Inspect optimizer and inverter grounding connections. Use a multimeter to verify ground impedance is below 0.5 ohms per NEC 250.
3

Use a clamp meter to measure common-mode current on DC wiring. High common-mode current suggests grounding or shielding issues.
4

Isolate suspected faulty optimizers by temporarily disconnecting them from the PV string and observing if the cross-talk issue resolves. Use a calibrated multimeter to test the open circuit voltage (Voc) and short circuit current (Isc) of each module.
5

Update SolarEdge inverter and optimizer firmware to the latest versions. Check the SolarEdge support website for known issues and bug fixes.
6

Perform a system reset on the SolarEdge inverter following the manufacturer's instructions. This can sometimes clear corrupted data or communication errors.
7

Consult with SolarEdge technical support for advanced diagnostics or hardware replacement if the issue persists. A qualified electrician is required for any DC wiring modifications.

What to Look For:

Incorrect power readings or voltage fluctuations reported by SolarEdge optimizers on the monitoring platform, with data appearing to originate from neighboring PV systems. Affects individual module performance visibility and overall system energy production reporting. May cause nuisance alerts or error messages within the SolarEdge monitoring app.

Maintenance Tips:

Maintain adequate separation between DC wiring from different PV systems during system.
Ensure proper grounding and shielding of inverters and optimizers.
Regularly update SolarEdge inverter and optimizer firmware.
Periodically check optimizer performance data for anomalies or communication errors via the monitoring platform.
During initial system commissioning, thoroughly test and verify communication between optimizers and the inverter.