Solar farms<\/a> are just big fields covered with conductive material. They\u2019re almost asking for a lightning strike, which can damage or destroy solar panels, inverters, and other critical equipment. So it\u2019s no surprise that lightning activity and surge-related over-voltage abnormalities are identified as leading causes of solar project downtime.<\/p>\n Lightning can be destructive even when it\u2019s not a direct hit. Indirect lightning events generate an electromagnetic force that induces overvoltage and transients on AC and DC power conductors and data lines.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n The good news is solar owners and developers can protect their investment from the fallout of lightning strikes. Engineers at ALLTEC, a global manufacturer and installer of grounding and other lightning protection technologies, have identified methods to bolster a project\u2019s ability to withstand lightning-related hazards using a three-step process called the Pir\u00e1mide de protecci\u00f3n ALLTEC<\/a>. While there is typically no code requirement for solar farm owners to install protecci\u00f3n contra rayos<\/a>, there are internationally recognized standards and methods to determine the requirement of lightning protection systems, and it\u2019s a bright idea to take action. The pyramid provides guidance.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n