• The maximum open circuit voltage of the system must not be greater than
the specified maximum system voltage for the module.
• Module frames should be connected to an earth ground for safety and
protection from lightning.
• The module frame is provided with grounding holes that accommodate
self-tapping screws. A #10-32 stainless steel thread cutting screw is
recommended.
• All Evergreen Solar modules are equipped with factory-installed wires and
quick connectors. Modules have been designed to be easily interconnected
in series.
• Use system wiring with suitable cross-sectional areas and connectors that
are approved for use at the maximum short-circuit current of the module.
• Match the polarities of cables and terminals when making the connections;
failure to do so may result in damage to the module.
• When reverse currents can exceed the value of the maximum protective
fuse marked on the back of the module, a properly rated and certified over-
current device (fuse or circuit breaker) must be connected in series with
each module or string of modules.
• The rating of the over-current device shall not exceed the value of the
maximum protective fuse marked on the back of the module.
• The module contains factory installed bypass diodes located inside the
junction box.
• The junction box is not designed or certified to be field accessible or
maintainable and should under no circumstances be opened. Opening the
junction box may void the warranty.
• Modules with a suspected electrical problem should be returned to
Evergreen Solar for inspection and possible repair or replacement as per
the warranty conditions provided by Evergreen Solar.
• Warning: connecting modules in reverse polarity to a high current source,
such as a battery, will destroy the bypass diodes and render the module
inoperative. Bypass diodes are not user replaceable.
Mechanical Installation
• Modules should be mounted to maximize direct exposure to sunlight and to
eliminate or minimize shadowing.
• Even partial shadowing can substantially reduce module and system
output.
• Modules must be securely fastened using support frames or mounting kits
specialized for PV applications.
• Modules may be mounted at any angle from vertical to horizontal
orientation.
• Care must be taken to avoid low tilt angles which may cause dirt to build-up
on the glass against the frame edge.
• Dirt build-up on the surface of the module can cause active solar cells to be
shaded and electrical performance to be impaired.
• Contact Evergreen Solar for more information regarding minimum
recommended tilt angles for specific module products.
• For roof mounted systems, provide adequate rear ventilation under a
module for cooling (100mm: 4in gap minimum).
• Clearance of 7mm:¼ in or more between modules is required to allow for
thermal expansion of the frames.
• Always keep the back surface of the module free from any foreign objects
or structural elements which could come into contact with the module,
especially when the module is under mechanical load.
• Ensure modules are not subjected to wind or snow loads in excess of the
maximum permissible loads and are not subjected to excessive forces due
to thermal expansion of the support structure.
• EvergreenSolarpermits severaldifferentmountingmethods.Thepermissible
mounting methods and maximum permissible wind and snow loads are
detailed in the “Mounting Design Guide” available from Evergreen Solar.
• For permission to use mounting methods not described in the “Mounting
Design Guide”, please consult Evergreen Solar. Failure to do so will void
the warranty and module certification.
• Always follow the mounting equipment vendors’ installation instructions in
addition to the instructions found in the “Mounting Design Guide”. In cases
where the vendors’ instructions are more stringent than those detailed in
the “Mounting Design Guide”, the vendors’ instructions shall apply.
• In cases where the maximum permissible loading determined by the
mounting equipment vendor is less than the maximum permissible load
stated in the “Mounting Design Guide”, the maximum loads determined by
the vendor should always be used.
• The maximum permissible loads apply to uniformly distributed wind or
snow loading. Care should be taken to avoid mounting modules in areas
that are prone to drifting snow, icicle and/or ice dam formation.
Operation and Maintenance
• No routine maintenance is required. However it is advisable to perform
periodic inspection of the modules for damage to glass, back-skin, frame,
junction box or external electrical connections.
• Check electrical connections for loose connections and corrosion.
• PV modules can operate effectively without ever being washed, although
removal of dirt from the front glass can increase output.
• Evergreen Solar modules use front glass with a wear resistant and durable
anti-reflection coating designed to improve electrical performance.
• Water can be used for regular washing or rinsing of the coated front glass
to remove dust, dirt or other deposits.
• To remove ingrained dirt, the coated glass can be washed with a micro-
fiber cloth and ethanol or a conventional glass cleanser.
• No aggressive and abrasive cleansers or chemicals should ever be used on
the coated front glass. No alkali based chemicals should be used, including
ammonia based solutions.
• Always wear rubber gloves for electrical insulation whilst maintaining,
washing or cleaning modules.
Underwriters Laboratories Information (U.S. only)
• Under normal conditions, a photovoltaic module is likely to experience
conditions that produce more current and/or voltage than reported at
Standard Test Conditions. Accordingly, the values of Isc and Voc marked
on this module should be multiplied by a factor of 1.25 when determining
component voltage ratings, conductor capacities, fuse sizes, and size of
controls connected to the PV output.
• Refer to section 690-8 of the National Electric Code (NEC) for an additional
multiplying factor of 125% (80% de-rating) which may be applicable.
• Conductor recommendations: single conductor cable, type USE-2 (non-
conduit), 8-14AWG (2.5-10mm2).
Disclaimer of Liability
Since the use of this Safety, Installation and Operation Manual and the
conditions or methods of installation, operation, use and maintenance of
the module are beyond Evergreen Solar control, Evergreen Solar does not
assume responsibility and expressly disclaims liability for loss, damage,
injury or expense arising out of or in any connected with such installation,
operation, use or maintenance of the module.
Evergreen Solar assumes no responsibility for any infringement of patents or
other rights of third parties that may result from use of the module. No license
is granted by implication or otherwise under any patent or patent rights.
The information in this Manual is based on Evergreen Solar knowledge and
experience and is believed to be reliable; but such information including
product specifications (without limitations) and suggestions do not
constitute a warranty, expressed or implied. Evergreen Solar reserves the
right to make changes to the product, specifications or this Manual without
prior notice.
Note: This document may be provided in multiple languages. If there is a
conflict among versions, the English language version dominates.
SPRUCE LINE™photovoltaic modules
Safety, Installation and Operation Manual
Valid from 1st April 2007 / IM_US_010407© 2007 Evergreen Solar, Inc.2 of 3
