ConnectDER Solar MSA Installation Manual

Solar meter socket adapter v5.2

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Installation Manual

SOLAR METER SOCKET ADAPTER V5.2

2037 Washington Ave.

Philadelphia, PA 19146

+1 (703) 232-1427

LAB-012revB

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Page 1 2037 Washington Ave. info@connectder.com Philadelphia, PA 19146 connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 Installation Manual SOLAR METER SOCKET ADAPTER V5.2 LAB-012revB...
Page 2: Table Of Contents
APPENDIX ........................47 Reference 1 – Solar PV Interconnection Example – Load Side MSA ....47 Reference 2 – Solar MSA Power Wiring Schematic – Line Side of Meter ..48 Reference 3 – Solar V5.2 MSA Model Numbers ............ 49 Reference 4 –...
Page 3: Symbols Used In This Manual
The installer assumes all responsibility and risk associated with the safe and intended use of the Solar MSA as expressed in the current installation document. Any deviation from the methods or applications in this manual will violate the product’s UL listing, NEC Article 110.3(B), and void the product warranty.
Page 4: Introduction
NEC such as Listed grid-interactive photovoltaic (PV) systems where the inverter(s) meets UL 1741 requirements. CAUTION - The Solar MSA is only intended for installation on the supply side of the service disconnecting means. The Solar MSA must be installed only with the junction box at the top and the PV/DER circuit breaker at the bottom.
Page 5 Install the Solar MSA using factory-insulated tools. Do not alter the Solar MSA or any other equipment or conductor in a manner that would void its listing or warranty. Do not attempt to replace the integrated circuit breaker(s) or modify any other components.
Page 6: Solar Msa Features
190 amp continuous combined utility and PV/DER rating (line-side of meter PV/DER interconnection point). The Solar MSA has provisions for connecting to the line side of the meter with approval from the utility. These models can be ordered and used only through utility programs.
Page 7: Solar Msa Key Components
SOLAR MSA KEY COMPONENTS The key components of the Solar MSA are shown in Figure 1. The junction box is reversible and accommodates conduit entry from the left side or the right side. Figure 1 – Solar MSA Key Components.
Page 8: Wiring Schematics
ONE-LINE SYSTEM DIAGRAM Figure 2 – One-Line System Diagram. NOTE – The Solar MSA creates a supply side (of the main service disconnect) interconnection to the load side of the billing meter. The Solar MSA contains a factory- installed neutral-to-ground bond. connectder.com...
Page 9 Figure 3 – Power Wiring Schematic, Solar MSA with Load-Side of Meter Interconnection. NOTE –The Solar MSA has provisions for connecting to the line side of the meter with approval from the utility. These models can be ordered and used only through utility programs.
Page 10: Box Contents
Installation Instructions (1-page printed front and back). 1” Type LFNC liquidtight flexible nonmetallic conduit connector. NOTE – The Solar MSA installer must furnish and use 1” trade size liquid-tight flexible conduit complying with the Standard for Liquid-Tight Flexible Metal Conduit, UL 360, or the Standard for Liquid-Tight Flexible Nonmetallic Conduit, UL 1660, and fittings complying with UL 514B.
Page 11: Installation Preparation
INSTALLATION PREPARATION SITE INSPECTION There are several types of residential meter sockets suitable for Solar MSA installation. Some common types, namely single gang/standalone, multi-gang, and combination meter socket/load centers are covered here. All three are available in ringless and ring type configurations.
Page 12 3. Confirm if the serving electric utility is restricting MSA usage to ringless (Figure 5) or ring type (Figure 6) meter sockets. The Solar MSA supports both configurations. Figure 5 – Single Gang/Standalone Ringless Meter Socket. Figure 6 – Single Gang/Standalone Ring Type Meter Socket.
Page 13 Solar MSA compatibility with multi-gang meter sockets may be permitted by the utility on a case-by-case basis. Care must be taken to ensure that the Solar MSA junction box can be inserted and disconnected (lifted up a minimum of 2”) and the field wiring raceway permits access to circuit breakers and the removal of meter socket covers.
Page 14 The neutral pigtail is required as part of the installation with every unit. It is a component of the Solar MSA itself; therefore, it may be confined to the meter compartment. Verify with the AHJ and utility if the neutral connection must remain entirely within the meter socket compartment or terminate in the customer premises wiring section.
Page 15 6. A Solar MSA shall not be installed on meter sockets already equipped with another socket adapter as shown in Figure 9. Figure 9 – Existing Meter and Meter Socket Adapter. Account for other considerations: a. Check with the utility for other potential MSA prohibited installations. Do not install a Solar MSA where it is subject to physical damage.
Page 16 Meter sockets with vertical brackets as shown in Figure 11. The neutral pigtail furnished with the Solar MSA must be terminated at the 12 o’clock position at the rear of the MSA. The spot welds above and/or below the socket opening may indicate a bracket obstruction without removing the utility meter.
Page 17 5 jaws (even if a form 2S/4-jaw meter is installed), follow the steps starting on Page 18 to install the 5 stab that is furnished with every unit. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 16 info@connectder.com...
Page 18 2. Open the circuit breaker access door at the bottom of the Solar MSA and verify the ampere rating on the PV/DER circuit breaker handle matches what was ordered. ITEMS REQUIRED FOR SOLAR MSA INSTALLATION NOTE –...
Page 19 Meter Socket = Form 12S/5-jaw Utility Meter = Form 2S/4-blade Meter Socket = Form 2S/4-jaw NOTE –The Solar MSA is only compatible in 12S meter sockets with the 5 jaw at the 9 o’clock position. 1. In the box contents, locate the 5 stab and #4-20 x 5/16”...
Page 20 Figure 15 – Loosen the Right-Side N/G Screw. 3. Insert the 5 stab onto the rear of the Solar MSA until it sits in the plastic recess with the tab in the open lug. See Figure 16. Lightly tighten the lug screw.
Page 21 4. Install the #4-20 thread-forming screw. Gently tighten until the screw is fully seated and the blade is secured. Be careful not to overtighten. Torque the top N/G lug to 35 in-lbs. See Figure 17. Figure 17 – 5 Stab Completely Installed. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 20 info@connectder.com...
Page 22 Calorie rated clothing for the site’s arc flash rating. 1 pair Safety footwear. ConnectDER recommends insulating energized parts within the meter socket using an appropriately rated electrical insulation blanket that can be cut to size, temporarily applied, then taped and/or clamped into place. A hot jaw safety cover may also suffice (Figure 18).
Page 23: Installation Procedure
In some service territories, the meter must be removed by the utility. An increasing number of utilities are permitting qualified personnel to remove the meter and install the Solar MSA. The governing electric utility may require a power outage to de-energize the meter socket to perform work in and/or terminate the neutral conductor.
Page 24 INSTALL THE NEUTRAL LEAD It is the responsibility of the Solar MSA installer to ensure a white neutral pigtail is installed with every unit. Attach the white neutral pigtail (furnished with the unit) from the rear of the MSA to a neutral point inside of the meter socket as follows: Remove the neutral pigtail from the box and tape up/safe-off one end with electrical tape.
Page 25 (AHJ). Figure 20 – Terminate the Neutral to the Meter Socket. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 24 info@connectder.com...
Page 26 (2) allowing the installer to slip the connector around the existing neutral conductor. The removable component is reinstalled and the connection is torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications. The remaining opening (3) accommodates the neutral pigtail supplied with the Solar MSA. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427...
Page 27 WARNING – It is the responsibility of the installer to verify that a pressure connector or device for splices and taps is suitable for use on the line side of the service equipment when following the 2020/2023 edition of the NEC. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 26 info@connectder.com...
Page 28 6. Route the neutral conductor within the meter socket (Figure 23) in a manner to avoid damaging the insulation and remain clear of the meter socket jaws. Position the free end to terminate near the top and center of the Solar MSA. Figure 23 – Route the Neutral Within Meter Socket.
Page 29 7. For ring-type meter sockets, remove the insulation blanket and reinstall the meter socket cover. Route the neutral lead through the cover opening (Figure 24). For ringless meter sockets, connect the neutral lead to the Solar MSA before reinstalling the cover (see step #9).
Page 30 8. Open the clasps on the Solar MSA and remove the junction box from the MSA housing by hand, pulling it straight upward. 9. Strip ½” (approximately 13mm) of insulation from the neutral pigtail as shown in Figure 25. Figure 25 –Neutral Ready for Solar MSA Termination.
Page 31 10. There are two lug terminals on the rear of the Solar MSA. Terminate the neutral pigtail to either lug on the MSA using a 1/4” flat blade screwdriver as shown in Figure 27. The spare terminal may be used in case the utility or AHJ requires a grounding electrode conductor.
Page 32 INSTALL THE SOLAR MSA INTO THE METER SOCKET Confirm the Solar MSA PV/DER circuit breaker at the bottom of the unit is in the open (OFF) position. See Figure 28. Figure 28 – Verify the PV/DER circuit breaker is open (OFF).
Page 33 Solar MSA. See Figure 29. Figure 29 – Reinstall the Meter Socket Cover. 8. For ring-type meter sockets, install a locking ring to secure the Solar MSA to the meter socket cover with the thicker/wider flange facing the meter socket.
Page 34 Using a “Meter Grabber™” or similar tool, align the utility meter stabs with the Solar MSA jaws. 2. Firmly insert the meter into the Solar MSA, ensuring a secure fit. 3. Install a lock ring to secure the utility meter to the Solar MSA with the thicker/wider flange facing the meter socket. connectder.com...
Page 35 VERIFY VOLTAGE AT THE SOLAR MSA Place the PV/DER circuit breaker at the bottom of the Solar MSA in the ON position. 2. Using proper PPE, verify the presence of appropriate service voltage at power interface on the top of the MSA as shown in Figure 31. Check L1-L2, L1-N/G, and L2- N/G.
Page 36 INSTALL THE SOLAR MSA JUNCTION BOX Confirm the Solar MSA PV/DER circuit breaker is OFF and locked out. 2. Flip open the junction box locking clasps as shown in Figure 32. Figure 32 – Junction Box Locking Clasps Figure 32 – Junction Box Clasps.
Page 37 3. Confirm the 7/64” screws on the bottom of the junction box (Figure 33) are torqued to 8 in-lbs. in case they loosened during shipping. Figure 33 – Torque the Junction Box Screws. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 36 info@connectder.com...
Page 38 Closed the junction box clasps and ensure the conduit entry hole closure plug is installed as shown in Figure 34. Figure 34 – Install the Junction Box. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 37 info@connectder.com...
Page 39 6. Verify with the homeowner that any alternate/backup power solutions are in position to restore utility power to the service equipment. 7. Restore utility power and shut the main service disconnecting means. 8. The installation of the Solar MSA is complete and ready for PV/DER interconnection. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427...
Page 40: Install The Pv/Der Field Wiring
Calibrated digital volt-ohmmeter or other suitable metering equipment. 1 lot Tools and materials to install PV/DER raceway to the Solar MSA junction box. Use 1” trade size liquid-tight flexible conduit complying with the Standard for Liquid-Tight Flexible Metal Conduit, UL 360, or the Standard for Liquid-Tight Flexible Nonmetallic Conduit, UL 1660, and fittings complying with UL 514B.
Page 41 (pulling straight up a minimum of 2 inches) for ease of utility inspection and maintenance. NOTE – The Solar MSA junction box wiring should be terminated first. It is easier to accommodate an angled connector at the MSA junction box by wiring it first.
Page 42 Set the screws aside in a safe place. 10. Remove the 1” weatherproof plug from the junction box and identify the terminals. See Figure 37. Figure 37 – Junction Box Terminals. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 41 info@connectder.com...
Page 43 17. Torque each screw terminal according to conductor size. See Figure 38. #14-#10 AWG: 35 in-lbs. #8 AWG: 40 in-lbs. #6-#4 AWG: 45 in-lbs. #3 AWG – 2/0: 50 in-lbs. Figure 38 – Junction Box Wiring. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 42 info@connectder.com Philadelphia, PA 19146...
Page 44 INSTALL THE JUNCTION BOX Verify the power interface area is clear of moisture and debris that could cause a fault. Align the pins of the junction box over the power interface in the Solar MSA housing as shown in Figure 39.
Page 45 Figure 40 – Secure the Junction Box Clasps. 4. Install two tamper-resistant seals – one each at the front clasp and rear clasp as shown in Figure 41. Figure 41 – Tamper-Prevention Seals. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 44 info@connectder.com...
Page 46 5. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to commission the PV/DER system. 6. Position the metal tabs on the PV/DER circuit breaker covers to hold it the closed (weatherproof) position. For additional protection, install spare tamper-prevention seals or other lockout devices. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 45 info@connectder.com...
Page 47: Troubleshooting
See Table 1 below for troubleshooting tips. Symptom Corrective Action Verify the PV/DER circuit breaker at the bottom of the Solar MSA No voltage at the MSA is ON, not OFF or TRIPPED. If tripped, turn all the way OFF, then junction box terminals.
Page 48: Appendix
APPENDIX Reference 1 – Solar PV Interconnection Example – Load Side MSA connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 47 info@connectder.com Philadelphia, PA 19146...
Page 49: Reference 2 - Solar Msa Power Wiring Schematic - Line Side Of Meter
Reference 2 – Solar MSA Power Wiring Schematic – Line Side of Meter NOTE –These models can be ordered and used only through utility programs. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 48 info@connectder.com Philadelphia, PA 19146...
Page 50: Reference 3 - Solar V5.2 Msa Model Numbers
Load Side 5 Jaws 4, + 5 Stab Kit 22,000 70 Ampere C-B-5-22-80 Simple 5.2 Load Side 5 Jaws 4, + 5 Stab Kit 22,000 80 Ampere connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 49 info@connectder.com Philadelphia, PA 19146...
Page 51 Simple 5.2 Line Side 5 Jaws 4, + 5 Stab Kit 22,000 80 Ampere NOTE –These models can be ordered and used only through utility programs. connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 50 info@connectder.com Philadelphia, PA 19146...
Page 52: Reference 4 - Solar V5.2 Msa Specifications
-22°F to 158°F (-30°C to 70°C) 10 kAIC or 22 kAIC rating TEMPERATURE RANGE RATING AMBIENT AIR STORAGE -40°F to 176°F (-40°C to 80°C) TEMPERATURE RANGE connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 51 info@connectder.com Philadelphia, PA 19146...
Page 53: Reference 5 - Solar Msa Product Labels
Reference 5 – Solar MSA Product Labels Product Label: connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 52 info@connectder.com Philadelphia, PA 19146...
Page 54 Serial Number Label: Junction Box Outer Label: connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 53 info@connectder.com Philadelphia, PA 19146...
Page 55 Junction Box Torque Values: N/G Torque Values: connectder.com +1 (703) 232-1427 2037 Washington Ave, Page | 54 info@connectder.com Philadelphia, PA 19146...
Page 56: California Prop 65 Warning
/ test procedures and is provided for informational purposes. ConnectDER makes no representation as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of the information. ConnectDER will not be liable for any errors, omissions, losses, injuries, or damages arising from the use of this information.