NEC 2005 Ungrounded PV systems - opinion survey [RE-wrenches]

[John Berdner]

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Wrenches:
 
I need to ask for a little info on an issue.
While I think this is actually a relevant topic for the List (in the
medium to longer term) I do not want to clog the List so I request you
respond to me offline. 
If the group feels it is appropriate then I am sure it will happen
online but I do not want to presume use of the bandwidth. 
 
As many of you know the 2005 NEC looks like it is a go for ungrounded
PV arrays.
IMHO we should see this as great news since it means safer systems,
lower inverter costs, and more efficient inverter designs can finally be
used in the US.  
The 05 Code is a a double edged sword, however, since they also slipped
in a new requirement for all wiring in conduit or jacketed cable (tray
cable).  
In Europe the modules all use a double jacketed "PV Wire" and I
actually think it is a better way (tougher/safer) to go for pigtails
with connectors. 
Unfortunately, in the 2005 Code as written this new requirement will
apply only to ungrounded systems. 
 
My survey questions are: 
 
- Is the requirement for conduit or tray cable instead of pigtails and
Multi-Contact style connectors a deal killer for ungrounded arrays ?
- What do you estimate the additonal labor costs ($/kWac) are for using
conduit  / tray cable versus pigtails and connectors ?
 
Thanks in advance.
 
Best Regards,
 
John Berdner
 

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