[RE-wrenches] Secure/support PV wire requirements?

[Rebekah Hren]

Hi,
Wondering if anyone has insight into Code requirements for
securing/supporting PV wire behind the modules?

I am aware that USE-2 sends you to Section 334.30 requirements for Type NM
(12" from box, every 4.5 ').

However, I think this is totally bogus, for 2 reasons.
1) Section 338.10(B)(4)(b) that refers the NM article is titled "Branch
circuits or Feeders."  These are PV source and output circuits, not branch
circuits or feeders.

2) it is nearly IMPOSSIBLE to secure the PV wire within 12" of the module
junction box for many modules, especially in landscape wiring, without
causing more harm than good, too tight a bending radius, stress on
conductors.

334.40(B) maybe leaves a little wiggle room for concealed spaces in
structures where it is impracticable to support.

My big problem here is that both requirements of 334.30 are useless or
harmful to PV systems. 12" to the box is often impossible, and 4.5" feet is
too long to go without any support behind the array!!! I just noticed there
was a proposal in 2017 to Codify the 334.40 requirements for PV cables and
so I guess I only have myself to blame for not writing a better proposal at
this point.

Rebekah
-- 
Tel: 336.266.8800
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional™ 091209-85
NC Licensed Electrical Contractor
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