WHY PV MODULES AND INVERTERS ARE RADIATION SAFE

In an age dedicated to sustainable development, photovoltaic technology has emerged as a beacon of clean energy, attracting global attention. However, with its expanding application, concerns about its safety have grown, particularly regarding potential radiation emitted by photovoltaic modules and inverters and their impact on human health. To address these concerns, it is essential to delve into the nature of radiation and understand the operational principles of these key components. Firstly, let's demystify radiation. It is the phenomenon of energy spreading outward in the form of electromagnetic waves or particles, categorized into ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation, including high-energy particles, X-rays, gamma rays, and high-energy ultraviolet rays, can potentially damage the atomic or molecular structure of biological tissues, posing risks to human health. On the other hand, non-ionizing radiation, such as visible light, infrared, and radio waves, generally does not pose a threat to human well-being. Turning our attention to photovoltaic modules, the heart of a photovoltaic system, comprises tempered glass, encapsulation film, solar cells, frames, back sheets, junction boxes, silicone, and more. Operating on the photovoltaic effect, these modules generate direct current when sunlight illuminates the semiconductor P-N junction. Importantly, this process is entirely benign, producing no harmful byproducts. Photovoltaic modules are classified as harmless electromagnetic compatibility equipment, exempt from radiation level requirements under the EMC Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU. Now, let's consider another critical component – inverters. Inverters play a pivotal role in converting the direct current electricity generated by photovoltaic modules into alternating current for use in the power grid or direct consumption. While inverters do emit a minimal amount of electromagnetic radiation during operation, this radiation is typically faint. To safeguard public health, inverter manufacturers adhere to stringent international radiation safety standards, such as the IEC 61000-6 on Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC). These manufacturers implement shielding, filters, and EMC design measures to minimize radiation levels, ensuring compliance with international standards. Referring to EN 61000-6-3（IEC 61000-6-3）for residential scenarios, residential inverters are limited to 40 dB at a 3m measuring distance in the frequency band of 30-230MHz. Having passed TÜV Rheinland certification, Canadian Solar inverters exhibit electromagnetic radiation quasi-peak values tested at a maximum of 28.9 dB – significantly below national standard limits, ensuring their safety.

Test results of Canadian Solar inverters

(red line is the limit, symbol“×”is the quasi-peak value，blue line is the peak value) 

In conclusion, photovoltaic modules and inverters do not emit harmful radiation. The continued maturity and widespread application of photovoltaic technology drive the transformation of the global energy industry, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and creating a cleaner and more sustainable world for future generations. As photovoltaics assume an increasingly pivotal role in the future energy landscape, Canadian Solar remains at the forefront, acting as a pioneer and contributing to realizing this visionary future.