Lightning Protection Model of Photovoltaic Power Plants

The aim of this paper is to analyze the lightning protection model of a photovoltaic power plant, which is of great importance, in order to guarantee the smooth work of the system and avoid errors and damage to the equipment. Atmospheric discharges affect the proper operation of photovoltaic sources and their installation, including sensitive equipment. Determining the need for lightning protection and assessing the success of risk analysis are the first steps to adopt appropriate lightning protection measures. The paper assesses surges due to lightning strikes and the required protection measures based on the results of risk analysis and protection costs. Also, external and internal lightning protection systems, selection of equipment characteristics, and earthing systems are discussed. The lightning protection model was analyzed using the SCIT (Shield) software, and the risk analysis was processed in the Sparkta software.