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Philippine Electrical Code (PEC) 2017 — What Solar Installers Must Know
Every solar installation in the Philippines must comply with the Philippine Electrical Code (PEC) 2017, which is aligned with the US National Electrical Code (NEC) 2014 with local amendments. Non-compliant installations are rejected by distribution utilities (Meralco, VECO, DLPC) during net metering inspection — costing the installer re-work, delays, and client trust.
Key PEC Articles That Apply to Solar PV Installations
PEC Article | Topic | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|
Article 2.30 | Wiring Methods | All exposed DC wiring must be in conduit or listed solar cable (USE-2 or PV wire rated) |
Article 2.50 | Grounding | All metal frames, mounting rails, and inverter enclosures must be bonded to a common grounding electrode system |
Article 6.90 | Solar PV Systems | Dedicated article for PV systems — covers string sizing, disconnects, marking, and ground fault protection |
Article 2.10 | Protection Devices | DC and AC overcurrent protection required at each source and load point |
Article 3.10 | Conductors | Conductor sizing based on 125% of rated current for continuous loads (most solar circuits qualify) |
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PEC Article 6.90 — Solar PV Specific Requirements
1. Maximum System Voltage
For residential solar (dwelling units), the maximum PV system voltage is limited to 600V DC under PEC 2017. This directly affects how many panels you can string in series.
2. Disconnecting Means
A readily accessible DC disconnect must be located within sight of or integral to the inverter. The disconnect must be rated for the maximum DC voltage and current of the system.
3. String Combiners and Fusing
When more than 2 strings are connected in parallel, each string must be individually fused at the combiner. This prevents backfeed current from damaging panels in a faulted string.
4. Ground Fault Protection
All grid-tied inverters sold in the Philippines must include ground fault detection and interruption (GFDI). Most modern hybrid inverters have this built in — verify before purchasing.
5. Labeling Requirements
PEC requires warning labels at:
DC disconnect — "WARNING: ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD. Do not touch terminals. Terminals on both the line and load sides may be energized in the open position."
AC disconnect and service panel
All conduit runs containing PV source circuits
The inverter location
Common PEC Violations Found During Meralco Net Metering Inspection
No grounding of mounting rails and panel frames
DC cables not in conduit where exposed to physical damage
Missing surge protection devices (SPD) on DC and AC sides
No labeling on the AC disconnect or service entrance
Inverter not within sight of the DC disconnect
String voltage exceeding 600V DC for residential systems
Tip for installers: Request a pre-inspection checklist from your local distribution utility before submission. Meralco publishes their net metering requirements on their website, and VECO/DLPC have similar documents available upon request.
Engr. Jason Morales — Founder, SolarEnergyPH