Brazil adopts mandatory AFCI and Rapid Shutdown to enhance PV safety amid global shift

Brazil’s new regulation requiring AFCI-equipped inverters and quick emergency shutdowns marks a significant step towards safer, more reliable photovoltaic systems in emerging markets, aligning with global safety standards.

The safety of photovoltaic (PV) systems is increasingly under the spotlight as global installations grow more powerful and densely configured. Central to this focus are Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) and Rapid Shutdown Device (RSD) technol...

ogies, which have transitioned from optional components to essential safeguards. These technologies address critical risks such as arc-induced electrical fires and emergency shutdown needs, concerns that weigh heavily on PV plant operators and purchasers alike.

Emerging markets like Brazil exemplify the urgent need for robust safety standards. Brazil’s power grid is characterized by instability and frequent extreme weather events, conditions that amplify the importance of integrating advanced safety measures into PV systems. Recognising this, Brazilian regulators have moved decisively: from December 1, 2024, the National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro) mandates that all solar inverters sold in the country include AFCIs. This landmark policy aligns Brazil with global efforts to bolster PV system safety and reflects lessons drawn from frameworks such as the U.S. National Electrical Code (NEC), which has mandated similar standards since 2017.

This regulatory shift is complemented by technological advancements and industry responses. Leading suppliers have launched AFCI-compliant products tailored for the Brazilian market. For instance, Hoymiles has confirmed that its microinverters meet Inmetro’s stringent safety requirements, having cleared rigorous IEC 63027 certification tests. Likewise, Sungrow introduced a rapid shutdown solution designed specifically for Brazil’s unique market needs, featuring devices capable of swiftly reducing module voltage to safe levels within 30 seconds during emergencies, a necessary feature now compulsory for residential, commercial, and industrial rooftop PV installations in the country.

However, policy alone is not enough to ensure widespread adoption. Industry experts stress the importance of cost optimisation achieved through scale production and iterative technological improvements, making these safety investments more accessible without compromising quality. Equally vital is the framing of such investments as long-term risk mitigation strategies, helping prospective purchasers see beyond upfront costs to the benefits of minimizing system downtime, reducing insurance claims, and preventing damage from fires.

Further supporting this transition is the collaborative role of the wider industry ecosystem. Inverter manufacturers, module suppliers, design institutes, and installation experts are encouraged to develop customised solutions, such as Brazil-specific inverter models targeted at niche sectors like telecommunications and mining, to streamline deployment and function. Moreover, efforts to increase user awareness through industry exhibitions, technical training programmes, and knowledge-sharing forums are pivotal in embedding a culture of safety throughout PV value chains.

The integration of AFCI and RSD technologies marks more than just a technical upgrade; it signals the PV industry’s commitment to sustainability and responsibility. Brazil’s proactive regulatory stance and the corresponding industry response offer a blueprint for other emerging PV markets facing similar challenges. Together, entrenched policy frameworks, cost-effective technological solutions, and strong multi-stakeholder collaboration will drive the universal adoption of these critical safety measures. This convergence promises a safer, more reliable future for rooftop solar installations, commercial projects, and utility-scale plants worldwide, thereby securing the sustainable development of the global PV sector.

Source: Noah Wire Services