What is an Earth Clip for Solar?

An earth clip, also known as a grounding clip or earthing clip, is a small but essential component used in solar photovoltaic (PV) mounting systems. Its main function is to ensure electrical continuity and grounding between PV modules and the solar mounting structure, thereby preventing electric shock risks and protecting equipment from lightning or fault currents.

Why Grounding is Important in Solar Systems

Grounding is critical for:

Safety: It prevents electrical shock hazards by safely conducting fault currents to the ground.

Lightning protection: It provides a path for surge currents during lightning strikes.

System integrity: It reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI) and ensures consistent voltage potential across the PV array.

Code compliance: Most national and international electrical standards (e.g., NEC, IEC) require proper grounding for solar systems.

Features of Solar Earth Clips

Material:
Usually made of stainless steel (SS304 or SS316) for corrosion resistance and long-term durability in outdoor environments.

Design:

Sharp or pointed tabs pierce the anodized layer of aluminum frames or rails, creating a metal-to-metal contact.

Designed to fit between the PV module frame and the solar mounting rail or between two modules and the mid clamp.

Can be pre-installed on mid clamps or grounding lugs.

Compatibility:
Earth clips are available in different sizes and designs to match specific rail profiles, solar clamps, and PV frame thicknesses.

Installation:

Tool-free or minimal tool required.

Often clipped directly to the rail or installed during the clamp tightening process.

Typical Applications

Between solar module frame and mounting rail (when using mid clamps).

Between two modules (to connect frames together).

As part of a grounding path that connects to a grounding lug or conductor cable, then to earth.

Standards and Certifications

High-quality earth clips should meet relevant electrical standards, such as:

UL 467 (for grounding and bonding equipment)

IEC 61730 (safety standards for PV modules)

TÜV certification

Advantages of Using Solar Earth Clips

Fast and easy installation
No need for additional drilling or wires
Cost-effective and durable
Compatible with most rail-based mounting systems
Ensures compliance with international safety standards

Conclusion

Earth clips may be small, but they play a big role in the safety, reliability, and code compliance of your solar PV system. Choosing a high-quality, corrosion-resistant clip ensures long-term performance and peace of mind.

If you're sourcing solar mounting accessories, be sure to include certified grounding clips as part of your system package.