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PV Inline by Weidmüller enabled surge protection in rooftop PV setups using plug-in SPDs within limited cable duct space. Image Source: The smarter E AWARD
Germany-based Weidmüller Interface was named a finalist for The smarter E AWARD 2025 in the Photovoltaics category for its PV Inline solution. PV Inline offered a compact, space-saving way to protect large rooftop PV installations from lightning and overvoltage. It addressed limited installation space at roof entry points by allowing Type I and Type II surge protection devices to be integrated into standard cable ducts using plug-in connections. As per Weidmüller, The compact PV combiner box with SPD Type I+II was used in rooftop PV installations. It protected the PV system from overvoltages, including lightning strikes, and created a ground connection in such events. The space-saving SPD was suitable for confined spaces and could be integrated into cable channels or mounted behind PV modules.