Why Is My PV Not Generating Power?

PV generation can be impacted by system configuration, electrical connections, and site environmental conditions. Please check the following items step by step.

1) System Settings Check

Operating Mode / EMS Control
If the system is under EMS scheduling or special operating modes (e.g., time-of-use strategy, grid-priority, or remote dispatch), PV output may be limited by the control logic.
→ Verify current mode on the inverter/EMS monitoring platform.

Export Limitation / Zero Export Setting
When Export Limitation (Zero Export) is enabled, and the battery has reached its charge cut-off SOC, while site loads are low, the inverter will intentionally reduce or stop PV generation to prevent exporting to the grid.

Battery Priority Logic
If the battery is already fully charged and the load demand is low, PV generation will automatically decrease.

System Alarms or Faults
Check the inverter or monitoring APP for any active alarms related to PV input, grid, battery, or meter communication.

2) Cable Connections & Electrical Inspection

Smart Meter / CT Installation
An incorrect meter or CT direction will cause wrong power readings, leading the system to misjudge the load and suppress PV output.
→ Confirm meter wiring direction and phase sequence.

PV Polarity & Connection
Use a multimeter to measure PV string voltage and confirm:

Correct polarity (no reverse connection)

Stable DC voltage within normal range

PV Start-up Voltage Too Low
If the PV voltage is below the inverter start-up threshold, PV will not activate.

Single-phase inverter: PV ≥ 120V

Three-phase inverter: PV ≥ 220V

PV Voltage Too High (Overvoltage Protection)
If the PV string voltage exceeds the inverter protection limits, the inverter will stop accepting PV input.

Single-phase inverter: PV ≤ 600V

Three-phase inverter: PV ≤ 1000V

PV Connector / MC4 Contact Issue
Loose or poorly crimped MC4 connectors can interrupt PV input intermittently.

3) Environmental & Site Conditions

Weather & Irradiation
Cloud cover, high temperature, or low sunlight intensity will directly reduce PV output.

Shading on Panels
Shadows from buildings, trees, dust, or panel orientation issues can significantly limit PV generation.

Load Demand vs. Zero Export Logic
In zero-export scenarios, PV generation is dynamically adjusted according to real-time load consumption.

If the battery is full

The load is low

Zero export is enabled
→ PV output will be reduced intentionally by the inverter.

4) Recommended Troubleshooting Steps

Check inverter/EMS monitoring for alarms

Verify meter/CT wiring direction

Measure PV string voltage with a multimeter

Confirm PV polarity and connector condition

Check battery SOC and export limitation settings

Inspect panels for shading or dirt