The impact of lightning on solar inverter is divided into two types： "Direct Lightning Flash" and "Indirect Lightning Flash". "Direct Lightning Flash" means that the inverter is directly struck by lightning. "Indirect Lightning Flash" means that when a nearby lightning strike occurs, the electric energy generated by the lightning strike is conducted through the transmission lines and grounding wires in the photovoltaic power system. And a voltage far exceeding the rated level is applied to the power generation equipment, thereby causing damage to the equipment.

Regarding direct lightning flash, it can basically be avoided by reducing the height of the photovoltaic system from the ground during design. The MW-level photovoltaic power station with low ground height has almost never been struck by lightning, and it can be said that a direct lightning strike will hardly affect it. However, photovoltaic power plants in mountainous areas and other places may still be struck by lightning. At this time, it is necessary to take measures to install lightning rods or lightning conductors around the solar panels.

In terms of direct lightning flash, lightning that falls on buildings or the ground near the photovoltaic power station will cause the electric potential of the grounding part of the power generation equipment to rise. Electric potential can cause transient abnormally high voltages - surge voltages in main circuits of the power generation equipment such as the Power Control System. This voltage can damage the insulation within the power generating equipment, causing damage to the equipment. As a countermeasure, the junction box and Power Control System are generally equipped with a Surge Protective Device (SPD) that responds to intrusion induced lightning surge voltages. SPD uses a mechanism that short-circuits occur when a voltage above a certain level is applied to prevent damage to power generation equipment.

In addition, the communication of monitors for remote monitoring generally uses optical cables instead of metal cables that are easily affected by lightning strikes.