QAC 5/6 kW
Single-phase AC protection panel for 5 to 6 kW photovoltaic systems, 32 A 230 V: the maximum size allowed on a single-phase connection. It integrates a Class A 32 A 300 mA residual current circuit breaker with overcurrent protection, switch in in/out configuration, and Class II 2P 230 V 15 kA SPD surge protector.
Compact IP65 8-module box with single-line diagram and declaration of conformity.
The QAC 5/6 kW single-phase AC panel completes the single-phase range of the series: 32 A at 230 V, the current needed to manage a 6 kW inverter at full power. It is the protection and isolation panel to be installed between the inverter and the main distribution board in residential systems of the maximum size allowed in single phase.
Six kilowatts: where single phase ends
In Italy, single-phase low-voltage connection is permitted up to 6 kW of available power; beyond that threshold, the distributor requires a three-phase supply. This precisely defines the scope of this panel: it is the largest in the single-phase family and, at the same time, the last one before the mandatory switch to three phase.
If you are considering a 6 kWp system with the idea of expanding it in the future, it is worth stopping here to think it through: an expansion beyond 11,08 kW will involve not only switching to three phase, but also the requirement for an external Interface Protection System (SPI) with test report according to CEI 0-21. In that case, this panel cannot be reused and a three-phase interface panel will be required.
QAC 5/6 kW technical specifications
| System power | From 5 to 6 kW |
| Grid type | Single-phase 230 V |
| Rated current | 32 A |
| Main protection | Residual-current circuit breaker (IMTD) 32 A, 300 mA, Class A |
| Configuration | Incoming/outgoing circuit breaker |
| Surge protection | Class II SPD surge arrester, 2P, 230 V, 15 kA |
| Interface protection | Not present (systems below 11,08 kW) |
| Enclosure | 8-module IP65 box, 115 x 200 x 200 mm |
| Documentation | Single-line diagram and declaration of conformity |
| Weight | 3 kg |
Eight modules instead of twelve: what changes
Compared to the 16 A and 25 A sizes, which use a 12-module box, this version adopts an 8-module enclosure while still fitting higher-capacity components. This is not a downgrade: the configuration with incoming/outgoing circuit breaker and integrated residual-current protection takes up less space than a layout with separate devices. The practical advantage is the reduced footprint, useful when the panel has to be installed in a technical compartment or in an already crowded attic. The disadvantage is that few free modules remain: if you plan to add a production meter or a control contactor later, consider a larger box.
Frequently asked questions
My inverter is 6 kW but the panels are 7,5 kWp: is that still OK?
Yes. The panel is sized according to the inverter’s AC power, not the peak power of the modules. Oversizing the photovoltaic array compared to the inverter is normal practice and does not change the maximum current passing through the panel, which is limited by the inverter itself.
Can I use it with two 3 kW single-phase inverters?
Only if the two lines are joined upstream of the panel and the total remains within 32 A, but this is not the preferred solution: without separate protections, a fault on one inverter will also take the other out of service. With two inverters, dedicated protection for each one is recommended.
Does it include the production meter required by the GSE?
No, the production meter is not included. For systems up to 20 kW under net metering, production measurement is in any case carried out by the meter installed by the distributor or detected by the inverter, as provided for by the operating regulations.
What cable cross-section is needed to connect it?
With 32 A protection, the minimum cross-section is 6 mm² for installation in conduit, to be increased to 10 mm² when the distance between the inverter and the main distribution board exceeds 25-30 metres, in order to keep the voltage drop within the limits indicated by the inverter manufacturers.
Is it also suitable for a system with storage?
Yes, provided that the total AC power of the hybrid inverter remains within 6 kW. However, it must be checked that any backup line, the one supplying the priority loads in the absence of grid power, has its own dedicated protection: it does not pass through this panel.