It is recommended to install Type 2 surge protectors (SPDs) in rural lighting Ready Board Box in Africa, especially in areas with high lightning incidence such as the equator and central regions. This is a necessary configuration for project compliance and reducing operational losses. Local power distribution often uses overhead lines and TT grounding systems. The lines stretch across open fields and are prone to transient high voltage caused by lightning induction; In addition, the soil is mostly sandy and red soil, with high grounding resistance and large voltage fluctuations in the power grid. Induced lightning surges can easily burn LED drivers, circuit breakers, and measuring components, causing damage to a large number of equipment and power outages.

According to the international low-voltage distribution standards IEC 60364 and IEC 61643, the lighting ready board introduced by outdoor overhead lines should be equipped with a secondary SPD at the incoming position, paired with a dedicated backup protection SCB to prevent SPD aging, short circuit, and fire. Select single-phase with Uc ≥ 275V, voltage protection level Up ≤ 1.5kV, and adapt to the impulse withstand voltage level of lighting fixtures.

The premise for SPD to function is reliable grounding. The grounding resistance control in conventional areas is ≤ 10 Ω, and in strong lightning areas it is ≤ 4 Ω; Drought resistant high resistance soil can be relaxed to 30 Ω, and at the same time, the equipotential connection of the box should be done well. Areas with rare lightning can be cancelled at discretion after lightning risk assessment, but considering the acceptance requirements of local power owners such as Eskom and long-term operation and maintenance costs, SPD should be prioritized for batch projects.

The lightning protection device mainly protects against induced lightning overvoltage and does not replace external direct lightning protection. After the lighting ready board is equipped with SPD, it can significantly reduce the equipment repair rate caused by lightning strikes, reduce on-site maintenance manpower investment, and meet the long-term stable lighting needs of rural areas in Africa.