Understanding VDE-AR-N 4105: A Comprehensive Guide to Electrical Safety Standards
The VDE-AR-N 4105 standard plays a vital role in ensuring electrical safety in Germany. By adhering to this standard, electrical professionals can:
VDE-AR-N 4105 is a technical automated rule ( Anwendungsregel ) issued by the VDE (Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies) in Germany.
An important part of the VDE-AR-N 4105 standard is the . This document certifies that a specific inverter model complies with all requirements of the VDE-AR-N 4105:2018-11 standard. vde-ar-n 4105 english pdf
When planning a PV or CHP system in Germany, strict adherence to VDE-AR-N 4105 is required for grid connection approval. Planners must calculate the expected voltage rise and configure the inverter's reactive power settings according to the grid operator's specific requirements (often detailed in their "TAB Niederspannung").
| Document Version | Details & Provider | Access Information | Official Note | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | An official 2-page English translation of the 2018-11 corrigendum is available. It describes corrections to the original German document. | Freely accessible online by VDE on their "Download free translation" page. | In case of doubt, the German original text is the legally binding and technically valid version. | | VDE-AR-N 4105:2018-11 (English) | The complete English version of the 2018 edition is available for purchase through the Korean Standards Network (KSSN). | Can be purchased as a PDF or printed copy from the KSSN marketplace as an overseas standard. The price for the English PDF is KRW 596,500 (approx. €415). | - | | VDE-AR-N 4105:2011-08 (English) | A library-held English translation of the 2011 version is a good reference for older installations. The document explicitly states it is a translation of the official VDE application rule. | Available for physical loan at the University of Canterbury's EPS Library (call number TK 1006 .P887 2011). | In case of doubt, the German version will be valid. | | VDE-AR-N 4105:2018-11 (Chinese ZIP) | A non-official ZIP archive containing the original English document + a Chinese translation can be found on the CSDN developer platform. The description says it includes both. | Can be downloaded from the CSDN resource page, but requires a login and is a user-uploaded file , not an official distributor. | The file is an unofficial source, and its authenticity and accuracy cannot be guaranteed. | | VDE-AR-N 4105:2026-03 (German only) | The official, most recent 2026 edition is available. It is currently only available in German as an official VDE publication. | Can be purchased as a valid Anwendungsregel from the VDE Verlag online shop or through their distribution partners. | An official English translation does not exist for the 2026-03 version. The German version is the single source of truth for compliance. |
The official, authorized English translation of VDE-AR-N 4105 can be purchased directly from the VDE Verlag website. It is available as a downloadable PDF or a printed booklet. This document certifies that a specific inverter model
DG Africa provides an English translation sample of the 2011-08 version.
Because the VDE-AR-N 4105 is a copyrighted document protected by German and international intellectual property laws, finding a legitimate copy requires using official channels.
It was developed jointly by the VDE (Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies), the FNN (Forum Network Technology / Network Operation), and German grid operators. The standard replaced the older VDE 0126-1-1 and became effective in August 2011, with major revisions in 2018. | Document Version | Details & Provider |
explains the technological innovations of the revised rule, including its scope for systems up to 135 kW Grid Monitoring Guide (ABB) technical manual by ABB
Published by the (Forum Network Technology/Network Operation in the VDE), the VDE-AR-N 4105 specifies the minimum technical requirements for generators connecting to the 230/400V low-voltage network.