Wera Kraftform Kompakt VDE 17 Extra Slim 2 Tool Kit Overview

When you're building or maintaining an off-grid solar system, a home solar power system, or any other renewable energy installation, it’s important to consider electrical safety. The Wera VDE 17 Extra Slim 2 kit provides 14 insulated screwdriver blades designed for home or professional electrical work at live voltages up to 1,000Vac. Whether you're wiring solar charge controllers, terminating cables in an inverter-charger enclosure, or fastening electrical fittings in a control panel, this kit keeps you safe and productive.

The set ships in a folding belt pouch compatible with the Wera 2go modular storage system, so your tools are organized and ready whether you're on a rooftop, in a utility room, or at a remote off-grid solar site. 

Key Features of the Wera Kraftform Kompakt VDE 17 Extra Slim 2 Tool Kit

837 i RA Bitholding Screwdriver with Ratchet

The 837 i RA handle features an integrated 40-tooth ratchet with a 9° return angle, so you can drive screws without repositioning your grip. This handle fits any of the included screwdriver blades.

Extra-Slim Blade Diameter with Integrated Insulation

Most of the 14 blades in this set feature a reduced-diameter shaft with integrated protective insulation. This extra slim profile makes it possible to reach screws placed behind insulation or terminal elements.

Knipex VDE Needle-Nose Combination Pliers

The included 185mm Knipex pliers feature a high-reduction power joint for effortless cutting, and edges rated for soft, medium-hard, or hard wire. The insulated handle also provides a secure grip. 

Ideal Applications for VDE Insulated Screwdriver Sets

These VDE rated and insulated tools are essential for any professional electrician or advanced home tool kit. You can use the kit in the following places and more.

• Off-grid solar systems
• Grid connected solar power systems
• Control cabinet and relay panel work
• Battery bank maintenance
• Portable generator and backup power integration
• Electrical fittings and conduit work

These various applications often include DC combiners, charge controllers, battery management systems, circuit protection fittings, terminal blocks, hybrid solar inverter enclosures, inverter-chargers, relays, switches, sockets, and other high-current connection points. These locations require VDE rated tools for protection against electrocution. 

Solar and Battery System Compatibility

Wera designed this kit for use across nearly all residential or commercial solar and battery storage systems. 

Frequently Asked Questions About VDE Insulated Screwdriver Sets

What does "VDE rated" or "IEC 60900 compliant" mean?

VDE (Verband der Elektrotechnik) certification and IEC 60900 compliance mean each tool has been individually tested at 10,000V and is safe to use at voltages up to 1,000Vac or 1,500Vdc. This is important in solar installations as even 12V systems can have high voltage and current throughout the system.

Why do I need extra slim blades for solar inverters and charge controllers?

Many modern inverter-charger units, hybrid solar inverters, and MPPT charge controllers have deeply recessed terminal screws surrounded by spring clip guards or tight insulation barriers. A standard-diameter screwdriver blade physically cannot engage these screws without damaging surrounding components. The reduced-diameter, extra-slim blades in this kit are specifically engineered for these confined spaces.

Can I use this set on the DC side of my solar system?

Yes. IEC 60900 covers both AC and DC voltages. The 1,000Vac rating corresponds to 1,500Vdc, making these tools appropriate for the DC wiring between solar panels, solar charge controllers, and solar batteries.

Is this set sufficient for a complete off-grid solar system installation?

This kit covers the screwdriving and wire-handling tasks in a typical off-grid solar kit installation. You may also need cable crimpers, a multimeter, conduit tools, and other tools for the complete system.

How do I change blades?

Pull down the yellow ring on either handle to release the current blade, insert the new blade until it clicks, and release the ring. You can change a blade with one hand, even while wearing light electrical gloves.