Technical

Recommendations for the Connection of Type Tested Small-scale Embedded Generators (Up to 16A per Phase) in Parallel with Low-Voltage Distribution Systems.

The purpose of this Engineering Recommendation is to simplify and standardise the technical requirements for connection of Small Scale Embedded Generators (SSEGs) for operation in parallel with a public low-voltage Distribution System, by addressing all technical aspects of the connection process from standards of functionality to site commissioning (Energy Networks Association).

(SAMPLE) This European Standard specifies technical requirements for the protection functions and the operational capabilities of micro-generating plants, designed for operation in parallel with public low voltage distribution networks.

It applies irrespectively of the micro-generating plants’ primary source of energy, where micro-generation refers to equipment with nominal currents up to and including 16 A per phase, single or multi phase 230/400 V or multi phase 230 V (phase-to-phase nominal voltage).

In New Zealand, the recent rapid uptake of distributed generation, in particular for photovoltaics, and the diversity of distribution companies’ guidelines, along with the vision of a future common framework for New Zealand has inspired the review of all international standards and a cross comparison with local guide lines has been performed. The purpose of this analysis is to build a picture of these standards and give a brief insight into the current stance the national distribution companies have via their policies.

Electric Power Engineering Centre (EPECentre) New Zealand