4kwp system DNO problem

[Sykes]

My DNO has informed me that my installation will be over there threshold. 16* 255w* by0.97=3.95 the inverter is 4000tl efficiency and they say because of the back log they will not be able to give permission in time. How are other people or companies handling this?

 

[SolarCity]

I have 4000TLs in stock and I have Power One 3.6s in stock. Ringing DNOs is ridiculous at the moment and to get anyone to ring you back is a miracle. If I don't get permission for 4000TLs then I'll change for the Power One 3.6 - it's a better inverter anyway in my opinion.

 

[Sykes]

The power ones are not compatible with the Mitsubishi 255W thats we have opted for the SMA, and they have already been ordered. We are not sure what we should do, the DNO guy was like yeah go head with it but dont quote me.

 

[Ramjam]

The DNO have nothing to do with FITS, let them process the paperwork at their liesure and if they insist as they sometimes do then get a gridguard code from SMA and limit the inverter, send them details of the software block and they'll go back to sleep. Nothing is going to overproduce and risk damaging the grid during the winter so deal with it all later, there is no mechanism between the DNO and the FIT licensee so the FIT rate can be secured as normal.

 

[jupestar]

Which DNO is it?

Also is 16x255 = 4.08KWp... how does that work with the FIT's.. lower rate?

If you take a look at the 4000TL table for your strings on sunny design, chances are your efficiency is more like 94/95%. That might bring you under!

 

[BruceB]

Provided the inverter is 4kW or less then that is the TIC and therefore the FIT rate is based on that.

 

[STEL]

Same has happened to me today, DNO haven't approved a 4kW. System conists of 16 250W panels so should I just use 15 and a 3.6 inverter?

 

[BruceB]

Use 16 and a 3.6 inverter

 

[STEL]

Next one's a long shot.. anyone know where I can get such an inverter from!?

 

[STEL]

I presume a Fronius IG TL 3.6 would work the same? Anyone know of any issues of this inverter with suntech 250's?

 

[SolarCity]

There is no issue between any inverter and a certain panel. Just make sure that you get the voltages and current right.

 

[whlphil]

TIC is panel wattage DNC is inverter output, the DNO is only concerned with DNC which is output at the AC terminals, you can limit the 4000 TL's in the firmware to 16A thus they have no justifiable objection.

speak to SMA they are in the middle of talking to most of the DNO's as most clearly do not understand what they are doing legislation wise.

 

[SolarCity]

TIC is panel wattage DNC is inverter output, the DNO is only concerned with DNC which is output at the AC terminals, you can limit the 4000 TL's in the firmware to 16A thus they have no justifiable objection.

speak to SMA they are in the middle of talking to most of the DNO's as most clearly do not understand what they are doing legislation wise.

My experience of DNOs is very different. As the inverter is still capable of outputting >16A with a simple firmware change, they still want pre-applications. I know it's ridiculous but thats what they say.

 

[whlphil]

My experience of DNOs is very different. As the inverter is still capable of outputting >16A with a simple firmware change, they still want pre-applications. I know it's ridiculous but thats what they say.

True but you need a code to change the firmware settings which requires you to apply to SMA to get it so in theory the only person that could change it is someone that should know better, have a word with James at SMA I was with him two weeks ago discussing the very same!

 

[fiardor]

Fronius 3.6 shouldnt be a problem but i would be very surprised if you can get 250 suntechs.
Solarworlds also work as do Q-Cell.