g59 part 3

[reelectrics]

what are the new guidelines and where can info be found?i have it up to 4 inverters can be fitted type tested without a g59 being required.5 or more inverters req a g59 relay .is this now in force?

 

[Worcester]

I presume you mean a separate G59 relay.. As if you are using G59 type approved inverters a relay isn't usually required, though it will depend upon the number of inverters installed / size of system.

There isn't actually a formal process for G59 type approved inverters, though the general principle that has been adopted is that if it is microgeneration (<=50kW) then multiple type approved are OK without a separate G59 relay.

Above 50kWp, then it is up to the DNO as to what they require, for example in a multiple inverter configuration may not want to switched ALL the inverters off at once else it may cause voltage fluctuations or flicker, so may want a staged disconnection / reconnection, in which case a custom built G59 relay will be required.

The latest guide - Jan 2013 is available form the ENA (you knew that didn't you ) ENA - Distributed Generation Overview though if you want the full document as opposed to the guide you'll have to buy that from the ENA bookshop.

The best thing to do is to actually speak to your DNO, as they will try to help you

 

[Gavin A]

you can download the consultation version of G59/3 for free though, and I don't think there are many changes from that version.

 

[Worcester]

Yep, it confirms my comments on <50kw and ratifies it; from the consultation paper (it's in the main docuemnt too):

You still need to apply in advance for all non G83 inverters and for all connections >16A

2.3. Connection and Commissioning Procedure for Power Stations above EREC G83/2 limits but less than 50kW or 17kW per phase using Type Tested Generating Units only
In order to simplify the connection and commissioning procedure for Power Stations in this range which fall in general under the same envelope as EREC G83/2 Power Stations in terms of the Micro-generation Certification Scheme (MCS) requirements a simplified application form has been produced which allows the Installer to make the application for connection and to complete the commissioning. This means that the process can be carried out without the active engagement of the Customer who will become a Generator at the end of the process. This is in line with the procedure under EREC G83/2 and is the primary change which helps to meet parts 1 to 7 of the terms of reference.
2.4. Connection and Commissioning Procedure for Power Stations above 50kW which use Type Tested Generating Units only
The connection procedure for power stations of this size has not changed. However a simplified Commissioning procedure has been identified which reduces the need for on-site testing but which ensures that the other commissioning requirements are carried out correctly. This is the primary means to meet part 8 of the terms of reference.

(Good to see that they also now formally allow my 17kW single phase installation on occasions )

Documents from here: http://www.dcode.org.uk/assets/images/ER G59-3_dcrp_public_consultation_paper_190313.zip

 

[SibertSolar]

Regarding the time-line/implementation, the below might help:

• For all small scale embedded generation sets of up to and including 16A per phase (provided that the aggregate capacity of installed generation is less than or equal to 16A per phase), until 1 March 2014 it is permissible to connect to the general requirements of previous versions of G83 provided this is through an inverter or controller with a protection/control system that has either been fully type tested in accordance with G83/1-1, G83/2 or in accordance with G59/2. After 1 March 2014 it will only be allowable to connect small scale embedded generation of up to and including 16A per phase that complies with G83/2 (or with G59/3for small scale embedded generation sets non-compliant with G83/2).

• Connection of small scale embedded generation of above 16A per phase (including the connection of small scale embedded generation of less than 16A per phase where the aggregate capacity of installed generation is greater than 16A per phase) made before 1 December 2014 can be in accordance with either G59/2-1 or G59/3. Such connections made after 1 December 2014 must be made in accordance with G59/3.

 

[Worcester]

What it means is.... From March 2014, you'll need to be using G83/2 and G59/3 type approved inverters. Until then both the old and the new can be used.

Back to the OP's question about 4 inverters, I believe that's still down to the DNO if >50kW.

Not sure where you got the guidance from about the number of type approved inverters, -I'm not aware that there is any specific mention of a number of SSEG sets that are used to make up the kWp.

 

[reelectrics]

I have looked though npg g59 application and it appears that I can fit 4x20kw tri powers all type tested without the need for a separate g59 relay,but if I were to fit 5 or more inverters then I would need to fit ag59 relay .both systems would comply with the new g59/3 regs.

 

[Worcester]

That's interesting - which form is it I couldn't see any guidance like that on the Nothern Power Grid site. - could you post a link please.