Query on PV grid connections?

[upnorf]

Recently had solar PV installed and something looks odd to me on the way it is plumbed into the grid. Can I pass the details on for comment?

The incoming mains that went from the supply fuse to the meter has been re-routed into a big connection block (henly block??) from there it goes to the supply meter. Also from the block it is wired to a switch with MCB and through that to the generation meter and then to isolator switch and from there to the inverter.

My thoughts are that it should all be on the consumer side of the meter rather than the supply side as if the PV is generating say 1kw and I am consuming 1kw then is being generated and counted on the supply side but is still passing through the supply meter and I am going to be charged for using my own generated power.

Thoughts please.

 

[Earthstore]

It looks like you are right, it is wrong.
And your thoughts about paying for your own electricity would also be correct.
The system should be connected after your meter, normally in the consumer unit, if there is space.
The meter and main fuse is the property of the electric company, anything after the meter is the home owners.
Did they pull the mains fuse to connect into the "tails" ?

 

[sharpener]

My thoughts are that it should all be on the consumer side of the meter rather than the supply side as if the PV is generating say 1kw and I am consuming 1kw then is being generated and counted on the supply side but is still passing through the supply meter and I am going to be charged for using my own generated power.

Thoughts please.

Too d*mn right, also completely non-compliant with MCS and DTI recommendations, see http://www.bre.co.uk/filelibrary/pdf/rpts/Guide_to_the_installation_of_PV_systems_2nd_Edition.pdf and get them to change it quick, the DNO will have a fit when they next look in your meter cupboard. Were the ppl who put this in (i) MCS accredited and (ii) affiliated to REAL?

 

[upnorf]

Thanks both for confirming my fears.

Yes, mcs, real and NICEIC registered.
Yes they pulled the main fuse by the looks of it to alter the tails.
I'll be on the phone in the morning and will report what they say.

Although I'm not a sparkie, it looked too wrong to me.

cheers.

Oh and thanks for the link to the installers PDF - most useful.