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Description / Abstract:
The IEEE DER interconnection standards (IEEE Std 1547 [4] and IEEE Std 1547.1 [6]) sufficiently define the functional requirements for the proper interconnection of DER with an Area EPS. IEEE Std 1547 specifies the functional requirements for interconnection including design, production, and installation commissioning evaluation. IEEE Std 1547.1 specifies the equipment conformance test and evaluation procedures. Compliance with the National Electric Code® (NEC®, NFPA 70 [7]) requires that components, subsystems, and systems installed in onpremises wiring systems are evaluated for safety and their intended use by a NRTL. Evidence of successful evaluation is confirmed by a NRTL marking label on these items. The presence of this marking label only confirms that the items have met the requirements of the design and production tests.
The interconnection of a DER with an EPS can have a detrimental effect on the reliability of that power source. To ensure the safe and proper operation of the interconnected sources at their location in the EPS infrastructure, the EPS and DER operators enter into a binding interconnection agreement. In addition to the required equipment listings, this agreement will list any additional requirements to ensure safe and reliable interconnection performance.
The process begins with a thorough examination of the interconnection system for completeness and compliance with the interconnection agreement and all Authorities Having Jurisdiction’s (AHJ’s) regulatory requirements. Next, verification needs to be made that the components of the interconnection system are compliant with the functional requirements of IEEE Std 1547 [4]. Confirmation of conformity is established by compliance with IEEE Std 1547.1 [6]. For inverters and converters, proof of confirmation and safety evaluation are evidenced by listing for their intended use to UL 1741 [8]. Other components of the system are evaluated to their relevant standards and listed for the intended use. Next, the installation is evaluated for compliance with applicable codes such as the NEC [7] or other applicable codes and standards.1 IEEE is establishing a program that will ultimately lead to the issuance of an Assurance Certificate confirming interconnection conformance.
1In the European Union, the applicable standard is IEC 60364 [3], Electrical Installations for Buildings as supplemented by each member country to account for differences in electric systems.