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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Protecting interconnections between photovoltaic generators and utility distribution lines

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6196983
This report discusses the protective relaying needed to connect an intermediate-sized photovoltaic generator (50 kW to 1000 kW) to an electric utility distribution line. Nontechnical language explains the protection issues: why utilities require protection devices to ensure public and worker safety, avoid property damage, and maintain service; and how generator owners can select fuses, circuit breakers, and relays to meet utility requirements. Optional equipment that protects the generator from possible damage and unnecessary disconnects is also discussed. The report reviews the cost of interconnecting, and it offers two present-worth formulas for determining the cost effectiveness of optional, owner-side protection.
Research Organization:
Electric Research and Management, Inc., Thomaston, ME (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC04-76DP00789
OSTI ID:
6196983
Report Number(s):
SAND-85-7006; ON: DE86007244
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English