Why is it non-safe having a generator in an On-Grid solar pv system?
4 Ways of reverse power flow protection in grid-connected PV systems
Generators and inverters can play different roles in solar power systems, depending on the specific requirements and configuration of the system. Here's an overview of the roles of generators and inverters in solar power:
Generators: 1. Backup Power: Generators can serve as backup power sources in solar power systems, especially in off-grid or hybrid systems. They can provide electricity during periods of low solar energy production or when the battery storage is depleted. Generators can be automatically activated when needed, ensuring continuous power supply in situations where solar energy alone may not be sufficient.
2. Grid Support: In grid-tied solar power systems, generators can be used to provide additional power during high-demand periods or to support the grid during emergencies. They can be synchronized with the grid and operated in parallel to supplement the solar power generation and stabilize the grid voltage and frequency.
3. Standalone Systems: In remote or off-grid areas where solar energy alone may not be reliable or sufficient, generators can be used as the primary source of electricity. Solar panels can still be used to supplement the generator's power generation and reduce the reliance on fossil fuels.
Inverters: 1. Power Conversion: Inverters are essential components in solar power systems as they convert the DC electricity generated by solar panels into AC electricity suitable for powering electrical loads. They ensure that the electricity produced by solar panels is compatible with the standard electrical appliances and equipment used in homes, businesses, and industries.
2. Grid Interaction: In grid-tied solar power systems, inverters play a crucial role in synchronizing the solar-generated AC electricity with the utility grid. They ensure that the solar power is in phase and voltage synchronization with the grid, allowing for the seamless integration of solar energy into the existing electrical infrastructure. Grid-tied inverters also provide safety features to prevent the export of electricity to the grid during power outages (anti-islanding protection).
3. Power Quality Control: Inverters help maintain the quality of the AC electricity produced by solar panels. They regulate the voltage and frequency of the output power to ensure it meets the grid's requirements and maintains stable and reliable power supply.
4. Monitoring and Control: Many modern inverters offer monitoring and control features that allow users to monitor the performance of the solar power system, including energy production, system status, and faults. They may also include interfaces for remote monitoring and control via mobile apps or web-based platforms.
It's important to note that the need for generators in solar power systems varies depending on the specific requirements and circumstances. In off-grid systems or areas with unreliable grid access, generators may be necessary for backup power. In grid-tied systems, generators are typically used as backup sources or for grid support purposes. Inverters, on the other hand, are essential components in all solar power systems for converting and managing the electricity generated by solar panels. The specific use of generators and inverters in a solar power system depends on factors such as system design, energy demand, reliability requirements, and local conditions.
When you want to use solar energie to reduce the fuel consumption of a Diesel generator you need a special controller to control the amount of PV energy within the total system. At elgris we have more than 10 years of experience in the field of controller for hybrid systems as „Fuel Saving Controllers“ and hybrid systems in general. Our product portfolio range from single generator applications as backup up to multi genset applications with several MW. HYBRID BASIC
The HYBRID BASIC controller is an easy to use and high quality control system targeting fuel saving generator applications. Not only for prime power generator applications but also grid connected PV systems with a standby generator can benefit of the elgris Fuel Saving BASIC controller.
Unique features of the elgris controller define new standards in terms of commissioning time, durability and performance. Based on the inhouse developed HYBRID control algorithm, the elgris controller determines the operating point of a single generator and adjusts the photovoltaic system accordingly.
The HYBRID BASIC controller reduce the consumption of Diesel at a maximum level and at the same time minimize the investment in balance of system components like solar panels, inverters, batteries and other components needed to build a cost saving, efficient and maintenance minimized stand-alone hybrid solar system.
Due to the universal layout and standardized communication protocols and interfaces, a wide range of inverters are supported.
PV inverter independent Grid and generator controller integrated Local datalogger included Single board solution easy to use web interface support many different types of inverter manufactures
With the elgris HYBRID BASIC controller, almost any generator can be upgraded with any PV-system thus reducing power and safe on fuel.
The elgris HYBRID BASIC controller can handle two different setpoints. For example when the grid is available, the controller can be used to prevent export of solar energy to the grid ( zero export). When the grid fails, and the generator is running, the same controller can be used for „Fuel Saving“. The controller measures the power from the grid or generator in single phase or three phase, minimum per phase or total minimum. The configuration can be easily changed without the need for special tools or expensive field engineers.
The controller reduce the output of the solar system by adjusting the set point of the inverter. When the generator is not running, the feed in protection is triggered and becomes active. When the generator is running and powering the load, the controller prevents the generator from running in a non optimum point of load and thus from high fuel consumption and avoids serious damages due to the low load. Monitoring
The HYBRID BASIC controller has an integrated webserver which can be used to configure the system depended settings and check the performance. When the system is connected to the internet, the data also can be stored in the eCloud monitoring platform where the actual and the historical consumption of grid and solar power are shown via a graphic illustartion.