Testing an array without AC supply on site?

[DomB]

Chaps,

We have an installation to do which is quite a long way away from us. It's a new build and there's no electricity on site yet, they're using generators at the moment.

I'm just trying to think how I can test the system. I can test the DC side as I would normally but struggling to think how to boot & test the inverter (a PVI 3.6).

Maybe I get the inverter delivered to me and take it round to a friendly customer with the same system... Any thoughts much appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[screwdriver]

Realistically you will need to do two visits if you want to be covered, the PVI will boot up with DC only so you can check that side works but you won't get any grid feed in and be able to check grid voltage etc etc.

 

[DomB]

Agreed, thanks.. I'm guessing I can't use the on-site generator in any way?

 

[Worcester]

There is some (very expensive) test equipment around that will simulate the grid, - G59 connections, sometimes the DNO insists on on-site tests to validate the G59 relay, in that case we simulate the grid and can change voltage, frequency etc etc to show that the relay is performaing within the parameters. - Think "how did they test the inverte in the first place"?

So two choices,
1) do two visits - maybe even multiple if various go live dates for the properties
or
2) get a specialist tester in for a day and do the lot at your convenience.

2) Might work out cheaper, depends whose doing the final sign off on the new works anyway.