500kW interconnection to utility

[RichardM]

Hello all, I would just like a bit of input from you who have experience in the utility.

I am designing a small solar array and was hoping to get some input and answers to a few of my questions.

It seems relatively straightforward getting this set up:

500kW PV array -> DC fuse/Circuit breaker -> Inverter (Non-islanding) -> Interface Transformer -> Primary fuse -> Disconnect -> Pole.

My current issue in this is the whole pole connection and pole spec. Where can I find the necessary pole spacing, height as well as what it actually takes to connect to the pole from the transformer. I am still a student, so these things are all completely new to me, and any help is most appreciated.

 

[djohns6]

Any interconnection to a utility is going to require you to play by their rules , as well as the NEC , etc . Each utility has their own regulations and requirements and you will have to consult with them . It's a little more complicated than your setup .

 

[mdshunk]

I wouldn't exactly call 500kw "small", especially for a student project. In any event, pole line construction details are pretty well covered in "The Lineman and Cableman's Handbook". Been in print for almost 100 years.

 

[djohns6]

I wouldn't exactly call 500kw "small", especially for a student project. In any event, pole line construction details are pretty well covered in "The Lineman and Cableman's Handbook". Been in print for almost 100 years.

If this is just a class project that doesn't go beyond the design stage , then yeah use the book .

 

[RichardM]

I wouldn't exactly call 500kw "small", especially for a student project. In any event, pole line construction details are pretty well covered in "The Lineman and Cableman's Handbook". Been in print for almost 100 years.

Great! That's the sort of info I'm looking for.

If this is just a class project that doesn't go beyond the design stage , then yeah use the book .

It is not simply a class project. It will actually go into production, but at the moment I am in the initial stages of getting to know everything that's going on.

So what would you suggest other than the previously mentioned book?

 

[charlie]

. . . It is not simply a class project. . .

If you were on our system, we have instructions and contracts on the Internet in our Goldbook. We have Level 1, 2, and 3 applications and agreements (contracts) plus there is a section in the Goldbook text to add the basic requirements.

As mentioned before, contact the serving electric utility. I assure you that they will have definite requirements and instructions for you to follow.

 

[djohns6]

If you were on our system, we have instructions and contracts on the Internet in our Goldbook. We have Level 1, 2, and 3 applications and agreements (contracts) plus there is a section in the Goldbook text to add the basic requirements.

As mentioned before, contact the serving electric utility. I assure you that they will have definite requirements and instructions for you to follow.

To add to the above , the utility that I work for has a 25kw limit on residential systems and 100kw on commercial systems . 500kw is serious business . The metering and protection could get pricey .