HESSEQUA NEWS - The municipality is allowing small-scale solar PV embedded generators (SSEG) to connect to their distribution grid.
A Solar PV Embedded Generator is a solar-electricity (PV) generator that is connected to the electricity distribution grid via a grid-synchronising inverter (which converts the DC solar power to AC power).
If a system is connected to the wiring on your premises, which is connected to the distribution network, this is a grid-connected - or embedded - generator. Systems generating 1 MVA ( 1 000 kVA) or smaller, are called Small Scale Embedded Generators (SSEG). Solar PV is the main technology type used as an SSEG, but wind, bio-gas electricity, hydro power and diesel generators connected to the grid are also forms of SSEG.
National legislation prohibits the connection of SSEG systems to the distribution grid (even if it is on the customer's side of the distribution board) without specific written permission from the municipality.
Sometimes people believe that PV systems are connected to the wiring on the premises, but that never reverse feed onto the municipal network are exempt, but this is not correct - these systems also require permission.
The municipality is obliged to disconnect customers from the grid if they have unapproved, illegal systems.
The application form and the requirements for an alternative power supply are available from the office of the municipal electricity department. These guidelines provide additional information and should be consulted when completing an application for SSEG installation.
Permission from the electricity department is not necessary for systems that are not connected to the distribution grid.
The municipality only permits installers with PV GreenCard registration to install these systems. This ensures a quality installation and protects both the customer and the municipality. Local installers are encouraged to register at www.pvgreencard.co.za
All SSEG customers will be subject to a fixed charge in addition to a normal energy purchase tariff. The municipality will also compensate SSEG customers for power exported onto the municipal grid. SSEG tariffs are provided in the municipality's current tariff schedule, which is available at info@hessequa.gov.za
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