Anti-islanding automations

Photovoltaic installations with a power greater than 30 KVA bring a number of significant advantages in terms of renewable energy production, but also come with additional responsibilities and technical requirements to ensure the safety and efficiency of the system. One of these requirements is the integration of anti-islanding protection relays, essential for safe and compliant operation.

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What is insularization?

Islanding refers to the situation where a portion of the electricity grid (in this case, the PV installation and the consumers connected to it) continues to be supplied with energy, although the connection to the wider electricity grid has been interrupted. This phenomenon can present significant risks, including to maintenance and repair personnel, who may assume that the line is de-energized during work on the general network.

The role of anti-islanding protection relays

Anti-insulation protection relays play a crucial role in detecting isolation situations and in the automatic and safe disconnection of the photovoltaic installation from the general electrical network. This safety mechanism ensures that, in the event of a voltage drop or an interruption in the main supply, the photovoltaic installation will not accidentally feed the grid, protecting both emergency personnel and equipment.

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Why is it essential for installations above 30 KVA?

For small PV installations, the risks associated with islanding can be considered more limited, but for systems larger than 30 KVA, the potential impact and associated risks are considerably higher. These systems have the capacity to deliver a significant amount of energy, and in the absence of adequate protective measures, they can create dangerous situations for both the electrical system and the personnel working near the energy networks.

Implementation of protective relays

In order to implement anti-islanding protection relays, a thorough understanding of the connection schemes and operating parameters of the PV plant is required. These relays must be able to quickly detect islanding conditions and cut off power in a very short time to minimize risks. Their implementation also requires special attention to system configuration and testing to ensure that operation is both efficient and compliant with applicable standards and regulations.

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Conclusion

The integration of anti-islanding protection relays in photovoltaic installations with a power greater than 30 KVA is an essential safety measure that contributes to the protection of the electrical system, the equipment connected to the grid and the intervention personnel.