Renewable Energy Standards Update.

[supersparky]

Just in from the ESO Qld.

It probably doesn't affect that many members, just those with interactive or off grid systems.


Renewable energy standards update

Installers and suppliers of renewable energy systems, including solar PV systems, should note that the renewable energy standards have been updated.

AS/NZS 4777.1:2016 Grid connection of energy systems via inverters – Part 1: Installation requirements now incorporates advances in technology and equipment available. It should still be read in conjunction with the AS/NZS 3000 wiring rules and also AS/NZS 5033 if the energy source includes a photovoltaic (PV) array.

The update further details installation requirements, including:

details to clarify installation for multimode inverter systems (for example inverters with both grid interactive and stand-alone functionality)
details for installations with multiple inverters
requirements to prevent overvoltage in installations
documentation and commissioning requirements
warning signs and labelling
an informative annex to outline some design considerations for inverter energy systems.
The transition period for AS/NZS 4777.1:2016 is until 30 March 2017. Installers are encouraged to use this latest version as soon as possible because of the improved safety outcomes.

AS/NZS 4777.1 requires inverters to comply with AS/NZS 4777.2 Grid connection of energy systems via inverters – Part 2: Inverter requirements.

Please keep in mind AS/NZS 4777.1:2005 or AS/NZS 4777.1:2016 editions are still being applied. All inverters in new installations are required to comply with AS/NZS 4777.2:2015.

For more information, visit electricalsafety.qld.gov.au.


Electrical Safety Office
1300 362 128
electricalsafety.qld.gov.au

[BruceS]

David I read that thru a couple of times and it seems to me to only apply to grid connected installs?
I realise it's in Q but other states are sure to follow suit.

[jon_d]

Bruce,

possibly it includes MH setups where there is a switch over to shore power.

[native pepper]

A MH isn't a grid connect system, but plug in and requires no inverter connections, even using the grid through a charger is also plug in. My understanding is they are plug in appliances and not connections, so are not subject to electrical connection legislation, other than as household appliances.

My bus runs on 240v through an inverter and when parked the grid, we can switch between the grid and inverter. When inspected it was passed, even though they knew I wired it up and not an electrician. The only interest was that the circuit breakers worked and 240v wiring was adequate, as I used extension leads connected to power outlets and they were 15amps, so they told me it was fine. But if I had used non extension leads and normal house wiring, it would have had to be installed by an electrician. Mind you this is Tas and all work in MH's can be done by the owner, as long as it passes the inspection. I built my swivel seats and all they picked up was had to change the bolts to high tensile bolts, every thing else passed easily. Believe they may have changed that since we went through the motions, but have no idea what the requirements now are in Tas, or Aus. We don't have yearly or transfer inspections, what was build decades ago, remains acceptable, along with the rust.

[T1 Terry]

I believe RV's in general come under transportable buildings and that has its own standards to read in conjunction with AS/NZS 3000/??? no idea what the latest update is up to but generally the year they updated it.
The grey area that no official seems to want to answer is totally off grid installations in general. If the RV does not have a point to connect to mains power then do their regulation apply, the same for totally off grid home installs? Without the clout of "We supply the electricity so we make the rules, break the rules and we cut off the supply" what powers do they have?

T1 Terry

[supersparky]

I'm not really sure how they may have changed regulation regarding stand alone or grid connect systems as I haven't yet read the updated standard.
I posted this as an FYI for those members that may have an applicable setup.
I would expect that they might have an interpretation for any installer that connects anything that has the potential to do someone harm. Sort of like the Gas Standards.