[RE-wrenches] Simplified permit process

[Allan Sindelar]

  
  
A bill has been introduced in our 60-day state legislative session
to direct our statewide licensing agency to develop a consistent set
of permitting standards for PV systems. Like many states, we suffer
a confusing matrix of differing local standards, costs and
requirements. I would like to testify at a legislative committee
hearing in favor of a common standard.

We have our own matrix spreadsheet, and we have the Solar ABCs'
Expedited Process as developed by Bill Brooks and others. What I'm
looking for are links to the best short, nontechnical and easily
read articles about how the permit process has become a large
portion of the cost of all PV systems, how it's holding back the
adoption and growth of PV, how the Obama administration has
recognized this as one of the structural barriers to more renewables
adoption, and the like. The best I can find will get printed out and
given to the legislators.

I have seen many of these articles, on Renewable Energy World and
other media, but have never saved them, of course. That's why I'm
asking for this assistance. Many of us are facing the same issues in
our jurisdictions.

Thank you,
Allan
-- 
  
  
  Allan Sindelar
  al...@positiveenergysolar.com
NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic
  Installer
  NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional
  New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
  Founder and Chief Technology Officer
  Positive Energy, Inc.
  3209 Richards Lane (note new address)
  Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507
  505 424-1112
  www.positiveenergysolar.com
  
  
  
   
  

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"

[penobscotsolar]

Thanks for the succinct explanation Nick. I look forward to the fix. Like
you, I believe this is happening with other inverters, but lacking the
level of monitoring available with Enphase, people just aren't aware it is
happening.

Daryl



> Hi wrenches,
>
> The frequency out of range issue is being caused by some utility meter's
> communication "ping".  This ping is actually affecting the utility voltage
> and frequency, and can be viewed with a power quality analyzer.  It is
> highly likely that this is affecting a wide variety of utility-interactive
> inverters, but is only noticeable with the Enphase systems; due to the
> high
> level of visibility that our Enlighten monitoring and reporting provides.
>
> These changes required that the software undergo a new certification
> process. We have completed our CSA certification of the new software, and
> are validating it's functionality before pushing out the solution to our
> entire population of microinverters.  We are in the process of beta
> testing
> the software fix, and are hoping to have this resolved in February.
>
> Thank you for your patience as we work to resolve this issue.
>
>
> On Tue, Feb 5, 2013 at 9:24 AM,  wrote:
>
>> Dave,
>>It doesn't happen often, and the longest I've seen him stay "down" is
>> about a half hour, but it seems to get progressively worse as time goes
>> on for some reason (initially only the five minutes, but longer down
>> times lately). This particular customer is difficult and picky, to
>> boot. I hope yours is a bit kinder. Mine seems to think we did him an
>> injustice of monumental proportions.
>>We have had the utility out there logging events, meetings with the
>> utility and another solar company in Maine to discuss all this, and
>> have kept Enphase in the loop throughout. Enphase has responded in a
>> responsible and reasonable manner throughout.
>>If you want to discuss this with Enphase, call and ask for Bret. He's
>> the engineer I previously dealt with, although he is second tier, he is
>> accessible.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> > Thanks Daryl. Does your system also sometimes stay off for longer
>> periods
>> > sometimes? My clients system can stay off for up to 64 minutes.
>> >
>> > Dave
>> >
>> > -Original Message-
>> > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
>> > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of
>> > penobscotso...@midmaine.com
>> > Sent: Tuesday, February 05, 2013 12:01 PM
>> > To: RE-wrenches
>> > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"
>> >
>> > Dave,
>> >   We have been having the same problem with an Enphase system in
>> Maine. I
>> > have been dealing directly with the third tier engineers at Enphase
>> and
>> > they
>> > are working on a software fix for this. The"event" itself is only a
>> > fraction
>> > of a second but IEEE requirements are that the inverter shut down for
>> five
>> > minutes. I only found out about this problem when it started for this
>> > customer. It sems that Enphase has already addressed the problem with
>> a
>> > software fix for the M-190's. The M-215 fix should come, according to
>> > Enphase, by the end of March. It will be automatically downloaded
>> through
>> > the Enlighten router.
>> >It's a known issue with Smart Meters with Enphase, but should be
>> > reconciled soon.
>> >
>> > Daryl DeJoy
>> > NABCEP Certified PV installer
>> > Penobscot Solar Design
>> > www.penobscotsolar.com
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >> Wrenchsters,
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> I have an Enphase 7.5kW system on a residence with utility Smart
>> >> Metering, both the PV Production Meter as well as the utility billing
>> >> meter being "read" every hour. This system has experienced many "AC
>> >> Frequency Out Of Range" events since the system was installed. Below
>> >> is copied the Enphase Event message. This particular event was for 5
>> >> minutes. Most of the events (all events are AC Frequency Out Of
>> Range)
>> >> last 5 to 10 minutes but occasionally they have lasted from 45
>> minutes
>> >> to
>> > 64 minutes.
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> My question is: Could the use of the smart metering increase the
>> >> likely hood that AC Frequency events happen? Or is this just a
>> >> coincidence and that we are dealing with fluctuating utility power AC
>> >> Frequency issues?
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> <<
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> Started on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:49 PM EST
>> >>
>> >> Cleared on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:54 PM EST
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> Recommended action
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> This condition should correct itself. No action is required.
>> >>
>> >> Details
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> The microinverter reports that the frequency coming from the utility
>> >> is either too low or too high as specified by applicable regional
>> > standards.
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> AC frequency is the frequency at which voltage varies on the utility
>> >> grid.
>> >> Frequency Out of Range events are usually transient and
>> >> self-correc

Re: [RE-wrenches] Mobil inverter with Gen support

[Larry Crutcher, Starlight Solar Power Systems]

I see. That feature is coming this year in 3 new inverter models from Magnum. 
They will share up to full output with the generator. The 12 volt will be 3kW, 
the other two will be 24v, 4kW, one with dual AC inputs.

Xantrex has one 3kW 12 volt model with gen support but I have seen quite a few 
failures so I do not recommend them. Also, they are made in China while the 
Magnums are US made. 
If interested see here:
http://www.xantrex.com/power-products/inverter-chargers/freedom-sw-12v_newgen.aspx

Larry Crutcher
Starlight Solar Power Systems




On Feb 5, 2013, at 4:23 PM, William Miller wrote:

Larry:

By true generator support, I do not mean generator start functions.  I mean the 
ability of the inverter to sense when the attached generator is being asked to 
provide beyond rated amperage and syncing with the generator and assisting in 
powering loads.  Does the Magnum do this?  I read the manual and did not see 
this function.

William Miller

PS:  Xantrex SW, Xantrex XW, Outback Radian and Sunny Island all do this.  I 
don't think any of them provide neutral switching.

Wm



At 02:22 PM 2/5/2013, you wrote:
> Hello William,
> 
> If by mobile you are referring to the neutral leg being switched then read on.
> 
> Depending on your definition of the term "true", Magnum Energy has a very 
> advanced AGS control for all their inverters, mobile and off grid. Two 
> remotes are available. For the most advanced AGS control you will want the 
> model ME-ARC remote and the ME-AGS-N.
> 
> If you also install the ME-BMK (battery capacity meter), you can gen start 
> and stop based on SoC. Very advanced and my favorite.
> 
> The manuals can be downloaded here for review: 
> http://www.magnumenergy.com/Documents/DocsFront.htm
> 
> 
> Larry Crutcher
> Starlight Solar Power Systems
> 
> 
> 
> On Feb 5, 2013, at 2:24 PM, William Miller wrote:
> 
> Friends:
> 
> I am shopping for an inverter/charger that has true generator support and is 
> available in a mobile configuration.  Can anyone suggest one?
> 
> I know Xantrex XW inverter were not available in mobile.  Outback FX do not 
> have gen support.  I am looking to see if the Radian can be had in mobile.  I 
> have heard the Sunny Island has gen support, but don't know yet if it is 
> mobile capable.
> 
> Thanks in advance.
> 
> William Miller
> 
> 
> Miller Solar
> Voice :805-438-5600
> email: will...@millersolar.com
> http://millersolar.com
> License No. C-10-773985
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Voice :805-438-5600
email: will...@millersolar.com
http://millersolar.com
License No. C-10-773985

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Mobil inverter with Gen support

[Roberto Kruse]

  
  
The Victron Quattro inverter has a
  "Power-Assist" feature, providing extra power from the batteries
  when the generator is asked to provide power byond its rating.
  


Roberto Kruse
Sistemas de Energía
t +506 2273 4545
f +506 2273 1010
email roberto.kr...@sercsa.com
www.sercsa.com
  



  
  El 5/2/2013 17:23, William Miller escribió:

Larry:
  
  
  By true generator support, I do not mean generator start
  functions.  I mean the ability of the inverter to sense when the
  attached generator is being asked to provide beyond rated amperage
  and syncing with the generator and assisting in powering loads. 
  Does the Magnum do this?  I read the manual and did not see this
  function.
  
  
  William Miller
  
  
  PS:  Xantrex SW, Xantrex XW, Outback Radian and Sunny Island all
  do this.  I don't think any of them provide neutral switching.
  
  
  Wm
  
  
  
  
  At 02:22 PM 2/5/2013, you wrote:
  
  Hello William,


If by mobile you are referring to the neutral leg being switched
then read on.


Depending on your definition of the term "true", Magnum Energy
has a very advanced AGS control for all their inverters, mobile
and off grid. Two remotes are available. For the most advanced
AGS control you will want the model ME-ARC remote and the
ME-AGS-N.


If you also install the ME-BMK (battery capacity meter), you can
gen start and stop based on SoC. Very advanced and my favorite.


The manuals can be downloaded here for review:
http://www.magnumenergy.com/Documents/DocsFront.htm



Larry Crutcher

Starlight Solar Power Systems




On Feb 5, 2013, at 2:24 PM, William Miller wrote:


Friends:


I am shopping for an inverter/charger that has true generator
support and is available in a mobile configuration.  Can anyone
suggest one?


I know Xantrex XW inverter were not available in mobile. 
Outback FX do not have gen support.  I am looking to see if the
Radian can be had in mobile.  I have heard the Sunny Island has
gen support, but don't know yet if it is mobile capable.


Thanks in advance.


William Miller



Miller Solar

Voice :805-438-5600

email: will...@millersolar.com

http://millersolar.com

License No. C-10-773985

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  Miller Solar
  
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  email: will...@millersolar.com
  
  http://millersolar.com
  
  License No. C-10-773985
  
  
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Mobil inverter with Gen support

[William Miller]

Larry:

By true generator support, I do not mean generator start functions.  I mean 
the ability of the inverter to sense when the attached generator is being 
asked to provide beyond rated amperage and syncing with the generator and 
assisting in powering loads.  Does the Magnum do this?  I read the manual 
and did not see this function.


William Miller

PS:  Xantrex SW, Xantrex XW, Outback Radian and Sunny Island all do 
this.  I don't think any of them provide neutral switching.


Wm



At 02:22 PM 2/5/2013, you wrote:

Hello William,

If by mobile you are referring to the neutral leg being switched then read on.

Depending on your definition of the term "true", Magnum Energy has a very 
advanced AGS control for all their inverters, mobile and off grid. Two 
remotes are available. For the most advanced AGS control you will want the 
model ME-ARC remote and the ME-AGS-N.


If you also install the ME-BMK (battery capacity meter), you can gen start 
and stop based on SoC. Very advanced and my favorite.


The manuals can be downloaded here for review: 
http://www.magnumenergy.com/Documents/DocsFront.htm



Larry Crutcher
Starlight Solar Power Systems



On Feb 5, 2013, at 2:24 PM, William Miller wrote:

Friends:

I am shopping for an inverter/charger that has true generator support and 
is available in a mobile configuration.  Can anyone suggest one?


I know Xantrex XW inverter were not available in mobile.  Outback FX do 
not have gen support.  I am looking to see if the Radian can be had in 
mobile.  I have heard the Sunny Island has gen support, but don't know yet 
if it is mobile capable.


Thanks in advance.

William Miller


Miller Solar
Voice :805-438-5600
email: will...@millersolar.com
http://millersolar.com
License No. C-10-773985
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Voice :805-438-5600
email: will...@millersolar.com
http://millersolar.com
License No. C-10-773985

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Hawaii Frequency Settings

[Nick Soleil]

Yes Mark,

Enphase sets the alternate grid parameters for HI remotely, and will send a
letter of confirmation directly to the utility on your behalf.  We have
preset grid parameters for HECO and MECO.


On Mon, Feb 4, 2013 at 3:44 PM, Mark Frye  wrote:

> Folks,
>
> ** **
>
> I was told that because the HI grid has poor frequency control, grid-tied
> inverters have to have their low frequency limit set to 57 Hz so they can
> ride out the worst low frequency events.
>
> ** **
>
> I find it hard to believe that this has been done for every single
> inverter installed in HI.
>
> ** **
>
> But, what do I know.
>
> ** **
>
> Can anyone shed some light on this?
>
> ** **
>
> Thanks,
>
> ** **
>
> Mark Frye
>
> Berkeley Solar Electric Systems
>
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>
>


-- 

Cordially,

*Nick Soleil*

*Field Applications Engineer
*

*Enphase Energy*

Mobile: (707) 321-2937


**

*Enphase Commercial Solar.*
*Limitless.*

*
*

1420 North McDowell

Petaluma, CA 94954

www.enphase.com 

P: (707) 763-4784 x7267

F: (707) 763-0784

E: nsol...@enphaseenergy.com

[image: nabcep logo] Certified Solar PV Installer #03262011-300

“Don’t get me wrong: I love nuclear energy! It’s just that I prefer fusion
to fission. And it just so happens that there’s an enormous fusion reactor
safely banked a few million miles from us. It delivers more than we could
ever use in just about 8 minutes. And it’s wireless! .”

- William McDonough



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Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"

[Nick Soleil]

Hi wrenches,

The frequency out of range issue is being caused by some utility meter's
communication "ping".  This ping is actually affecting the utility voltage
and frequency, and can be viewed with a power quality analyzer.  It is
highly likely that this is affecting a wide variety of utility-interactive
inverters, but is only noticeable with the Enphase systems; due to the high
level of visibility that our Enlighten monitoring and reporting provides.

These changes required that the software undergo a new certification
process. We have completed our CSA certification of the new software, and
are validating it's functionality before pushing out the solution to our
entire population of microinverters.  We are in the process of beta testing
the software fix, and are hoping to have this resolved in February.

Thank you for your patience as we work to resolve this issue.


On Tue, Feb 5, 2013 at 9:24 AM,  wrote:

> Dave,
>It doesn't happen often, and the longest I've seen him stay "down" is
> about a half hour, but it seems to get progressively worse as time goes
> on for some reason (initially only the five minutes, but longer down
> times lately). This particular customer is difficult and picky, to
> boot. I hope yours is a bit kinder. Mine seems to think we did him an
> injustice of monumental proportions.
>We have had the utility out there logging events, meetings with the
> utility and another solar company in Maine to discuss all this, and
> have kept Enphase in the loop throughout. Enphase has responded in a
> responsible and reasonable manner throughout.
>If you want to discuss this with Enphase, call and ask for Bret. He's
> the engineer I previously dealt with, although he is second tier, he is
> accessible.
>
>
>
>
> > Thanks Daryl. Does your system also sometimes stay off for longer periods
> > sometimes? My clients system can stay off for up to 64 minutes.
> >
> > Dave
> >
> > -Original Message-
> > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
> > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of
> > penobscotso...@midmaine.com
> > Sent: Tuesday, February 05, 2013 12:01 PM
> > To: RE-wrenches
> > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"
> >
> > Dave,
> >   We have been having the same problem with an Enphase system in Maine. I
> > have been dealing directly with the third tier engineers at Enphase and
> > they
> > are working on a software fix for this. The"event" itself is only a
> > fraction
> > of a second but IEEE requirements are that the inverter shut down for
> five
> > minutes. I only found out about this problem when it started for this
> > customer. It sems that Enphase has already addressed the problem with a
> > software fix for the M-190's. The M-215 fix should come, according to
> > Enphase, by the end of March. It will be automatically downloaded through
> > the Enlighten router.
> >It's a known issue with Smart Meters with Enphase, but should be
> > reconciled soon.
> >
> > Daryl DeJoy
> > NABCEP Certified PV installer
> > Penobscot Solar Design
> > www.penobscotsolar.com
> >
> >
> >
> >> Wrenchsters,
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> I have an Enphase 7.5kW system on a residence with utility Smart
> >> Metering, both the PV Production Meter as well as the utility billing
> >> meter being "read" every hour. This system has experienced many "AC
> >> Frequency Out Of Range" events since the system was installed. Below
> >> is copied the Enphase Event message. This particular event was for 5
> >> minutes. Most of the events (all events are AC Frequency Out Of Range)
> >> last 5 to 10 minutes but occasionally they have lasted from 45 minutes
> >> to
> > 64 minutes.
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> My question is: Could the use of the smart metering increase the
> >> likely hood that AC Frequency events happen? Or is this just a
> >> coincidence and that we are dealing with fluctuating utility power AC
> >> Frequency issues?
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> <<
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> Started on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:49 PM EST
> >>
> >> Cleared on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:54 PM EST
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> Recommended action
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> This condition should correct itself. No action is required.
> >>
> >> Details
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> The microinverter reports that the frequency coming from the utility
> >> is either too low or too high as specified by applicable regional
> > standards.
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> AC frequency is the frequency at which voltage varies on the utility
> >> grid.
> >> Frequency Out of Range events are usually transient and
> >> self-correcting by the utility.
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> When the microinverter detects an out of frequency condition, it must
> >> remain offline until the utility has been within acceptable limits
> >> continuously for a short period of time (seconds to minutes, varies by
> >> region). If during that time the utility again exceeds or falls short
> >> of acceptable limits, the five-minute timer must restart and the
> >

Re: [RE-wrenches] Mobil inverter with Gen support

[Larry Crutcher, Starlight Solar Power Systems]

Hello William,

If by mobile you are referring to the neutral leg being switched then read on.

Depending on your definition of the term "true", Magnum Energy has a very 
advanced AGS control for all their inverters, mobile and off grid. Two remotes 
are available. For the most advanced AGS control you will want the model ME-ARC 
remote and the ME-AGS-N. 

If you also install the ME-BMK (battery capacity meter), you can gen start and 
stop based on SoC. Very advanced and my favorite.

The manuals can be downloaded here for review: 
http://www.magnumenergy.com/Documents/DocsFront.htm


Larry Crutcher
Starlight Solar Power Systems



On Feb 5, 2013, at 2:24 PM, William Miller wrote:

Friends:

I am shopping for an inverter/charger that has true generator support and is 
available in a mobile configuration.  Can anyone suggest one?

I know Xantrex XW inverter were not available in mobile.  Outback FX do not 
have gen support.  I am looking to see if the Radian can be had in mobile.  I 
have heard the Sunny Island has gen support, but don't know yet if it is mobile 
capable.

Thanks in advance.

William Miller


Miller Solar
Voice :805-438-5600
email: will...@millersolar.com
http://millersolar.com
License No. C-10-773985
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Mobil inverter with Gen support

[Roberto Kruse]

  
  
William:
  
  Have a look at the Quattro inverter/charger from Victron Energy.
  
  Regards,
  


Roberto Kruse
Sistemas de Energía
t +506 2273 4545
f +506 2273 1010
email roberto.kr...@sercsa.com
www.sercsa.com
  



  
  El 5/2/2013 15:24, William Miller escribió:

Friends:
  
  
  I am shopping for an inverter/charger that has true generator
  support and is available in a mobile configuration.  Can anyone
  suggest one?
  
  
  I know Xantrex XW inverter were not available in mobile.  Outback
  FX do not have gen support.  I am looking to see if the Radian can
  be had in mobile.  I have heard the Sunny Island has gen support,
  but don't know yet if it is mobile capable.
  
  
  Thanks in advance.
  
  
  William Miller
  
  
  
  Miller Solar
  
  Voice :805-438-5600
  
  email: will...@millersolar.com
  
  http://millersolar.com
  
  License No. C-10-773985
  
  
  ___
  
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[RE-wrenches] Mobil inverter with Gen support

[William Miller]

Friends:

I am shopping for an inverter/charger that has true generator support and 
is available in a mobile configuration.  Can anyone suggest one?


I know Xantrex XW inverter were not available in mobile.  Outback FX do not 
have gen support.  I am looking to see if the Radian can be had in 
mobile.  I have heard the Sunny Island has gen support, but don't know yet 
if it is mobile capable.


Thanks in advance.

William Miller


Miller Solar
Voice :805-438-5600
email: will...@millersolar.com
http://millersolar.com
License No. C-10-773985

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"

[Dave Click]

For these installations, do you guys have more information on the 
utilities' protocols that are causing problems with these inverters?


On 2013/2/5 12:51, penobscotso...@midmaine.com wrote:

Will do. Enphase had originally projected the beginning of February for
the release of the fix. It is now projected for the end of March. I am
hoping it will be a done deal before this next "season" starts here in
Maine. It might be good incentive to try Power One, Exeltech or other
inverters. In all honesty, my interpretation is that the Enphase inverters
are very sensitive and respond quickly to these "pings". I believe the
software fix will allow the inverters to ignore micro-events of less than
1/100th of a second or so (the length of the "ping". I will keep the list
in the loop!

Daryl





We see the same issue here in WI.  Funny that you say 64 minutes, as some
of the M215s show the error for 64 minutes for us routinely.  Could that
just be some designated error reporting length?

Daryl, thanks for the Enphase update.  Keep us updated if you can on the
software fix.


Ryan Harkins
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer /
Project Manager





Synergy Renewable Systems, LLC
PO Box 58
Stoughton, WI 53589
PH: 608-712-7862
ryan.hark...@energycraft.com
www.energycraft.com




On Feb 5, 2013, at 11:10 AM, Dave Palumbo wrote:


Thanks Daryl. Does your system also sometimes stay off for longer
periods
sometimes? My clients system can stay off for up to 64 minutes.

Dave

-Original Message-
From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of
penobscotso...@midmaine.com
Sent: Tuesday, February 05, 2013 12:01 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"

Dave,
  We have been having the same problem with an Enphase system in Maine. I
have been dealing directly with the third tier engineers at Enphase and
they
are working on a software fix for this. The"event" itself is only a
fraction
of a second but IEEE requirements are that the inverter shut down for
five
minutes. I only found out about this problem when it started for this
customer. It sems that Enphase has already addressed the problem with a
software fix for the M-190's. The M-215 fix should come, according to
Enphase, by the end of March. It will be automatically downloaded
through
the Enlighten router.
   It's a known issue with Smart Meters with Enphase, but should be
reconciled soon.

Daryl DeJoy
NABCEP Certified PV installer
Penobscot Solar Design
www.penobscotsolar.com




Wrenchsters,



I have an Enphase 7.5kW system on a residence with utility Smart
Metering, both the PV Production Meter as well as the utility billing
meter being "read" every hour. This system has experienced many "AC
Frequency Out Of Range" events since the system was installed. Below
is copied the Enphase Event message. This particular event was for 5
minutes. Most of the events (all events are AC Frequency Out Of Range)
last 5 to 10 minutes but occasionally they have lasted from 45 minutes
to

64 minutes.




My question is: Could the use of the smart metering increase the
likely hood that AC Frequency events happen? Or is this just a
coincidence and that we are dealing with fluctuating utility power AC
Frequency issues?



<<



Started on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:49 PM EST

Cleared on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:54 PM EST



Recommended action



This condition should correct itself. No action is required.

Details



The microinverter reports that the frequency coming from the utility
is either too low or too high as specified by applicable regional

standards.




AC frequency is the frequency at which voltage varies on the utility
grid.
Frequency Out of Range events are usually transient and
self-correcting by the utility.



When the microinverter detects an out of frequency condition, it must
remain offline until the utility has been within acceptable limits
continuously for a short period of time (seconds to minutes, varies by
region). If during that time the utility again exceeds or falls short
of acceptable limits, the five-minute timer must restart and the
microinverter may not begin producing power for an additional short
period following the last out-of-bounds condition.  >>



Best,

Dave





David Palumbo

Independent Power LLC

462 Solar Way Drive

Hyde Park, VT 05655

www.independentpowerllc.com

Vermont Solar Partner

25 Years Experience, (802) 888-7194



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Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"

[penobscotsolar]

Will do. Enphase had originally projected the beginning of February for
the release of the fix. It is now projected for the end of March. I am
hoping it will be a done deal before this next "season" starts here in
Maine. It might be good incentive to try Power One, Exeltech or other
inverters. In all honesty, my interpretation is that the Enphase inverters
are very sensitive and respond quickly to these "pings". I believe the
software fix will allow the inverters to ignore micro-events of less than
1/100th of a second or so (the length of the "ping". I will keep the list
in the loop!

Daryl




> We see the same issue here in WI.  Funny that you say 64 minutes, as some
> of the M215s show the error for 64 minutes for us routinely.  Could that
> just be some designated error reporting length?
>
> Daryl, thanks for the Enphase update.  Keep us updated if you can on the
> software fix.
>
>
> Ryan Harkins
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer /
> Project Manager
>
>
>
>
>
> Synergy Renewable Systems, LLC
> PO Box 58
> Stoughton, WI 53589
> PH: 608-712-7862
> ryan.hark...@energycraft.com
> www.energycraft.com
>
>
>
>
> On Feb 5, 2013, at 11:10 AM, Dave Palumbo wrote:
>
>> Thanks Daryl. Does your system also sometimes stay off for longer
>> periods
>> sometimes? My clients system can stay off for up to 64 minutes.
>>
>> Dave
>>
>> -Original Message-
>> From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
>> [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of
>> penobscotso...@midmaine.com
>> Sent: Tuesday, February 05, 2013 12:01 PM
>> To: RE-wrenches
>> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"
>>
>> Dave,
>>  We have been having the same problem with an Enphase system in Maine. I
>> have been dealing directly with the third tier engineers at Enphase and
>> they
>> are working on a software fix for this. The"event" itself is only a
>> fraction
>> of a second but IEEE requirements are that the inverter shut down for
>> five
>> minutes. I only found out about this problem when it started for this
>> customer. It sems that Enphase has already addressed the problem with a
>> software fix for the M-190's. The M-215 fix should come, according to
>> Enphase, by the end of March. It will be automatically downloaded
>> through
>> the Enlighten router.
>>   It's a known issue with Smart Meters with Enphase, but should be
>> reconciled soon.
>>
>> Daryl DeJoy
>> NABCEP Certified PV installer
>> Penobscot Solar Design
>> www.penobscotsolar.com
>>
>>
>>
>>> Wrenchsters,
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> I have an Enphase 7.5kW system on a residence with utility Smart
>>> Metering, both the PV Production Meter as well as the utility billing
>>> meter being "read" every hour. This system has experienced many "AC
>>> Frequency Out Of Range" events since the system was installed. Below
>>> is copied the Enphase Event message. This particular event was for 5
>>> minutes. Most of the events (all events are AC Frequency Out Of Range)
>>> last 5 to 10 minutes but occasionally they have lasted from 45 minutes
>>> to
>> 64 minutes.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> My question is: Could the use of the smart metering increase the
>>> likely hood that AC Frequency events happen? Or is this just a
>>> coincidence and that we are dealing with fluctuating utility power AC
>>> Frequency issues?
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> <<
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Started on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:49 PM EST
>>>
>>> Cleared on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:54 PM EST
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Recommended action
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> This condition should correct itself. No action is required.
>>>
>>> Details
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> The microinverter reports that the frequency coming from the utility
>>> is either too low or too high as specified by applicable regional
>> standards.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> AC frequency is the frequency at which voltage varies on the utility
>>> grid.
>>> Frequency Out of Range events are usually transient and
>>> self-correcting by the utility.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> When the microinverter detects an out of frequency condition, it must
>>> remain offline until the utility has been within acceptable limits
>>> continuously for a short period of time (seconds to minutes, varies by
>>> region). If during that time the utility again exceeds or falls short
>>> of acceptable limits, the five-minute timer must restart and the
>>> microinverter may not begin producing power for an additional short
>>> period following the last out-of-bounds condition.  >>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Best,
>>>
>>> Dave
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> David Palumbo
>>>
>>> Independent Power LLC
>>>
>>> 462 Solar Way Drive
>>>
>>> Hyde Park, VT 05655
>>>
>>> www.independentpowerllc.com
>>>
>>> Vermont Solar Partner
>>>
>>> 25 Years Experience, (802) 888-7194
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> ___
>>> List sponsored by Home Power magazine
>>>
>>> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
>>>
>>> Options & settings:
>>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org
>>>
>>> List-A

Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"

[penobscotsolar]

Dave,
   It doesn't happen often, and the longest I've seen him stay "down" is
about a half hour, but it seems to get progressively worse as time goes
on for some reason (initially only the five minutes, but longer down
times lately). This particular customer is difficult and picky, to
boot. I hope yours is a bit kinder. Mine seems to think we did him an
injustice of monumental proportions.
   We have had the utility out there logging events, meetings with the
utility and another solar company in Maine to discuss all this, and
have kept Enphase in the loop throughout. Enphase has responded in a
responsible and reasonable manner throughout.
   If you want to discuss this with Enphase, call and ask for Bret. He's
the engineer I previously dealt with, although he is second tier, he is
accessible.




> Thanks Daryl. Does your system also sometimes stay off for longer periods
> sometimes? My clients system can stay off for up to 64 minutes.
>
> Dave
>
> -Original Message-
> From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
> [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of
> penobscotso...@midmaine.com
> Sent: Tuesday, February 05, 2013 12:01 PM
> To: RE-wrenches
> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"
>
> Dave,
>   We have been having the same problem with an Enphase system in Maine. I
> have been dealing directly with the third tier engineers at Enphase and
> they
> are working on a software fix for this. The"event" itself is only a
> fraction
> of a second but IEEE requirements are that the inverter shut down for five
> minutes. I only found out about this problem when it started for this
> customer. It sems that Enphase has already addressed the problem with a
> software fix for the M-190's. The M-215 fix should come, according to
> Enphase, by the end of March. It will be automatically downloaded through
> the Enlighten router.
>It's a known issue with Smart Meters with Enphase, but should be
> reconciled soon.
>
> Daryl DeJoy
> NABCEP Certified PV installer
> Penobscot Solar Design
> www.penobscotsolar.com
>
>
>
>> Wrenchsters,
>>
>>
>>
>> I have an Enphase 7.5kW system on a residence with utility Smart
>> Metering, both the PV Production Meter as well as the utility billing
>> meter being "read" every hour. This system has experienced many "AC
>> Frequency Out Of Range" events since the system was installed. Below
>> is copied the Enphase Event message. This particular event was for 5
>> minutes. Most of the events (all events are AC Frequency Out Of Range)
>> last 5 to 10 minutes but occasionally they have lasted from 45 minutes
>> to
> 64 minutes.
>>
>>
>>
>> My question is: Could the use of the smart metering increase the
>> likely hood that AC Frequency events happen? Or is this just a
>> coincidence and that we are dealing with fluctuating utility power AC
>> Frequency issues?
>>
>>
>>
>> <<
>>
>>
>>
>> Started on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:49 PM EST
>>
>> Cleared on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:54 PM EST
>>
>>
>>
>> Recommended action
>>
>>
>>
>> This condition should correct itself. No action is required.
>>
>> Details
>>
>>
>>
>> The microinverter reports that the frequency coming from the utility
>> is either too low or too high as specified by applicable regional
> standards.
>>
>>
>>
>> AC frequency is the frequency at which voltage varies on the utility
>> grid.
>> Frequency Out of Range events are usually transient and
>> self-correcting by the utility.
>>
>>
>>
>> When the microinverter detects an out of frequency condition, it must
>> remain offline until the utility has been within acceptable limits
>> continuously for a short period of time (seconds to minutes, varies by
>> region). If during that time the utility again exceeds or falls short
>> of acceptable limits, the five-minute timer must restart and the
>> microinverter may not begin producing power for an additional short
>> period following the last out-of-bounds condition.  >>
>>
>>
>>
>> Best,
>>
>> Dave
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> David Palumbo
>>
>> Independent Power LLC
>>
>> 462 Solar Way Drive
>>
>> Hyde Park, VT 05655
>>
>> www.independentpowerllc.com
>>
>> Vermont Solar Partner
>>
>> 25 Years Experience, (802) 888-7194
>>
>>
>>
>> ___
>> List sponsored by Home Power magazine
>>
>> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
>>
>> Options & settings:
>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org
>>
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>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org
>>
>> List rules & etiquette:
>> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm
>>
>> Check out participant bios:
>> www.members.re-wrenches.org
>>
>>
>
>
> ___
> List sponsored by Home Power magazine
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> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
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>
> List-Archive:
> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail

Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"

[Ryan Harkins]

We see the same issue here in WI.  Funny that you say 64 minutes, as some of the M215s show the error for 64 minutes for us routinely.  Could that just be some designated error reporting length?  Daryl, thanks for the Enphase update.  Keep us updated if you can on the software fix.
Ryan HarkinsNABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer /Project Manager         

PastedGraphic-3.pdf
Description: Adobe PDF document
Synergy Renewable Systems, LLCPO Box 58Stoughton, WI 53589PH: 608-712-7862ryan.hark...@energycraft.comwww.energycraft.com

On Feb 5, 2013, at 11:10 AM, Dave Palumbo wrote:Thanks Daryl. Does your system also sometimes stay off for longer periodssometimes? My clients system can stay off for up to 64 minutes.Dave-Original Message-From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Ofpenobscotso...@midmaine.comSent: Tuesday, February 05, 2013 12:01 PMTo: RE-wrenchesSubject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"Dave,  We have been having the same problem with an Enphase system in Maine. Ihave been dealing directly with the third tier engineers at Enphase and theyare working on a software fix for this. The"event" itself is only a fractionof a second but IEEE requirements are that the inverter shut down for fiveminutes. I only found out about this problem when it started for thiscustomer. It sems that Enphase has already addressed the problem with asoftware fix for the M-190's. The M-215 fix should come, according toEnphase, by the end of March. It will be automatically downloaded throughthe Enlighten router.   It's a known issue with Smart Meters with Enphase, but should bereconciled soon.Daryl DeJoyNABCEP Certified PV installerPenobscot Solar Designwww.penobscotsolar.comWrenchsters,I have an Enphase 7.5kW system on a residence with utility Smart Metering, both the PV Production Meter as well as the utility billing meter being "read" every hour. This system has experienced many "AC Frequency Out Of Range" events since the system was installed. Below is copied the Enphase Event message. This particular event was for 5 minutes. Most of the events (all events are AC Frequency Out Of Range) last 5 to 10 minutes but occasionally they have lasted from 45 minutes to64 minutes.My question is: Could the use of the smart metering increase the likely hood that AC Frequency events happen? Or is this just a coincidence and that we are dealing with fluctuating utility power AC Frequency issues?<>Best,DaveDavid PalumboIndependent Power LLC462 Solar Way DriveHyde Park, VT 05655www.independentpowerllc.comVermont Solar Partner25 Years Experience, (802) 888-7194___List sponsored by Home Power magazineList Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.orgOptions & settings:http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.orgList-Archive:http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.orgList rules & etiquette:www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htmCheck out participant bios:www.members.re-wrenches.org___List sponsored by Home Power magazineList Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.orgOptions & settings:http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.orgList-Archive:http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.orgList rules & etiquette:www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htmCheck out participant bios:www.members.re-wrenches.org___List sponsored by Home Power magazineList Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.orgOptions & settings:http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.orgList-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.orgList rules & etiquette:www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htmCheck out participant bios:www.members.re-wrenches.org___
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"

[Dave Palumbo]

Thanks Daryl. Does your system also sometimes stay off for longer periods
sometimes? My clients system can stay off for up to 64 minutes.

Dave

-Original Message-
From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of
penobscotso...@midmaine.com
Sent: Tuesday, February 05, 2013 12:01 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"

Dave,
  We have been having the same problem with an Enphase system in Maine. I
have been dealing directly with the third tier engineers at Enphase and they
are working on a software fix for this. The"event" itself is only a fraction
of a second but IEEE requirements are that the inverter shut down for five
minutes. I only found out about this problem when it started for this
customer. It sems that Enphase has already addressed the problem with a
software fix for the M-190's. The M-215 fix should come, according to
Enphase, by the end of March. It will be automatically downloaded through
the Enlighten router.
   It's a known issue with Smart Meters with Enphase, but should be
reconciled soon.

Daryl DeJoy
NABCEP Certified PV installer
Penobscot Solar Design
www.penobscotsolar.com



> Wrenchsters,
>
>
>
> I have an Enphase 7.5kW system on a residence with utility Smart 
> Metering, both the PV Production Meter as well as the utility billing 
> meter being "read" every hour. This system has experienced many "AC 
> Frequency Out Of Range" events since the system was installed. Below 
> is copied the Enphase Event message. This particular event was for 5 
> minutes. Most of the events (all events are AC Frequency Out Of Range) 
> last 5 to 10 minutes but occasionally they have lasted from 45 minutes to
64 minutes.
>
>
>
> My question is: Could the use of the smart metering increase the 
> likely hood that AC Frequency events happen? Or is this just a 
> coincidence and that we are dealing with fluctuating utility power AC 
> Frequency issues?
>
>
>
> <<
>
>
>
> Started on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:49 PM EST
>
> Cleared on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:54 PM EST
>
>
>
> Recommended action
>
>
>
> This condition should correct itself. No action is required.
>
> Details
>
>
>
> The microinverter reports that the frequency coming from the utility 
> is either too low or too high as specified by applicable regional
standards.
>
>
>
> AC frequency is the frequency at which voltage varies on the utility grid.
> Frequency Out of Range events are usually transient and 
> self-correcting by the utility.
>
>
>
> When the microinverter detects an out of frequency condition, it must 
> remain offline until the utility has been within acceptable limits 
> continuously for a short period of time (seconds to minutes, varies by 
> region). If during that time the utility again exceeds or falls short 
> of acceptable limits, the five-minute timer must restart and the 
> microinverter may not begin producing power for an additional short 
> period following the last out-of-bounds condition.  >>
>
>
>
> Best,
>
> Dave
>
>
>
>
>
> David Palumbo
>
> Independent Power LLC
>
> 462 Solar Way Drive
>
> Hyde Park, VT 05655
>
> www.independentpowerllc.com
>
> Vermont Solar Partner
>
> 25 Years Experience, (802) 888-7194
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"

[penobscotsolar]

Dave,
  We have been having the same problem with an Enphase system in Maine. I
have been dealing directly with the third tier engineers at Enphase and
they are working on a software fix for this. The"event" itself is only a
fraction of a second but IEEE requirements are that the inverter shut
down for five minutes. I only found out about this problem when it
started for this customer. It sems that Enphase has already addressed
the problem with a software fix for the M-190's. The M-215 fix should
come, according to Enphase, by the end of March. It will be
automatically downloaded through the Enlighten router.
   It's a known issue with Smart Meters with Enphase, but should be
reconciled soon.

Daryl DeJoy
NABCEP Certified PV installer
Penobscot Solar Design
www.penobscotsolar.com



> Wrenchsters,
>
>
>
> I have an Enphase 7.5kW system on a residence with utility Smart Metering,
> both the PV Production Meter as well as the utility billing meter being
> "read" every hour. This system has experienced many "AC Frequency Out Of
> Range" events since the system was installed. Below is copied the Enphase
> Event message. This particular event was for 5 minutes. Most of the events
> (all events are AC Frequency Out Of Range) last 5 to 10 minutes but
> occasionally they have lasted from 45 minutes to 64 minutes.
>
>
>
> My question is: Could the use of the smart metering increase the likely
> hood
> that AC Frequency events happen? Or is this just a coincidence and that we
> are dealing with fluctuating utility power AC Frequency issues?
>
>
>
> <<
>
>
>
> Started on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:49 PM EST
>
> Cleared on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:54 PM EST
>
>
>
> Recommended action
>
>
>
> This condition should correct itself. No action is required.
>
> Details
>
>
>
> The microinverter reports that the frequency coming from the utility is
> either too low or too high as specified by applicable regional standards.
>
>
>
> AC frequency is the frequency at which voltage varies on the utility grid.
> Frequency Out of Range events are usually transient and self-correcting by
> the utility.
>
>
>
> When the microinverter detects an out of frequency condition, it must
> remain
> offline until the utility has been within acceptable limits continuously
> for
> a short period of time (seconds to minutes, varies by region). If during
> that time the utility again exceeds or falls short of acceptable limits,
> the
> five-minute timer must restart and the microinverter may not begin
> producing
> power for an additional short period following the last out-of-bounds
> condition.  >>
>
>
>
> Best,
>
> Dave
>
>
>
>
>
> David Palumbo
>
> Independent Power LLC
>
> 462 Solar Way Drive
>
> Hyde Park, VT 05655
>
> www.independentpowerllc.com
>
> Vermont Solar Partner
>
> 25 Years Experience, (802) 888-7194
>
>
>
> ___
> List sponsored by Home Power magazine
>
> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase "AC Frequency out of Range"

[Dave Palumbo]

Wrenchsters,

 

I have an Enphase 7.5kW system on a residence with utility Smart Metering,
both the PV Production Meter as well as the utility billing meter being
"read" every hour. This system has experienced many "AC Frequency Out Of
Range" events since the system was installed. Below is copied the Enphase
Event message. This particular event was for 5 minutes. Most of the events
(all events are AC Frequency Out Of Range) last 5 to 10 minutes but
occasionally they have lasted from 45 minutes to 64 minutes.

 

My question is: Could the use of the smart metering increase the likely hood
that AC Frequency events happen? Or is this just a coincidence and that we
are dealing with fluctuating utility power AC Frequency issues?

 

<< 

 

Started on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:49 PM EST

Cleared on: Mon February 04, 2013 12:54 PM EST 

 

Recommended action

 

This condition should correct itself. No action is required.

Details

 

The microinverter reports that the frequency coming from the utility is
either too low or too high as specified by applicable regional standards.

 

AC frequency is the frequency at which voltage varies on the utility grid.
Frequency Out of Range events are usually transient and self-correcting by
the utility.

 

When the microinverter detects an out of frequency condition, it must remain
offline until the utility has been within acceptable limits continuously for
a short period of time (seconds to minutes, varies by region). If during
that time the utility again exceeds or falls short of acceptable limits, the
five-minute timer must restart and the microinverter may not begin producing
power for an additional short period following the last out-of-bounds
condition.  >>

 

Best,

Dave

 

 

David Palumbo

Independent Power LLC 

462 Solar Way Drive

Hyde Park, VT 05655

www.independentpowerllc.com 

Vermont Solar Partner

25 Years Experience, (802) 888-7194 

 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sunny Island DC wire size

[Chris Schaefer]

Jay, a pic would be sweet. We run into these issue a lot in the off-grid
world.
Thanks,
Christopher

-Original Message-
From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of jay peltz
Sent: Monday, February 04, 2013 22:05
To: ho...@catamountsolar.com; RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Sunny Island DC wire size

HI Howie,

I've seen someone use a single 4/0 fine stranded cable with a regular lug on
the end of it.
they then cut the top of the hole out to make in a sense a U shape.
Each side of the U fit into each side of the 2 hole barrel connector on the
SI.

Super slick iI thought.

I can send you a pic if you want.

jay

peltz power

On Feb 4, 2013, at 11:46 AM, Howie Michaelson wrote:

> Hi it has been more than a year since I wired up a Sunny Island 5048
> system and I'm trying to determine lug size for the DC conductors.  My
> memory is that the maxiumm wire size was (2) #1 conductors each for
> positive and negative.  Looking in the most recent SI manual states "The
> Sunny Island has a MAX DC terminal rated for 2x #2/0 AWG for DC+, DC- and
> PE."  Not sure if that is a typo - anyone no definitively?  The tech
> support line has gotten to have as long a hold time as Outback, Xantrex,
> etc...
> 
> Thanks,
> Howie
> -- 
> Howie Michaelson
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV InstallerT
> 
> Catamount Solar, LLC
> Renewable Energy Systems Sales and Service
> VT Solar Electric & Hot Water Incentive Partner
> http://www.CatamountSolar.com
> 802-272-0004
> 
> 
> 
> 
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