Static power converters of 500 kW or less serving as the relay interface package for nonconventional generators

The special publication was prepared by the Power System Relaying Committee of the IEEE to assist people involved in the installation application, and operation of utility-interconnected dispersed storage and generation (DSG) systems of 500 kW or less. The energy sources considered are batteries, fuel cells, windmills, and photovoltaic arrays. In most cases, the electrical energy produced is direct current, which must be converted to alternating current, for connection to the electric utility network. The interface between the DC source and the utility AC is often a static power converter (SPC). The purpose of the publication is to illustrate those SPC characteristics that can obviate the need for the interface relay protection package normally required by a utility. A qualifying SPC can detect utility system disturbances or other conditions that would require generator separation in addition to its normal function of protection and control of the DSG