Certification
Photovoltaic project: Inverter for the energy networks of the future
Essen/Arnhem: TÜV NORD has witnessed the testing of a photovoltaic current inverter for the American General Electric (GE) corporation. The device was developed for the German market, and the variable inverter – which converts the direct current from the PV modules into network-compatible three-phase alternating current – is one of the core components in the development of intelligent energy networks in Germany. The inspection performed by TÜV NORD was based on the German network connection regulations.
Integration of renewable energies into the electricity network poses a considerable challenge for all concerned. Operators are faced with the task of developing and modernising their grids throughout Germany – already today, grids in some regions are at times facing demands to operate at more than 100% capacity due to renewable energy input. Intelligent energy networks, so-called “smart grids” must urgently be built in order to relieve regional distribution grids.
General Electric commissioned TÜV NORD to witness the testing of the photovoltaic current inverter that it designed for the German market in accordance with German network connection regulations. Network operators demand a so-called “Unit Certificate” before electrical current from renewable energies can be fed into the German medium-voltage network. Certification ensures uniform feed-in management and therefore improved system stability for the electricity network.
“With its variable one-megawatt inverter, General Electric has developed one of the largest devices of its kind in production today. We are supporting the project with our know-how and have initially checked some basic requirements such as maximum output and the behaviour of the photovoltaic inverter if disturbances occur within the grid”, says Ulrich Adolph, responsible for the technology area at TÜV NORD CERT.
TÜV NORD performed the inspection at the Flex Power Grid Lab at DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability in Arnhem, the Netherlands. Certification of the generation unit in accordance with the German Medium Voltage Regulation will follow later in the project.
About the TÜV NORD Group
With over 10,000 employees, TÜV NORD Group is one of the largest technical service providers, offering its advisory, service and inspection expertise in over 70 countries throughout the world. Areas of activity include Industry Services, Mobility, and Education and Training. TÜV NORD Group occupies a unique position in the sector based on its work in the fields of raw materials and aerospace. Guiding principle: "Making our world safer".
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