The document outlines the technical interconnection requirements and guidelines for net metering customers connecting renewable energy generators to Qulliq Energy Corporation's distribution system in Nunavut.
Limitation of Liability and Disclaimer
- Qulliq Energy Corporation (QEC) disclaims any warranties regarding the document's information, including its accuracy and completeness.
- QEC is not liable for any damages resulting from the use of this document and reserves the right to amend guidelines at any time.
Introduction to Net Metering Program
- QEC provides electrical power to Nunavut, relying on imported fossil fuels and aims to reduce diesel dependency through a Net Metering Program.
- The program facilitates the safe connection of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to the community's electrical grid.
Purpose of Technical Guidelines
- The guidelines ensure renewable generation interconnections do not negatively impact power quality, reliability, or safety.
- They establish criteria for interconnecting renewable generators to QEC’s distribution systems operating at 600 volts or lower.
Scope of Technical Requirements
- Applicable to micro renewables with a generation capacity of 10 kW (AC) or less and a maximum of 12 kW (DC).
- The document outlines protection, control, and operational requirements for safe interconnection to QEC's electrical system.
Limitations of the Document
- The guidelines focus on renewable generators on the secondary side of the distribution system and do not cover system design or contractual arrangements.
- Additional requirements may be necessary to meet local and national standards for safe interconnection.
Liability of Net Metering Customers
- Net metering customers are responsible for maintaining their equipment and making necessary changes to comply with new standards.
- QEC is not liable for any costs incurred by the customer for required changes or maintenance.
Safety Requirements for Renewable Generation
- All installations must comply with applicable safety codes, including the Canadian Electrical Code and Nunavut Safety Act.
- Inspections by an Electrical Inspector from the Government of Nunavut Safety Services Division are mandatory.
QEC Operational Overview
- QEC operates 25 isolated power systems in Nunavut, primarily powered by diesel generators.
- The systems require coordinated protection to maintain reliability and prevent load shedding during sudden changes.
General Technical Requirements for Interconnection
- Net metering customers must ensure their renewable generator does not exceed 80% of their existing electrical service capacity.
- The total connected renewable generation must not cause voltage rise beyond 1% of operating voltage.
Protection and Control Requirements
- An interrupting device is required to disconnect from ungrounded conductors for safety.
- Ground fault protection and abnormal voltage/frequency protection must be implemented as per standards.
Operating Requirements for Renewable Generators
- Compliance with industry standards is essential to maintain system integrity and avoid disconnection from QEC’s distribution system.
- The renewable generator must not inject harmful harmonics or DC current into the system.
Metering and Maintenance Responsibilities
- A bi-directional meter is required for net metering installations, with QEC responsible for its purchase and installation.
- Regular operation and maintenance checks are necessary to ensure compliance and safety standards are met.
Electromagnetic Compatibility Standards
- CAN/CSA C61000-2-2 addresses low-frequency conducted disturbances in public low-voltage power supply systems.
- CAN/CSA C61000-3-6 sets emission limits for distorting installations connected to MV, HV, and EHV power systems.
Complementary Standards for Electrical Systems
- Includes CSA C22-1, IEEE 1547, and various IEEE standards for power quality and harmonic control.
- Standards cover voltage levels, electricity meters, and safety qualifications for photovoltaic modules.
References and Guidelines for Micro-generation
- Measurement Canada and ESA provide guidelines for inverter-based micro-generating facilities.
- NRCan's publication reviews micro-power interconnection issues and related codes in Canada.
Operating Voltages and Voltage Variation Limits
- Table 1 outlines nominal system voltages and recommended variation limits for circuits up to 1,000 V.
- Voltage limits vary based on extreme and normal operating conditions.
Response to Abnormal Voltage and Frequency Levels
- Tables 2 and 3 detail clearing times for abnormal voltage and frequency levels.
- Specific thresholds are set for voltage percentages and frequency deviations.
Harmonic Distortion Limits in Power Systems
- Table 4 specifies limits for total harmonic distortion (THD) for even and odd harmonics.
- Table 5 outlines voltage harmonic distortion limits based on harmonic order.