PRODUCED BY THE ENGI NEERI NG DI RECTORATE OF THE ENERGY NETWORKS ASSOCI ATI ON

Engi neer i ng Recommendation

G59/1
1991
Recommendations for the Connection of Embedded Generating Plant to the
Public Electricity Suppliers Distribution Systems
w w w .ener gynet w or k s.or g

2009 Energy Networks Association


All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means,
electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without
the prior written consent of Energy Networks Association. Specific
enquiries concerning this document should be addressed to:

Engineering Directorate
Energy Networks Association
6
th
Floor, Dean Bradley House
52 Horseferry Rd
London
SW1P 2AF

This document has been prepared for use by members of the Energy
Networks Association to take account of the conditions which apply to
them. Advice should be taken from an appropriately qualified engineer
on the suitability of this document for any other purpose.
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 3
1991

CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION.............................................................................................................5

2 INTERPRETATIONS.......................................................................................................5

3 LEGAL ASPECTS............................................................................................................8

4 CONNECTION ARRANGEMENTS................................................................................9

5 SYSTEM EARTHING ASPECTS..................................................................................10

5.1 HV System...............................................................................................................10
5.2 LV System...............................................................................................................11

6 PARALLEL OPERATION WITH THE PUBLIC ELECTRICITY SUPPLIERS
SYSTEM (INCLUDING OCCASIONAL PARALLELING)........................................12

6.1 Operational and Safety Aspects...............................................................................12

6.1.1 General.............................................................................................................12
6.1.2 Written Agreement...........................................................................................12
6.1.3 Responsibilities................................................................................................13
6.1.4 HV Operational and Safety Aspects................................................................13
6.1.5 LV Operational and Safety Aspects.................................................................14

6.2 Technical Considerations.........................................................................................14

6.2.1 Fault Infeed......................................................................................................14
6.2.2 Synchronising..................................................................................................14
6.2.3 Distortion and Interference..............................................................................15
6.2.4 Operational Switching.....................................................................................15
6.2.5 Points of Interconnection and Means of Isolation...........................................16

6.3 Control Equipment Requirements............................................................................16

6.4 Protective Equipment...............................................................................................17

6.4.1 General.............................................................................................................17
6.4.2 Protective Equipment for HV Supply Arrangements......................................17
6.4.3 Protective Equipment for LV Supply Arrangements.......................................18
6.4.4 Power Factor Correction..................................................................................19

6.5 Testing and Commissioning....................................................................................20

6.6 Metering...................................................................................................................20

6.7 Short Term Occasional Paralleling..........................................................................21
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 4
1991


7 OPERATION WITH ALTERNATIVE CONNECTION TO THE PUBLIC
ELECTRICITY SUPPLIERS SYSTEM (STANDBY GENERATOR WITH NO
PARALLELING WITH THE PES SYSTEM) ...............................................................21

7.1 General.....................................................................................................................21

7.2 Changeover Operated at HV....................................................................................22

7.3 Changeover Operated at LV ....................................................................................22



APPENDICES

APPENDIX A: BIBLIOGRAPHY ..........................................................................................24

APPENDIX B: EMBEDDED GENERATION TEST RECORD...........................................26


AMMENDMENT 1, 1992 now incorporated

AMMENDMENT 2, 1995 now incorporated

Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 5
1991


RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE CONNECTION OF EMBEDDED
GENERATING PLANT TO THE PUBLIC ELECTRICITY SUPPLIERS
DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

1 INTRODUCTION

This Engineering Recommendation, which relates to the connection of embedded generating
plant to Public Electricity Suppliers (PES) distribution systems, is intended for use where the
connection is to be made to systems at, or below, 20kV and where the output of the
generating plant does not exceed 5MW.

The connection of generating plant of larger capacity and at higher voltages, will normally
require a more stringent technical appraisal and considerations not covered by this document
are likely to arise. Such generating plant is therefore outside the scope of this
Recommendation, although similar principles will apply.

This document applies to systems where the embedded generating plant may be parallelled
with PES distribution systems or where either the embedded generating plant or the PES
systems may be used to supply the same electrical load.

The basic safety and technical requirements in respect of the interface between PES systems
and embedded generating plant are specified in this document and information is given on the
legal background. Examples of the practical implementation of these requirements are given
in Engineering Technical Report (ETR) 113, however ETR 113 is a guidance document and
is not intended to preclude innovation or mutual agreement on alternative means of meeting
the requirements.

Throughout this document the term Embedded Generator includes Embedded Generators
or Suppliers as described in Section 2.

Since the first issue of this Recommendation was published in 1985, the Electricity Supply
Regulations 1988 have come into force. Many of the recommendations of the original
document have now been included in the Regulations and therefore have become statutory
requirements. This issue of the Recommendation has been amended to include these and
other changes in the legislation.

2 INTERPRETATIONS

Note: These interpretations are applicable to this document and may not be appropriate if
used out of this context.
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 6
1991


Embedded Generator

A person who generates electricity and whose generating units are directly connected to a
PES distribution system and includes customers with their own generating plant.

Low Voltage (LV)

A voltage normally exceeding extra-low but not exceeding 1000V ac or 1500V dc between
conductors or 600V ac or 900V dc between conductors and earth.

Supplier

This appears in The Electricity Supply Regulations 1988 and means a person who supplies,
and, where electric lines and apparatus used for that purpose are owned otherwise than by
that person, shall include the owner of those electric lines and apparatus. Thus, for the
purposes of G.59/1, Supplier includes both the PES and the Embedded Generator.

System

This appears in The Electricity Supply Regulations 1988 and means an individual electrical
system in which all the conductors and apparatus are electrically connected to one or more
sources of voltage and includes all those conductors and apparatus.

High Voltage (HV)

A voltage exceeding 1000V ac or 1500V dc between conductors, or 600V ac or 900V dc
between conductors and earth.

Public Electricity Supplier (PES)

A public electricity supplier or suppliers which hold licences granted under section 6(1)(c) of
the Electricity Act 1989 or the Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 and for the purpose
of this document are also members of the Electricity Association.

PES Control Engineer

The Control Engineer at the PES Control Centre.

Point of Common Coupling

The point on the PES network, electrically nearest the generating plant installation, at which
other customers loads are, or may be, connected.

Point of Supply

The point of electrical connection between the apparatus owned by the local PES and the
apparatus owned by an Embedded Generator.
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 7
1991


Plant Types

Definitions of types of generating plant are given below; other types of plant may be suitable.

a) Synchronous Generator

A type of rotating electrical generator which operates without slip and at a speed that
is directly related to system frequency. The machine is designed to be capable of
operation in isolation from other generating plant. The output voltage, frequency and
power factor are determined by control equipment associated with the generator.
Under certain conditions, the synchronous generator may be parallelled with a
network containing other generating plant. On disconnection of the parallel
connection, the synchronous generator will continue to generate at a voltage and
frequency determined by its control equipment.

b) Mains-excited Asynchronous Generator

A type of rotating electrical generator which operates at a speed not directly related to
system frequency. The machine is designed to be operated in parallel with a network
containing other generating plant. The machine is excited by reactive power drawn
only from the network to which it is connected. The output voltage and frequency are
determined by those of the system to which it is connected. On disconnection of the
parallel connection, the mains-excited asynchronous generator will cease generating.

c) Power Factor Corrected Asynchronous Generator

A derivative of the mains-excited asynchronous generator where the machine is
excited partly by the network to which connected and partly by a device of fixed
capacitance connected locally to the machine. On disconnection of the parallel
connection, the power factor corrected asynchronous generator may continue to
generate electrical power at a voltage and a frequency determined by the machine and
system characteristics.

d) Self-excited Asynchronous Generator

A derivative of the mains-excited asynchronous generator where the machine is
excited purely by a device of variable capacitance connected locally to the machine.
The machine is capable of operation in isolation from a network containing other
generating plant and in this respect is similar to the synchronous generator. Under
certain conditions, the self-excited asynchronous generator may be operated in
parallel with other generators, and on failure of that connection, the machine will
continue to generate at a voltage and frequency determined by its control equipment.

e) Self Commutated Static Invertor

An electronic device to convert direct current (dc) to alternating current (ac) in which
the output value of ac frequency and voltage is determined by control equipment
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 8
1991

associated with the device. It is similar to the rotating synchronous generator in that,
under certain conditions, it may be connected in parallel with a network containing
other generators. On failure of that connection, the device will continue to provide
power at a voltage and frequency determined by its control equipment.

f) Line Commutated Static Invertor

A derivative of the self commutated static invertor where the output ac frequency and
voltage are determined by the network containing other generating plant to which it
must be connected. On disconnection of the parallel connection, the line commutated
static invertor will normally cease generating.

3 LEGAL ASPECTS

During the privatisation process of the Electricity Supply Industry all of the pre-war
Electricity Acts and Part 1 and Schedule 1 to 3 of the Energy Act 1983 were repealed and
replaced by the Electricity Act 1989. The duty of a PES to supply and the power to
disconnect are now to be found in this Act and the Electricity Supply Regulations 1988.

Section 17 of the 1989 Act allows exceptions from the duty to supply any premises.

These exceptions include the following:-

i.) Where the PES is prevented from giving a supply by circumstances beyond the
control of the PES.

ii.) Where circumstances exist by reason of which supplying any premises might
cause the PES to be in breach of Regulations made under Section 29 of the Act and
the PES has taken all reasonable steps to prevent those circumstances from
occurring and having that effect. Section 29 is concerned with the need to ensure the
safety of the public and that supplies of electricity are regular and efficient.

iii.) Where it is not reasonable in all the circumstances for the PES to be required to give a
supply provided that he gives 7 working days notice of his intention to discontinue the
supply.

Section 21 of the Act allows a PES to require any person requiring a supply to accept:

a) any restrictions which must be imposed to enable the PES to comply with Regulations
under Section 29, and

b) any terms restricting any liability of the PES for economic loss resulting from
negligence which it is reasonable in all the circumstances for that person to be
required to accept.


Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 9
1991


General conditions of supply to consumers are also covered by Regulations 27 and 28 of the
Electricity Supply Regulations 1988. Under Regulation 27 no PES is compelled to
commence or continue a supply if the consumers installation may be dangerous or cause
undue interference with the PES system or the supply to other consumers. Regulation 28
empowers the PES to disconnect any part of the consumers installation which does not
comply with the requirements of Regulation 27. It should also be noted that each installation
has to satisfy the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

Regulation 26, Interconnected Supplies, of the Electricity Supply Regulations 1988 requires
installations that have alternative sources of energy to satisfy the requirements of Part 1 or
Part 11 of Schedule 3 of the Regulations. Part 1 of that Schedule deals with the alternative
connection agreement as described in Section 7 of this Recommendation and Part 11
concerns parallel operation of generating plant as described in Section 6 of this
Recommendation.

It should be noted that the requirements of the Electricity Supply Regulations 1988 apply to
all embedded generating plant. Any persons contemplating the operation of embedded
generating plant are advised to read the Regulations, particularly Schedule 3.

Under the Regulations no person may operate generating plant in parallel with a PES system
without the written agreement of the PES.

4 CONNECTION ARRANGEMENTS

Each installation with embedded generating plant must be designed to be compatible with the
PES network to which it is to be connected. Where it is necessary for a PES to provide any
electrical lines, or other electrical plant, or for any other works to be carried out to enable the
installation of embedded generating plant, the PES may require payments in respect of any
expenditure incurred in carrying out this work.

The two methods of operating embedded generating plant considered in this document are
described below:

a) Parallel Operation with the PES System (Including Occasional Paralleling)

The operation of embedded generating plant in parallel with the PES system in
compliance with agreed technical and commercial arrangements. Occasional
paralleling allows the connection of embedded generating plant to the PES system for
the purpose of maintaining the continuity of supply when changing over from one
source of supply to the other.

The operational and technical requirements and the requirements of the Electricity
Supply Regulations 1988 (Part II, Schedule 3, Regulation 26) for both modes of
parallel operation are given in Section 6 of this Recommendation. Further advice on
the protection requirements and the circumstances under which the generating plant
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 10
1991


may be considered to be occasionally parallelled are given in Engineering Technical
Report 113.

b) Operation with Alternative Connection to the PES System

The operation of embedded generating plant, as an alternative to the PES supply,
arrangements being such that the generating plant cannot be parallelled with the PES
supply system.

The operational and technical requirements, and the requirements of the Electricity
Supply Regulations 1988 (Part 1, Schedule 3, Regulation 26) for this mode of
operation are given in Section 7 of this Recommendation.

Where it is intended to change the existing method of operation to one of the above methods,
the requirements of the chosen method must be met in full.

5 SYSTEM EARTHING ASPECTS

The Electricity Supply Regulations 1988 require a Supplier to ensure that every system is
connected with earth at or as near as is reasonably practicable to the source of voltage in the
system.

5.1 HV System

For HV system neutral earthing, the PES may use direct, resistor, reactor or arc suppression
coil methods. The magnitude of the possible earth fault current will depend inter alia on
which of these methods is used.

To comply with the Electricity Supply Regulations 1988, the written agreement between the
PES and the Embedded Generator must include provision for the compatibility of the means
of connecting the two systems with earth. The Embedded Generators earthing arrangement
must therefore be designed in consultation with the PES. The actual earthing arrangements
will also be dependent on the number of machines in use and the Embedded Generators own
system configuration and method of operation. The system earth connection shall have
adequate electrical and mechanical capability for the duty.

Where PES systems are designed for earthing at one point only, no star point or earthing
transformer should be connected by the Embedded Generator during parallel operation.
Adequate precautions must be taken to ensure that the Embedded Generators HV system is
earthed when operating in isolation from the PES system. Where the Embedded Generator
supplies an unearthed isolated part of the PES system under controlled conditions, either
through pre-arranged switching or the planned automatic operation of control and protection
equipment, system earthing will need to be provided at the generating plant location. Such
controlled conditions will be planned for in the design of the Embedded Generators and the
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 11
1991


PES systems. All reasonable steps must be taken to avoid unearthed operation by the
installation of suitable protection to detect the loss of the PES supply in accordance with
Section 6.4.

The written agreement between the PES and the Embedded Generator must include provision
for reasonable precautions to be taken to ensure the continuance of safe conditions if any
neutral point connected with earth in any apparatus operated at high voltage becomes
disconnected from earth.

Where the PES system is designed for multiple earthing and the generating plant is connected
to this system, earthing may be achieved by the use of a busbar earthing transformer or the
use of the star point of the generator. Engineering Technical Report 113, Figure 5.8, gives
examples of alternative neutral earthing arrangements for HV systems and generators.

5.2 LV System

PES LV systems are directly earthed, and the majority are now multiple earthed.

Where an earthing terminal is provided by the PES it may be used by an Embedded
Generator for earthing his installation, subject to the PES being satisfied that the existing
connection is of adequate capacity. If the embedded generating plant is intended to operate
independently of the PES supply, the installation must include an earthing system which does
not rely upon the PES earthing terminal. Where use of the PES earthing terminal is retained,
the Embedded Generators earthing system and PES earthing terminal is retained, it must be
connected to the generating plant earthing system by means of a conductor at least equivalent
in size to that required to connect the PES earthing terminal to the installation.
Where the PES substation is on the Embedded Generators premises and adjacent to the
location of the embedded generating plant, the PES may allow the substation earthing system
to be used in place of a separate independent earthing system. The PES written agreement is
necessary before making any connection to the PES earthing system.

Where it is intended to operate in parallel with a PES LV system with the star point
connected to the neutral and/or earthing system, precautions will need to be taken to limit the
effects of circulating harmonics. The Supply Regulations will permit the insertion of an
impedance in the supply neutral of the generating plant for this purpose, when it is parallelled
with the PES system. Other methods which will reduce the circulation of harmonics are
described in ETR 113. However, if the generating plant is operating in isolation from the
PES system it will be necessary to have the generating plant directly earthed.

The method of earthing will affect the means of isolation required by Sections 6.2.5 and 7.3.
The isolator should be selected in the following manner:

a) Where the PES LV system is multiple earthed, TN-C-S (PME) and some TN-S
systems, and the PES earthing terminal is connected to the main earthing terminal of
the installation in an approved manner, isolation of the phase conductors only is
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 12
1991

necessary. However, in the case of alternative connection, a phase and neutral isolator
may be used to avoid circulating currents (see Section 7.3).

b) For all other cases where any PES earthing terminal is connected to the installation,
the PES may require isolation of phase and neutral conductors for safety reasons.
(Some TN-S systems.)

c) Where a PES earthing terminal is not used or not provided (all TT Systems) phase and
neutral isolation is required.

Engineering Technical Report 113, Figures 4.1 to 4.7, gives examples of alternative earthing
arrangements for LV generators and systems.

Where transportable or mobile generating plant is used, it is essential that all earth
connections to the generator are efficiently made prior to making off any phase connections
or running the generator.


6 PARALLEL OPERATION WITH THE PUBLIC ELECTRICITY SUPPLIERS
SYSTEM (INCLUDING OCCASIONAL PARALLELING)
6.1 Operational and Safety Aspects
6.1.1 General

Advice on the provision of safeguards for any person intending to operate or maintain
interconnected electrical systems is given in the Guidance Notes on the Safety Implications
of the Energy Act 1983 issued by the Electricity Association with the support of the Health
and Safety Executive and the Department of Energy. Reference should also be made to the
appropriate PES Safety Rules and Engineering Recommendation G.19/1.

6.1.2 Written Agreement

Under the 1988 Supply Regulations, the Embedded Generator must obtain in writing from the
PES, an agreement to operate embedded generating equipment in parallel with the PES
system. Regulation 26 requires that this agreement shall be in accordance with Schedule 3 of
the Regulations and shall include:

a) the means of synchronisation between the Embedded Generators system and the PES
system;

b) the responsibility for plant maintenance and failure records;

c) the means of connection and disconnection between PES and Embedded Generator
system;
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 13
1991


d) reasonable precautions to be taken to ensure the continuance of safe conditions if any
neutral point connected with earth in any apparatus operated at high voltage becomes
disconnected from earth, as well as those items concerned with earthing given in
Section 5 of this document;

e) marked-up drawing demonstrating the compatibility of earth connections.

6.1.3 Responsibilities

When parallel operating takes place the PES system and the Embedded Generators system
become interconnected supplies under Regulation 26 of the Supply Regulations. The
Regulations put responsibilities on both parties to:-

a) ensure that all persons carrying out operations on their systems are Authorised
persons and competent;

b) ensure that there are adequate and reliable means of communication between the PES
and Embedded Generator;

c) inform each other of any condition, occurrence or incident which could affect the
safety of the others personnel, or the maintenance of equipment and to keep records
of the communication of such information;

d) designate persons with authority to act and communicate on their behalf and inform
each other of the names of the persons so designated and where they may be reached.

The Embedded Generator and PES must give due regard to these requirements and ensure
that all operating personnel are competent in that they have adequate knowledge and
sufficient judgement to take the correct action when dealing with an emergency. Failure to
take correct action may jeopardise the Embedded Generatorss or PES system. Persons
operating for Embedded Generators should be aware that many PES apply auto-reclose
systems to high voltage overhead line circuits. This may affect the operations of directly
connected HV generators and also generators connected to LV systems supplied indirectly by
HV overhead lines.

6.1.4 HV Operational and Safety Aspects

Where the point of supply provided by the PES for parallel operation is at HV, the Embedded
Generator must ensure:

a) that a person with authority, on his staff, is available at all times to receive
communications from the PES Control Engineer so that emergencies, requiring urgent
action by the Embedded Generator, can be dealt with adequately. Where required by
the PES, it will also be a duty of the Embedded Generators staff to advise the PES
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 14
1991

Control Engineer of any abnormalities that occur on the embedded generating plant
which have caused, or might cause, disturbance to the PES system;

b) that where it is necessary for his employees to operate the PES equipment, they have
been designated in writing by the PES as an Authorised Person for this purpose.
All operations of PES equipment must be carried out to the specific instructions of the
PES Control Engineer. In an emergency, the Authorised Person can open a switch or
circuit breaker without prior agreement in order to avoid danger. The operation must
be reported to the PES Control Engineer immediately afterwards.

For generating plant connection to an HV point of supply, the Embedded Generator and the
PES may have to reach technical agreement on scheduling the real and reactive power output
to the PES system to ensure stability of the local distribution system. The PES may require
agreement on specific written procedures to control the bringing on and taking off of such
generating plant. The action within these procedures will be controlled, at all times, by the
PES Control Engineer.

6.1.5 LV Operational and Safety Aspects

Where the point of supply provided by the PES for parallel operation is at LV, the PES,
depending upon local circumstances, may require a similar communications procedure as
outlined in sub-paragraph (a) above.

6.2 Technical Considerations
6.2.1 Fault Infeed

When it is proposed to install embedded generating plant, consideration must be given to the
contribution which that plant will make to the fault level on the PES system. The design and
safe operation of the Embedded Generators and the PES installations depend upon accurate
assessment of the fault contributions made by all the plant operating in parallel at the instant
of fault and it is in the Embedded Generators interest to discuss this with the PES at the
earliest possible stage.

Under the Electricity Supply Regulations 1988 the Embedded Generator must ensure that his
system is capable of withstanding the fault current associated with his equipment and any
infeed from the PES system.

6.2.2 Synchronising

In order to operate embedded generating plant other than mains-excited asynchronous
machines in parallel with a PES system, it is necessary to synchronize the embedded
generating plant with that of the PES supply prior to making the parallel connection.

Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 15
1991


The voltage fluctuation on the PES system during synchronising should not normally exceed
3% at the point of common coupling and should meet the requirements of Engineering
Recommendation P.28.

Automatic synchronising equipment is preferred. Where manual synchronising is provided
the acceptability of switching procedures and operational staff is subject to agreement with
the PES.

6.2.3 Distortion and Interference

It should be noted that the stability and electrical output of a generating plant depend upon
the source of power, and may be detrimentally affected if direct coupling is made to a
fluctuating source.

Where the generating plant input motive power may vary rapidly, causing corresponding
changes in the output power, for example an aero-generator, the voltage fluctuations at the
point of common coupling should not exceed 1%.

Where the generating plant is run-up to speed as a motor connected to the PES system, any
associated disturbance must be within the limits stipulated in Engineering Recommendation
P.28.

Harmonic voltages and currents produced within the Embedded Generators system may
cause excessive harmonic distortion of the PES system. The Embedded Generators
installation must be designed and operated to comply with the criteria specified in
Engineering Recommendation G.5/3.

The level of negative phase sequence voltage at the point of common coupling on a three-
phase system should not exceed 1.3% of the positive phase sequence voltage, assuming an
initially symmetrical system at this point (see Engineering Recommendation P.29).

6.2.4 Operational Switching

Circuit-breakers and switches on the PES system are not normally fitted with check
synchronising facilities. To avoid the risk of out-of-synchronism closure onto embedded
generating plant and also achieve the simplest method of connecting the plant in the system,
the Embedded Generator will need to arrange for his plant to be disconnected from the
system in the event of a loss of the PES supply.

The PES system may have, either now or in the future, auto-reclose or automatic sequence
switching facilities to assist in restoring supplies after transient faults and this will affect the
time settings of the protection described in Section 6.4. During auto-reclose and sequence
switching operations, the system could be subjected to interruptions of up to one minute;

Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 16
1991


however, many auto-reclose schemes for rural systems will restore the supply in the order of
one second.

The conditions to be met in order to allow automatic reconnection when the PES supply is
restored are defined in Section 6.4. Where an Embedded Generator requires his plant to
continue to supply a temporarily disconnected section of the PES system, the special
arrangements necessary will need to be discussed with the PES.

6.2.5 Points of Interconnection and Means of Isolation

Every installation or network which includes an embedded generating plant operating in
parallel with the PES supply, must include a means of isolation (suitably labelled) capable of
disconnecting the whole of the embedded generating plant infeed from the PES network.

This means of isolation must be lockable, in the open position only, by a separate padlock.
Access to the points of isolation should be kept clear and unobstructed.

The Embedded Generator must grant the PES rights of access to the means of isolation
without undue delay and the PES must have the right to isolate the Embedded Generators
infeed at any time should such disconnection become necessary for safety reasons and in
order to comply with statutory obligations. The means of isolation should normally be
installed close to the metering point, but may be positioned elsewhere with the PES
agreement.

It is required under the Electricity Supply Regulations 1988 that at the point of
interconnection, or as near as practicable to it, a diagram is displayed showing all electrical
infeeds. This diagram should indicate the limits of responsibility of the PES and Embedded
Generator. There should also be displayed schedules showing by whom all apparatus is
controlled and maintained, and the agreed protection settings providing the automatic means
of disconnection.

It is also a requirement of the Regulations that a description of the method of communication
between the PES and the Embedded Generator is displayed with the above-mentioned
diagrams and schedules.

6.3 Control Equipment Requirements

Each item of generating plant and its associated control equipment must be designed for
stable operation in parallel with the PES system.

Characteristics of the local transmission or distribution network likely to introduce special
requirements for voltage or frequency control of embedded generating plant will be identified
by the PES.

Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 17
1991

Where embedded generating equipment may cause the system voltage to exceed the statutory
limit, the PES will require the installation of automatic voltage control equipment.

6.4 Protective Equipment
6.4.1 General

In addition to any generating plant protection installed by the Embedded Generator for his
own purposes the PES requires protective equipment to be provided by the Embedded
Generator to achieve the following objectives:

a) to inhibit connection of the generating equipment to the PES supply unless all phases
of the PES supply are energised and operating within the agreed protection settings;

b) to disconnect the generator from the system when a system abnormality occurs that
results in an unacceptable deviation of the voltage or frequency at the point of supply;

c) to disconnect the generator from the PES system in the event of loss or one or more
phases of the PES supply to the installation;

d) to ensure either the automatic disconnection of the generating plant, or where there is
competent supervision of an installation, the operation of an alarm with audible and
visual indication, in the event of a failure of any supplies to the protective equipment
that would inhibit its correct operation.

[Note - In some cases a system abnormality can occur which is serious but not of sufficient
magnitude for the automatic protection to operate. In such a case manual intervention may be
necessary at the discretion of the PES Control Engineer.]

6.4.2 Protective Equipment for HV Supply Arrangements

Suitable protection arrangements and settings for an HV installation will depend upon the
particular Embedded Generators installation and the requirements of the PES local system.
These individual requirements must be ascertained in discussions with the PES. To achieve
the objectives of Section 6.4, the protection must include the detection of:

a) Over Voltage
b) Under Voltage
c) Over Frequency
d) Under Frequency
e) Loss of Mains

Achieving objective (c) of Section 6.4.1 requires some form of Loss of Mains protection as
indicated in the list above. This Loss of Mains protection will depend for its operation on the
detection of some suitable parameter, for example, rate of change of current, phase angle
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 18
1991


change or unbalanced voltages. This protection must enable the requirements of Section 5.1
to avoid unearthed operation, and the requirements of Operational Switching in Section 6.2.4
to be met.

Other protection could be required and may include the detection of:

a) Neutral Voltage Displacement
b) Over Current
c) Earth Fault
d) Reverse Power

The settings of relays should be agreed with the PES, and it is a requirement of the Electricity
Supply Regulations 1988 that the settings shall not be altered without the express agreement
of the PES.

Further advice on the protection arrangements to meet the objectives of Section 6.4.1 are
given in Engineering Technical Report 113 Notes of Guidance for the Protection of
Embedded Generating Plant up to 5MW for Operation in Parallel with Public Electricity
Suppliers Distribution Networks.

6.4.3 Protective Equipment for LV Supply Arrangements

a) Small Generating Plant Below 150kVA

Small asynchronous generating plant (<150kVA) will require the minimum protection
to meet the objectives in 6.4. Table 1 indicates recommended protection settings
normally appropriate to small asynchronous generating plant. These protection
settings are set for the purpose of disconnecting equipment at times of system
abnormalities and are not the back-up limits for the generating unit.

Alternative schemes and settings may be applied subject to agreement between the
Embedded Generator and the Public Electricity Supplier.

If automatic resetting of the protective equipment is used, there must be a time delay
to ensure that healthy supply conditions exist for a continuous period of 60 seconds.
The automatic reset must be inhibited for faults on the Embedded Generators
installation. Staged timing may be required where more than one generator is
connected to the same feeder.

For synchronous and self-excited asynchronous generating plant, the protection set
out in Table 1 may not be sufficient to achieve the objectives, Section 6.4.1(b) and (c),
and additional protection to detect the Loss of Mains will be required as described for
HV Supply Arrangements in Section 6.4.2.


Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 19
1991


TABLE 1 - PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND SETTINGS FOR LV SUPPLY
ARRANGEMENTS


Protection

Phases

Trip
Setting

Total *
Tripping
Time

Under Voltage
Over Voltage
Under Frequency
Over Frequency

All
All
One
One

- 10% (phase-neutral)
+10% (phase-neutral)
- 6%
+ 1%


0.5s
0.5s
0.5s
0.5s

* The total tripping time includes any integration or timing period of the protection
relay as well as relay and circuit-breaker operating time.

b) Large Generating Plant Exceeding 150kVA

As the generating plant size increases, its likely adverse effects on the distribution
system also increase. Additional protection to that stated above may be required
similar to that suggested for HV installations. Engineering Technical Report 113
gives advice on protection systems for these higher power installations.

The protective equipment to meet the requirements of this Section must be located in a
suitable cabinet that affords immediate visual inspection of the relays but is secure from
interference by unauthorised personnel.

The requirement under the Supply Regulations for agreement of the PES to any changes in
protection settings equally applies to LV connections.

6.4.4 Power Factor Correction

Power factor correction equipment is sometimes used with asynchronous generators to
decrease reactive power flows on the supply systems. Where the power factor correction
equipment is of a fixed output, stable operating conditions in the event of loss of the PES
supply are extremely unlikely to be maintained.

Therefore, for small LV installations as described in 6.4.3(a) the protection in Table 1 would
be adequate for mains-excited generators.

Where an installation contains power factor correction equipment controlled to meet the
reactive power demands, the probability of sustained generation is increased. For LV
installations, additional protective equipment provided by the Embedded Generator, is
required as in the case of self-excited asynchronous machines.
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 20
1991


For larger LV and HV installations the effect of any power factor correcting equipment will
have to be taken into account in the design of individual protection requirement. ETR 113
shows by example how the power factor of load influences the fault current contribution from
generators on which protection requirements are based.

6.5 Testing and Commissioning

Full tests on the protective equipment shall be agreed in order to meet the requirements of
this document . These tests are the responsibility of the Embedded Generator and must be
carried out by him. Where the installation is connected to the PES HV system, the tests must
be witnessed by a representative of the PES who shall be given adequate opportunity and
reasonable notice to witness the tests.

Where the installation is connected to the PES LV system the tests need not be witnessed by
the PES. In this case the full results of the tests must be submitted to the PES for approval.

Appendix B gives a Schedule of Tests to be carried out, but further tests may be required by
the PES depending on the protection arrangements of the particular installation.

The tests must be carried out on site; tests performed before delivery and installation are not
acceptable.

The Embedded Generator must keep a written record of all protection settings and test
results. A copy of this record should be available for inspection at the metering position or as
required by the PES or other interested parties such as representatives of the Department of
Energy.

Periodic testing of the protection is recommended at intervals to be agreed in discussion
between the PES and the Embedded Generator. Tests may be required to determine:

i.) voltage dip on synchronising;

ii.) harmonic voltage distortion;

iii.) voltage levels as a result of the connection of the generator remain within the
limits laid down in the Supply Regulations.

6.6 Metering

Metering equipment must be installed at the point of supply to record measurements to the
requirements of the PES. These may include both the export and import of active and
reactive electrical energy to and from the Embedded Generators network. Where the
metering is to be supplied and owned by the PES, the Embedded Generator must provide the
facilities for the equipment to be installed by the PES.
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 21
1991


6.7 Short Term Occasional Paralleling

Short term paralleling allows for the infrequent (say once per month) connection of
embedded generating plant to the PES system for the purpose of maintaining the continuity of
supply when changing over from one source of supply to the other. The operation of the
embedded generating plant may be arranged to be an alternative to the PES supply or as a
standby to this supply. In the latter case short term paralleling may be requested by the
Embedded Generator to allow for the test running of generating plant, on load, whilst at the
same time maintaining supply during the period of load transfer.

Under such conditions and at the PES discretion it can be accepted that for those installations
where a short term test parallel is requested for testing the generator, a complete protection
scheme, as provided for a permanent parallel running installation, will not be required.
Experience has shown that in general 5 minutes can be allowed for parallel running which
must be set controlled by automatic means, whereby an electrical time interlock set to a
maximum of 5 minutes ensures that the parallel connection is broken after this time period.
The minimum protection required for a short term paralleling installation would comprise
under/over voltage and frequency. ETR 113 gives further details.


7 OPERATION WITH ALTERNATIVE CONNECTION TO THE PUBLIC
ELECTRICITY SUPPLIERS SYSTEM (STANDBY GENERATOR WITH NO
PARALLELING WITH THE PES SYSTEM)
7.1 General

No parallel operation with the PES system is allowed with this form of connection. It is the
responsibility of the Embedded Generator, and a requirement under the Electricity Supply
Regulations 1988, to ensure that any part of this installation which is, or may be, connected to
his generating plant, has first been disconnected from the PES supply and will remain
disconnected while the generating plant is connected to the installation. The PES must be
satisfied that the methods of changeover and interlocking meet these requirements. Earthing,
protection and instrumentation for this mode of operation are the responsibility of the
Embedded Generator. Where such plant is to be installed, the PES must be provided with the
opportunity to inspect the equipment and witness commissioning of any auto-changeover
plant.

The changeover devices must be of a fail-safe design so that one circuit controller cannot be
closed if the other circuit controller in the changeover sequence is closed, even if the
auxiliary supply to any electro-mechanical devices has failed. Changeover methods
involving transfer of removable fuses or those having no integral means of preventing
parallel connection with the PES supply are not acceptable. The equipment must not be
installed in a manner which interferes with the PES metering, cut-out, fusegear or circuit-
breaker installation at the supply terminals.
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 22
1991


The direct operation of circuit-breakers or contactors must not result in the defeat of the
interlocking system. For example, if a circuit-breaker can be closed mechanically, regardless
of the state of any electrical interlocking, then it must have mechanical interlocking in
addition to electrical interlocking. Where an automatic mains fail type of generating plant is
installed, a conspicuous warning notice should be displayed and securely fixed.

7.2 Changeover Operated at HV

Where the changeover operates at HV in order to meet the Supply Regulation requirements,
the following provisions may be adopted although each has limitations:

a) an electrical interlock between the closing and tripping circuits of the changeover
circuit-breakers;

b) a mechanical interlock between the operating mechanisms of the changeover circuit-
breakers;

c) an electro-mechanical interlock in the mechanisms and in the control circuit of the
changeover circuit-breakers;

d) a system of mechanical interlocks operated by a transferable key system.

Although any one method meets the minimum requirement, it is recommended that two
methods of interlocking are used.

7.3 Changeover Operated at LV

Where the changeover operates at LV, the following provisions may be adopted to meet the
Supply Regulation requirements:

a) manual break-before-make changeover switch;

b) two separate switches or fuse switches mechanically interlocked so that it is
impossible for one to be moved when the other is in the closed position;

c) an automatic break-before-make changeover contactor;

d) two separate contactors which are both mechanically and electrically interlocked.

e) a system of locks with a single transferable key.

The PES must be satisfied that any other arrangement will fulfil its obligations under the
Regulations and also those of the Embedded Generator.
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 23
1991


The general requirements for earthing and isolation give in Section 5.2 should be applied.
For LV generating plant connected to an installation with a PES earthing terminal (TN-
System), it should be noted that a parallel path exists in the neutral/earthing system. A
changeover device switching the neutral as well as the phases will avoid problems associated
with circulating harmonic currents. Alternatively, it will be necessary to ensure that the
conductor ratings are not exceeded as a result of these circulating currents. Where the neutral
is not switched, any residual current earth fault protection will have to be positioned to avoid
mal-operation due to the parallel neutral/earth path.


Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 24
1991


APPENDIX A

BIBLIOGRAPHY


1 The Energy Act 1983 HMSO

2 The Electricity (Private Generating Stations and Requests
by Private Generators and Supplier) Regulations 1984 HMSO

3 Electricity Act 1989 HMSO

4 Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 HMSO

5 Electricity Supply Regulations 1988 HMSO

6 Distribution Safety Rules Consult
appropriate PES

7 Guidance Notes on the Safety Implications EA Engineering and
of the Energy Act 1983 Safety Division

8 Engineering Recommendation G.5/3 - EA Engineering and
Limits for Harmonics in the UK Electricity Safety Division
Supply System

9 Engineering Recommendation G.l9/1 - EA Engineering and
Model Guidelines for Operations or Work on the Safety Division
Premises of Consumers Receiving HV Supply

10 Recommendation P.28 - Planning Limits for Voltage EA Engineering and
Fluctuations caused by Industrial, Commercial and Safety Division
Domestic Equipment in the UK

11 Engineering Recommendation G.12/2 - EA Engineering and
National Code of Practice on the Application of Safety Division
Protective Multiple Earthing to Low
Voltage Networks

12 Regulations for Electrical Installations The Institution of
(The Wiring Regulations) Electrical Engineers

13 Engineering Technical Report 113 - EA Engineering and
Notes of Guidance for the Protection of Private Safety Division
Generating Sets up to 5MW for Operation in
Parallel with Electricity Boards Distribution Networks

Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 25
1991


14 Engineering Recommendation P.29 - EA Engineering and
Planning Limits for Voltage Unbalance in the UK for Safety Division
132kV and Below
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 26
1991


APPENDIX B


EMBEDDED GENERATION TEST RECORD

Ref No.

1 OWNERS/COMPANY DETAILS

Name and Address
......................................................................................................................................................

......................................................................................................................................................

......................................................................................................................................................

..
Telephone Number(s)
......................................................................................................................................................

2 GENERATING PLANT DETAILS

Location of Generator
......................................................................................................................................................

......................................................................................................................................................

......................................................................................................................................................

Type (synchronous, asynchronous, inverter)
.....................................................................

Manufacturer
.....................................................................
Rated: Voltage
.....................................................................
Frequency
.....................................................................
Capacity (kVA)
.....................................................................
Current
.....................................................................
Power Factor
.....................................................................



Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 27
1991


3 SUPPLY FROM PUBLIC ELECTRICITY SUPPLIER

Voltage
.....................................................................
Service Details
.....................................................................
Capacity (kVA)
.....................................................................
Max Fault level
.....................................................................
Point of Common Coupling
.....................................................................
Protection
.....................................................................

.

.

.

.

.
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 28
1991

Ref No

4 PROTECTION TESTS


Test Results

Protection

Manufacturer

Type

Setting

1

2

3

Reset

Remark

Over Voltage
R-N or R-Y
Y-N or R-B
B-N or R-B





Volts
%

Sec

Volts
%

Sec

Volts
%

Sec

Volts
%

Sec

Time



Under Voltage
R-N or R-Y
Y-N or Y-B
B-N or R-B





Volts
%

Sec

Volts
%

Sec

Volts
%

Sec

Volts
%

Sec





Over Frequency
Under Frequency





Hz

Sec

Hz

Sec

Hz

Sec

Hz

Sec





Neutral
Voltage
Displacement





Volts

Sec

Volts

Sec

Volts

Sec

Volts

Sec





Additional
Protection
For
Synchronous or
Similar Plant
























NB. In addition to protection tests it may be necessary to carry out other tests described in Section 6.5.
Engineering Recommendation G59/1
Page 29
1991

Ref No
5 CERTIFICATION

On behalf of `The Generator I certify that the generating equipment specified in Section 2
has been installed and tested and complies with the requirements of Engineering
Recommendation G59/1.



Signed......................................

Date........................................



On behalf of the Public Electricity Supplier I have witnessed the tests in Section 4.


Signed......................................

Date........................................




Notes


a) The tests are to safeguard the Public Electricity Suppliers system. They do not
certify that the whole installation has been tested, or meets the requirements of the Wiring
Regulations, or any statutory requirements.

b) The over voltage and under voltage protection should be tested using an external
variable voltage supply.

c) Where the frequency of the plant is dependent on the mains frequency an external
variable frequency audio signal generator, with suitable voltage and current output,
should be used for the under and over frequency protection tests.