Description

The Integrelec Distributed Solar Control System for Multi-Building Sites is a comprehensive solution designed to manage solar PV generation across large residential or commercial sites with multiple buildings, each equipped with small inverters. The system ensures compliance with Distribution Network Service Provider (DNSP) requirements while offering advanced features such as export control, phase balancing, and cloud-based monitoring. Below is a detailed breakdown of the system:

---

Key Features

1. Automatic Inverter Shutdown: Responds to Interface Protection Relay trips or GSD signals.
2. Site-Wide Export Control: Manages solar export to the grid to avoid overloading.
3. Active Phase Balancing: Balances loads across phases when single-phase inverters are used.
4. Excess Voltage Rise Protection: Prevents voltage rise issues in the network.
5. Online Monitoring: Cloud-based monitoring for the entire site and individual inverters.
6. Central Battery Integration: Supports integration with battery energy storage systems.

---

System Architecture

The system is divided into three main components:

1. Central Controller at the Main Switchboard (MSB)

• 

  Central Controller GA Approximate Layout

  Components:

  • Advanced industrial PLC (PhoenixContact 3152 dual-port, multi-CPU).
  • DNSP-approved Interface Protection Relay.
  • Multi-mode power metering equipment.
  • 4/5G remote communications router.
  • Ethernet switch and 24VDC power supply.
• Functions:
  • Acts as the central communications hub.
  • Implements DNSP protection algorithms (export control, phase balancing, etc.).
  • Manages communication with inverter nodes and cloud services.

2. Site-Wide IP-Based Communication Network

• Requirements:
  • Dedicated VLAN for the system.
  • Fiber optic or fixed wireless network.
  • Dedicated port on network termination devices in each villa and at the MSB.
• Purpose:
  • Facilitates communication between the central controller and inverter nodes.

3. Inverter Gateway Nodes (1 per villa/building)

• Components:
  • Integrelec IPN100 gateway.
  • Connects to the inverter via RS485 and DRM signals.
  • Ethernet port for site network connection.
• Features:
  • Compatible with all inverter brands/models supporting Modbus RTU and DRM.
  • Compact design (110mm x 105mm x 35mm).
  • Indoor mounting with self-adhesive Velcro strips.
  • Pre-tested before delivery.

---

System Topology

 

• Central Controller:

Located at the MSB, connected to the site LAN.

 

• Inverter Nodes:

Installed in each villa, connected to the site LAN.

 

• Cloud Integration:

Data is sent to a cloud-based IoT web server for monitoring and control.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

---

Supply Inclusions

1. Central Control PLC System:
   • Includes PLC, Grid Protection Relay, GSD, 4/5G VPN Gateway, Ethernet switch, and power supply.
   • Fully programmed with Integrelec’s central inverter management software.
2. Villa Node Units (IPN100):
   

   Villa nodes

   • One unit per building/inverter.
   • Includes 12V power supply and necessary cabling.
3. Installation:
   • Integrelec provides the central PLC equipment.
   • Builder’s electrician typically installs nodes and cabling.
   • Integrelec provides installation instructions and test records template for completion by installing electrician.
4. Commissioning:
   • Online dashboard provisioning.
   • 12 months of free online dashboard access (subscription required thereafter).
   • Phone support for installers.
   • Daily monitoring during commissioning.
   • Formal system testing (export control, phase balancing, etc.).
5. 

   Web Display

   Online Monitoring:

   • Cloud-based live monitoring via web browser.
   • Displays site and inverter status, power flow, phase currents, and more.
6. Battery Integration:
   • Provides solar production data via Modbus TCP for battery management systems.
   • Technical assistance for integration.

---

Exclusions from Integrelec Scope

• RPEQ certification of the final system (can be completed by Integrelec, but is arranged separately).
• Installation of node hardware and cabling (except by special arrangement).
• Installation and commissioning of the site-wide communication network (VLAN).

---

Cost

• Pricing is provided after assessing site conditions and system requirements.

---

Benefits

• Compliance: Meets all DNSP requirements for distributed solar systems.
• Cost-Effective: Custom-designed hardware reduces costs.
• Scalability: Suitable for sites with a large number of buildings.
• Remote Monitoring: Cloud-based monitoring ensures easy oversight and troubleshooting.
• Future-Proof: Supports battery integration and advanced grid management features.

---

This system is ideal for developers, builders, and site operators looking to deploy distributed solar PV systems while ensuring grid stability and compliance. For more details or a site-specific quote, contact Integrelec.