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The technical supervision standard (NTS) and its impact on Solar Investors

 

In the field of electricity generation, the Technical Standard for Supervision of Electrical Generation Machines (NTS) plays a crucial role in guaranteeing the safety and efficiency of systems connected to the grid. This regulation is especially relevant for solar inverters, which must meet certain requirements to operate properly. Below, we explain the types of NTS, plays a crucial role in guaranteeing the safety and efficiency of systems connected to the grid. This regulation is especially relevant for solar inverters, which must meet certain requirements to operate properly. Below, we explain the types of NTS, the powers involved, and clear up common confusion about the UGE certificate. 

Types of NTS and Powers Involved

The NTS is divided into different types, each applicable to different power ranges and types of installations: 

 

NTS Type A: Applies to small distributed generation installations, such as residential solar systems. It covers powers typically less than 10kW. These facilities must meet basic security and operational requirements so as not to negatively affect the stability of the network.

 

NTS Type B: Aimed at medium-scale generation facilities, such as commercial or industrial systems. Covers power from 10 kW to 100 kW. This type includes stricter monitoring and control requirements, as well as more complex integration with network management systems. 

 

NTS Type C: Applicable to large generation plants, such as industrial-scale solar parks. It covers powers greater than 100 kW. It requires advanced control and communication systems, as well as robust protection and failure response mechanisms. 

 

Impact on Solar Inverters 

 

Solar inverters, which convert energy from solar panels into usable electricity, must meet the requirements set by the NTS for their size and capacity. These requirements ensure that inverters operate safely and efficiently contributing to the stability of the electrical grid. 

 

1.Safety and Security Requirements 

Inverters must have protection systems against overloads, short circuits and other events that may compromise safety. This includes automatic disconnection mechanisms in case of abnormal conditions. 

 

2. Continuous Monitoring 

The NTS requires continuous monitoring of investor performance. They must provide real-time data on their operation, which is essential for effective system monitoring and control.

  1. Integration with the Network 

Inverters must be able to communicate effectively with grid control systems, facilitating coordination and dynamic adjustment of generation according to grid needs.

3. Certifications and Compliance 

To comply with the NTS, investors must obtain corresponding certifications such as LVD, EMC and NTS Type A, B or C as the case may be. These certifications ensure that the equipment meets all established technical and safety requirements. 

Confusion with the UGE Certificate 

It is common for users to confuse the UGE (Electric Generation Unit) certificate with the NTS compliance, not a UGE certificate. The NTS is the specific regulation that ensures that generating equipment, such as solar inverters, meets the standards necessary to operate on the electrical grid. 

To clear up this confusion it is important to understand that: 

  • UGE Certificate: Refers to a general accreditation of the generation unit.
  • NTS: These are the specific technical standards that establish the operation and safety requirements for generating machines connected to the grid. 
  • When your electric company asks you for a certificate they are probably referring to the appropriate NTS compliance for your installation. 

Conclusion 

The technical standard for the supervision of electrical generation machines is essential to ensure that solar inverters operate safely and efficiently. Knowing the different types of NTS and their applicable potencies is crucial to complying with regulations. Additionally, it is important to clarify the common confusion between the UGE certificate and the NTS requirements to ensure that installations meet the necessary standards ans are approved by electric companies. 

 

Edgar Mena,

Product Manager renewable energies SUNVEC

Contact us for more information or to ask any questions: 

Office Tel: 935 748 206

Tel. SAT Sunvec: 937 617 771