Solar grid link up

[yachtie]

Can anyone explain how the power generated from solar panels is synchronised with the 50 Hz on the national grid? I can understand how the original DC is converted to AC and boosted to the 240 volts but the phasing question puzzles me!

[Nibble]

This should explain it http://en.wikipedia.o...iki/Grid-tie_inverter

[Old_Geezer]

Surely can not be that difficult to monitor where the output is connected and match the generated waveform accordingly ? Just feed back what is seen when generating the output to ensure it moves up and down at the same time.

[Hymie]

The circuitry that ensures a feed-in inverter tracks the mains supply is complex.
A slight phase difference will result in a voltage mismatch, causing the unit to trip out.
Feed-in inverters include an automatic disconnect, which will operate if the supply voltage and/or frequency exceed pre-set limits.

In operation, the units monitor the incoming mains before fully connecting their feed-in output at the correct frequency, voltage and in phase.

I suspect it won’t be too long before we start hearing reports of failed feed-in inverters, which cost home owners a small fortune to replace/repair.