NABCEP Grid Interconnection 3

Question 1

During the utility interconnection application process, what typically triggers a 'Supplemental Review' (or detailed study)?

Accepted Answer

The system fails initial fast-track screening due to potential adverse grid impacts

Answer

Supplemental Review is required when a system's initial fast-track screening identifies potential grid impacts — such as thermal overloads or voltage violations — that require detailed engineering analysis.

Question 2

What is the purpose of a 'Permission to Operate' (PTO) letter issued by the utility?

Accepted Answer

Official utility authorization confirming the system has passed all inspections and may begin exporting power to the grid

Answer

The PTO letter is the utility's final written approval confirming the grid-tied system meets all requirements and may legally begin operating and exporting power.

Question 3

Which NEC article primarily governs the installation requirements for solar photovoltaic systems in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Article 690 (Solar Photovoltaic Systems)

Answer

NEC Article 690 is dedicated exclusively to Solar Photovoltaic Systems, covering wiring methods, overcurrent protection, disconnecting means, and grounding specific to PV installations.

Question 4

NEC Article 705 is relevant to grid-tied solar installations because it covers:

Accepted Answer

Interconnected electric power production sources and their connection to premises wiring

Answer

NEC Article 705 addresses interconnected electric power production sources, governing how PV and other generation systems connect to the premises wiring and utility grid.

Question 5

What power factor range must grid-tied PV inverters typically maintain at the point of interconnection under IEEE 1547?

Accepted Answer

Between 0.85 lagging and 0.85 leading

Answer

IEEE 1547 requires distributed energy resources to maintain power factor between 0.85 lagging and 0.85 leading to manage reactive power exchange with the grid appropriately.

(NABCEP) North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners Solar Practice Test

(NABCEP) North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners Solar Practice Test

NABCEP Grid Interconnection 3