Victron VE Transfer Switch and anti-islanding / grid isolation

Q&A and troubleshooting
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1

Hi,

I work for a consultancy for a highways authority; we have been asked to test a pilot for a UPS solution to feed one roadside technology cabinet and seeking for a bit of experience/advice. The UPS (inverter+battery pack) is to kick in if the DNO mains supply fails.

We have resolved the inverter+battery element (230VAC,5kw,duration, etc.). the inverter features some “anti-islanding” capability, however, we have been advised that we need to provide some physical isolation between the DNO system/connection and the highways installation (simplified: the load)- to prevent risk of feeding back to the grid.
We have been advised to procure an ATS e.g. VE Transfer Switch from Victrom. My question are:

  • Does the VE Transfer Switch provide that anti-islanding / grid isolation capability; protect the mains power supply.

  • I reckon the DNO would still have to be connected to the Inverters Input (charge batteries) - so would we still need an additional device to protect the DNO grid?

I hope that makes sense.

Many thanks in advance,

2

The multis already have dual input relays and all the protection built in, or are you not using Victron inverters?

3

Thanks for the reply; unfortunately we did not choose Victron at the time but a different brand which does not have the anti-islanding capability or is designed for off-network applications.

After further investigation it looks like we need to provide an anti-islanding protection; the Victron Anti-Islanding Box 63A seems to do the job as comprises the grid monitor+contactors to enable automatic disconnection in case of grid power outage.

Would you know if Anti-Islanding Box 63A requires interface with an inverter (e.g. via relays) or can it work by itself; i found a document here which says that the monitor does not need interface with an inverter. (link) - is the connection inverter-anti islanding device a standard requirement e.g. G99?

Man thanks,

4

The Ziehl device was standalone as far as I am aware.