Guide to Connecting a Distributed Generator - Sustainability Victoria

The following sections (4.4 to 4.7) covers the preliminary information you will need to provide the DNSP at your first meeting.4.3 Typical categories of connectionConnections to the grid are classified according to the:• Type of generator• Generator size or power output• Mode of operation• Connection voltage.4.4 Types of generatorsThere are three types of generators, each with different technical challenges for your DNSP:Synchronous generatorsAsynchronous generators(also known as inductiongenerators)Inverters and power convertersTable 4: Types of generatorsAn alternating current (AC) device driven by a turbine or a motor rotating at aconstant frequency synchronised with the grid frequency of 50Hz. These generatorscan also operate independently from the grid.An AC device driven by a turbine or a motor rotating at constant frequency butslightly ahead of the grid frequency. The device draws energy from the grid tocommence operation and cannot operate in isolation from the grid.An electronic device with no moving parts used to convert energy from solar panelsand small wind turbines to AC power. There is an Australian Standard AS 4777for inverters less than or equal to 10kW that DNSPs have agreed to accept as astandard connection not requiring detailed assessment.Appendix 4 contains further information on the main types of generators and associated control equipment.image courtesy of Cogent Energy12 - Guide to Connecting a Distributed Generator in Victoria