Here in NY (upstate), the utility (NatGrid, NYSEG) will not agree to an interconnection until they have replaced the existing unidirectional kWh meter with a bidirectional one. This is the signal that the PV system can be energized and connected to the grid.
-Glenn From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Kirk Herander Sent: Friday, August 12, 2011 9:46 AM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] mechanical vs. electronic kwh meter Hello, I am now in a debate with the metering dept. of a local utility. They don't want a PV system to be energized and tested until a bidirectional electronic meter is installed. They insist that an old plain Jane mechanical meter can be damaged and is a safety concern if power is pushed through it (its running backwards) to the grid. I have never heard of, witnessed, or been told this by any utility or AHJ inspector until now. Have any of you ever? I don't know the reason for their paranoia. I assume that many utility districts don't to this day install bidirectional electronic meters. And rely on the original mechanical meter to count backwards reliably and safely. Kirk Herander VT Solar, LLC dba Vermont Solar Engineering NABCEPTM Certified installer Charter Member NYSERDA-eligible Installer VT RE Incentive Program Partner
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