[RE-wrenches] mechanical vs. electronic kwh meter

[Glenn Burt]

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: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] 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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