In keeping with the green state stance embrace by Government, the Guyana Power and Light company has commenced establishing a commercial and technical framework to accept electricity from renewable resources unto its distribution network.
According to information disseminated by GPL, the commercial framework includes the introduction of a Tariff to calculate the credit to the customer for the excess energy supplied to the grid.
Moreover, GPL said that it wishes to alert customers desirous of establishing an interconnection agreement with GPL they must formally submit a request for the interconnection of electricity from solar installations with GPL’s network, at the company’s Main Street, Georgetown office.
Added to this GPL has related that Photovoltaic [PV] solar installations must be compliant with the National Electric Code [NEC] Article 609 and certified by the Government Electrical Inspectorate [GEI]. It has been pointed out by the nation’s power generating company that all intended grid-tie installations must confirm with the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers [IEEE] 1547/Underwriters Laboratories [UL] 1741 Standards as a minimum requirement and be certified by the GEI too.
Further GPL has advised customers that it will also conduct an interconnection evaluation in order to ensure that prospective customers can be safely integrated with the company’s distribution network. This latter move is designed to avoid any possible technical, safety and/or security issues that can result from non-compliant connections to the distribution network.
Meanwhile, GPL has issued a warning that “it is illegal and unsafe to establish unauthorised interconnections with the company’s distribution network. If you connect to GPL’s grid without permission, it can be dangerous for your neighbours and GPL crews. Furthermore it may destabilise the electricity supply in your area.”