Export Limitation
Application Note
Version 2.5
1 Disclaimers
Disclaimers
Important Notice
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may refer to the SolarEdge web site (www.solaredge.com) for the most updated version.
The material furnished in this document is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, SolarEdge assumes no responsibility for the use of this material. SolarEdge
reserves the right to make changes to the material at any time and without notice. You
may refer to the SolarEdge web site (https://www.solaredge.com/us/) for the most
updated version.
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Patent marking notice: see http://www.solaredge.com/patent
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The general terms and conditions of delivery of SolarEdge shall apply.
The content of these documents is continually reviewed and amended, where
necessary. However, discrepancies cannot be excluded. No guarantee is made for the
completeness of these documents.
Please note: This product is intended to provide remote shutdown of the SolarEdge PV
harvesting system, to enable safer access to a building in the event of fire. This product
DOES NOT reduce the risk of fire or protect firefighters or others accessing a building in
the event of a fire.
If the RS485 communication between the firefighter gateway and the SolarEdge
inverter(s) is disconnected for any reason (including fire), the firefighter gateway LCD
will display "No Communication" or "Partial Com.". In this case, the firefighter gateway
cannot be relied upon to disconnect the SolarEdge PV harvesting system.
The images contained in this document are for illustrative purposes only and may vary
depending on product models.
Export Limitation Application Note
Disclaimers 2
FCC Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Emission Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits applied by the
local regulations.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment
does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance may void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE
Interference may occur when the Wi-Fi Plug-in and Repeater are installed near
other 2.4 GHz emitting devices (such as dual technology PIR detectors used in
alarm systems, microwave ovens, etc.). This might degrade/ disable the
gateway/ repeater operation. If possible, avoid installation nearby such devices,
or consider these interferences when troubleshooting.
Export Limitation Application Note
3 Revision History
Revision History
Version 2.5 (September 2020)
Merged North American and Rest-of-World versions
SetApp support for export limitation configuration and verfication
MySolarEdge support for export limitation verification
Version 2.4 (January 2019)
Added Minimum Import appendix
Added appendix with regional considerations
Export limitation support for AC-coupled batteries
Added information on export limitation response time
Removed support for meters with S0 interface
Version 2.3 (December 2017)
Removed clustering support.
Version 2.2 (November 2017)
ZigBee support for communications between inverters discontinued.
Removed per phase option for single phase inverters.
Version 2.1 (September 2017)
Support for minimum import settings when required by utility.
Inepro meter support for export limitation.
Added clustering support
Added information on export limitation response times.
Updated meter definitions: Production, inverter production, site production.
Version 1.0 (Fe bruary 2016)
Initial version.
Export Limitation Application Note
Contents 4
Contents
Disclaimers 1
Important Notice 1
FCC Compliance 2
Emission Compliance 2
Revision History 3
Contents 4
Chapter 1: Introducing Export Limitation 5
Terminology 6
Chapter 2: Connection Options 8
Meter Types and Installation Considerations 9
Single Inverter System 10
Multiple Inverter System 11
EV Charging and Storage Systems 12
Export Limitation Response Time 13
Chapter 3: Export Limitation Configuration 14
Configuring Export Limitation 14
Verifying Export Limitation 17
Appendix A: Monitoring Platform - Meter Data 21
Appendix B: Actual Zero Export Limitation Use Cases 23
Introducing Zero Export Limitation 23
Theory of Operation 24
Example 1 - Periodic Energy Export Limit 26
Example 2 - Export Power Convergence Time Limit 27
Example 3 - Sample Commercial Site Monthly Export Log 28
Appendix C: Examples of Total and Per Phase Export Limitation 30
Example 1 - Single Phase, Zero Export Limit, Total Limit Mode 31
Example 2 - Three-Phase, 70% Export Limit, Total Limit Mode 33
Example 3 - Three Phase, Zero Export Limit, Per Phase Limit Mode 36
Example 4 - Three Phase, 3kW Export Limit, Per Phase Limit Mode 39
Appendix D: Minimum Import 42
Configuring minimum import using SetApp 42
Configuring minimum import using the device display 43
Appendix E: Regional Considerations 44
Hawaii 44
Export Limitation Application Note
5 Chapter 1: Introducing Export Limitation
Chapter 1: Introducing Export Limitation
The SolarEdge Smart Energy Management solutions allow increasing the selfconsumption of a site. One method used for this purpose is export limitation, which
allows installing a larger PV system or a larger inverter without violating grid export
(feed-in) limitations.
For export limitation, a SolarEdge device - an inverter or a Commercial Gateway dynamically adjusts the PV power production in order to ensure that exported power
does not exceed a preconfigured limit. To enable this functionality, an energy meter
that measures export or consumption must be installed at the site.
To use export limitation, the inverter/Commercial Gatewaycommunication board
firmware (CPU) version must be 2.8xx/3.8xx or higher. If the CPU version is lower,
contact SolarEdge support for an upgrade file and instructions
(support@solaredge.com).
This document describes system setup considerations and how to configure the system
for export limitation.
Export Limitation Application Note
Chapter 1: Introducing Export Limitation 6
Terminology
The following terms are used in this document:
Export: The power injected to the grid.
Import: The power purchased from the grid.
Export/Import meter: A meter that is installed at the grid connection point and
measures the energy/power exported/imported to/from the grid.
Consumption: The power consumed at the site. Consumption power is calculated as
the sum of self-consumption power and import power.
Consumption meter: A meter that is installed at the load consumption point and
measures the energy/power consumed by the site.
Self-consumption: The PVpower consumed by the site and not fed into the grid.
Production: The power produced by the PV system.
Production meter: A meter that is installed at the inverter output or site AC
connection, or inside the inverter (a built-in revenue grade meter), and measures the
energy/power produced by the PVsystem or site.
External production meter: A meter that is used for production metering of 3rd party
generators, or for AC coupling with non-SolarEdge inverters.
Site production meter: A meter that is installed at a SolarEdge inverter output, and
reads the energy produced by all the inverters at the site.
Site limit: The power level (in kW) that the inverter falls back to once an export limit
event is triggered.
Export Limitation Application Note
7 Terminology
Figure 1: Terminology Illustration
Three-phase grid configuration types:
Wye: In a Wye ("Y") configuration, all three phases are connected at a single neutral
point. Wye systems utilize five wires - three hot, one neutral and one ground.
Delta: In a Delta configuration, the three phases are connected in a triangle. Delta
systems utilize four wires - three hot and one ground.
Export Limitation Application Note
Chapter 2: Connection Options 8
Chapter 2: Connection Options
Export Limitation is managed either by an inverter or by a Commercial Gateway, which
is the site's smart energy manager. The inverter/Commercial Gateway reads the
exported power from a meter installed at the grid connection point or reads the
consumption from a meter installed at the load consumption point, and adjusts PV
power production according to the preconfigured limit.
Figure 2: Typical installation with export meter
Figure 3: Typical installation with consumption meter
The following sections describe common export limitation connection scenarios and
response times.
Export Limitation Application Note
9 Meter Types and Installation Considerations
Meter Types and Installation Considerations
Meters with an RS485 interface, which connect to the RS485 port of an
inverter/Commercial Gateway, may be used to provide total and per-phase energy
measurements.
RS485-Interface meters can be installed in the following locations:
For export/import metering: at the grid connection point.
For consumption metering: at the load consumption point.
The meter should measure all grid phases or consumption phases. When a single-phase
inverter is connected to a three-phase grid - a three phase meter is required.
For SolarEdge meter installation, refer to the meter installation guide, available on the
SolarEdge website at http://www.solaredge.com/files/pdfs/solaredge-meter-
installation-guide.pdfhttp://www.solaredge.com/files/pdfs/solaredge-meterinstallation-guide-na.pdf.
For Inepro meter installation (Inepro meter firmwareversion 1.18 only), refer to the
application note at https://www.solaredge.com/sites/default/files/connecting-
revenue-grade-meter-to-solaredge-devices.pdf.
NOTE
For installations in Australia
Connection Guideline (reference EX BMS4286 Ver 1.1 and EE STNW1170
Ver 1.1), power limiting devices must meet the following requirements:
If current transformers or sensors are used, their terminals should be
sealed.
The terminals of the power-restricting relay /management system shall
also be capable of being sealed to prevent tampering with connections –
this could include a Perspex cover or lockable cabinet that the equipment
is housed in.
Sealing equipment is not supplied by SolarEdge.
: According to Energex and Ergon Energy
Export Limitation Application Note
Chapter 2: Connection Options 10
Single Inverter System
In a single inverter system, the meter is connected directly to the RS485 port of the
inverter, which serves as the smart energy manager.
If your inverter has a built-in RGM (Revenue Grade Meter), you can connect an external
meter for export limitation using one of the following methods:
For inverters with a display, connect both the RGM and the external meter to the
RS485 port.
For inverters using SetApp, the external meter can be connected to the second
RS485 port.
In the event of a loss of communications between the inverter and the meter, the
inverter's power level falls back to the site limit.
(1)
This figure shows a single phase inverter connection. For three phase inverter 3 CTs are required.
(2)
The figures show a system with a meter measuring export, but are applicable to systems with meters
measuring consumption as well.
Export Limitation Application Note
Figure 4: Single-inverter
(1)
connection with RS485 meter
(2)
11 Multiple Inverter System
Multiple Inverter System
Multiple Inverter System with RS485 Meter
When using an RS485 meter for multiple inverter export limitation, two options are
available:
Option 1: The meter is connected to the RS485 port of one of the inverters, as shown
in the figure below. This inverter serves as the smart energy manager. If your inverter
has a built-in RGM (Revenue Grade Meter), you can connect an external meter for
export limitation using one of the following methods:
For inverters with a display, connect the meter using the RS485 Expansion Kit
(available from SolarEdge).
For inverters using SetApp, you can connect both meters to the RS485 port
configured as multi-device.
Figure 5: Multi-inverter connection with inverter as Smart Energy Manager
Export Limitation Application Note
Chapter 2: Connection Options 12
Option 2: The meter is connected to one of the RS485 ports of a Commercial
Gateway, as shown in the figure below. The Commercial Gateway is the smart energy
manager. The Commercial Gateway’s second RS485 port can be used to create an
RS485 bus for communication between the inverters.
Figure 6: Multi-inverter connection with Commercial Gateway
EV Charging and Storage Systems
Export limitation is supported in EV Charging and Storage systems, subject to the
limitations noted in Export Limitation Configuration.
Export Limitation Application Note
13 Export Limitation Response Time
Export Limitation Response Time
The system Export Limitation response time depends on the meter location, on the
communication method between the inverters, and on the inverter CPU version:
Multiple Inverters
Meter/
Location
Single Inverter
Response Time
Smart Energy
Manager is
RS485 Leader
Meter at grid
connection point
(Export/Import
Meter)*
Janitza meter at a
medium voltage
(MV) connection
point (res ponse
time resolution: 1
second)
Inepro meter ≤ 2 seconds ≤ 2 seconds
(Virtual) Meter
(1) Assumes that all inverters produce power at the same level. SetApp inverters can support up to 63 inverters
(connected using 2 RS485 buses).
(2) Nested RS-485 buses are applicable only for display inverters.
(3) The virtual meter provides calculated power/energy values based on actual meter measurements.
≤ 2 seconds ≤ 2 seconds
≤ 3 seconds ≤ 3 seconds
(3)
10+ seconds
Response Time
Smart Energy
Manager is
RS485 Follower
For N≤ 10 devices
(inverters,
Commercial
Gateway):
≤ 2 seconds
For N>10 devices:
N*200 ms
For N≤ 15 devices
(inverters,
Commercial
Gateway):
≤ 3 seconds
For N>15 devices:
N*200 ms
For N≤ 10 devices
(inverters,
Commercial
Gateway):
≤ 2 seconds
For N>10 devices:
N*200 ms
(1)
Nested RS-485
Buses
≤ 3 seconds
≤ 3 seconds
N/A
N/A
(2)
Export Limitation Application Note
Chapter 3: Export Limitation Configuration 14
Chapter 3: Export Limitation Configuration
This step should be performed after installing and configuring a meter.
In a multi-inverter system, the limit is configured in the Smart Energy Manager (the
inverter or Commercial Gateway that is connected directly to the meter).
NOTE
The Smart Energy Manager (SEM) is the device connected to the meter. The
SEM does not necessarily have to be the communication leader.
NOTE
Calculated meter readings (also referred to as "virtual meters"), such as self-
consumption, are calculated using the data measured by the meter and the
inverters. Virtual meters are only sent when Energy Manager is enabled. If
virtual meter information is required, but export limitation is not, the Energy
Manager should be enabled without any site limit setting (default).
Configuring Export Limitation
Configuring Using SetApp
To configure export limitation in the SolarEdge device using SetApp:
From the Commissioning page, select Power Control è Energy Manager è Limit
1.
Controlè Control Mode è Export Control.
Select Site Limit and enter the limit value at the connection point, in kW. The
2.
default value is none (-), which means that the system is not limited.
NOTE
The value you enter here is the overall limit to which the site export will
be restricted, whether you use the Total or Per Phase limit control
modes (as explained in the next step).
NOTE
For customers using Hawaiian country settings, solar-only EV charging
(Excess Solar mode) is not supported when the export limitation is set
to zero. Refer to the appendix, "Regional Considerations" on page44
for details.
Export Limitation Application Note
15 Configuring Export Limitation
NOTE
Export limitation of an inverter connected to an AC coupled battery is
supported in inverter CPU version 3.24xx and higher, provided that the
export limitation is > 0.
3. In the Limit Control menu, select Limit Mode. Select one of the limit modes
displayed below:
Limit Control
Total
Per Phase
Total: The Site Limit is the total export power (the combined production minus
the combined consumption) on all the phases combined. Reverse current on one
phase will count as negative power and can compensate for another phase.
Per Phase: For three phase inverter connections, the inverter sets the limit on
each phase to 1/3 of the total site limit. Use this mode if there is a limit on each
individual phase.
For example site limit settings, refer to
Appendix C
›
›
.
Export Limitation Application Note
Chapter 3: Export Limitation Configuration 16
Configuring Using the Device Display
To configure export limitation in the SolarEdge device using the device display:
Enter Setup mode, and select Power Control è Energy Manager è Limit
1.
Controlè Control Modeè Export Ctrl.
Select Site Limit and enter the limit value at the connection point, in kW. The
2.
default value is none (-), which means that the system is not limited
S i t e L i m i t [ k W ]
[ k W h ]
x x x x x x x . x x x
NOTE
The value you enter here is the overall limit to which the site export will
be restricted, whether you use the Total or Per Phase limit control
modes (as explained in the next step).
NOTE
For customers using Hawaiian country settings, solar-only EV charging
(Excess Solar mode) is not supported when the export limitation is set
to zero. Refer to the appendix, "Regional Considerations" on page44
for details.
NOTE
Export limitation of an inverter connected to an AC coupled battery is
supported in inverter CPU version 3.24xx and higher, provided that the
export limitation is > 0.
3. In the Limit Control menu, select Limit Mode. Select one of the limit modes
displayed below:
T o t a l
P e r P h a s e
Total: The Site Limit is the total export power (the combined production minus the
combined consumption) on all the phases combined. Reverse current on one phase
will count as negative power and can compensate for another phase.
Per Phase: For three phase inverter connections, the inverter sets the limit on each
phase to 1/3 of the total site limit. Use this mode if there is a limit on each individual
phase.
For example site limit settings, refer to
Export Limitation Application Note
Appendix C
.
17 Verifying Export Limitation
Verifying Export Limitation
Verifying Using SetApp
To verify export limitation operation using SetApp:
View the site-level data on the Smart Energy Manager page.
1.
Smart Energy Manager
Site Limit 7.0 kW
Site Production 10.0 kW
Site Export 4.0 kW
Self-consume 6.0 kW
Site Limit: The limit that was defined for the site.
Site Prod: The power produced by the site.
Site Export: The power that is fed into the grid. This line is displayed only if the
control mode is "Export Control".
Self-consume: The PVpower consumed by the site. This line is displayed only if the
control mode is "Export Control".
Check the Power Control status screen of any inverter:
2.
Power Control Status
PWR Control Remote
PWR Limit 10.04 kW
Cos Phi 0.9
Power Prod 7000 W
Export Limitation Application Note
Chapter 3: Export Limitation Configuration 18
PWR Control: The power control status:
Remote - Communication with the smart energy manager is
confirmed/validated. This status should appear in all inverters.
Local - The power is controlled locally (e.g. by a fixed limit), or this inverter
limits the PV power production to its relative portion of the export power
limit, as a result of disconnected communication with the smart energy
manager. If this status appears, check the communication to the smart energy
manager or the communication to the meter.
PWR Limit: The inverter maximum output power set by the smart energy manager
Cos Phi: The ratio between active to reactive power
Power Prod: The power produced by the inverter
Export Limitation Application Note
19 Verifying Export Limitation
Verifying Using the Device Display
To verify export limitation operation using the device display:
Press the Enter button or the LCD external button until reaching the Smart Energy
1.
Manager status screen, showing the site-level data.View the site-level data on the
Smart Energy Manager screen.
S i t e L i m i t : 7 . 0 k W
S i t e P r o d : 1 0 . 0 k W
S i t e E x p o r t : 4 . 0 k W
S e l f - c o n s u m e : 6 . 0 k W
Site Limit: The limit that was defined for the site.
Site Prod: The power produced by the site.
Site Export: The power that is fed into the grid. This line is displayed only if the
control mode is "Export Ctrl".
Self-consume: The PVpower consumed by the site. This line is displayed only if the
control mode is "Export Ctrl".
Check the Power Control status screen of any inverter:
2.
P W R C T R L : R E M O T E
P W R L i m i t : 1 0 . 0 4 k W
C o s P h i : 0 . 9
P o w e r P r o d : 7 0 0 0 W
PWR CTRL: The power control status:
REMOTE - Communication with the smart energy manager is
confirmed/validated. This status should appear in all inverters.
LOCAL - The power is controlled locally (e.g. by a fixed limit), or this inverter
limits the PV power production to its relative portion of the export power
limit, as a result of disconnected communication with the smart energy
manager. If this status appears, check the communication to the smart energy
manager or the communication to the meter.
PWR Limit: The inverter maximum output power set by the smart energy manager
Cos Phi: The ratio between active to reactive power
Power Prod: The power produced by the inverter
Export Limitation Application Note
Chapter 3: Export Limitation Configuration 20
Verifying Using MySolarEdge
To verify export limitation operation using MySolarEdge:
Select Inverter Status èAdvanced Installer View è View detailed inverter status to
1.
display inverter status details. Check the value of the Power Limit field.
Export Limitation Application Note
21 Appendix A: Monitoring Platform - Meter Data
Appendix A: Monitoring Platform - Meter Data
If your device is connected to the SolarEdge server, you can view the meter’s readings
in the monitoring platform. Verify that the meter type is set correctly in the Admin page
> Logical Layout > Meter details:
Figure 7: Setting the Meter details in the monitoring platform
Calculated meter readings (also referred to as "virtual meters"), such as selfconsumption, are calculated using the data measured by the meter and the inverters.
The data from the inverters and from installed meters is displayed in the Dashboard and
Charts tabs of the monitoring platform. The displayed data depends on the meter(s)
location: grid connection point (export), or load consumption point (consumption).
The following tables detail the displayed information per meter location.
Export Limitation Application Note
No meter installed:
Appendix A: Monitoring Platform - Meter Data 22
Data
Production (inverter/site)
Consumption X X
Self-consumption X X
Export X X
Import X X
Displayed in
Monitoring Dashboard
a a
Displayed in
Monitoring Charts
Export meter:
Data
Production (inverter/site)
Displayed in
Monitoring Dashboard
a a
Displayed in
Monitoring Charts
Consumption a(calculated) a(calculated)
Self-consumption a(calculated) a(calculated)
Export X
Import X
a
a
Consumption meter:
Data
Production (inverter/site)
Consumption
Displayed in
Monitoring Dashboard
a a
a a
Displayed in
Monitoring Charts
Self-consumption a(calculated) a(calculated)
Export X a(calculated)
Import X a(calculated)
Export Limitation Application Note
23 Appendix B: Actual Zero Export Limitation Use Cases
Appendix B: Actual Zero Export Limitation Use Cases
Introducing Zero Export Limitation
The SolarEdge Smart Energy Management solutions allow increasing the selfconsumption of a site. One method used for this purpose is export limitation, which
allows installing a larger PV system or a larger inverter without violating grid export
(feed-in) limitations. For export limitation, a SolarEdge device - an inverter or a CCG
(Control & Communication Gateway) - dynamically adjusts the PV power production in
order to ensure that exported power does not exceed a preconfigured limit.
To enable this functionality, an energy meter that measures export or import must be
installed at the site’s grid connection point as shown in the figure below.
Figure 8: Location of Export/Import Meter
A special use-case exists when no power is allowed to be exported to the grid, hence
the term zero export. In such a case, the system regulates its production power to
match the load’s consumption power at all times.
This application note explains the use cases of zero export limitation and shows
examples of system behavior when configured as a zero-export system. However, the
same principles apply for non-zero export limitation use-cases. Actual method of
configuration can be found in Export Limitation Guide application note.
Export Limitation Application Note
Appendix B: Actual Zero Export Limitation Use Cases 24
Theory of Operation
“Zero export” term can be misleading at times as one may think that export to the grid
is always avoided. In fact, “zero export” mode is expected to export some energy to the
grid in some edge cases. The solar systems strives to produce as much power as
possible for the site consumption, however, load change events constantly occur. The
zero export-regulated system tries to match production-power and load-consumptionpower at all times. During the transition periods, some export power is inevitable.
For the following example, let us assume:
The load instantaneous consumption power is PC [W]
The inverter instantaneous production power is PP [W]
The inverter nameplate power is P
In a balanced zero export system, the inverter maintains export power to zero by
regulating production power PP [W] to match PC [W]. So at the beginning of the above
example PP = PC. At a sudden load power decrease (shedding), the previous
instantaneous power (PC) is changing to PC’ (the new instantaneous consumption
power). The inverter should abruptly reduce its production power to match the new
consumption power (PC’): PP’ = PC’.
During the duration it takes the inverter to reduce its power, energy is temporarily
exported to the grid. The energy level exported is a direct result of the following factors:
The load shedding level (PC - PC’).
The duration it takes the inverter to apply the above mentioned shedding level, is
affected by:
The sampling/reading periods associated with the Export/Import meter
Communication latencies between the meter and the inverter
Communication latencies between inverters (in multiple inverter cases)
The duration required by the inverter to throttle down its production power
The blue line in the figure below shows an example of system response times in the
case of PC changing from P
inverters (at T1).
The red line represents a single inverter response to the abovementioned load
shedding, moving from PP (=PC) to PP’ (PC’).The area between the blue line and red
lines (illustrated by the dashed lines) represents the energy exported to the grid during
this duration (T3-T1).
to PC’ = 0.33P
MAX
[W] and is always higher than P
MAX
load shedding with one or more
MAX
C
Export Limitation Application Note
25 Theory of Operation
The green line represents multiple inverter response to the abovementioned load
shedding. The green line will exhibits similar behavior to a single inverter use-case, but
will take slightly longer duration (T4-T1) due to the inverters communication latencies.
Figure 9: 100% to 33% load shedding
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Power consumed by load
Power produced by a single inverter
system
Power produced by multiple inverters
system
For the general case of load shedding, let us assume:
X = PC - PC’ (the load shedding level, in Watts)
T2-T1 ≅ 1 sec
T3-T2 ≅ 0.5 sec
T4-T3 ≅ 0.5 sec
The expected energy export for a single inverter use case is ~1.25X/3600 [Wh]. The
expected energy export for multiple inverters use case is ~1.5X/3600 [Wh].
Export Limitation Application Note
Appendix B: Actual Zero Export Limitation Use Cases 26
Example 1 - Periodic Energy Export Limit
According to Hawaii zero-export regulation, the monthly export energy allowed for a
consumer is limited to the inverter’s nameplate in Watt-Hours. In this example, we
assume a site in Hawaii with 7.6 kVA inverter, which will be limited to a monthly export
of 7.6 kWh.
In the figure below, we can see how a few events contribute to the exported energy
level.
Figure 10: Example 1 – Periodic Energy Export Limit
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
The user turns on 2kW load at T1, and 3kW load at T2. Each time, the inverter regulates
its production to match load consumption. Once the user switches OFF the 2kW load at
T3, the inverter responds within ~1 second to regulate the power. During this period,
energy is exported to the grid (the blue dashed triangle) is ~0.28 Wh. Similarly, once the
user switches OFF the 3kW load at T4, the inverter regulates the power within ~2
seconds and the energy exported to the grid (the green dashed triangle) is ~0.83 Wh.
Note: a typical household will generate on average 5 load shedding events per active
hour. Assuming the house is active for 6 hours a day and assuming each event exports
~1Wh to the grid; the overall monthly energy exported is ~0.9kWh, which is ~10% of
the average inverter nameplate (7.6 kVA).
Export Limitation Application Note
Power consumed by load
Power produced by the inverter
27 Example 2 - Export Power Convergence Time Limit
Example 2 - Export Power Convergence Time Limit
Spain zero-export regulation, requires that any export grid event, will not last for more
than 2 seconds, regardless to the exported energy level. For similar general cases, let us
assume the duration is T
In the example depicted below, the first zero export event takes (t2-t1) seconds to reach
zero export. According to the regulation requirement, the duration must comply with
(t2-t1) ≤ T
All SolarEdge inverters comply with the above mentioned regulation. Here is an
example:
. Similarly, the next event must also comply with (t4-t3) ≤ T
Exp
Exp
seconds.
Exp
.
Figure 11: Example 2 – Export Power convergence time limit
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTES
The above mentioned example is valid for both single inverter and multiinverter cases.
Some regulations may require a combination of convergence duration
and monthly exported power as a mean to enforce zero export.
Power consumed by load
Power produced by the inverter
Export Limitation Application Note
Appendix B: Actual Zero Export Limitation Use Cases 28
Example 3 - Sample Commercial Site Monthly Export Log
In this example, we are showing a real system operation and the energy export levels
exhibited due to load shedding events. We assume a commercial PV system with 126
unit-level inverters. The table shows the energy exported daily and the daily events
count.
Day of the Month Exported Energy [Wh] Daily Export Events
1 224 2
2 448 4
3 558 5
4 1,052 8
5 642 5
6 1,144 9
7 754 6
8 1,246 10
9 884 7
10 966 8
11 708 6
12 230 2
13 410 3
14 318 3
15 794 7
16 1,030 8
17 876 7
18 910 8
19 1,312 11
20 1,216 10
21 1,042 8
22 312 3
23 1,338 11
24 1,276 10
Export Limitation Application Note
29 Example 3 - Sample Commercial Site Monthly Export Log
25 1,204 10
26 1,282 10
27 1,088 9
28 1,280 10
29 984 8
30 96 1
31 776 7
Total 26,400 216
Daily Average 852 7
Daily average per inverter 7
Average per inverter per event 1
The overall system exported energy daily levels depends on the number of inverters.
The more inverters, the more energy exported. As mentioned above, the number of
events may vary based on user behavior and site characteristics. A factory facility where
heavy loads are being switched ON/OFF regularly will exhibit a wide variance of events,
while an office building might show a more steady behavior.
Export Limitation Application Note
Appendix C: Examples of Total and Per Phase Export Limitation 30
Appendix C: Examples of Total and Per Phase Export Limitation
The following examples illustrate the behavior of a system with export limitation when
using the Total and the Per Phase Limit Mode options described in the chapter,
Limitation Configuration
Total: The Total site limit is the total export power on all the phases combined, that
is, the combined production minus the combined consumption, as represented in
the formula below. Reverse current on one phase will count as negative power and
can compensate for another phase.
Per Phase (for three phase inve rters): Each phase will be limited to 1/3 of the
configured site limit, that is, the export power is the sum of the production minus
the consumption of each phase, as represented in the formula below. The division
of the limit into the three phases is performed internally; the user enters the total site
limit.
on page 14
Export
In the example, the Site Limit and Limit Mode configuration is detailed. The example
includes production and consumption scenarios and details how the export,
consumption and import power values are influenced by the conditions. The tables in
each scenario detail the following values:
Potential PV Production
Consumption (load)
Production
Export power
Self-consumption
Import power
In addition, the Smart Energy Management status screen is presented with the values
applicable to each scenario.
Export Limitation Application Note
31 Example 1 - Single Phase, Zero Export Limit, Total Limit Mode
Example 1 - Single Phase, Zero Export Limit, Total Limit Mode
In this example, the system export power limit is set to 0% of max DC power, that is, no
power is fed into the grid, and the Total Limit Mode is used.
The example system has a single-phase inverter with a maximum AC power of 7.6 kW.
To configure export limitation settings:
NOTE
1. Set the Site Limit to 0.0
2. Set the Limit Mode to "Total".
Scenario A
PV potential is greater than the loads.
The loads are powered from the PV.
PV production is not limited, because there is no export power.
For detailed guidelines on configuring export limitations settings, refer to the
chapter,
Export Limitation Configuration
on page 14).
Total power [kW]
Potential PV Production 7 7
Consumption (load) 4 4
Production 4 4
Export Max (∑Production – ∑Consumption, 0) = Max(0, 0) 0
Self-consumption Min (∑Production, ∑Consumption) = Min(4,4) 4
Import ∑Consumption – ∑Self consumption = 4-4 0
The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:
Site Limit 0.0 kW
Site Production 4.0 kW
Site Export 0.0 kW
Self-consume 4.0 kW
Total
[kW]
Export Limitation Application Note
Appendix C: Examples of Total and Per Phase Export Limitation 32
Scenario B
PV potential is lower than the loads.
The loads are powered from the PV and from the grid.
PV production is not limited, because there is no export power.
Total power [kW]
Total
[kW]
Potential PV Production 4 4
Consumption (load) 7 7
Production 4 4
Export Max (∑Production – ∑Consumption, 0) = Max(-3, 0) 0
Self-consumption Min (∑Production, ∑Consumption) = Min(4,7) 4
Import ∑Consumption – ∑Self consumption = 7-4 3
The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:
Site Limit 0.0 kW
Site Production 4.0 kW
Site Export 0.0 kW
Self-consume 4.0 kW
Export Limitation Application Note
33 Example 2 - Three-Phase, 70% Export Limit, Total Limit Mode
Example 2 - Three-Phase, 70% Export Limit, Total Limit Mode
In this example, the system has 12kW DC power connected to a three-phase inverter
with a maximum AC power of 10kW.
The system export power limit is set to 70% of max DC power, that is, to 70% x 12kW =
8.4kW, and the Total Limit Mode is used.
NOTE
1. Set the Site Limit to 8.4
2. Set the Limit Mode to "Total".
Scenario A
PV potential is greater than the loads, which are not distributed evenly across the 3
phases.
The loads are powered from the PV only, and the excess PV power is fed into grid.
PV production is not limited, because the export power is lower than the limit.
Systems in Germany complying with the EEG2012 70% limitation would be
configured using the Total option.
To configure export limitation settings:
NOTE
For detailed guidelines on configuring export limitations settings, refer to the
chapter,
Export Limitation Configuration
on page 14).
Phase 1 [kW]
Potential PV Production 3.33 3.33 3.33 10
Consumption (load) 3 3 0 6
Production 3.33 3.33 3.33 10
Export Max (∑Production – ∑Consumption, 0) = Max(4,0) 4
Self-consumption Min (∑Production, ∑Consumption) = Min(10,6) 6
Import ∑Consumption – ∑Self consumption 0
The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:
Site Limit 8.4 kW
Site Production 10.0 kW
Site Export 4.0 kW
Self-consume 6.0 kW
Phase 2
[kW]
Phase 3
[kW]
Export Limitation Application Note
Total [kW]
Appendix C: Examples of Total and Per Phase Export Limitation 34
Scenario B
PV potential is equal to the loads, which are not balanced across the 3 phases.
The loads are powered from the PV only.
Although on phase 1 the consumption is greater than the production, the difference is
compensated for by phase 3, where the production is greater than the consumption.
Therefore, PV production is not limited, because there is no export power.
Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]
Potential PV
Production
Consumption (load) 3 2 1 6
Production 2 2 2 6
Export Max (∑Production – ∑Consumption, 0) = Max(0,0) 0 (no export)
Self-consumption Min (∑Production, ∑Consumption) = Min(6,6) 6
Import ∑Consumption – ∑Self consumption 0
The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:
Site Limit 8.4 kW
Site Production 6.0 kW
Site Export 0.0 kW
Self-consume 6.0 kW
2 2 2 6
Export Limitation Application Note
35 Example 2 - Three-Phase, 70% Export Limit, Total Limit Mode
Scenario C
PV potential is lower than the loads, which are not balanced across the 3 phases.
The loads are powered from the PV and from the grid.
PV production is not limited, because there is no export power.
Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]
Potential PV
Production
Consumption (load) 3 2 1 6
Production 1.66 1.66 1.66 5
Export Max (∑Production – ∑Consumption, 0) = Max(0,0) 0 (no export)
Self-consumption Min (∑Production, ∑Consumption) = Min(5,6) 5
Import ∑Consumption – ∑Self consumption 1
1.66 1.66 1.66 5
The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:
Site Limit 8.4 kW
Site Production 5.0 kW
Site Export 0.0 kW
Self-consume 5.0 kW
Scenario D
PV potential is greater than the loads, which are not balanced across the three phases.
The loads are powered from the PV only, and the excess PV power is fed into grid. In
addition, PV production is limited to maintain the export limit.
Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]
Potential PV Production 3.33 3.33 3.33 10
Consumption (load) 1 0 0 1
Production 3.13 3.13 3.13 9.4
Export Max (∑Production – ∑Consumption, 0) = Max (8.4,0) 8.4
Self-consumption Min (∑Production, ∑Consumption) = Min (9.4,1) 1
Import ∑Consumption – ∑Self consumption 0
The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:
Site Limit 8.4 kW
Site Production 9.4 kW
Site Export 8.4 kW
Self-consume 1.0 kW
Export Limitation Application Note
Appendix C: Examples of Total and Per Phase Export Limitation 36
Example 3 - Three Phase, Zero Export Limit, Per Phase Limit Mode
In this example, the system has 12kW DC power connected to a three-phase inverter
with a maximum AC power of 10kW.
The system export power limit is set to 0W – no power is fed into the grid, and the Per
Phase Limit Mode is used.
NOTE
1. Set the Site Limit to 0.0
2. Set the Limit Mode to "Per Phase".
Systems in Australia complying with zero export regulations would be
configured with a Site Limit of 0 and using the Total option.
To configure export limitation settings:
NOTE
For detailed guidelines on configuring export limitations settings, refer to the
chapter,
Export Limitation Configuration
on page 14).
Export Limitation Application Note
37 Example 3 - Three Phase, Zero Export Limit, Per Phase Limit Mode
Scenario A
PV potential is lower than the loads, which are distributed evenly across the 3 phases.
The loads are powered from the PV and from the grid.
PV production is not limited, because there is no export power.
Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]
Potential PV
Production
Consumption (load) 4 4 4 12
Production 3.33 3.33 3.33 10
Export
Self-consumption
Import
Σ [Max (Production – Consumption, 0)] = Σ [Max (-0.66,0) (-
Σ [Min (Production, Consumption)] =Σ [Min (3.33,4) (3.33,4)
The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:
Site Limit 0.0 kW
Site Production 10.0 kW
Site Export 0.0 kW
Self-consume 10.0 kW
3.33 3.33 3.33 10
0 0 0
0.66,0) (-0.66,0)]
3.33 3.33 3.33
(3.33,4)]
∑Max(Consumption–Selfconsumption – Export, 0)
0
10
2
Export Limitation Application Note
Appendix C: Examples of Total and Per Phase Export Limitation 38
Scenario B
PV potential is greater than the loads, which are not balanced across the 3 phases.
To maintain a 0W export limit for each phase individually, the production on phase 3
must be limited. Since the three phase inverter is always phase-balanced, the
production on phases 1 and 2 is limited accordingly.
Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]
Potential PV
Production
Consumption (load) 4 3 1 8
Production 1 1 1 3
Export
Self-consumption
Import ∑Max(Consumption–Selfconsumption – Export, 0) 5
The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:
Site Limit 0.0 kW
Site Production 3.0 kW
Site Export 0.0 kW
Self-consume 3.0 kW
3.33 3.33 3.33 10
0 0 0
Σ [Max (Production – Consumption, 0)] = Σ [Max (-3,0) (-
2,0) (0,0)]
1 1 1
Σ [Min (Production, Consumption)] =Σ [Min (1,4) (1,3)
(1,1)]
0
3
Export Limitation Application Note
39 Example 4 - Three Phase, 3kW Export Limit, Per Phase Limit Mode
Example 4 - Three Phase, 3kW Export Limit, Per Phase Limit Mode
In this example, the system has 12kW DC power connected to a three-phase inverter
with a maximum AC power of 10kW.
The system export power limit is set to 3kW, and the Per Phase Limit Mode is used. This
means that exporting power on each phase is limited to 1kW.
NOTE
1. Set the Site Limit to 3.0
2. Set the Limit Mode to "Per Phase".
Scenario A
PV potential is lower than the loads, which are distributed evenly across the 3 phases.
The loads are powered from the PV and from the grid.
PV production is not limited, because there is no export power.
Systems in Netherlands connected to an AC panel with 3x80A main fuses
would be configured using the Per Phase option, with a 55kW Site Limit.
To configure export limitation settings:
NOTE
For detailed guidelines on configuring export limitations settings, refer to the
chapter,
Export Limitation Configuration
on page 14).
Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]
Potential PV
Production
Consumption (load) 4 4 4 12
Production 3.33 3.33 3.33 10
Export
Self-consumption
Import
3.33 3.33 3.33 10
0 0 0
Σ [Max (Production – Consumption, 0)] = Σ [Max (-0.66,0) (-0.66,0)
(-0.66,0)]
3.33 3.33 3.33
Σ [Min (Production, Consumption)] =Σ [Min (3.3,4) (3.3,4) (3.3,4)]
∑Max(Consumption–Selfconsumption – Export, 0)
The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:
Site Limit 3.0 kW
Site Production 10.0 kW
Site Export 0.0 kW
Self-consume 10.0 kW
Export Limitation Application Note
0
10
2
Appendix C: Examples of Total and Per Phase Export Limitation 40
Scenario B
PV potential is greater than the loads, which are not balanced across the 3 phases.
To maintain a 1kW export limit for each phase individually, the production on phase 3
must be limited. Since the three phase inverter is always phase-balanced, the
production on phases 1 and 2 is limited accordingly.
Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]
Potential PV
Production
Consumption (load) 4 3 1 8
Production 2 2 2 6
Export
Self-consumption
Import ∑Max(Consumption–Selfconsumption – Export, 0) 2
Σ [Min (Production, Consumption)] =Σ [Min (2,4) (2,3) (2,1)]
The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:
Site Limit 3.0 kW
Site Production 6.0 kW
Site Export 1.0 kW
Self-consume 5.0 kW
3.33 3.33 3.33 10
0 0 1
Σ [Max (Production – Consumption, 0)] = Σ [Max (-2,0) (-
1,0) (1,0)]
2 2 1
1
5
Export Limitation Application Note
41 Example 4 - Three Phase, 3kW Export Limit, Per Phase Limit Mode
Scenario C
PV potential is greater than the loads, which are not balanced across the 3 phases.
To maintain a 1kW export limit for each phase individually, the production on phase 3
must be limited. Since the three phase inverter is always phase-balanced, the
production on phases 1 and 2 is limited accordingly.
In this scenario, despite the system production being limited as in the previous
scenario, the limitation is less severe because the loads are more balanced, and this
allows increased self-consumption.
Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW]
Potential PV
Production
Consumption (load) 3 2 2 7
Production 3 3 3 9
Export
Self-consumption
Import
3.33 3.33 3.33 10
0 1 1
Σ [Max (Production – Consumption, 0)] = Σ [Max (0,0) (1, 0) (1, 0)]
3 2 2
Σ [Min (Production, Consumption)] =Σ [Min (3,3) (3,2) (3,2)]
∑Max(Consumption–Selfconsumption – Export, 0)
Total
[kW]
The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:
Site Limit 3.0 kW
Site Production 9.0 kW
Site Export 2.0 kW
Self-consume 7.0 kW
2
7
0
Export Limitation Application Note
Appendix D: Minimum Import 42
Appendix D: Minimum Import
Some utilities may require a minimum amount of power to be purchased from the grid
before the PV system can start production and supply the loads.
negative export to the grid
.
Configuring minimum import using SetApp
NOTE
1. Enter 0.0 in the Set Site Limit screen (refer to the chapter,
2. Select Power Control è Energy Manager è Limit Control è Control Mode è Min
The minimum import function for SetApp inverters requires CPU version
4.50xx or above.
To configure minimum import using SetApp:
Configuration
on page 14).
Import Ctrl
Limit Control Mode
This is equivalent to
Export Limitation
Export Control
Production Control
Minimum Import Control
Disable
3. Enter the minimum amount of power to be purchased in the Min Import Ctrl screen.
Export Limitation Application Note
43 Configuring minimum import using the device display
Configuring minimum import using the device display
NOTE
1. Enter 0.0 in the Set Site Limit screen (refer to the chapter,
2. Select Power Control è Energy Manager è Limit Control è Control Mode è Min
3. Enter the minimum amount of power to be purchased in the Min Import Ctrl screen.
The minimum import function for inverters with a display requires CPU
version 3.18xx or above.
To configure minimum import using the device display:
Export Limitation
Configuration
Import Ctrl
on page 14).
D i s a b l e
E x p o r t C t r l .
P r o d u c t i o n C t r l .
M i n I m p o r t C t r l .
Export Limitation Application Note
Appendix E: Regional Considerations 44
Appendix E: Regional Considerations
Hawaii
When using the SolarEdge EV Charging Single Phase Inverter, the Excess Solar mode
(non-scheduled, solar-only charging) functionality is subject to variations when the
inverter is set to one of the Hawaii country settings.
Excess Solar mode operation is available
It will not be available for those with Zero Export tariffs.
During the day, homeowners with either tariff program (Smart Export or Zero Export)
will be able to maximize their charging using available solar power combined with grid
power priced at Hawaii's lowest retail rates.
To offset the nighttime consumption of electricity priced at Hawaii's high retail rate, it is
recommended to set a daytime daily schedule (usually from 10AM to 5PM), and use the
Full Power (combined solar and grid charging) mode to charge during non-scheduled
periods.
only
to homeowners with Smart Export tariffs.
Export Limitation Application Note
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