v8dave
Platinum Member
Lots of good information about generator hook ups here.
Bob, the sell back solar systems work as RaT describes with the addition of an overload/power fail disconnect. On a power failure a solar system isn't likey to be able to support the connected neighborhood. Plus, there is the safety issue of the utility crew restoring power. So, on a power failure the generator (solar) system is disconnected from the mains.
When I spoke with our local utility about the preferred method of connecting the transfer switch, they pointed out I was obliged to inform them of the standby power system. Obliged by law which they didn't say, but I was previously aware of.
The switch most folks are referring to is usually called a transfer switch. It transfers the house between the generator and the utility mains. In my case I have a full system transfer switch. It is a 200 amp and throws the whole house. I selectively kill the big power consumers (air conditioning) and can basically run the whole house with a less that 10 KW generator. But, we don't have an electric stove, heat or hot water (those are propane operated).
Here is a link to a net based vendor that has a good range of products and fairly understandable explainations. nooutage,com I have had a good experience in dealing with them. I'm not quite finished but, I'm building my system myself and using licensed electricians to check out my system and do the final connections.
Bob, the sell back solar systems work as RaT describes with the addition of an overload/power fail disconnect. On a power failure a solar system isn't likey to be able to support the connected neighborhood. Plus, there is the safety issue of the utility crew restoring power. So, on a power failure the generator (solar) system is disconnected from the mains.
When I spoke with our local utility about the preferred method of connecting the transfer switch, they pointed out I was obliged to inform them of the standby power system. Obliged by law which they didn't say, but I was previously aware of.
The switch most folks are referring to is usually called a transfer switch. It transfers the house between the generator and the utility mains. In my case I have a full system transfer switch. It is a 200 amp and throws the whole house. I selectively kill the big power consumers (air conditioning) and can basically run the whole house with a less that 10 KW generator. But, we don't have an electric stove, heat or hot water (those are propane operated).
Here is a link to a net based vendor that has a good range of products and fairly understandable explainations. nooutage,com I have had a good experience in dealing with them. I'm not quite finished but, I'm building my system myself and using licensed electricians to check out my system and do the final connections.