Electrical Installation and Commissioning of Micro Generators

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to perform electrical installation, connection, testing and commissioning of microgenerators with type-approved network interfaces in accordance with applicable standards, legislation, manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines, whilst working autonomously.

Contractors must successfully complete both the QQI Level 6 Micro Solar Photovoltaic Systems Implementation (6N0306) and QQI Level 6 Electrical Installation and Commissioning of Micro Generators Award (6N0307) courses in order to register with SEAI as an approved contractor for Solar PV grants.

NOTE: The dates for the course are as follows:

12th, 13th and 14th of October are online sessions and 24th of October will be a practical day in Fermoy

This course involves theory and practical work. On completion learners will be able to:

• Describe key characteristics of micro-generation systems including the major components and system layout of wind, solar p-v (photo-voltaic), hydro- and micro-CHP (combined heat and power) systems
• Identify the characteristics of generator types to include permanent magnet, induction, synchronous and asynchronous
• Describe solar p-v module types and arrays to include current-voltage characteristics, open circuit voltage, short circuit current, maximum power current and voltage
• Describe wind turbine types to include variable voltage and frequency output
• Describe output controls on wind generator to include dump loads and electrical braking
• Summarise the requirements for electrical works with respect to applicable regulations, certification, and national rules for electrical installation
• Summarise relevant product requirements including those relating to European conformity CE marking, and testing and certification standards
• Identify hazards associated with micro-generation installations to include “always live” systems, leakage current detection, earthing and lightning protection systems and isolation devices, proposing suitable mitigation measures
• Describe network connection requirements including the network connection application process
• Summarise appropriate signage and labelling requirements as per the National Rules for Electrical Installations to include identification of cable locations and “always live” systems.
• Justify the selection of a suitable battery system based on sizing and safety requirements as per IS EN 50272-2
• Calculate recommended minimum capacities for electrical components including voltage and current ratings for direct current plugs, connectors and switches, and cable capacity based on size
• Program inverters with generator power curves in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and set-up instructions
• Commission a solar p-v system completing all required electrical testing
• Commission a simulated rotating generator system completing all required electrical testing
• Identify faults in solar p-v and rotating generator systems using test and measurement equipment.

Learners who successfully achieve this award will be expected to perform “controlled works”, such as connecting generators to the national electricity network and must be registered electrical contractors with RECI. (Register of Electrical Contractors of Ireland).

Learners are expected to have a minimum of 3 years’ experience in the construction sector.

• Characteristics of Micro-Generation
• Generator Types
• Solar PV Types
• Wind Turbine Types
• Wind Control
• National Wiring Rules
• Product Certification and CE Marking
• Installation Risks and Hazards
• Network Application Process
• Signage and Labelling
• Battery Sizing
• Electrical Component Capacity
• Invertor Programming and Power Curves
• Commissioning
• Simulated Generators

QQI Level 6

Our course trainer Toddy Byrne is one of the foremost experts on Solar Photovoltaic technology in Ireland today.

His company Southern Wind and Solar has supplied and installed Solar PV systems nationwide to private and commercial customers along with public sector organisations.

Toddy was also a member of the standards development committee for the development of this QQI accredited course.