All interface equipment must include a verification test procedure as part of the documentation presented to the utility in the course of the interconnection process. Except for the case of small single-phase inverters as discussed later, the verification test must establish that the protection settings meet the SIR requirements. The verification testing may be site-specific and is performed periodically to assure continued acceptable performance.
Upon initial parallel operation of a generating system, or any time interface hardware or software is changed, the verification test must be performed. A qualified individual must perform verification testing in accordance with the manufacturer’s published test procedure. Qualified individuals include professional engineers, factory-trained and certified technicians, and licensed electricians with experience in testing protective equipment. The utility reserves the right to witness verification testing or require written certification that the testing was successfully performed.
Verification testing shall be performed at least once every four years. All verification tests prescribed by the manufacturer shall be performed. If wires must be removed to perform certain tests, each wire and each terminal must be clearly and permanently marked. The generator-owner shall maintain verification test reports for inspection by the utility.
Single-phase inverters and inverter systems rated 25 kW and below shall be verified upon initial parallel operation and once every four years as follows: the generator-owner shall interrupt the utility source and verify that the equipment automatically disconnects and does not reconnect for at least five minutes after the utility source is reconnected. The owner shall maintain a log of these operations for inspection by the connecting utility. Any system that depends upon a battery for trip power shall be checked and logged at least annually for proper voltage. Once every four (4) years the battery must be either replaced or a discharge test performed.