Laboratory Tests for Grid Decoupling Relays

Peace of mind compliance: laboratory tests for grid decoupling relays #

The energy transition is driving strong growth in decentralised energy generation, such as solar panels, combined heat and power (CHP) systems and wind turbines. The grid decoupling relay plays a key role in this. It ensures the safety and stability of your installation and the public electricity grid.

A correctly configured and tested grid decoupling relay continuously monitors the parameters and intervenes immediately in the event of deviations or faults. An incorrect setting or malfunction can lead to downtime and damage to installations.

It is therefore essential that your grid decoupling relay is correctly programmed and tested in accordance with the applicable Synergrid C10/11 regulations.

Our approach: fast and reliable laboratory tests #

1. Direct dispatch to our accredited lab

You arrange for the purchased grid decoupling relay to be delivered directly to our site in Ghent.

2. Programming in accordance with Synergrid C10/11 and/or parameters supplied by the customer

Our experts configure the relay precisely in accordance with the technical requirements of your installation, the applicable Synergrid regulations or the specific parameters provided by the customer.

3. Comprehensive simulation and functional tests

In our lab, we simulate various grid faults and anomalies to thoroughly verify the correct operation of the relay. This ensures that the relay responds correctly in every situation.

4. Ready for commissioning

Following successful testing, you will receive a comprehensive test report and we will return the relay ready for use. This ensures your installation can be commissioned smoothly.

Why choose our laboratory service? #

  • Correct configuration in accordance with Synergrid C10/11
  • State-of-the-art testing equipment
  • Reliable and professionally documented tests
  • Fast turnaround time
  • Support from experts

Ensure a safe grid decoupling relay #

An incorrectly configured or untested relay can delay the completion of your entire energy project by weeks. Avoid stress on site and opt for the certified assurance provided by our laboratory.

Contact our laboratory to register your grid-disconnection relay for configuration and laboratory testing.

What is a grid decoupling relay? #

A grid decoupling relay is a mandatory safety component for decentralised energy production installations with a capacity exceeding 30 kVA. The relay automatically disconnects the installation from the electricity grid in the event of abnormal conditions, such as voltage problems, frequency deviations or grid faults.

For production installations in Belgium, the relay’s configuration and operation must comply with the Synergrid C10/11 regulations. These requirements have been specifically drawn up to guarantee the safety, reliability and stability of the distribution network.

What are Synergrid’s C10/11 technical regulations? #

Does your electricity generation plant operate in parallel with the Belgian distribution network? If so, compliance with technical regulation C10/11 ed.2.4 is a legal requirement.

Before the connection procedure (in accordance with Chapter 5 of C10/11 ed.2.4) can begin, the generation units must have C10/26 type approval and be included in the official C10/26 list. This applies, amongst other things, to inverters (solar panels and batteries), diesel generators, bidirectional charging infrastructure, wind turbines and CHP installations. The underlying technical criteria for this are set out in Annex D of the C10/11 ed.2.4 regulation.

Why are laboratory tests for a grid disconnection relay mandatory? #

Laboratory tests for a grid disconnection relay (NOR) are mandatory to ensure the safety, stability and compliance of the electricity grid when local generation installations (such as solar panels, wind turbines or battery systems) operate in parallel with the distribution network.

In practical terms: Laboratory tests are mandatory because they provide independent and irrefutable proof that the grid protection system will intervene flawlessly when necessary. It is the only way to ensure the physical safety of grid technicians and to prevent local electricity generation from destabilising the Belgian electricity grid.

Without a pre-approved laboratory test, a system in Belgium simply cannot be connected to the distribution network.