4 ms·
Maybe a silly question, but from those of us that aren't electrical engineers. Am I correct in assuming that excess generated power can't leave my local distri
by zo1 4y ago
Maybe a silly question, but from those of us that aren't electrical engineers.
Am I correct in assuming that excess generated power can't leave my local distribution network? So there are X houses in my circuit served by a dist transformer, and if we can produce more than those X houses need at that point in time, then the excess simply doesn't get "pulled" from the panels?
- robomartin 4y agoIt's a good question. Theory: Transformers are bidirectional. You can drive them from either side. For example, in testing one of the devices we manufacture we need 480 Volts AC. At each test rig we use a 480 V to 220 V transformer, drive it backwards and generate 480 VAC from 220 VAC. Distribution transformers have primaries in the tens of thousands of volts (say, 50 kV) and 220 VAC (for residential service) outputs. The topology could be different, however each home receives a two leg service with 120 VAC per leg. So, yes, you should be able to drive the low voltage side and end-up with high voltage on the other side. Let's say you have ten homes on the same transformer. Each home has solar. During a holiday, all homes are empty and nearly all of the power they generate drives the transformer backwards. The power would then drive other transformers and feed homes that need it. What I don't know is if they explicitly have devices to prevent backwards flow of power. I don't think they do. Not sure this would make any sense. I could see protection devices to prevent overload.