ECA NEWS
EVCP, and Heat Pump training, and Building Automation and Control Systems (BACS) are areas where technicians can expand their skillset. Trusted experts To understand fully connected systems such as Prosumers Electrical Installations (PEIs), electricians will need to learn how onsite generation, energy storage, heating systems, and EV charge points fit together. Incorrect specification or installation could lead to expensive mistakes. ECA has produced guidance in this emerging area, including the Chapter 82 Energy Prosumer Guide. Additionally, ECA’s “Planning for a Green Pivot v1.2” document covers an array of Net Zero Carbon 2050 opportunities for ECA Members, including support schemes, training, and accreditation.
Special considerations for installers
The energy prosumer model offers significant opportunities and a range of new challenges. To work efficiently and effectively, solar panels, batteries, EV chargers, and heat pumps will need to work in harmony. This means they will need to work as a prosumer system, and not just as individual product types. It is therefore vital that designers and installers have sufficient training and skills to make sure that the technologies are configured to work collectively. Ultimately, customers will become much more aware of their own energy use and production as we move beyond the status quo of taking grid supply, and its flat charges, for granted. Load- shifting will become a prominent part
of prosumer installations, especially for heating and EV charging. A combination of rising or, at best, highly variable energy prices, plus new legislation and standards are shaping the future of UK grid supply and interactions. Where a building is expected to run independently of the grid (in what is called island mode), specific earthing conditions and controls should be applied. Checks will be needed to ensure that the local system will be running in phase with the grid prior to grid re- connection. Installers will also need to consider dedicated circuits.
Visit www.eca.co.uk/technical for exclusive Technical Bulletins on prosumer installations.
www.eca.co.uk
ECA - Alfie Watterson, NI and ROI Regional Manager T: +44 (0)7971 141911 - E: alfie.watterson@eca.co.uk
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