Solar energy certification: what is it, when and how to do it?

A solar energy approval This is an essential step for anyone wishing to install a photovoltaic system and connect it to the electrical grid. 

Without this step, it's not possible. to guarantee the legality of the operation and the benefits of energy compensation.. 

However, this process can become a problem when the deadlines These obligations are not being met by the concessionaires.

Thinking about it, the Canal Solar has prepared this comprehensive guide to clarify all doubts regarding the approval of power plants in the Distributed Generation (DG) modality. 

Check it out and stay informed!

What is solar energy approval?

Solar energy certification is the mandatory procedure to validate a connection photovoltaic system to the electrical gridThis is necessary for solar power generation to be formally approved by the local distributor.

This process is required for both microgeneration plants (up to 75 kW) as well as for mini-generation (above 75 kW up to 3 MW). 

The application for approval of the photovoltaic system must be submitted to the energy distributor, accompanied by the technical and registration information of the project.

The preparation, completion, and submission of this documentation are generally carried out by the integrating company or by a legally qualified technical professional, duly appointed as the representative of the consumer unit holder.

Following the protocol, the distributor analyzes the submitted documentation to verify the installation's compliance with technical and safety standards, as well as the requirements for accessing the distribution system.

Any delays in meeting regulatory deadlines by the distributor may impact the system connection schedule and the start of distributed generation operations.

Is it mandatory?

Yes, solar energy certification is mandatory for systems that will be connected to the electrical grid.Without it, the energy generation will not be legally recognized, and the system will not be able to inject energy into the grid or generate credits for compensation. 

This applies to both microgeneration and minigeneration, and the process must be carried out with the local energy utility. 

Certification ensures that the system complies with the technical and safety standards required by the electricity sector.

The mandatory certification aims to ensure the proper functioning of the system and the protection of the electrical grid, preventing failures and guaranteeing that the generated energy is distributed safely.

Let's see what the legislation says in the next topic.

Legislation governing homologation

The installation of photovoltaic systems is regulated by a set of laws, normative resolutions, and technical standards that guarantee the consumer's right to generate their own energy safely and legally. 

Initially, Normative Resolution 482/2012 of the ANEEL, changed by REN nº 687/2015, regulated the distributed generation (DG)However, to provide more security to the sector, it was sanctioned in 2022. Law No. 14.300.

See the main points improved by Law No. 14.300:

• It created a period of 6 years of transition to stop offsetting certain components of the tariff;
• A maximum power The solar distributed generation (DG) was defined as up to 3 MW (and up to 5 MW for dispatched sources);
• It regulated the receipt of energy credits;
• It opened up the possibility of power plant sharing;
• Put End the double charging of minimum fees.;
• It regulated the local self-consumption and remote.

Furthermore, the system connection and approval processes are detailed in Normative Resolution 1.000/2021 and REN 1.059/2023 da ANEEL.

All consumer rights and system connection processes are included in REN 1.059/2023 and REN 1.000/2021, and in Module 3 of Prodist (Distribution Procedures).

Applicable technical standards

To ensure electrical and user safety, photovoltaic installations must still comply with the following technical standards established by... ABNT (Brazilian Association of Technical Standards):

• NBR 16690 Photovoltaic electrical installations;
• NBR 5410 Low-voltage electrical installations;
• NBR 14039 – Medium voltage electrical installations (when necessary);
• NBR 5419-1:2015 – Protection against electrical discharges;
• NBR 16274:2014 – Requirements for commissioning documentation and testing;
• NR 10 – Safety of electrical installations;
• N5-35 – Safety in working at heights.

In addition to these regulations, each energy distributor may require additional documents and specifications to ensure the safety of the installation. 

It is also important to check the requirements of the fire departments, which determine the fire safety measures and emergency routes for solar power plants.

For all these reasons, it is essential that your solar integrator Strictly follow all these standards and regulations during the installation process to ensure that the system complies with technical and legal requirements.

How important is solar energy approval?

Solar energy certification is essential to ensure that the system is installed in accordance with regulations. best market practicesOn compliance with legislation and technical standards. 

In this way, you ensure the Safety and proper functioning of the equipment over the years.

Furthermore, the certification allows for energy not consumed immediately to be converted into energy credits, which can be used to offset future consumption for up to 60 months. 

For example, if you generate 100 kWh and consume 90 kWh in the same billing period, the surplus of 10 kWh will be converted into electricity credits, which can be used over the next 5 years.

It is important to highlight that certification is mandatory for systems. on-grid, that is, systems connected to the electrical grid. For systems off-gridFor companies that operate independently, certification is not required. 

However, it is recommended that the energy distributor be notified.

Keep track: On-grid and off-grid solar energy: differences and which one to choose

Advantages of obtaining solar certification

Approving a photovoltaic system offers several advantages to the owner, even with the need to follow technical rules and procedures. Among the main benefits are:

• Investment protectionCertification ensures that the system will function as expected, with the performance predicted in the project.
• Credit offsettingWith certification, the surplus energy generated will be converted into credits that can be used to reduce future energy bills. Without certification, these credits are not recognized by the utility company.
• Technical safetyCertification ensures that the system has been installed in accordance with best market practices, preventing accidents and property damage.
• Legal and regulatory certaintyNon-certified systems may result in penalties and loss of rights, as they will be out of compliance with the regulatory standards of the electricity sector.

In summary, certification not only ensures the viability and return on investment, but also guarantees the technical and legal safety of the solar system.

How does the approval process work? Step by step.

The solar energy certification process involves several steps. Here's how it works step by step:

1. Request system connection.

Fill out the distributor's network access request form, attaching documents such as: 

• Inverter certificate of conformity;
• List of consumers;
• Single-line diagram;
• Descriptive memorial;
• ART (Technical Responsibility Annotation) signed by a qualified professional.

2. Send the project to the dealership.

The distributor provides an online environment for the digital submission of documentation, at no additional cost to the consumer.

3. Wait for review and approval

The distributor has up to 5 business days to verify the delivery of the documents. In the case of microgeneration, the access opinion will be issued within 15 business days (if no work is required) or 30 days (if there are works). 

For mini-generation, these deadlines may be longer, depending on the regulations.

4. System installation

With the access permit in hand, the integrator can proceed with the installation of the solar system, according to the technical parameters established in the request.

5. Request a technical inspection.

After installation, contact the distributor to schedule an inspection. The inspection timeframe varies depending on the system voltage.

• 5 business days for voltages lower than 2,3 kV;
• 10 business days for tensions between 2,3 kV e 69 kV;
• 15 business days for voltages above 69 kV.

6. Accompany the inspection and receive the report.

During the inspection, take the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the installation. After the inspection, you will receive a technical report that may approve or reject the project.

7. Make the requested adaptations.

If there are any discrepancies, the report will indicate the necessary changes. After the corrections are made, request a new inspection.

8. Request a meter replacement.

After approval, the distributor will adapt the metering system, installing the bidirectional meter capable of recording both the energy consumed and the energy injected into the grid.

9. Receive confirmation of approval.

Once the approval process is complete, you will receive the official document from the distributor, confirming that the system is ready to operate.

Take the opportunity to check out more details and tips about this process in our webinar, which featured Dirceu Ferreira, an expert in energy generation and distribution.

Documents required to approve a solar energy system.

To obtain certification for a solar energy system, the installer or developer must complete the connection request form, according to the standards established by [the relevant authority/organization]. REN ANEEL 1.000/2021. 

Furthermore, it is important to consult the technical standards of each dealership, which establish the necessary documentation for approval. The main required documents are:

• Completed standard access request form;
• Inverter certificate of conformity;
• ART (Technical Responsibility Note) from the person responsible for the electrical project and installation;
• List of consumers participating in the system;
• Single-line diagram of the system (electrical drawing);
• Descriptive Report.

It is important that all information is correct, as any data that does not comply with the regulations may lead to a denial by the distributor. If this happens, the concessionaire is obliged to point out the discrepancies so that the applicant can correct the problems.

Although the process requires attention, qualified professionals with experience in the distributed generation sector can handle the steps efficiently. 

It is worth noting that, although the regulation is clear, the distributor cannot demand additional documents beyond those specified.

What is the deadline for solar energy approval?

The total time for solar energy approval may vary depending on the type of installation (micro or mini generation) or the need for works on the electrical grid.

See what deadlines have been set in REN 1000/2021:

Art 71 

The distributor has a period of up to 5 business days, counting from the request, to verify the delivery of the necessary information and documents and adopt one of the following measures:

• Communicate to the consumer and other users that the information and documentation received are in accordance with the regulations and that studies, project and budget preparation will be carried out;
• Reject the request and inform the consumer and other users of any non-conformities.

Art 64

The distributor must prepare and provide the consumer and other users with a free connection quote, with the conditions, costs and deadlines for connection to the distribution system, within the following timeframes, counted from the request:

• 15 days: for connection of consumer units with distributed microgeneration or without generation, at voltage lower than 69kV, where there is no need to carry out work on the distribution or transmission system, only, when necessary, the installation of the connection branch ;
• 30 days: for connection of consumer units with distributed microgeneration or without generation, at a voltage lower than 69 kV, where there is a need to carry out works on the distribution or transmission system.

Art 91

The distributor must inspect and install measuring equipment at the consumer's and other users' facilities within the following timeframes:

• Within 5 business days: for connection at voltage lower than 2,3 kV;
• Within 10 business days: for connection at voltage greater than or equal to 2,3 kV and less than 69 kV;
• Within 15 business days: for connection at voltage greater than or equal to 69 kV.

However, if work needs to be carried out, a new inspection request must be made “up to the longest period between the completion date indicated in the connection budget and a period of up to 120 days from the approval of the connection budget.". 

How much does it cost to get a solar energy system certified?

The main costs of solar energy certification are related to the technical services required for project development, preparation of the ART (Technical Responsibility Annotation), and photovoltaic installation.

As CREA's official fees for ART (Technical Responsibility Certificate) project costs are around R$ 108,39 for contracts up to R$ 15 and above R$ 15 with values ​​of R$ 285,59 while the Technical Responsibility Term (TRT) has a fixed value of 68,17 BRL. 

It is important to point out that the values ​​in the ART (Technical Responsibility Certificate) forms only correspond to the administrative registration fees with CREA (Regional Council of Engineering and Agronomy). 

The fees for the engineer responsible for developing the project, monitoring the installation, and providing technical support during the approval process are charged separately and may vary depending on the complexity of the system and the conditions of the consumer unit.

In practice, the costs related to technical responsibility can be approximately a few hundred reais per technical activity. 

When the same professional takes on both the design and execution of the electrical installation, the costs tend to be higher due to the increased technical responsibilities involved.

Considering the set of technical services required, the total cost of the homologation process for distributed microgeneration systems can vary, starting from more modest values ​​and reaching higher levels when there are: 

• The input pattern needs correction;
• Adjustments to the electrical installation;
• Other technical requirements identified by the distributor during the inspection.

There are no direct fees from ANEEL For microgeneration, however, factors such as a lack of electrical standardization require additional works that impact the total cost. 

To avoid surprises, Hire companies and engineers registered with CREA. with transparent budgets and a good reputation in the market.

If you are considering installing solar energy or want to know more about companies specializing in this market, check out our list of solar energy companies and find the best option for your project!

Conclusion

The approval of solar energy systems is a crucial process to ensure that your investment is protected, that the installation was carried out in accordance with the standards and that you will be able to enjoy all the benefits offered by distributed generation.

Complying with all steps and regulations is essential to avoid future problems and ensure maximum efficiency of your photovoltaic system.

It's also essential to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in solar energy. So, in addition to following the news on Canal SolarTake the opportunity to download the Magazine Canal Solar and learn more about the latest news in the sector.

Frequently asked questions about solar energy certification.

What happens if I don't get my solar energy system certified?

Without approval, The system will not be recognized by the distributor. and it cannot inject energy into the electrical grid, and the system is considered irregular from a regulatory standpoint. 

Furthermore, the distributor may require the system to be disconnected until the situation is rectified, as well as apply the measures provided for in current regulations, since operating without approval represents a risk to the safety of the electrical grid. 

Is certification required for off-grid systems?

No, certification is not required for off-grid systems., which are not connected to the electrical grid. 

However, these systems still need to meet technical safety standards and may require authorization to ensure they comply with local regulations.

What should I do if my approval is rejected by the distributor?

If approval is refused, the distributor will provide a report indicating the problems. It is important Correct the nonconformities and request a new inspection..

If disagreement persists regarding the distributor's decision, the consumer should initially use the distributor's own formal customer service channels. 

If there is no other solution, it is possible to resort to... Ombudsman of ANEELwhich will assess compliance with applicable regulations.