Germany is a global leader in renewable energy and distributed power, and its grid-connection certification standards are known for their strictness and comprehensiveness. Grid-connection certification is a mandatory requirement for distributed power generation systems to access the German power grid, and is designed to ensure that the power generation system meets the high standards of the German power grid in terms of safety, stability and compatibility.
Why does energy storage need VDE series grid-connection certification?
Grid safety: Certification ensures that the power generation system will not interfere with the power grid, avoiding problems such as voltage fluctuations, frequency deviations and harmonic pollution.
System stability: Certification requires the system to have fault ride-through capabilities and dynamic response capabilities to ensure that the power grid can still operate stably under abnormal conditions.
Market access: In Germany, power generation systems that have not passed grid-connection certification cannot legally access the power grid, nor can they enjoy relevant subsidies and policy support.
VDE 4105, VDE 4110 and VDE 4120 formulated by VDE (Verband Deutscher Elektrotechniker) are the core standards for German grid-connection certification, which are applicable to power generation systems of different sizes and types. The following is a detailed introduction to these three certifications:
1. VDE 4105 certification
Full name: VDE-AR-N 4105:2011-08
Scope of application: Applicable to distributed power generation systems with a power not exceeding 30 kilowatts, such as small photovoltaic systems, wind power generation systems and battery energy storage systems.
Core requirements:
- Voltage and frequency: The system must operate within the specified voltage and frequency range.
- Harmonics: The harmonics generated by the system must be within the allowable range to avoid interference with the power grid.
- Reactive power: The system must have reactive power regulation capabilities to support grid stability.
- Safety protection: The system must have overvoltage, undervoltage, overfrequency, underfrequency and other protection functions.
- Application scenarios: Home photovoltaic systems, small commercial energy storage systems, etc.
2. VDE 4110 certification
Full name: VDE-AR-N 4110:2018-11
Scope of application: Applicable to power generation systems connected to medium-voltage power grids, usually for distributed power generation systems with a power between 30 kilowatts and 1 megawatt. For example, photovoltaic systems, wind power generation systems, battery energy storage systems, etc.
Core requirements:
- Grid support function: The system must have low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) and high-voltage ride-through (HVRT) capabilities to ensure stable operation during grid failures.
- Dynamic response: The system must respond quickly to grid demand and provide frequency and voltage support.
- Communication interface: The system must support remote monitoring and control to meet the requirements of grid operators.
- Application scenarios: Medium-sized commercial photovoltaic systems, community energy storage projects, etc.
3. VDE 4120 certification
Full name: VDE-AR-N 4120:2018-11
Scope of application: Applicable to power generation systems connected to high-voltage grids, usually for large-scale power generation systems with a power of more than 1 MW.
Core requirements:
- Grid stability: The system must have strong grid support capabilities, including frequency regulation, voltage regulation and power factor control.
- Fault ride-through capability: The system must remain operational during grid failures and quickly return to normal after the failure is restored.
- Communication and monitoring: The system needs to support advanced communication protocols to achieve real-time data exchange with grid operators.
- Application scenarios: large photovoltaic power stations, wind farms, grid-level energy storage systems, etc.
Comparison of VDE 4105/4110/4120:
| Certification | VDE 4105 | VDE 4110 | VDE 4120 |
| Scope | ≤30 kW | 30 kW – 1 MW | >1 MW |
| Grid Level | Low Voltage | Medium/Low Voltage | High Voltage |
| Core Functions | Reactive power regulation, harmonic control | Low-voltage ride-through, dynamic response | Grid stability, fault ride-through |
| Applications | Residential, small commercial systems | Medium commercial, community projects | Large power plants, grid-level projects |
Conclusion
German grid-connected certification VDE 4105, VDE 4110 and VDE 4120 are the key to the entry of distributed power generation systems into the German market. By understanding the differences and scope of application of these certifications, you can better choose a power generation system that suits your needs. SCU is committed to providing customers with energy storage solutions that meet international standards and promote the development of green energy.
SCU- No more than the energy storage system
As a VDE 4105-certified battery energy storage system manufacturer, SCU has obtained a number of international certifications, including grid-connected certifications in European countries such as the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and CE and UL certifications. Our products not only strictly meet the requirements of the power grid, but also have high efficiency, safety and reliability as their core characteristics. Choose SCU, we not only provide you with products, but also solve problems for you. You will enjoy a full process of professional services from consultation to installation, and receive full technical support.