BS EN 50549-1:2019

What is BS EN 50549-1 – Requirements for LV distribution networks about?  

BS EN 50549-1 is the first part of the multi-series standard that covers specifications for the distribution networks.  

BS EN 50549-1 specifies the technical requirements for the protection functions and the operational capabilities for generating plants, intended to operate in parallel with LV distribution networks. 

BS EN 50549-1 applies to generating plants, generating modules, electrical machinery and electronic equipment that meet all of the following conditions: 

• Converting any energy source into AC electricity 
• Generating modules capacity of type B or smaller according to COMMISSION REGULATION (EU) 2016/631 while considering national implementation for the decision regarding power limits between A and B types and B and C types 
• Connected to and operated in parallel with an AC LV distribution network 

Note: BS EN 50549-1 does not cover:  

• The selection and evaluation of the point of connection 
• Power system impact assessment e. g. assessment of effects on power quality, local voltage increase, impact on line protections operation 
• Connection assessment, the set of technical verifications made as part of the planning of the connection 
• Island operation of generating plants, both intentional and unintentional, where no part of the distribution network is involved 
• Four-quadrant rectifier of drives feeding breaking energy back into the distribution network for a limited duration with no internal source of primary energy 
• Uninterruptible power supply with a duration of parallel operation limited to 100ms, electrical safety requirements, pressure safety requirements, surface mounted temperature sensors. 

Who is BS EN 50549-1 – Requirements for LV distribution networks for?  

BS EN 50549-1 on requirements for LV distribution network is for: 

• Government authorities    
• Entities dealing with power generation systems  
• Operation and construction engineers 
• Power system engineers 

Why should you use BS EN 50549-1– Requirements for LV distribution networks?  

BS EN 50549-1 gives you requirements for developing a connection to a Low-Voltage distribution network. It includes all capabilities of generating plants, that are needed to operate in parallel to distribution networks. It also issues the necessary steps required for a stable distribution network management as well as the management of the interconnected system.  

BS EN 50549-1 presents you the technical requirements such as connection scheme and coordination of switchgear, voltage operating range, reactive power capability and control modes, etc., that help for the management of low voltage distribution system. 

BS EN 50549-1 also helps you to ensure the stability of the interconnected systems that are included in case of an over-voltage ride through (OVRT), as robustness to voltage swells is considered to be of high importance. 

BS EN 50549-1 also gives weightage to the electrical energy storage system considering its importance in the upcoming years. It talks about considering the electrical energy storage systems at the time of designing the distribution network itself, as it will be very helpful for you to build a cost-efficient electrical energy storage system. 

What’s changed since the last update? 

BS EN 50549‑1:2019 supersedes BS EN 50438:2013, which is withdrawn. Following are some major changes included in BS EN 50549‑1:2019:  

• Increased scope in relation to RfG 
• Introduction of “Responsible party” 
• Additional requirements for distribution system management 
• Additional requirements for stability of the interconnected system