Application Note

Export Limitation

Version 2.9

January 2025
 Version 2.9, January 2025

Table of Contents
Disclaimers ................................................................................................................................ 4
Important Notice ....................................................................................................................... 4
FCC Compliance ....................................................................................................................... 4
Emission Compliance ................................................................................................................ 5
Revision History ......................................................................................................................... 5
Chapter 1: Introducing Export Limitation .................................................................................. 6
Terminology .............................................................................................................................. 6
Chapter 2: Connection Options ................................................................................................. 7
Meter Types and Installation Considerations ........................................................................... 8
Single Inverter System .............................................................................................................. 9
Multiple Inverter System .......................................................................................................... 10
Multiple Inverter System with RS485 Meter ........................................................................... 10
Multiple Inverter System with Inline Meter Connected via SolarEdge Home Network ........... 11
EV Charging and Storage Systems .......................................................................................... 11
Export Limitation Response Time ............................................................................................. 11
Chapter 3: Export Limitation Configuration ............................................................................ 12
Configuring Export Limitation .................................................................................................. 13
Configuring Using SetApp ....................................................................................................... 13
Configuring Using the Device Display .................................................................................... 14
Verifying Export Limitation ...................................................................................................... 15
Verifying Using SetApp ........................................................................................................... 15
Verifying Using the Device Display ......................................................................................... 16
Verifying Using MySolarEdge .................................................................................................. 17
Appendix A: Monitoring Platform - Meter Data ....................................................................... 17
Appendix B: Actual Zero Export Limitation Use Cases ........................................................... 19
Introducing Zero Export Limitation .......................................................................................... 19
Theory of Operation ................................................................................................................ 19
Example 1 - Periodic Energy Export Limit .............................................................................. 20
Example 2 - Export Power Convergence Time Limit .............................................................. 21
Example 3 - Sample Commercial Site Monthly Export Log ................................................... 22
Appendix C: Examples of Total and Per Phase Export Limitation ......................................... 24
Example 1 - Single Phase, Zero Export Limit, Total Limit Mode ............................................ 25
Scenario A ............................................................................................................................... 25
Scenario B ............................................................................................................................... 26
Example 2 - Three-Phase, 70% Export Limit, Total Limit Mode ............................................ 26
Scenario A ................................................................................................................................ 27
Scenario B ............................................................................................................................... 28
Scenario C ............................................................................................................................... 28
Scenario D ............................................................................................................................... 29
Example 3 - Three Phase, Zero Export Limit, Per Phase Limit Mode .................................... 30
Scenario A ............................................................................................................................... 30
Scenario B ................................................................................................................................ 31
Example 4 - Three Phase, 3kW Export Limit, Per Phase Limit Mode .................................... 32
Scenario A ............................................................................................................................... 32

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Scenario B ............................................................................................................................... 33
Scenario C ............................................................................................................................... 34
Appendix D: Minimum Import ................................................................................................. 35
Configuring minimum import using SetApp ........................................................................... 35
Configuring minimum import using the device display ......................................................... 35
Appendix E: Regional Considerations .................................................................................... 36
Hawaii ...................................................................................................................................... 36

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Disclaimers

Important Notice
Copyright © SolarEdge Inc. All rights reserved.

No part of this document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted,

in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photographic, magnetic or otherwise,
without the prior written permission of SolarEdge Inc.

The material furnished in this document is believed to be accurate and reliable. However,
SolarEdge assumes no responsibility for the use of this material. SolarEdge reserves the
right to make changes to the material at any time and without notice. You may refer to the
SolarEdge web site (www.solaredge.com) for the most updated version.

The material furnished in this document is believed to be accurate and reliable. However,
SolarEdge assumes no responsibility for the use of this material. SolarEdge reserves the
right to make changes to the material at any time and without notice. You may refer to the
SolarEdge web site (https://www.solaredge.com/us/) for the most updated version.

All company and brand products and service names are trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective holders.

Patent marking notice:

U.S. https://www.solaredge.com/us/patent

Rest of World http://www.solaredge.com/patent

The general terms and conditions of delivery of SolarEdge shall apply.

The content of these documents is continually reviewed and amended, where necessary.
However, discrepancies cannot be excluded. No guarantee is made for the completeness of
these documents.

Please note: This product is intended to provide remote shutdown of the SolarEdge PV
harvesting system, to enable safer access to a building in the event of fire. This product
DOES NOT reduce the risk of fire or protect firefighters or others accessing a building in the
event of a fire.

If the RS485 communication between the firefighter gateway and the SolarEdge inverter(s)
is disconnected for any reason (including fire), the firefighter gateway LCD will display "No
Communication" or "Partial Com.". In this case, the firefighter gateway cannot be relied upon
to disconnect the SolarEdge PV harvesting system.

The images contained in this document are for illustrative purposes only and may vary
depending on product models.

FCC Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.

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Emission Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits applied by the local
regulations.

These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance
may void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

NOTE

Interference may occur when the Wi-Fi Plug-in and Repeater are installed near other
2.4 GHz emitting devices (such as dual technology PIR detectors used in alarm
systems, microwave ovens, etc.). This might degrade/disable the gateway/repeater
operation. If possible, avoid installation nearby such devices, or consider these
interferences when troubleshooting.

Revision History

Version Date Description

2.9 January 2025 Consumption meters are not supported in export limitation
use cases.

2.8 March 2022 "SolarEdge Energy Net" was renamed "SolarEdge Home
Network".

2.7 October 2021 Excluding use of Smart Energy Manager (SEM) on follower
inverters in multiple-inverter systems.

2.6 July 2021 Support for SolarEdge Energy Net connectivity.

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Version Date Description

2.5 September 2020 Merged North American and Rest-of-World versions

SetApp support for export limitation configuration and

verification

MySolarEdge support for export limitation verification

Chapter 1: Introducing Export Limitation

SolarEdge Smart Energy Management solutions allow for increased self-consumption in a
PV installation. One method used for this purpose is export limitation, which allows the
installation of a larger PV system or a larger inverter without violating grid export (feed-in)
limitations.

For export limitation, a SolarEdge device - an inverter or a CCG (Control & Communication
Gateway) - dynamically adjusts the PV power production in order to ensure that exported
power does not exceed a preconfigured limit. To enable this functionality, an energy meter
that measures export or consumption must be installed at the site.

To use export limitation, the inverter/Commercial Gatewaycommunication board firmware

(CPU) version must be 2.8xx/3.8xx or higher. If the CPU version is lower, contact SolarEdge
support for an upgrade file and instructions (<[email protected]>).

This document describes system setup considerations and how to configure the system for
export limitation.

Terminology
The following terms are used in this document:

• Export: The power injected to the grid.

• Import: The power purchased from the grid.

• Export/Import meter: A meter that is installed at the grid connection point and measures
the energy/power exported/imported to/from the grid.

• Consumption: The power consumed at the site. Consumption power is calculated as the
sum of self-consumption power and import power.

• Consumption meter: A meter that is installed at the load consumption point and measures
the energy/power consumed by the site.

• Self-consumption: The PV power consumed by the site and not fed into the grid.

• Production: The power produced by the PV system.

• Production meter: A meter that is installed at the inverter output or site AC connection,
or inside the inverter (a built-in revenue grade meter), and measures the energy/power
produced by the PV system or site.

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• External production meter: A meter that is used for production metering of 3rd party
generators, or for AC coupling with non-SolarEdge inverters.

• Site production meter: A meter that is installed at a SolarEdge inverter output, and reads
the energy produced by all the inverters at the site.

• Site limit: The power level (in kW) that the inverter falls back to once an export limit event
is triggered.

Figure: Terminology Illustration

Three-phase grid configuration types:

• Wye: In a Wye ("Y") configuration, all three phases are connected at a single neutral point.
Wye systems utilize five wires - three hot, one neutral and one ground.

• Delta: In a Delta configuration, the three phases are connected in a triangle. Delta systems
utilize four wires - three hot and one ground.

Chapter 2: Connection Options

Export Limitation is managed either by an inverter or by a Commercial Gateway, which is the
site's smart energy manager. The inverter/Commercial Gateway reads the exported power
from a meter installed at the grid connection point or reads the consumption from a meter
installed at the load consumption point, and adjusts PV power production according to the
preconfigured limit.

Figure: Typical installation with export meter

The following sections describe common export limitation connection scenarios and
response times.

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Meter Types and Installation Considerations

Total and per-phase power measurements and direction can be provided by:

• Meters with an RS485 interface, which are connected to the RS485 port of an inverter/
Commercial Gateway

• Meters supporting SolarEdge Home Network, which are connected wirelessly to an

inverter.

RS485-Interface meters and SolarEdge Home Network meters can be installed in the
following locations:

• For export/import metering: at the grid connection point.

NOTE

Consumption meters are not supported in export limitation use cases.

The meter should measure all grid phases . When a single-phase inverter is connected to a
three-phase grid - a three phase meter is required.

For SolarEdge meter installation, refer to the meter installation guide, available on the
SolarEdge website at:

North America:

http://www.solaredge.com/files/pdfs/solaredge-meter-installation-guide-na.pdf.

Rest of World:

http://www.solaredge.com/files/pdfs/solaredge-meter-installation-guide.pdf

For Inepro meter installation (Inepro meter firmware version 1.18 only), refer to
the application note at https://www.solaredge.com/sites/default/files/connecting-revenue-
grade-meter-to-solaredge-devices.pdf.

NOTE

For installations in Australia: According to Energex and Ergon Energy Connection

Guideline (reference EX BMS4286 Ver 1.1 and EE STNW1170 Ver 1.1), power limiting
devices must meet the following requirements:

• If current transformers or sensors are used, their terminals should be sealed.

• The terminals of the power-restricting relay /management system shall also be

capable of being sealed to prevent tampering with connections – this could include
a Perspex cover or lockable cabinet that the equipment is housed in.

Sealing equipment is not supplied by SolarEdge.

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Single Inverter System

In a single inverter system, the meter is connected to the inverter - which serves as the
smart energy manager, using one of the following methods:

• The meter is connected directly to the RS485 port of the inverter.

• The meter is connected to the inverter over SolarEdge Home Network.

If your inverter has a built-in RGM (Revenue Grade Meter), you can connect an external
meter for export limitation using one of the following methods:

• For inverters with a display, connect both the RGM and the external meter to the RS485
port.
• For inverters using SetApp, the external meter can be connected to the second RS485
port.

In the event of a communications loss between the inverter and the meter, the inverter's
power level falls back to the site limit.

Figure: Single-inverter connection with RS485 meter

NOTE

The above figure single phase inverter connection. For three phase inverters, 3 CTs
are required.

The figure shows a system with a meter measuring export levels, but the meter is also
applicable to systems with meters measuring consumption levels.

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Figure: Single-inverter connection with inline meter over SolarEdge Home Network

NOTE

The figure shows a system with a meter measuring export levels, but the meter is also
applicable to systems with meters measuring consumption levels.

Multiple Inverter System

Multiple Inverter System with RS485 Meter

When using an RS485 meter for multiple inverter export limitation, two options are available:

• Option 1: The meter is connected to the RS485 port of the leader inverter, as shown in
the figure below. The leader inverter serves as the smart energy manager. If your inverter
has a built-in RGM (Revenue Grade Meter), you can connect an external meter for export
limitation using one of the following methods:
• For inverters with a display, connect the meter using the RS485 Expansion Kit (available
from SolarEdge).

• For inverters using SetApp, you can connect both meters to the RS485 port configured
as multi-device.

In the event of a communications loss between the inverter and the meter, the multiple
inverter system power level falls back to the site limit.

Figure: Multi-inverter connection with inverter as Smart Energy Manager

• Option 2: The meter is connected to one of the RS485 ports of a Commercial Gateway,
as shown in the figure below. The Commercial Gateway is the smart energy manager.
The Commercial Gateway’s second RS485 port can be used to create an RS485 bus for
communication between the inverters.

In the event of a communications loss between the Commercial Gateway and the meter,
the multiple inverter system power level falls back to the site limit.

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Figure: Multi-inverter connection with Commercial Gateway

Multiple Inverter System with Inline Meter Connected via SolarEdge Home Network

When using SolarEdge Home Network to connect an inline meter in a multiple inverter export
limitation scenario, the inverter serving as the smart energy manager connects to the meter
wirelessly over SolarEdge Home Network.

In the event of a communications loss between the inverter serving as the smart energy
manager and the meter, the multiple inverter system power level falls back to the site limit.

Figure : Multi-inverter System SolarEdge Home Network Meter

EV Charging and Storage Systems

Export limitation is supported in EV Charging and Storage systems, subject to the limitations
noted in Export Limitation Configuration [12].

Export Limitation Response Time

The system Export Limitation response time depends on the meter location, on the
communication method between the inverters, and on the inverter CPU version:

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Meter / Location Single Inverter Multiple Inverters(1) Response Time

Response Time
Smart Energy Nested RS-485
Manager is RS485 Buses(2)
Leader or Connected
over SolarEdge Home
Network

Meter at grid ≤ 2 seconds ≤ 2 seconds ≤ 3 seconds

connection point
(Export/Import
Meter)*

Janitza meter at ≤ 3 seconds ≤ 3 seconds ≤ 3 seconds

a medium voltage
(MV) connection
point (response
time resolution: 1
second)

Inepro meter ≤ 2 seconds ≤ 2 seconds N/A

(Virtual) Meter(3) 10+ seconds N/A

(1) Assumes that all inverters produce power at the same level. SetApp inverters can
support up to 63 inverters (connected either using 2 RS485 buses or over SolarEdge Home
Network).

(2) Nested RS-485 buses are applicable only for display inverters.

(3) The virtual meter provides calculated power/energy values based on actual meter
measurements.

Chapter 3: Export Limitation Configuration

This step should be performed after installing and configuring a meter.

In a multi-inverter system, the limit is configured in the Smart Energy Manager (the inverter
or Commercial Gateway that is connected directly to the meter).

NOTE

The Smart Energy Manager (SEM) is the device connected to the meter. The SEM is
required to be the communication leader.

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NOTE

Calculated meter readings (also referred to as "virtual meters"), such as self-

consumption, are calculated using the data measured by the meter and the inverters.
Virtual meters are only sent when Energy Manager is enabled. If virtual meter
information is required, but export limitation is not, the Energy Manager should be
enabled without any site limit setting (default).

Configuring Export Limitation

Configuring Using SetApp

To configure export limitation in the SolarEdge device using SetApp:

1. From the Commissioning page, select Power Control > Energy Manager > Limit Control
> Control Mode > Export Control.
2. Select Site Limit and enter the limit value at the connection point, in kW. The default
value is none (-), which means that the system is not limited.

NOTE

The value you enter here is the overall limit to which the site export will be
restricted, whether you use the Total or Per Phase limit control modes (as
explained in the next step).

NOTE

For customers using Hawaiian country settings, solar-only EV charging (Excess

Solar mode) is not supported when the export limitation is set to zero. Refer to
the appendix, Regional Considerations for further details.

NOTE

Export limitation of an inverter connected to an AC coupled battery is supported

in inverter CPU version 3.24xx and higher, provided that the export limitation is
greater than 0.

3. In the Limit Control menu, select Limit Mode. Select one of the limit modes displayed
below:

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• Total: The Site Limit is the total export power (the combined production minus the
combined consumption) on all the phases combined. Reverse current on one phase
will count as negative power and can compensate for another phase.

• Per Phase: For three phase inverter connections, the inverter sets the limit on each
phase to 1/3 of the total site limit. Use this mode if there is a limit on each individual
phase.

For example site limit settings, refer to Appendix C [24].

Configuring Using the Device Display

To configure export limitation in the SolarEdge device using the device display:

1. Enter Setup mode, and select Power Control > Energy Manager > Limit Control > Control
Mode > Export Ctrl.

2. Select Site Limit and enter the limit value at the connection point, in kW. The default
value is none (-), which means that the system is not limited

NOTE

The value you enter here is the overall limit to which the site export will be
restricted, whether you use the Total or Per Phase limit control modes (as
explained in the next step).

NOTE

For customers using Hawaiian country settings, solar-only EV charging (Excess

Solar mode) is not supported when the export limitation is set to zero. Refer to
the appendix, Regional Considerations for details.

NOTE

Export limitation of an inverter connected to an AC coupled battery is supported

in inverter CPU version 3.24xx and higher, provided that the export limitation is
greater than 0.

3. In the Limit Control menu, select Limit Mode. Select one of the limit modes displayed
below:

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• Total: The Site Limit is the total export power (the combined production minus the
combined consumption) on all the phases combined. Reverse current on one phase
will count as negative power and can compensate for another phase.

• Per Phase: For three phase inverter connections, the inverter sets the limit on each
phase to 1/3 of the total site limit. Use this mode if there is a limit on each individual
phase.

For example site limit settings, refer to Appendix C [24].

Verifying Export Limitation

Verifying Using SetApp

To verify export limitation operation using SetApp:

1. View the site-level data on the Smart Energy Manager page.

• Site Limit: The limit that was defined for the site.

• Site Prod: The power produced by the site.

• Site Export: The power that is fed into the grid. This line is displayed only if the control
mode is "Export Control".

• Self-consume: The PV power consumed by the site. This line is displayed only if the
control mode is "Export Control".

2. Check the Power Control status screen of any inverter:

• PWR Control: The power control status:

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• Remote - Communication with the smart energy manager is confirmed/validated.

This status should appear in all inverters.

• Local - The power is controlled locally (e.g. by a fixed limit), or this inverter limits the
PV power production to its relative portion of the export power limit, as a result of
disconnected communication with the smart energy manager. If this status appears,
check the communication to the smart energy manager or the communication to the
meter.

• PWR Limit: The inverter maximum output power set by the smart energy manager

• Cos Phi: The ratio between active to reactive power

• Power Prod: The power produced by the inverter

Verifying Using the Device Display

• To verify export limitation operation using the device display:

1. Press the Enter button or the LCD external button until reaching the Smart Energy
Manager status screen, showing the site-level data. View the site-level data on the Smart
Energy Manager screen.

Site Limit: The limit that was defined for the site.

Site Prod: The power produced by the site.

Site Export: The power that is fed into the grid. This line is displayed only if the control
mode is "Export Ctrl".

Self-consume: The PV power consumed by the site. This line is displayed only if the
control mode is "Export Ctrl".

2. Check the Power Control status screen of any inverter:

PWR CTRL: The power control status:

• REMOTE - Communication with the smart energy manager is confirmed/validated. This

status should appear in all inverters.

• LOCAL - The power is controlled locally (e.g. by a fixed limit), or this inverter limits
the PV power production to its relative portion of the export power limit, as a result of

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disconnected communication with the smart energy manager. If this status appears, check
the communication to the smart energy manager or the communication to the meter.

PWR Limit: The inverter maximum output power set by the smart energy manager

Cos Phi: The ratio between active to reactive power

Power Prod: The power produced by the inverter

Verifying Using MySolarEdge

To verify export limitation operation using MySolarEdge:

• Select Inverter Status > Advanced Installer View > View detailed inverter status to
display inverter status details. Check the value of the Power Limit field.

Appendix A: Monitoring Platform - Meter Data

If your device is connected to the SolarEdge server, you can view the meter’s readings in the
monitoring platform. Verify that the meter type is set correctly in the Admin page > Logical
Layout > Meter details:

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Figure: Setting the Meter details in the monitoring platform

Calculated meter readings (also referred to as "virtual meters"), such as self-consumption,

are calculated using the data measured by the meter and the inverters. The data from the
inverters and from installed meters is displayed in the Dashboard and Charts tabs of the
monitoring platform. The displayed data depends on the meter(s) location: grid connection
point (export), or load consumption point (consumption). The following tables detail the
displayed information per meter location.

No meter installed:

Data Displayed in Monitoring Displayed in Monitoring

Dashboard Charts

Production (inverter/site) ✓ ✓

Consumption X X

Self-consumption X X

Export X X

Import X X

Export meter:

Data Displayed in Monitoring Displayed in Monitoring

Dashboard Charts

Production (inverter/site) ✓ ✓

Consumption ✓ (calculated) ✓ (calculated)

Self-consumption ✓ (calculated) ✓ (calculated)

Export X ✓

Import X ✓

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Appendix B: Actual Zero Export Limitation Use Cases

Introducing Zero Export Limitation

A special export limitation use-case exists in which no power is allowed to be exported to
the grid, hence the term "zero export". In such a case, the system regulates its production
power to match the load’s consumption power at all times.

This appendix describes the use cases of zero export limitation and shows examples of
system behavior when configured as a zero-export system. However, the same principles
apply for non-zero export limitation use-cases. Actual method of configuration can be found
in Export Limitation Guide application note.

Theory of Operation
“Zero export” term can be misleading at times as one may think that export to the grid is
always avoided. In fact, “zero export” mode is expected to export some energy to the grid in
some edge cases. The solar systems strives to produce as much power as possible for the
site consumption, however, load change events constantly occur. The zero export-regulated
system tries to match production-power and load-consumption- power at all times. During
the transition periods, some export power is inevitable.

For the following example, let us assume:

• The load instantaneous consumption power is PC [W]

• The inverter instantaneous production power is PP [W]
• The inverter nameplate power is PMAX [W] and is always higher than PC

In a balanced zero-export system, the inverter maintains export power to zero by regulating
production power PP [W] to match PC [W]. So at the beginning of the above example PP =
PC. At a sudden load power decrease (shedding), the previous instantaneous power (PC) is
changing to PC’ (the new instantaneous consumption power). The inverter should abruptly
reduce its production power to match the new consumption power (PC’): PP’ = PC’.

During the duration it takes the inverter to reduce its power, energy is temporarily exported
to the grid. The energy level exported is a direct result of the following factors:

• The load shedding level (PC - PC’).

• The duration it takes the inverter to apply the above mentioned shedding level, is affected
by:
• The sampling/reading periods associated with the Export/Import meter
• Communication latencies between the meter and the inverter
• Communication latencies between inverters (in multiple inverter cases)
• The duration required by the inverter to throttle down its production power

The blue line in the figure below shows an example of system response times in the case of
PC changing from PMAX to PC’ = 0.33PMAX load shedding with one or more inverters (at T1).

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The red line represents a single inverter response to the abovementioned load shedding,
moving from PP (=PC) to PP’ (PC’).The area between the blue line and red lines (illustrated by
the dashed lines) represents the energy exported to the grid during this duration (T3-T1).

The green line represents multiple inverter response to the abovementioned load shedding.
The green line will exhibits similar behavior to a single inverter use-case, but will take
slightly longer duration (T4-T1) due to the inverters communication latencies.

Figure: 100% to 33% load shedding

Color Measurement

Blue Power consumed by load

Red Power produced by the inverter

Green Power produced by multiple inverters system

For the general case of load shedding, let us assume:

• X = PC - PC’ (the load shedding level, in Watts)

• T2-T1 ≅1 sec

• T3-T2 ≅0.5 sec

• T4-T3 ≅0.5 sec

The expected energy export for a single inverter use case is ~1.25X/3600 [Wh]. The
expected energy export for multiple inverters use case is ~1.5X/3600 [Wh].

Example 1 - Periodic Energy Export Limit

According to Hawaii zero-export regulation, the monthly export energy allowed for a
consumer is limited to the inverter’s nameplate in Watt-Hours. In this example, we assume a
site in Hawaii with 7.6 kVA inverter, which will be limited to a monthly export of 7.6 kWh.

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In the figure below, we can see how a few events contribute to the exported energy level.

Figure: Example 1 – Periodic Energy Export Limit

Color Measurement

Blue Power consumed by load

Red Power produced by the inverter

The user turns on 2kW load at T1, and 3kW load at T2. Each time, the inverter regulates
its production to match load consumption. Once the user switches OFF the 2kW load at T3,
the inverter responds within ~1 second to regulate the power. During this period, energy is
exported to the grid (the blue dashed triangle) is ~0.28 Wh. Similarly, once the user switches
OFF the 3kW load at T4, the inverter regulates the power within ~2 seconds and the energy
exported to the grid (the green dashed triangle) is ~0.83 Wh.

Note: a typical household will generate on average 5 load shedding events per active hour.
Assuming the house is active for 6 hours a day and assuming each event exports ~1Wh to
the grid; the overall monthly energy exported is ~0.9kWh, which is ~10% of the average
inverter nameplate (7.6 kVA).

Example 2 - Export Power Convergence Time Limit

Spain zero-export regulation, requires that any export grid event, will not last for more than
2 seconds, regardless to the exported energy level. For similar general cases, let us assume
the duration is TExp seconds.

In the example depicted below, the first zero export event takes (t2-t1) seconds to reach zero
export. According to the regulation requirement, the duration must comply with (t2-t1) ≤ TExp.
Similarly, the next event must also comply with (t4-t3) ≤ TExp.

All SolarEdge inverters comply with the above mentioned regulation. Here is an example:

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Figure: Example 2 – Export Power convergence time limit

Color Measurement

Blue Power consumed by load

Red Power produced by the inverter

NOTE

The above mentioned example is valid for both single inverter and multi- inverter
cases.

NOTE

Some regulations may require a combination of convergence duration and monthly

exported power as a mean to enforce zero export.

Example 3 - Sample Commercial Site Monthly Export Log

In this example, we are showing a real system operation and the energy export levels
exhibited due to load shedding events. We assume a commercial PV system with 126 unit-
level inverters. The table shows the energy exported daily and the daily events count.

Day of the Month Exported Energy [Wh] Daily Export Events

1 224 2

2 448 4

3 558 5

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Day of the Month Exported Energy [Wh] Daily Export Events

4 1,052 8

5 642 5

6 1,144 9

7 754 6

8 1,246 10

9 884 7

10 966 8

11 708 6

12 230 2

13 410 3

14 318 3

15 794 7

16 1,030 8

17 876 7

18 910 8

19 1,312 11

20 1,216 10

21 1,042 8

22 312 3

23 1,338 11

24 1,276 10

25 1,204 10

26 1,282 10

27 1,088 9

28 1,280 10

29 984 8

30 96 1

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Day of the Month Exported Energy [Wh] Daily Export Events

31 776 7

Total 26,400 216

Daily Average 852 7

Daily average per inverter 7

Average per inverter per event 1

The overall system exported energy daily levels depends on the number of inverters. The
more inverters, the more energy exported. As mentioned above, the number of events may
vary based on user behavior and site characteristics. A factory facility where heavy loads
are being switched ON/OFF regularly will exhibit a wide variance of events, while an office
building might show a more consistent behavior.

Appendix C: Examples of Total and Per Phase Export Limitation

The following examples illustrate the behavior of a system with export limitation when using
the Total and the Per Phase Limit Mode options described in the chapter, Export Limitation
Configuration [12]

• Total: The Total site limit is the total export power on all the phases combined, that is,
the combined production minus the combined consumption, as represented in the formula
below. Reverse current on one phase will count as negative power and can compensate
for another phase.

• Per Phase (for three phase inverters): Each phase will be limited to 1/3 of the configured
site limit, that is, the export power is the sum of the production minus the consumption of
each phase, as represented in the formula below. The division of the limit into the three
phases is performed internally; the user enters the total site limit.

In the example, the Site Limit and Limit Mode configuration is detailed. The example includes
production and consumption scenarios and details how the export, consumption and import
power values are influenced by the conditions. The tables in each scenario detail the
following values:

• Potential PV Production
• Consumption (load)
• Production

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• Export power

• Self-consumption

• Import power

In addition, the Smart Energy Management status screen is presented with the values
applicable to each scenario.

Example 1 - Single Phase, Zero Export Limit, Total Limit Mode

In this example, the system export power limit is set to 0% of max DC power, that is, no
power is fed into the grid, and the Total Limit Mode is used.

The example system has a single-phase inverter with a maximum AC power of 7.6 kW.

To configure export limitation settings:

1. Set the Site Limit to 0.0.

2. Set the Limit Mode to "Total".

NOTE

For detailed guidelines on configuring export limitations settings, refer to the chapter,
Export Limitation Configuration [12]).

Scenario A

PV potential is greater than the loads.

The loads are powered from the PV.

PV production is not limited, because there is no export power.

Total power [kW] Total [kW]

Potential PV 7 7
Production

Consumption (load) 4 4

Production 4 4

Export Max (∑Production – ∑Consumption, 0) = Max(0, 0) 0

Self-consumption Min (∑Production, ∑Consumption) = Min(4,4) 4

Import ∑Consumption – ∑Self consumption = 4-4 0

The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:

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Site Limit 0.0 kW

Site Production 4.0 kW

Site Export 0.0 kW

Self-consume 4.0 kW

Scenario B

PV potential is lower than the loads.

The loads are powered from the PV and from the grid.

PV production is not limited, because there is no export power.

Total power [kW] Total [kW]

Potential PV 4 4
Production

Consumption (load) 7 7

Production 4 4

Export Max (∑Production – ∑Consumption, 0) = Max(-3, 0) 0

Self-consumption Min (∑Production, ∑Consumption) = Min(4,7) 4

Import ∑Consumption – ∑Self consumption = 7-4 3

The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:

Site Limit 0.0 kW

Site Production 4.0 kW

Site Export 0.0 kW

Self-consume 4.0 kW

Example 2 - Three-Phase, 70% Export Limit, Total Limit Mode

In this example, the system has 12kW DC power connected to a three-phase inverter with a
maximum AC power of 10kW.

The system export power limit is set to 70% of max DC power, that is, to 70% x 12kW =
8.4kW, and the Total Limit Mode is used.

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NOTE

Systems in Germany complying with the EEG2012 70% limitation would be configured
using the Total option.

To configure export limitation settings:

1. Set the Site Limit to 8.4

2. Set the Limit Mode to "Total".

NOTE

For detailed guidelines on configuring export limitations settings, refer to the chapter,
Export Limitation Configuration [12]).

Scenario A

PV potential is greater than the loads, which are not distributed evenly across the 3 phases.

The loads are powered from the PV only, and the excess PV power is fed into grid.

PV production is not limited, because the export power is lower than the limit.

Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]

Potential PV 3.33 3.33 3.33 10

Production

Consumption (load) 3 3 0 6

Production 3.33 3.33 3.33 10

Export Max (∑Production – ∑Consumption, 0) = Max(4,0) 4

Self-consumption Min (∑Production, ∑Consumption) = Min(10,6) 6

Import ∑Consumption – ∑Self consumption 0

The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:

Site Limit 8.4 kW

Site Production 10.0 kW

Site Export 4.0 kW

Self-consume 6.0 kW

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Scenario B

PV potential is equal to the loads, which are not balanced across the 3 phases.

The loads are powered from the PV only.

Although on phase 1 the consumption is greater than the production, the difference is
compensated for by phase 3, where the production is greater than the consumption.
Therefore, PV production is not limited, because there is no export power.

Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]

Potential PV 2 2 2 6
Production

Consumption (load) 3 2 1 6

Production 2 2 2 6

Export Max (∑Production – ∑Consumption, 0) = Max(0,0) 0 (no

export)

Self-consumption Min (∑Production, ∑Consumption) = Min(6,6) 6

Import ∑Consumption – ∑Self consumption 0

The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:

Site Limit 8.4 kW

Site Production 6.0 kW

Site Export 0.0 kW

Self-consume 6.0 kW

Scenario C

PV potential is lower than the loads, which are not balanced across the 3 phases.

The loads are powered from the PV and from the grid.

PV production is not limited, because there is no export power.

Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]

Potential PV 1.66 1.66 1.66 5

Production

Consumption (load) 3 2 1 6

Production 1.66 1.66 1.66 5

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Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]

Export Max (∑Production – ∑Consumption, 0) = Max(0,0) 0 (no

export)

Self-consumption Min (∑Production, ∑Consumption) = Min(5,6) 5

Import ∑Consumption – ∑Self consumption 1

The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:

Site Limit 8.4 kW

Site Production 5.0 kW

Site Export 0.0 kW

Self-consume 5.0 kW

Scenario D

PV potential is greater than the loads, which are not balanced across the three phases.

The loads are powered from the PV only, and the excess PV power is fed into grid. In
addition, PV production is limited to maintain the export limit.

Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]

Potential PV Production 3.33 3.33 3.33 10

Consumption (load) 1 0 0 1

Production 3.13 3.13 3.13 9.4

Export Max (∑Production – ∑Consumption, 0) = Max (8.4,0) 8.4

Self-consumption Min (∑Production, ∑Consumption) = Min (9.4,1) 1

Import ∑Consumption – ∑Self consumption 0

The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:

Site Limit 8.4 kW

Site Production 9.4 kW

Site Export 8.4 kW

Self-consume 1.0 kW

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Example 3 - Three Phase, Zero Export Limit, Per Phase Limit Mode
In this example, the system has 12kW DC power connected to a three-phase inverter with a
maximum AC power of 10kW.

The system export power limit is set to 0W – no power is fed into the grid, and the Per Phase
Limit Mode is used.

NOTE

Systems in Australia complying with zero export regulations would be configured with
a Site Limit of 0 and using the Total option.

To configure export limitation settings:

1. Set the Site Limit to 0.0

2. Set the Limit Mode to "Per Phase".

NOTE

For detailed guidelines on configuring export limitations settings, refer to the chapter,
Export Limitation Configuration [12]).

Scenario A

PV potential is lower than the loads, which are distributed evenly across the 3 phases.

The loads are powered from the PV and from the grid.

PV production is not limited, because there is no export power.

Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 Phase 3 Total [kW]

[kW] [kW]

Potential PV 3.33 3.33 3.33 10

Production

Consumption (load) 4 4 4 12

Production 3.33 3.33 3.33 10

Export 0 0 0 0

Σ [Max (Production – Consumption, 0)] =

Σ [Max (-0.66,0) (-0.66,0) (-0.66,0)]

Self-consumption 3.33 3.33 3.33 10

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Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 Phase 3 Total [kW]

[kW] [kW]

Σ [Min (Production, Consumption)] = 2

Σ [Min (3.33,4) (3.33,4) (3.33,4)]

Import ∑Max(Consumption – Self consumption – Export, 0)

The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:

Site Limit 0.0 kW

Site Production 10.0 kW

Site Export 0.0 kW

Self-consume 10.0 kW

Scenario B

PV potential is greater than the loads, which are not balanced across the 3 phases.

To maintain a 0W export limit for each phase individually, the production on phase 3 must be
limited. Since the three phase inverter is always phase-balanced, the production on phases 1
and 2 is limited accordingly.

Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total [kW]

Potential PV 3.33 3.33 3.33 10

Production

Consumption (load) 4 3 1 8

Production 1 1 1 3

Export 0 0 0 0

Σ [Max (Production – Consumption, 0)] =

Σ [Max (-3,0) (- 2,0) (0,0)]

Self-consumption 1 1 1 3

Σ [Min (Production, Consumption)] =

Σ [Min (1,4) (1,3) (1,1)]

Import ∑Max(Consumption – Self consumption – Export, 0) 5

The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:

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Site Limit 0.0 kW

Site Production 3.0 kW

Site Export 0.0 kW

Self-consume 3.0 kW

Example 4 - Three Phase, 3kW Export Limit, Per Phase Limit Mode
In this example, the system has 12kW DC power connected to a three-phase inverter with a
maximum AC power of 10kW.

The system export power limit is set to 3kW, and the Per Phase Limit Mode is used. This
means that exporting power on each phase is limited to 1kW.

NOTE

Systems in Netherlands connected to an AC panel with 3x80A main fuses would be

configured using the Per Phase option, with a 55kW Site Limit.

To configure export limitation settings:

1. Set the Site Limit to 3.0

2. Set the Limit Mode to "Per Phase".

NOTE

For detailed guidelines on configuring export limitations settings, refer to the chapter,
Export Limitation Configuration [12]).

Scenario A

PV potential is lower than the loads, which are distributed evenly across the 3 phases.

The loads are powered from the PV and from the grid.

PV production is not limited, because there is no export power.

Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total

[kW]

Potential PV 3.33 3.33 3.33 10

Production

Consumption (load) 4 4 4 12

Production 3.33 3.33 3.33 10

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Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total

[kW]

Export 0 0 0 0

Σ [Max (Production – Consumption, 0)] =

Σ [Max (-0.66,0) (-0.66,0) (-0.66,0)]

Self-consumption 3.33 3.33 3.33 10

Σ [Min (Production, Consumption)] =

Σ [Min (3.3,4) (3.3,4) (3.3,4)]

Import ∑Max(Consumption – Self consumption – Export, 0) 2

The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:

Site Limit 3.0 kW

Site Production 10.0 kW

Site Export 0.0 kW

Self-consume 10.0 kW

Scenario B

PV potential is greater than the loads, which are not balanced across the 3 phases.

To maintain a 1kW export limit for each phase individually, the production on phase 3 must
be limited. Since the three phase inverter is always phase-balanced, the production on
phases 1 and 2 is limited accordingly.

Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total

[kW]

Potential PV 3.33 3.33 3.33 10

Production

Consumption (load) 4 3 1 8

Production 2 2 2 6

Export 0 0 1 1

Σ [Max (Production – Consumption, 0)] = Σ [Max (-2,0)

(-1,0) (1,0)]

Self-consumption 2 2 1 5

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Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total

[kW]

Σ [Min (Production, Consumption)] =Σ [Min (2,4) (2,3) (2,1)]

Import ∑Max(Consumption – Self consumption – Export, 0) 2

The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:

Site Limit 3.0 kW

Site Limit 3.0 kW

Site Production 6.0 kW

Site Export 1.0 kW

Self-consume 5.0 kW

Scenario C
PV potential is greater than the loads, which are not balanced across the 3 phases.

To maintain a 1kW export limit for each phase individually, the production on phase 3 must
be limited. Since the three phase inverter is always phase-balanced, the production on
phases 1 and 2 is limited accordingly.

In this scenario, despite the system production being limited as in the previous scenario,
the limitation is less severe because the loads are more balanced, and this allows increased
self-consumption.

Phase 1 [kW] Phase 2 [kW] Phase 3 [kW] Total

[kW]

Potential PV 3.33 3.33 3.33 10

Production

Consumption (load) 3 2 2 7

Production 3 3 3 9

Export 0 1 1 2

Σ [Max (Production – Consumption, 0)] = Σ [Max (0,0) (1, 0) (1,

0)]

Self-consumption 3 2 2 7

Σ [Min (Production, Consumption)] =Σ [Min (3,3) (3,2) (3,2)]

Import ∑Max(Consumption – Self consumption – Export, 0) 0

The following Smart Energy Manager status data are displayed:

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Site Limit 3.0 kW

Site Production 9.0 kW

Site Export 2.0 kW

Self-consume 7.0 kW

Appendix D: Minimum Import

Some utilities may require a minimum amount of power to be purchased from the grid before
the PV system can start production and supply the loads. This is equivalent to negative
export to the grid.

Configuring minimum import using SetApp

To configure minimum import using SetApp:

1. Enter 0.0 in the Set Site Limit screen (refer to the chapter, Export Limitation
Configuration [12]

2. Select Power Control > Energy Manager > Limit Control > Control Mode > Min Import Ctrl

3. Enter the minimum amount of power to be purchased in the Min Import Ctrl screen.

Configuring minimum import using the device display

NOTE

The minimum import function for inverters with a display requires CPU version 3.18xx
or above.

To configure minimum import using the device display:

1. Enter 0.0 in the Set Site Limit screen (refer to the chapter, Export Limitation
Configuration [12]).

2. Select Power Control > Energy Manager > Limit Control > Control Mode > Min Import Ctrl

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3. Enter the minimum amount of power to be purchased in the Min Import Ctrl screen.

Appendix E: Regional Considerations

Hawaii
When using the SolarEdge EV Charging Single Phase Inverter, the Excess Solar mode (non-
scheduled, solar-only charging) functionality is subject to variations when the inverter is set
to one of the Hawaii country settings.

Excess Solar mode operation is available only to homeowners with Smart Export tariffs. It
will not be available for those with Zero Export tariffs.

During the day, homeowners with either tariff program (Smart Export or Zero Export) will be
able to maximize their charging using available solar power combined with grid power priced
at Hawaii's lowest retail rates.

To offset the nighttime consumption of electricity priced at Hawaii's high retail rate, it is
recommended to set a daytime daily schedule (usually from 10AM to 5PM), and use the Full
Power (combined solar and grid charging) mode to charge during non-scheduled periods.

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