Technical Note For The Certification of Grid Code Compliance, Revision 9 (Pdf-Version) PDF

Technical Note
Certification of Grid Code Compliance
Revision: 9
Date: 2013-12-04
Contact:
GL Renewables Certification
Germanischer Lloyd Industrial Services GmbH
Phone: +49 40 36149-0
Fax: +49 40 36149-1720
E-Mail: renewablescertification.energy@dnvgl.com
Brooktorkai 18
20457 Hamburg
Germany
www.dnvgl.com/energy
This Technical Note was compiled by GL Renewables Certification in cooperation with the
Wind and Marine Energy Committee. The Wind and Marine Energy Committee consists of representatives from
public authorities, wind turbine and component manufacturers, engineering consultants, institutes, universities,
technical associations and insurance companies.
The current members of the Wind and Marine Energy Committee are named on our website:
Interpretation of the Technical Note is the exclusive prerogative of GL Renewables Certification. Any reference to
the application of this Technical Note is permitted only with the consent
of GL Renewables Certification.
GL Renewables Certification
Germanischer Lloyd Industrial Services GmbH

Brooktorkai 18, 20457 Hamburg, Germany
Phone: +49 40 36149-0
Fax: +49 40 36149-1720
renewablescertification.energy@dnvgl.com
The latest edition of the General Terms and Conditions

of Germanischer Lloyd Industrial Services GmbH is applicable.
Reproduction by printing or photo static means, even of extracts, is only permissible with the consent
of GL Renewables Certification.
Table of Contents
1 Introduction 5
1.1 Objectives 5
1.2 Definitions and symbols 6
1.3 GCC parameters (Grid Code requirement definitions according to Appendix) 7
1.4 Site specific requirements (Grid Code or set of parameters according to section 1.3) 7
2 General Requirements and Conditions for Assessment 8

2.1 Validity of tests 8
2.2 Assessment according to outdated technical notes for Grid Code Compliance (GCC) 8
2.3 Extent of certification 8
2.3.1 Scope of certification 8
2.3.2 National requirements 11
2.3.3 Deliverables 12
3 Assessment of a Generation Unit 15

3.1 General 15
3.2 Rating assessment 15
3.2.1 General rating assessment 15
3.2.2 Rating assessment for rotating electrical machines 15
3.3 Power control range 15
3.3.1 Active power provision 15
3.3.2 Reactive power provision 16
3.4 Power quality parameters 16
3.5 Behaviour during faults 16
3.5.1 Grid disconnection 16
3.5.2 Grid support 17
3.6 System and relay protection 17
3.7 Software model validation 17
3.8 Assessment for 50 Hz / 60 Hz units 17
3.9 Safety system for structural integrity of special generation units e.g. of wind turbines 18
4 Assessment of a Generation Plant 18

4.1 General 18
4.2 Transforming values to PCC 18
4.3 Communication and control interface 18
4.4 Power control range 19
4.5 Power quality 19
4.6 Short circuit current strength 19
4.7 Behaviour during faults 19
4.7.1 Grid disconnection 19
4.7.2 Grid support and low voltage ride through (LVRT) or FRT (section 1.3 with Appendix D12) 19
4.7.3 Operation with grid frequency, which is diverging from nominal frequency 19
4.8 System and relay protection 20

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5 Tests 20
5.1 General 20
5.2 National testing procedures 20
5.2.1 Test procedure in China 20
5.2.2 Test procedure in Germany 20
5.2.3 Test procedure in Spain 20
5.3 International GL test procedure 20
5.3.1 Test equipment and measurement requirements 20
5.3.2 Test plan preparation 21
5.3.3 Criteria for successful testing 27
5.3.4 Measurement report and measurement data 27
5.3.5 Validity of measurements for different renewable generation units 27
5.4 Other test procedures 28
6 References 29
Appendix – listing of GCC-parameters to be valued and ordered as criterion for certification

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1 Introduction
This technical note is compiled by Germanischer Lloyd Industrial Services GmbH, Renewables Certification (GL).
We thank European Wind Energy Association (EWEA) for giving us the permission to use the GCCF (Generic
Grid Code Format) GCCF (Link:
http://www.ewea.org/fileadmin/ewea_documents/documents/publications/091127_GGCF_Final_Draft.pdf ) has
initially been issued by EWEA, intended for structural harmonization of definitions in Grid Code requirements
worldwide [20]. The technical terms and definitions from EWEA where partly adapted to also be applicable for
technologies other than wind turbines.
1.1 Objectives
This document makes it possible to proof, that certain requirements from electrical system operators are fulfilled.
It shows how to proof compliance with requirements set by other documents (e. g. set by grid codes). This
document also helps to find an envelope for differing requirements.
Equipment used for the generation of electrical current using renewable energy sources like wind, solar radiation
bio fuels etc. have to be compliant with grid code requirements set by system operators governments or others.
This technical note helps proving such compliance. The scope is described in section 2.3.1 in more detail. Such
equipment can be structured in generation units and generation plants, as most of the equipment is of a
distributed generation type.
Generation units are defined as single current generating installations like single wind turbines, single inverters
with connected photovoltaic (PV) modules etc.
Modern renewable generating plants are designed to support the electrical grid during normal operation as well
as during electrical faults in the system. This is achieved by extra features of renewable generating units in order
to help system operators keeping distribution and transmission systems in safe operational mode.
A generation plant is the aggregation of several generation units, connected to a common connection point,
including corresponding power cables, power transformers, reactive power compensation installations as well as
protection and control systems as far as applicable. Examples are wind farms and PV farms.
In some countries, system operators require to establish evidence that renewable generating units are compatible
with the requirements of their grid codes in order to be connected to the grid. In most countries only generating
plants can be compliant with grid codes, not generating units. This is due to the focus of system operators on
power plants with aggregated power and another reason is that power plant structure is usually not within the
responsibility of system operators but power plant operator’s responsibility. Nevertheless this technical note
shows a way, how types of renewable generating units can show Grid Code Compliance by defining assumptions
which have to be implemented on renewable generating plant level. Showing compliance with grid codes can be
done best by Grid Code Compliance certification.
During faults in the electrical system voltage drops or rises can occur at the output terminals of a renewable
generation unit. According to the grid codes of various system operators a renewable generation plant shall stay
operational during specific voltage drops (Low Voltage Ride Through, LVRT).
This technical note describes a procedure to prove compliance with grid codes of equipment, generation units
and generation plants as well as a corresponding field test of the behavior of a renewable generation unit during
defined voltage drops in the grid. The test shall in general be performed on a unit in operation and not on a test
stand. Exceptions are acceptable if the results are technical equally representative for the fault assumption under
examination. This has to be described and the description is to be provided to GL for assessment during the
certification.”

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1.2 Definitions and symbols
GSC Generator sign Current flowing from the renewable generation unit to the grid has a
convention positive sign.
cos  Power factor of the Active power of the fundamental positive sequence divided by
fundamental positive apparent power of the fundamental positive sequence as defined as
sequence cos 1+ in IEC 61400-21.
fg [Hz] Frequency Nominal grid frequency
I [A] Phase current Root mean square value of the current in one phase.
P [W] Active power Real part of the apparent power, which is produced by the
renewable generation unit.
Q [VAr] Reactive power Imaginary part of the apparent power, which is produced by the
renewable generation unit.
U [V] Voltage Phase to phase voltage, root mean square value (RMS)
S [VA] Apparent power 3 U  I
MP1 Measuring Point 1 Measuring point at the grid side of test equipment
MP2 Measuring Point 2 Measuring point at the medium voltage side of the unit transformer
(winding connected to the distribution system), close to the
transformer or to the medium voltage switchgear.
MP3 Measuring Point 3 Measuring point at the low voltage side of the unit transformer
PCC Point of Common PCC is the interface at which the renewable generation plant is
Coupling connected to a transmission, distribution or closed distribution
network.
Pn Rated Power Rated power of the renewable generation unit
PAvailable Available power output Maximum available active power output depending on e.g. the wind
speed at present. PAvailable shall be measured prior to the voltage
drop as 2 seconds average value. After the voltage dip PAvailable shall
be measured as 5 seconds average value.
U Minimum voltage drop The minimum phase-to-phase voltage (RMS line-to-line value) as
requirement required by the respective grid code during a voltage drop.
Un Nominal Voltage Nominal phase-to-phase voltage (RMS) according to manufacturer’s

data.
Ug Nominal grid voltage Nominal phase-to-phase voltage (RMS) of the grid

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trecover Time needed for the The time needed after fault clearance following restoration of the
restoration to normal grid, until the unit has achieved its normal operating point (e.g. rated
operation output, if e.g. the wind speed is above rated wind speed). The active
power output delivered during a subsequent period of oscillations
shall be at least that which would have been delivered if the active
power output was constant on or above the required level.
Dip Voltage dip The combination of a voltage drop and a voltage recovery just after
each other with a well-defined pause (dip duration). Definitions can
be found in section 5.3.2.2.2, Figure 5-1.
Recovery Voltage recovery The rise of the voltage from the residual voltage to the normal
operating range of grid voltage specified by the system operator
(e.g. ±10% Un).
Drop Voltage drop The quick reduction of voltage from a normal value to a remaining
voltage.
Uremaining Remaining voltages The voltage value at a given point after a voltage drop at this point
(e. g. U, U) has happened. The value shall be given as phase-to-phase voltage
(RMS line-to-line value calculated analogue to the method for
phase-to-neutral voltage as given in the IEC 61400-21, Annex C).
Umin…Umax Voltage tolerance band As required for PCC in grid codes, see Section 5.3.2.2.2, Figure 5-1
UHVRT High-Voltage Ride- The defined value of a voltage above Umax which can occur during
Through voltage temporary over voltages (TOV). This can be tested by a high-voltage
ride-through (HVRT).
1.3 GCC parameters (grid code requirement definitions according to Appendix)

Definitions of grid code requirements are collected in the Appendix to this technical note. They contain
descriptions, definitions, possible requirements etc. which can be part of grid codes, or can be used for
certification directly according to the international max capability approach (to be chosen by the applicant, see
section 2.3.1.1 for details on the certification procedure).
GCC parameters as defined in the Appendix can be used as a single criterion for certification (e.g. D12J for
maximum voltage phase jump robustness during LVRT only) or as set of many GCC parameters to be used as a
set of criteria for certification (e.g. D12 + D13 + D14 for all LVRT requirements one could imagine to exist in any
grid code).
When applying these GCC parameters (short code numbering according to Appendix) as criteria for a
certification, the corresponding details like values have to be given either by the applicant for certification (e.g. by
using the maximum equipment performance values) or by the grid codes used as an evaluation criteria in
conjunction with this technical note (grid codes can be chosen e.g. by using the listing on internet http://www.gl-
group.com/pdf/IGCC_list.pdf ).
1.4 Site specific requirements (grid code or set of parameters according to section 1.3)
For each certification, the grid codes that are assessed are to be defined with the grid code identification name
and associated date of publication as minimum (according to Appendix G1). A list of applicable grid codes is
available online at www.gl-group.com/pdf/IGCC_list.pdf. Alternatively a set of GCC parameters according to
section 1.3 and Appendix can be applied for a site.

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2 General Requirements and Conditions for Assessment
2.1 Validity of tests
The validity of test results to be used for an assessment shall be assessed. An assessment is not necessary in
cases where the unit under certification was tested by accredited testing laboratories. In cases where test results
were taken from other units than those under certification, a special assessment is necessary. Where testing has
been done with similar equipment (e.g. similar generation units compared with that under assessment) validity
has to be assessed according to section 5.3.5. Only after successful assessment the test results can be regarded
as valid.
2.2 Assessment according to outdated technical notes for Grid Code Compliance (GCC)
For certifications of Grid Code Compliance (GCC) previously performed according to the GL Wind Technical
Notes TN065 [19] and TN066 [4] future assessments shall be performed according to this technical note, but the
scope has to be adapted accordingly. The technical notes [4] and [19] are replaced by this Technical Note for the
Certification of Grid Code Compliance (GCC).
2.3 Extent of certification

The certification of Grid Code Compliance can be performed for equipment, generation units and generation
plants (definitions see section 1.1).
The different scopes are described in the following section.
Requirements shall be defined by the applicant in advance; the necessary assessment to be done by GL is
described in chapter 3 for generation units and in chapter 4 for assessment of generation plants. The procedure
of defining requirements is explained in the next section together with the different scopes, available for Grid
Code Compliance.
2.3.1 Scope of certification

The scope of this technical note is to define procedures for the certification of equipment, generation units and
generation plants according to the different grid code requirements. The grid codes are to be selected by the
customer (applicant) before ordering the assessment for certification. Furthermore the level of certification has to
be defined before assessment and certification can be started. Three different levels of independent verification
by GL can be provided according to this technical note. Figure 2-1 shows the verification levels and the
deliverables related to these. More explanations to the levels can be found in the following sections.

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Fig. 2-1: Three levels of independent verification
2.3.1.1 International Max Capability Approach

If verification of a generation unit or any equipment shall be made, taking into account only some requirements or
maximum possible capabilities, but not a complete grid code, this approach is the one to be used.
For this approach a set of GCC parameters with short codes according to section 1.3 and the Appendix shall be
applied for certification. In this approach the requirements can be selected by the applicant based on the
maximum possible capabilities of the equipment under certification. For that a completed table 2-1 shall be
provided by the customer (applicant) for certification together with the order. For all details see listing in the
Appendix. Please find a corresponding example as table 2-1 below.
# REQUIREMENT DESCRIPTION SI VALUE ORDER
R1 See Appendix X, V, yes

Hz,
W, s
Umax, H 32 kV
Umax, C 30 kV

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# REQUIREMENT DESCRIPTION SI VALUE ORDER
Duration 1 h
Reduction 20 %
R5 See Appendix See separate drawing to be provided See yes

drawing
D1 See Appendix Hz/s
A Minimum df/dtpositive 5mHz/s Yes
B Minimum df/dtnegative 5mHz/s Yes
Table 2-1: Example of set of GCC parameters with short code # numbers to be provided for certification
International max capability approach is used to receive Certification Reports based on test results from
measurements made by accredited testing laboratories. Each test shall be specified by a test plan according to
section 5.3.2 (Test plan preparation). This is mostly done for generation units.
Assessment will be performed according to chapter 3 as far as applicable.
2.3.1.2 Multi-National Grid Code Approach

If a generation unit or any equipment shall be verified independently, proving the principal ability to comply with
one or more grid codes, this approach can be applied.
For Multi-National Grid Code Approach requirements in the grid codes are used as Grid Code Requirement, the
following table 2-2 shall be provided together with the application for certification and the corresponding order,
please find an example of table 2-2 below:
Revision/
No. Author Country Title Date Draft
007 No. according to http://www.gl-group.com/pdf/IGCC_list.pdf
new TSO 1 Country 1 New Grid Code 1 2017 0

new DSO 1 Country 1 New Grid Code 2 2016 2
Table 2-2 to be provided by the applicant together with the order, if grid codes shall form the basis of assessment
Assessment will be performed according to chapter 3.
In the Multi-National Grid Code Approach compliance shall be based on grid codes. It can only be based on a set
of parameters according to section 1.3 if all requirements of the Grid Codes are given in the set of parameters.
This approach can be used to receive a Type Certificate (GCC) for one or more Grid Codes specified according
to Section 1.4 (Site Specific Requirements (Grid Codes)). This is mostly done for generation units.

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2.3.1.3 Site Specific Approach
In case independent verification shall be performed for a specific site for a specific power plant, this approach is
to be applied. The Site Specific Approach can also be described as process of independent site suitability
assessment; it is also called Project Certification (GCC).
For the Site Specific Approach the grid code requirements are fixed for the site, either by a Grid Code or by a set
of parameters similar to table 2-1 usually written in the contractual document valid for the site and the grid
connection or power purchase agreement.
The assessment in the Site Specific Approach can be based on deliverables from Max Capability Approach or
from Multi-National Grid Code Approach.
Assessment will be performed according to chapter 4.
A single Project Certificate (GCC), a Statement of Compliance including or a Certification Report only can be
issued based on specified grid code(s) or set of parameters according to section 1.3 or 1.4 (Site Specific
Requirements (Grid Codes).
2.3.2 National requirements

The legal requirements of some countries as well as some grid codes prescribe the use of specific certification
guidelines for certification. Certificates issued for such countries and grid codes, respectively, should therefore not
be based on the evaluation criteria defined within this technical note, but on the certification guideline the grid
code or the legal requirement refers to. If such is required it is given in the listing below.
At the time of writing this document, this holds true for legal requirements in Germany and Spain, Greece and
Portugal, these countries require certification according to the following certification guidelines.
2.3.2.1 Legal requirements in the EU

ACER and ENTSO-E rules contain exhaustive and non-exhaustive requirements. Such requirements can be
assumed according to section 1.3.
Concerning Non-exhaustive requirements the following holds ture: as far as national or local system operator
requirements are not explicitly specifying the limitation values of such non-exhaustive requirements (GCC-
parameters) they can be assumed according to section 1.3. All non-exhaustive requirements can be used as
detailed e.g. in the following document from ENTSO-E:
Implementation Guideline for Network Code “Requirements for Grid Connection Applicable to all Generators” [28].
For HVDC connection, the corresponding implementation guideline for the Network Code on HVDC Connections
shall be taken into account.
2.3.2.2 Greece
A Greek law requires grid code compliance; see Grid Code No. 076 in
http://www.gl-group.com/pdf/IGCC_list.pdf.
2.3.2.3 Spain and Portugal

Project Certification (GCC) is required according to the Spanish Royal Decree 661, RD661 [12]. The valid
certification procedure is the Spanish PVVC [13]. Type Certification (GCC) is not defined in Spain, but can be
issued according to the Type Certification Scheme of this technical note if requirements according to Spanish
PVVC [13] are used only.

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2.3.2.4 Germany
The Project Certificate (GCC) is equal to the German “Anlagenzertifikat”, the Type Certificate (GCC) is equal to
the German “Einheitenzertifikat” if SDLWindV [11] or bdew MV-Guideline [10] is used as grid code requirement.
For certifications according to [10] or [11] the procedures and requirements according to FGW TR8 [2] shall be
applied.
2.3.2.5 South Africa

On the legal basis of Electricity Regulation Act (Act 4 of 2006), the grid connection requirements and the
compliance test procedures as mentioned in Grid Code No 118 in http://www.gl-group.com/pdf/IGCC_list.pdf is
applicable for all type of renewable power plant technologies.
2.3.2.6 China
There are separate grid codes for wind and PV solar. The grid code published for wind integration [22] and for PV
power stations [23] can be found in chapter 6. In China, the various tests for grid connection and simulation model
based evaluation are required. The relevant work is based on the drafted guidelines [24], [25] and [26].
2.3.3 Deliverables
Certification of a generation unit or a generation plant concerning Grid Code Compliance (GCC) is subdivided into
the steps listed below.

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Certification Report
Grid Code Requirements
Statement of Compliance
Grid Code Requirements
Certification Report Certification Report Certification Report Certification Report Certification Report

Grid Support Other Grid Code Simulation and Validation Site Conditions Grid Code Compliance
Requirements than Grid for Grid Code Compliance (GCC)
Support
Statement of Compliance Statement of Compliance Statement of Compliance Statement of Compliance

Grid Support Other Grid Code Simulation and Validation Site Conditions
Requirements of Grid Code Compliance
Type Certificate (GCC)
Generation Unit
(e.g. Wind Turbine)
Project Certificate (GCC)
Generation Plant
(e.g. Wind Farm)
Fig. 2-2: Deliverables and subdivision of the certification process. Dashed lines mean optional deliverables.
2.3.3.1 Certification Reports
In the Certification Reports the generation unit respectively the generation plant is described. Furthermore, the
tests, which have been performed and their parameters are listed as well as the validated software model (GCC)
details.
Certification Reports can be issued for parts of the full scope of assessment by defining elements of certification
depending on the requirements. Scope and structure of the Certification Report is depending on the Grid Codes
applied or on the scope defined for the Max Capability Approach or Site Specific Approach. Such definition of the
scope and elements shall be defined within each certification process. The scope will be given in the Certification
Report, based on definitions according to section 1.3 and the scope according to section 2.3.1.
A single Certification Report can be issued dealing with several subjects and scopes of assessment. The
corresponding scope will be given in the Certification Report itself.
2.3.3.2 Statement of Compliance

An optional Statement of Compliance can be issued for parts of assessed criteria for the scope of one
Certification Report (e.g. a Statement of Compliance for Grid Support can be issued on the scope of section
3.5.2).
2.3.3.3 Type Certificate (GCC)

A Type Certificate (GCC) can be issued for a generation unit, e.g. for a specific type of a renewable generation
unit including its type specification.
To achieve a Type Certificate (GCC) according to this technical note a reference to one or more specific grid
codes as mentioned in section 1.4 is necessary. Besides the grid codes mentioned in section 1.4 other
acknowledged standards and guidelines can be applied after agreement with GL.
A Type Certificate (GCC) for a power generation unit can be issued with reference to one or more grid codes if all
requirements of these grid codes have been assessed according to chapter 3 of this technical note and if the
results comply with the requirements of the specific grid codes. On the Type Certificate (GCC) it is mentioned if
full-scale on-site tests according to chapter 5 have been performed.
After successful completion of all evaluations according to chapter 3 and in case of compliance with the
requirements of specific grid codes or set of parameters (according to section 1.3) and / or other acknowledged
standards and guidelines a Type Certificate (GCC) will be issued. The test and certification procedures, which
have been used in each case, as well as the grid codes and / or other acknowledged standards and guidelines,
are mentioned in the appendix to the Type Certificate (GCC). In no case shall the scope of assessment according
to chapter 3 exceed the requirements of the corresponding grid codes or set of parameters (according to section
1.3) and / or other acknowledged standards and guidelines.
Evaluations according to chapter 3 shall be performed in any case, validation according to section 3.7 is
recommended.
2.3.3.4 Project Certificate (GCC)

A Project Certificate (GCC) can be issued for a generation plant, e.g. for a wind farm at a specific site having a
specific grid connection point with specific values and requirements for parameters according to section 1.3.
To attain a Project Certificate (GCC), all generation units installed shall have a valid Type Certificate (GCC) or a
corresponding independent verification confirmed by Certification Reports according to section 2.3.3.1. On
agreement with GL comparable documents from other accredited certification bodies can by recognised.
For a Project Certificate (GCC) compliance of the generation plant with the applicable grid code and / or locally
valid set of requirements of parameters according to section 1.3 shall be assessed for the specific site given (see
section 2.3.1.3). Dynamic and static simulations shall prove compliance of all items given in chapter 5 as far as
required by the corresponding grid code and / or locally valid set of requirements of parameters according to
section 1.3.
Simulation according to section 3.7 is recommended.
2.3.3.5 Equipment Certificates

Equipment Certificates are named in the ENTSO.E NfG (Grid Code No 99 in
http://www.gl-group.com/pdf/IGCC_list.pdf ).
3 Assessment of a Generation Unit

3.1 General
Grid Code requirements or a corresponding set of GCC parameters according to section 1.3 shall be assessed
with the scope of a single generation unit, based on corresponding tests as defined in chapter 5.
3.2 Rating assessment

3.2.1 General rating assessment
For each assessment corresponding documentation about the steady state performance according to section 1.3
with Appendix R (Frequency, voltage and power rating) shall be provided, including tests or simulations as far as
relevant for the Grid Code Requirements to be assessed. E. g. frequency rating according to section 1.3 with
Appendix R2 shall be assessed in the following way. The capability of the renewable generation unit to operate
within the specified frequency range shall be verified. Therefore, manufacturer documentation or test bench
records shall be submitted for each component. See also the following section 3.2.2 for rotating electrical
machines.
3.2.2 Rating assessment for rotating electrical machines

Documents shall be provided for GL assessment proving that the renewable generation unit is able to run in
continuous operation mode at voltages at the lowest tolerance band at PCC. This shall be done for wind turbines
at minimum for:
- generator
- main frequency converter
- rotor blade pitch drive (including motor, converter and control if electrically powered, or hydraulic
pump and valve control system if hydraulic powered)
- yaw drive
For renewable generating units other than wind turbines, documents shall be provided for only the applicable
components of the mentioned above. Documents may include, but shall not be limited to, a set of rating plate
data, environmental temperature assumptions and corresponding calculations.
3.3 Power control range

3.3.1 Active power provision
This section deals with grid code requirements according to section 1.3. and Appendix D3 (control of active
power) and according to section 1.3 and Appendix D in general as far as active power is mentioned (Frequency
gradients and power ramp rates) and section 1.3 and Appendix D4 (run back).

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3.3.1.1 Active power reduction by set-point control
The renewable generation unit behaviour on set point changes may be tested and evaluated according to FGW
TR3 [3]. Depending on the assessed grid code different set points than those described in FGW TR3 [3] may be
defined for each Grid Code. If no requirements on the accuracy of the target value are formulated in the Grid
Code, the tolerances given in FGW TR8 [2] shall be applied.
3.3.1.2 Active power gradient (reconnection to the grid)

The maximum rate of change of active power increase of the renewable generation unit after reconnection to the
grid (not LVRT) may be tested according to FGW TR3 [3]. If no requirements on the maximum gradient are
formulated in the Grid Code, the gradient given in FGW TR8 [2] shall be applied.
3.3.1.3 Frequency control and inertia response

The automatic response (increase or decrease of active power output) of a Renewable Generation Unit to a
System Frequency deviation as required in grid codes shall be assessed. Inertia response and frequency bound
control of the output shall be evaluated by assessing the measured signals (see section 1.3 and Appendix D5 and
D7). The control function is carried out by a grid simulator. For power reduction during over-frequencies the
method proposed in FGW TR3 [3] may be adapted. Depending on the assessed grid codes set points for
frequency and active power different from those described in FGW TR3 [3] may be demanded. If no requirements
on the accuracy of the target value of the active power are formulated in the Grid Code, the tolerances given in
FGW TR8 [2] shall be applied.
3.3.2 Reactive power provision

The capability of a renewable generation unit for maximum reactive power provision and reactive power set point
control may be tested according to FGW TR3 [3]. If no requirements on the accuracy of the set point control are
defined in the Grid Code the tolerances given in FGW TR8 [2] shall be applied. Reactive power rating shall be
assessed in analogy to section 3.2 (rating assessment). The different modes for the reactive power provision of
the renewable generation unit shall be assessed in combination with Appendix D8 (Controls utilizing the reactive
power capability of the renewable generation plant). As far as required by the Grid Code Requirements the
following control mode shall be assessed:
- reactive power control mode (see Appendix D10). Optionally, also the following control modes can
be assessed:
- power factor control mode (see Appendix D9)
- voltage control mode (see Appendix D11)
3.4 Power quality parameters

Effects on the power system are to be assessed and evaluated according to section 10.4 of GL Guideline for
Wind Turbines (GL-IV-1) [15], according to IEC 61400-12 [6] or according to FGW TR3 [3]. Some grid codes
demand compliance with certain power quality characteristics at the PCC (i.e. on renewable generation plant
level), whereas measurements are done at the renewable generation unit. In such a case the power quality
characteristics are listed but not evaluated in the scope of Type Certificate (GCC). The evaluation of the power
quality characteristics at the PCC is described in section 4.5.
3.5 Behaviour during faults

3.5.1 Grid disconnection
Grid disconnection describes the conditions under which a renewable generation unit may or must disconnect or
must stay connected to the grid during grid faults (i.e. deviations in voltage or frequency over a certain period or
Start-stop and islanding with load requirements according to section 1.3 with Appendix D2). The grid
disconnection may be assessed in combination with section 3.3.1.2, 3.5.2 and 3.6. The rating corresponding to
these requirements (e.g. frequency rating for the required connection time) shall be assessed according to
section 3.2.
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3.5.2 Grid support
3.5.2.1 Low voltage ride through (LVRT)
Minimum requirement is the assessment according to FGW TR3 [3] or section 5.3.2.2.The tests, which have to be
performed, are to be defined in individual cases. Corresponding Grid Code requirements are defined in section
1.3 with Appendix D12 (Fault ride through FRT or LVRT). The selected tests in accordance to section 5.3.2.2
shall fulfill the requirements of the applied Grid Code (e.g. the 0 % test has only an effect in connection with the
Grid Codes, which define a renewable generation unit operation at 0 V at MP2). The assessment may be based
either on full-scale on-site tests or the validated software model (GCC). The selected method will be stated on the
certificate. If Grid Code requirements according to section 1.3 with Appendix D13 (Consumption Parameters) are
to be assessed, corresponding test result data have to be post-processed and provided to GL for evaluation. The
same is valid for Injection Parameters according to section 1.3 with Appendix D14.
3.5.2.2 Short circuit current ratio

The current I is measured during low voltage ride through. Here the procedure according to FGW TR3 [3] may be
used.
3.6 System and relay protection

The functionality of the grid protection may be assessed and evaluated according to FGW TR3 [3]. Depending on
the assessed Grid Code other protection values than those described in FGW TR3 [3] may be necessary. If no
requirements on the accuracy of the grid protection system are defined in the Grid Code, the tolerances in FGW
TR8 [2] shall be applied. Other tests may have to be defined for the certification according to the protection
concept in agreement with GL.
3.7 Software model validation

A software model of the renewable generation unit shall be provided for assessment and validation. This software
model shall be capable to represent the electrical behaviour of the assessed renewable generation unit. Details
and validation procedure according to FGW TR4 [9] shall be applied. The software model shall be described
according to section 1.3 with Appendix M1 to M4. All kinds of model documentations according to section 1.3 with
Appendix M3 can be used for independent assessment and validation except black-box. In case of black-box
models, description of the internal dynamics has to be provided.
As far as such requirements are defined in the Grid Code or agreed for the certification, the following
requirements shall be assessed during software model assessment:
- consumption parameters (see Appendix D13)

- injection parameters (see Appendix D14)
- temporary overvoltages (see Appendix D15)
- system and relay protection (see Appendix D16)
After successful validation and plausibility tests by GL, the software model is called validated software model
(GCC).
The validated software model (GCC) shall be used for simulations on renewable generation plant level for Project
Certification (GCC) (see chapter 4).
In cases a Grid Code does not require validated software model (GCC), it is not mandatory to provide a software
model for validation and assessment. Nevertheless it is recommended to use a validated software model (GCC)
for further Grid Code Compliance certification, because simulation results could be used instead of testing.
3.8 Assessment for 50 Hz / 60 Hz units

If tests were performed in 50 Hz the validated software model (GCC) can be used for simulations in 60 Hz. A
corresponding small scale low voltage dip test of the auxiliary supply system according to section 5.3.2.6 can be
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performed optionally in a 60 Hz grid. The same shall apply vice versa, if full scale measurements and tests were
performed in a 60 Hz grid.
3.9 Safety system for structural integrity of special generation units e.g. of wind turbines
The structural integrity assessment is outside of the scope of this technical note. However, to evaluate the safe
operation of the renewable generation unit even during grid failure, the evaluation of the relevant ranges of safety
system, protection and monitoring devices as well as the relevant ranges of the load assumptions of the
renewable generation unit have to be assessed within the scope of a corresponding structural integrity
assessment. This applies e.g. if rotating parts are involved in the generation unit and issues like over speed
impose a risk to the units structural integrity, e.g. in the case of wind turbines. The evaluation is part of the design
evaluation according to the respective standards and guidelines (e.g. GL IV-1 [15], GL IV-2 [17], IEC 61400-22
[14] or DNV DSS 904 [27]). This design assessment shall consider load cases expected during voltage dip testing
for Grid Code compliance of the renewable generation unit.
Also other influences on load assessment than LVRT shall be regarded within the corresponding structural
integrity design but is outside of the scope of this technical note.
4 Assessment of a Generation Plant

4.1 General
Grid Code requirements or a corresponding set of GCC parameters shall be assessed for the complete
generation plant, based on corresponding tests according to chapter 5 and simulations according to section 4.2.
For each assessment corresponding site data shall be given for the assessment (see section 1.4 with Appendix
G2 to G5 and Appendix S).
4.2 Transforming values to PCC

For a Project Certificate (GCC) the renewable generation plant behaviour shall be assessed by corresponding
calculations, which transform the behaviour of the single renewable generation unit to the behaviour of the
renewable generation plant at the PCC. Therefore, the cables, transformers and specific grid properties at the
PCC (based on the information of the local grid operator) shall be taken into account. If a software model was
validated (see section 3.7), the validated software model (GCC) shall be used to implement the specific project in
the simulation software environment and perform the calculations.
4.3 Communication and control interface

A communication and control interface has to be available at the point of common coupling (PCC) for monitoring
of the current operating point (measured values; see also plant status information according to section 1.4 with
Appendix P and Appendix Int) and for controlling the operating point (set point control) of the renewable
generation plant.
The following measured values shall be assessed if required according to section 1.4:
- reactive power Q or power factor cos 

- voltage U
- active power P
- currently available maximum active power (active power control Ppotential)
The following set point values shall be assessed if required according to section 1.4:
- maximum acceptable power or power change rate

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- required reactive power Q or power factor cos 
- requirements for active power control Ppotential (Active power reduction by set-point control)
Further assessments may be necessary, if required by the Grid Code or the requirements of the grid operator.
The communication interface to the renewable generation units and the set point control has to be defined clearly
by the renewable generation plant operator. For the assessment also section 4.4 shall be considered.
4.4 Power control range

Some Grid Codes or the local grid operator demand certain power control ranges or control modes (e.g. cos ) at
the PCC. Based on the active and reactive power capabilities of the single renewable generation units (see
section 3.3.1 and 3.3.2) it shall be assessed, if the requirements are fulfilled at the PCC. Therefore, the
communication and control concept (see section 4.3) of renewable generation plant shall be taken into account.
4.5 Power quality

Some Grid Codes or the local grid operator demand compliance with certain power quality characteristics at the
PCC. Based on the measured values of the single renewable generation units (see section 3.4), it shall be
assessed, if the requirements are fulfilled at the PCC. The specific grid properties at the PCC (based on the
information of the local grid operator) shall be taken into account.
4.6 Short circuit current strength

Based on the measured current I during the LVRT tests of the single renewable generation units (see section.
3.5.2.2), the short circuit strength of each electrical component between each generation unit and the PCC or
POC (e.g. circuit breaker, cable) have to be assessed.
4.7 Behaviour during faults

Based on the measured and assessed behaviour during faults of single renewable generation units (see section
3.5), the behaviour of the renewable generation plant during faults at the PCC shall be assessed. Therefore, the
requirements of the Grid Code or the local grid operator shall be taken into account (e.g. reactive current injection
during voltage dips and related requirements during faults and the reactive power behaviour at PCC).
Simulations of phase-to-earth-faults according to section 5.3.2.4 shall be applied on renewable generation plant
level. For this, corresponding impedances shall be provided by the responsible local system operator. In case a
Grid Code does not require phase-to-earth fault verification such simulations are not mandatory.
4.7.1 Grid disconnection

Grid disconnection describes the conditions under which a renewable generation plant may or must disconnect or
must stay connected to the grid during grid faults (i.e. deviations in voltage or frequency over a certain period).
The grid disconnection may be assessed in combination with the sections 4.7.2, 4.7.3 and 4.8.
4.7.2 Grid support and low voltage ride through (LVRT) or FRT (section 1.3 with Appendix D12)
Based on the measured and assessed behaviour during faults of the renewable generation unit (see section 3.5),
the behaviour of the renewable generation plant at the PCC shall be assessed. If a validated software model is
available it shall be used for the assessment of the renewable generation plant. It shall be assessed, if the
requirements are fulfilled at the PCC. Therefore, the criteria of the defined Grid Code or the requirements of the
grid operator shall be taken into account.
4.7.3 Operation with grid frequency, which is diverging from nominal frequency
For the evaluation of the operability of the renewable generation plant with decreased or increased grid frequency
the protection settings at the PCC shall be assessed according to the requirements of the Grid Code or the local

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grid operator. Furthermore, the capability of the single renewable generating units to operate within the required
frequency range shall be assessed, see section 3.2.
4.8 System and relay protection

The functionality of the grid protection shall be assessed and evaluated according to FGW TR3 [3]. Depending on
requirements of the Grid Code or the local grid operator other protection values than those described in FGW
TR3 [3] may be necessary. If no requirements on the accuracy of the grid protection system are defined in the
Grid Code, the tolerances in FGW TR8 [2] shall be applied. Other tests may have to be defined according to the
protection concept in agreement with GL.
5 Tests
5.1 General
For verification this technical note refers to test and evaluation methods given in the standards and guidelines
mentioned in chapter 6. Measurement reports by accredited measuring institutes for the tests given in section 4.2
and other tests, which are to be agreed upon, are part of the assessment documents. These have to be provided
to GL for assessment.
5.2 National testing procedures

5.2.1 Test procedure in China
Test procedure for wind in China can be found in the guideline “Test procedure of wind turbine low voltage ride
through ability” [24]. For PV solar the following test procedure can be used: “Technical rule for photovoltaic power
station connected to Power Grid“, [23].
5.2.2 Test procedure in Germany

The test procedures and requirements as explained in FGW TR8 [2] must be followed for GCC certification in
Germany according to [10] or [11].
5.2.3 Test procedure in Spain

The test procedure as well as the project certification procedure in Spain is PVVC [13]. As Type Certificate (GCC)
is not defined in Spain this can be issued according to this technical note if requirements according to Spanish
PVVC [13] are used.
5.3 International GL test procedure

The countries, which do not explicitly require using their national procedure, or if they do not have their own test
procedure defined, shall follow the GL test procedure as explained below.
This procedure can be used for all countries worldwide.
5.3.1 Test equipment and measurement requirements

By choosing the test arrangements effort shall be made to prevent unacceptable disturbances during the tests in
the grid. This can be implemented for instance by interposing a reactor or other impedance into the test circuit.
The impedance of this big reactor must be attuned with the system operator depending on the short circuit
impedance of the grid and the level of acceptance concerning disturbances during the tests. The voltage at the
generation unit should not leave the normal operating range when the unit runs at rated power. The impedance
shall have a ratio of X/R > 3.
The voltage drop can be achieved using a reactor by short-circuiting of two and three phases at the unit side of
the impedance. The test set up according to IEC 61400-21 [5], section 7.5 can be used (two reactors Z1 and Z2

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 20
as a voltage divider). The voltage drop shall be accomplished inside 1 ms.
The testing voltage drop shall be initiated at the measuring point MP2. For other generating units than wind
turbines it also can be initiated at MP3. Power factor changes shall be monitored during testing according to
section 5.3.2.
The circuit breakers which are used for the test shall be designed for the expected short circuit currents.
Note: First of all functional tests shall be performed without voltage. These tests shall show the safe-functionality
of the test equipment. For safety and security reasons, tests with lower risk shall be done first. See also [1] or [15]
etc.
5.3.2 Test plan preparation

5.3.2.1 Measurements needed during all tests
All measurements shall be performed by an institute, accredited according to DIN EN ISO/ IEC 17025 for
measurements of electrical characteristics (power quality) and loads on renewable generation units.
The power factor shall be determined and documented for each test. At least the whole time range from five
seconds before connecting the impedance Z1 before the start of the voltage drop until the effect of the voltage
drop has abated shall be recorded. It is recommended to record 15 seconds before and 15 seconds after the
onset of the emulated fault. The power factor at the grid side of the test equipment shall not change significantly
during each test recording.
During each of the following tests the following instantaneous values shall be recorded at all measuring points
MP1, MP2 and MP3 with a sampling rate of at least 5 kHz of all three phases:
a. currents
b. voltages
During the test, in case of wind turbines when the unit is operating at least the following instantaneous values
shall be measured and recorded additionally (sampling rate must be at least 10 Hz):
a. rotational speed for wind, corresponding value for other generation units (optional, relevant for structural
integrity, see section 3.9)
b. pitch angle of one rotor blade for wind turbines, corresponding value for other generation units (optional,
relevant for structural integrity, see section 3.9)
c. measurement of the mechanical torque on the rotor shaft as specified in IEC TS 61400-13 [8] for wind
turbines, corresponding value for other generation units (optional, relevant for structural integrity, see
section 3.9)
d. wind speed or other signals representing the available power.
Note: The recording of these four values shall enable a comparison between the actual unit behavior and the
assumed unit behavior during the load simulations as required in section 3.9 of this technical note.
During test for any other renewable generation, the primary source of energy shall be measured (e.g solar
radiation in case of PV)

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5.3.2.2 Voltage dip testing
5.3.2.2.1 General
The tests shall be done with 3 voltage levels (,  and ), for 2 durations (t1 and t2), with two loading levels (low
power and high power) as 3-phase voltage drop (3p) and as 2-phase voltage drop (2p).
For an overview, the following table can be used; details are explained in the following sections.
Category Loading Dip type Voltage for Test voltage levels Test durations
1 Low power 3p U, U, U, optional 0% t1, t1, t1, ,t2,
t2, t2
2 High power 3p U, U, U, optional 0% t1, t1, t1, ,t2,
t2, t2
3 Low power 2p not U, U, U, optional 0% t1, t1, t1, ,t2,
involving t2, t2
earth
4 High power 2p not U, U, U, optional 0% t1, t1, t1, ,t2,
involving t2, t2
earth
5 Both 1p to earth U, U t1, t1, t2, t2
Table 5-1: Voltage dip test overview (and categories for section 5.3.3)
5.3.2.2.2 Test voltage levels

During the test the voltage shall drop down to U, U, U (tolerance range ± 0,10 x Un). These defined test voltage
levels shall be compared to the residual voltage measurements (Ures) during the corresponding no-load tests in
order to check the tolerance range.
A no-load test is the first test of each test voltage level with the test equipment connected to the grid but with no
renewable generation unit connected. For each configuration of the test equipment for a test voltage level a no-
load test shall be performed.
The values for the test voltage levels are calculated by the following equation (5.1), (5.2) and (5.3), see also
Figure 5-1:
Small voltage dip ( dip) down to the test voltage level U as defined in equation (5.1):
U   0.7 * (U N  U  )  U  (5.1)
Half voltage dip ( dip) down to the test voltage level U as defined in equation (5.2):
U   0.5 * (U N  U  )  U  (5.2)
Minimum test requires a voltage dip ( dip) down to the test voltage level U as defined in (5.3):
U   minimum voltage according to Grid Code requirement (5.3)

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U LL [V]
U max
2
Un
U min
U
U
U
t [s]
t1
t1
t1
t2 
t2
t2
Fig. 5-1: Voltage dip definitions see also Section 5.3.2.2.3 and 5.3.2.2.4
1 Example of a limiting curve for LVRT according to Grid Codes

2 Example tolerance band for voltage at PCC as required by Grid Codes (Umin…Umax)
Un Nominal grid voltage
U Test voltage level during  dips
U Test voltage level during  dips
U Test voltage level during  dips, lowest voltage of the limiting curve (LVRT) according to Grid Codes
U LL Voltage value at PCC
t1 Shortest test times, t1 for  dip, t1 for  dip and t1 for  dip
t2 Longest test times, t2 for  dip, t2 for  dip and t2 for  dip
The test voltage levels shall be generated with heavy test equipment according to section 5.3.1. For each
certification the values of all test voltage levels shall be determined and documented, e. g. in a test plan.
5.3.2.2.3 Test durations

Two durations t of each voltage drop shall be tested in each test voltage level (U, U and U)

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shortest test time longest test time
t1= t1 =t1 t2 > t2 ≥ t2
t [s] In shortest possible t at the voltage level

time *) line of U, U, U,
t1 see Figure 5-1 t2 see Figure 5-1
*) shortest possible time of the test switch gear

Table 5-2: Voltage dip test durations
The longest test time t2 depends on the respective Grid Code and will be defined for each certification process.
After voltage recovery the time trecover shall be determined.
5.3.2.2.4 Loading level (low power, high power)

Different problems may occur at different operating points of the renewable generation unit during a voltage drop.
Thus the tests shall be repeated at different operating points. For the tests the operating point of the renewable
generation unit is defined by the electrical active output power according to the below given table. The test shall
be performed at two different power levels (i.e. loading levels) for each test, at minimum.
Low power High power
P= 0.1...0.3 Pr *) P > 0.9 Pr
*) generator speed below synchronous speed in the case of a doubly fed induction generator for wind turbines
Table 5-3: Loading level for voltage dip tests
If the Grid Code requires auto-reclosing-cycles at least two of the above listed tests shall be done in a way to
simulate automatic reclosure cycles. Should there be no detailed requirements given in the Grid Code, two double
dips shall be performed with a pause of 500 ms between voltage recovery of the first and voltage drop of the
second dip in both cases, at minimum.

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U LL [V]
U max
Un
U min
U
t [s]
t2  500 ms t2 
Fig. 5-2: Example for one auto-reclosing-cycle test.
5.3.2.3 0% Test
This test is an optional test in those cases, where the corresponding Grid Code requires U > 0%. The 0%-test
shall be performed according to section 5.3.2.2 using the following parameters:
 test duration shall be short test time (100ms) and longest reasonable test time. Two single voltage
drops shall be passed successfully
 test voltage level shall be below Ures = 5% Un with low power only (see section 5.3.2.2.4)
5.3.2.4 Phase-to-earth fault verification and trip test

It is recommended to test phase-to-earth faults. If the System Operator does not insist on verification, however
the test and the simulation are optional and therefore not mandatory. This has to be clarified prior to the
certification and shall be confirmed by the System Operator then. If the System operator insists on phase-to-earth
fault verification the following phase-to-earth fault tests shall be simulated as a minimum.
The tests shall be performed using half-voltage-test as a basis. The test shall be done with U according to
section 5.3.2.2, using the following parameters only:
 test duration shall be short test time (100ms) and long test time (1s) or extra long (>1s) if necessary,
see below
 two consecutive dip tests shall be passed successfully
 test voltage level shall be U with low primary energy potential only, 1p
The trip-test is explained in the following. After successfully surviving the first part of a voltage dip (voltage
dropped to a defined test voltage level) a generation unit could get in trouble in the case that the voltage does not
recover and the turbine shall switch off during or after the fault (within the fault mode of the generation unit’s
control). In such cases it is important, that the generation unit is tested for a case with a voltage dip of such
duration (i.e. simulating a black-out), that the generation unit’s control is cutting off during the fault-mode to shut

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 25
down the generation unit for protection reasons. In this test (trip test) the generation unit shall show the ability to
shut down during fault mode. This can be achieved in two ways:
 shut down due to the fact, that this voltage dip duration is longer than required by the Grid Code
 shut down, due to the fact, that the control detected the voltage to be outside the LVRT definition
curve of the Grid Code
In the second case, it is possible to reduce the test time for the until-cut-off test (trip-test) compared to the longest
LVRT test, provided corresponding explanations and documentation is provided for GL assessment and the result
is plausible.
In general the specification of until-cut-off test (trip-test) shall be combined with the phase-to-earth test with the
following parameters:
 maximum duration or less, depending on the fault-mode concept

 test voltage level U with low power, 1~
 test voltage level U with high power, 2~
5.3.2.5 High-Voltage Ride-Through (HVRT)

In some Grid Codes it is required that generation units shall withstand voltages above Umax (see section 1.3 for
TOV, temporary over voltage). This can be tested in an optional High Voltage Ride Through (HVRT) test. The test
shall be based on section 5.3.2.2; details shall be agreed with GL before testing starts. If this test was done, it will
be mentioned in the Type Certificate (GCC); otherwise this requirement was not tested, even if a Type Certificate
(GCC) is issued.
5.3.2.6 Procedure to establish evidence for LVRT for 60 Hz having made tests in 50 Hz only
If tests were performed in 50 Hz the validated software model (GCC) can be used for simulations in 60 Hz,
optionally the corresponding small scale low voltage dip tests of the auxiliary supply system according to this
technical note can be performed and passed successfully in a 60 Hz grid. The same shall apply vice versa, if full
scale measurements and tests were performed in a 60 Hz grid.
Low Voltage Ride Through (LVRT) test and measurement shall be made at a renewable generation unit in either
50 Hz or 60 Hz grid according to this technical note.
For validation of a simulation model, simulations shall be done with a simulation model of the same cases as
tested and measured in section 5.3.2.2 categories 1 and 2. Furthermore a plausibility check of the simulation
model is required.
Comparison of the results from test and measurement in 50 Hz with simulation in 50 Hz shall be done for
validation of the simulation model. This validation process shall be done as described in this technical note.
Adaptation of the model shall be done for simulations in 60 Hz grid, including system parameters – short circuit
impedance, transformer characteristics, system frequency etc. The changes in the adapted model shall be
assessed by GL for plausibility.
Assessment shall be done if success criteria are fulfilled according to the respective Grid Codes and the
simulation in 60 Hz.
Test and measurement in a generation unit of the same type (equal generator, main frequency converter hard-
and software as well as medium voltage transformer) connected to a 60 Hz Grid shall be done with a reduced
scope compared to test and measurement. Tests are necessary only if components of the 60Hz-variant are
changed compared to the 50Hz-variant.
It shall be assessed if success criteria are fulfilled according to the respective Grid Codes. Minimum success
criterion is the continuous, uninterrupted operation of the generation unit until recovery of maximum available
output power after voltage has recovered.

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5.3.3 Criteria for successful testing
For each certification process the different test values and success criteria shall be defined depending on the
respective Grid Codes before the tests are performed. This is usually done by a test plan. RMS-values (root-
mean-square) of voltage and current shall be considered as average values from the time all transients died out
for the remaining time of the voltage drop. The time of transient processes shall be determined.
After the performance of the tests it shall be determined and documented, whether the tests are successfully
passed or not. For this the following two criteria shall apply:
− the measurement institute shall check, if the renewable generation unit is regularly online 10 seconds
after the test is over (standard production mode). This shall be stated as one criterion whether the test is
passed or not.
− a second criterion is fulfilled, if the renewable generation unit did not disconnect during 2 consecutive
tests (2 durations (t1 and t2)) within one category (see Table 5-1). If disconnection took place the tests of
this category are only regarded as passed, if the following 4 tests of the same category did not lead to
disconnection of the renewable generation unit from the grid. If disconnection takes place again within
these following 4 tests, the tests of this category are regarded as invalid. In case of a failed test and
unexpected behavior of the renewable generation unit, the test shall be aborted and the reason of the
failure shall be corrected for prevention of danger before new testing can take place.
5.3.4 Measurement report and measurement data

The electronic version of the measurement data shall be provided if requested by GL.
A testing overview shall be given in the measurement report with the following details. The data sets shall be
numbered and the reference to the corresponding test specification shall be given for each test (as defined e. g.
in a test plan). Each test set shall have a date and time stamp. Times between consecutive tests are to be
explained in the report, if they seem to be not plausible.
The following values shall be given in the measurement report:
Voltage, current, active and reactive power and reactive current at both, medium voltage side of the unit
transformer (winding connected to the distribution system), close to the transformer or to the medium voltage
switchgear and the low voltage side connected to the generator. The values shall be given as positive sequence
values according to IEC 61400-21 [5].
Additionally phase values of voltage and current measured at all sides of the machine transformer (medium and
low voltage) shall be given in the measurement report. These phase values shall be given as RMS (root-mean-
square), calculated according to Eq. C.7 of the IEC 61400-21 [5] and averaged with a continuous averaging
window of one full period.
Main components rating plate data and other details shall be documented according to the list provided in FGW
TR3 [3] in Annex A (Manufacturer's certificate on specific data). The measurement institute shall verify that the
data given in the manufacturer’s certificate on specific data is correct for the renewable generation unit under test.
Especially the validity of the software version for converter, control system, grid protection etc. shall be checked
by the measurement institute. A corresponding comment shall be given in the measurement report. Rating plate
details of all components according to the scope of certification according to section 3.2 shall be documented in
the report.
Definitions according to section 1.2 shall be used, definitions according to section 1.3 and Appendix are
recommended.
The test equipment shall be described in the report according to section 5.3.1, power factor values shall be given
in the report for each test.
Requirements of chapter 5 shall be applied.
Results according to section 5.3.3 shall be given in the report.
5.3.5 Validity of measurements for different renewable generation units

The measurements of one renewable generation unit could be used for the certification of further units of the
same series. Therefore, the additional unit to be certified must be technically equivalent to the measured unit (e.g.
same topology, same control software etc.). Only changes which do not have a negative influence on the
Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 27
measured and assessed electrical behavior are allowed. An appropriate argumentation about the technical
equivalence of the renewable generation units to be certified must be provided for assessment to GL. The scope
of measurements for more than one renewable generation unit should be specified in advance.
5.4 Other test procedures

Additional tests can be defined for the certification, if no test requirements are given in national or international
standards or guidelines.

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6 References
[1] IEC 61400-1: 2005 Wind turbines – Part 1: Design requirements, third edition, August 2005
[2] FGW TR8 Technical Guidelines for Power Generating Units, Part 8: Certification of the
electrical characteristics of power generating units and systems in the medium-, high- and
highest-voltage grids, Rev. 6 or newer, Fördergesellschaft Windenergie und andere
Erneuerbare Energien (FGW e.V.), Germany
[3] FGW TR3 Technical Guideline for Wind Turbines-Part 3: Establish electrical characteristics of
generating units connected to the medium-, high- and extra high voltage level (Technische
Richtlinien für Windenergieanlagen – Teil 3 Bestimmung der Elektrischen Eigenschaften von
Erzeugungseinheiten am Mittel-, Hoch- und Höchstspannungsnetz), Rev. 23 or newer,
Fördergesellschaft Windenergie und andere Erneuerbare Energien (FGW e.V.), Germany
[4] TN 066 Technical Note (TN 066), Certification of Grid Code Compliance (GCC) Test
procedure for low voltage ride through (LVRT), Rev. 8, 31.07.2013 of GL Renewables
Certification.
[5] IEC 61400-21 Wind turbine generator systems – Part 21: Measurement and assessment of
power quality characteristics of grid connected wind turbines
[6] IEC 61400-12 Wind turbine generator systems – Part 12: Wind turbine power performance
testing
[8] IEC TS 61400-13 Wind turbine generator systems – Part 13: Measurement of mechanical
loads
[9] FGW TR4 Technical guidelines for power generating units, Part 4: Demands on modelling and
validating simulation models of the electrical characteristics of power generating units and
systems, Rev. 6 or newer, Fördergesellschaft Windenergie und andere Erneuerbare Energien
(FGW e.V.), Germany
[10] bdew MV-Guideline Technical guideline generating plants connected to the medium-voltage
network guideline for generating plants connection to and parallel operation with the medium-
voltage network, June 2008, BDEW Bundesverband der Energie- und Wasserwirtschaft e.V.,
Germany.
[11] SDLWindV Verordnung zu Systemdienstleistungen durch Windenergieanlagen (SDLWindV),

vom 03.07.2009, Bundesgesetzblatt Jahrgang 2009 Teil I, Nr. 39, ausgegeben zu Bonn am
10. Juli 2009, Seite 1734
(Ordinance on System Services by Wind Energy Plants [System Service Ordinance –
SDLWindV]) and Verordnung zur Änderung der Systemdienstleistungsverordnung, vom 25.
Juni 2010, Bundesgesetzblatt Jahrgang 2010 Teil I, Nr. 34, ausgegeben zu Bonn am 30. Juni
2010, Seite 832
(Change Ordinance System Services by Wind Energy Plants)
[12] RD661 10556, ROYAL DECRETO 661/2007, de 25 de mayo, por el que se regula la actividad
de producción de energía eléctrica en régimen especial, BOE num. 126, issued 2007-05-26,
page 22846, Spain (Royal ordinance for special electrical energy production scheme)

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 29
[13] PVVC “PROCEDIMIENTOS DE VERIFICACIÓN, VALIDACIÓN Y CERTIFICACIÓN DE LOS
REQUISITOS DEL PO 12.3 SOBRE LA RESPUESTA DE LAS INSTALACIONES EÓLICAS
ANTE HUECOS DE TENSIÓN, Versión 10, issued by AEE 2012-01-26, Spain (Verification
Validation and Certification Procedure for the requirements of the PO 12.3 on the response of
Wind Farms in the event of voltage dips)
[14] IEC 61400-22: 2010 Wind turbines – Part 22: Conformity testing and certification, Edition 1.0
2010-05
[15] Germanischer Lloyd Industrial Services GmbH, Renewables Certification „GL Rules and
Guidelines - IV Industrial Services - Part 1 - Guideline for the Certification of Wind Turbines“,
Edition 2010.
[16] IEC WT01 IEC System for conformity testing and certification of wind turbines, rules and
procedures, first edition 2001-04
[17] Germanischer Lloyd Industrial Services GmbH, Renewables Certification „GL Rules and
Guidelines, IV, Part 2, Guideline for the Certification of Offshore Wind Turbines“, Edition 2012
[18] FGW TR2 Technical Guideline for Wind Turbines-Part 2: Establish power performance and
standardised production (Technische Richtlinien für Windenergieanlagen – Teil 2:
Bestimmung von Leistungskurve und standardisierten Energieerträgen) Fördergesellschaft
Windenergie und andere Erneuerbare Energien (FGW e.V.), Germany
[19] Technical Note (TN 65) „Certification of Grid Code Compliance (GCC), Certification
procedure“, Revision 8, issued 2013-07-31 by Germanischer Lloyd Industrial Services GmbH
Renewables Certification, Germany
[20] „Generic Grid Code Format for Wind Power Plants“issued on 2009-11-27 by EWEA,
http://www.ewea.org/fileadmin/ewea_documents/documents/publications/091127_GGCF_Fin
al_Draft.pdf
[21] „IGCC List, International Grid Code Comparison“,issued on a regular basis by GL,
http://www.gl-group.com/pdf/IGCC_list.pdf
[22] „Technical rule for connecting wind farm to power system“, GB/T 19963, issued 2012 by
China Electric Power Research Institute (CEPRI), China
[23] „Technical rule for photovoltaic power station connected to Power Grid“, Q/GDW 617-2011,
issued 2011-05-06 by State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC), China
[24] „Test procedure of wind turbine low voltage ride through ability “, draft issued by National
Energy Bureau (NEB), China
[25] „Guideline for Modeling and Validation of Wind Turbine Low Voltage Ride Through
Characteristics“, draft issued by National Energy Bureau (NEB), China
[26] „Electric Simulation Model and Validation Method of Wind Farm“, draft issued by National
Energy Bureau (NEB), China
[27] “Type Certification of Wind Turbines”, DNV Service Specification DNV-DSS-904, January
2012, DNV

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 30
[28] Implementation Guideline for Network Code “Requirements for Grid Connection Applicable to
all Generators”, issued 2013-10-16 by ENTSO-E

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 31
Appendix – listing of GCC-parameters to be valued and ordered as criterion for certification
The most left column of the following listing gives the short code numbering (titled with #) of the GCC
Parameters which could be chosen as criterion for certification. Together with the column titled with
“Requirement” it is possible to address each single parameter of the listing for a detailed set of criteria for
certification by ordering more than one GCC parameter as criterion for certification.
Following technical terms and definitions are taken from the Generic Grid Code Format (Link:
http://www.ewea.org/fileadmin/ewea_documents/documents/publications/091127_GGCF_Final_Draft.pdf )
issued by EWEA. They were adapted to this Technical note and different numbering has been applied due
to that.
# G1 through G5: General Grid Code specifications
# R1 through R14: Frequency, voltage and power rating (steady state performance)
# D1 through D11: Dynamic performance of Frequency gradient and power ramp rates during normal
operation
# D12 through D16: Dynamic performance of Frequency gradient and power ramp rates during FRT
# Int : Communication and control interface
# P: Plant status
# M: Model related information data
# S: Site specific data
# C: Certification and performance verification
# Z: Additional Definitions to be specified and described
# REQUIREMENT DESCRIPTION SI VALUE ORDER Y / N
G General General Grid Code specifications
G1 Grid Code This is the official name of the Grid X None

identification Code. Having defined a Date of issuing
this is the date when the Grid Code
becomes valid.
More over general definitions can be

contained like global definitions which
can generally be placed in the
beginning of the Grid Code. Parameter
definitions relating to individual
parameters will be placed where
needed when specifying the individual
parameters.
The Point of Connection POC is the

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 32
point at which a renewable generation

plant connects to a Power System. Grid
Code requirements shall apply at POC,
unless otherwise stated.
Issues related to short circuit power

(Sk) are normally regarded as project
specific parameters.
G2 Geographical Specifying the geographical region in X None

area which the Grid Code is to be valid, a full
country, a region, a certain state and
similar.
G3 MW size limit Some Grid Codes are specifying a W

certain MW limit above which the Grid
Code shall be valid.
G4 System voltage Some Grid Codes are specifying a V

level limit certain voltage limit (or range) from
which the Grid Code shall be valid.
G5 Type of network Some Grid Codes have a sppecification X None

grounding of the type of network grounding at the
different voltage levels, e.g. isolated,
directly, effectively or impedance
grounded.
R Rating Frequency, voltage and power rating
R1 Voltage- Corresponding figures may be given in X

frequency-power- Grid Codes, specifying the operating
time-figure (U/f/P/t area for simultaneous values of
– figure) voltage, frequency, output power and V,
time. Hz,
W,
The voltage shall be specified in Grid s
Codes in absolute values [kV].
X
The figure below is an example only to
indicate the intention with this
parameter set (Source: Danish Grid
Code above 100 kV)

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 33
R2 Frequency rating Maximum system frequency in Grid Hz

Codes defines the absolute maximum
A system frequency at which the
renewable generation unit or plant shall
be able to operate.
B Minimum system frequency is the Hz

absolute minimum system frequency at
which the renewable generation unit or
plant shall be able to operate.
The Frequency/time-diagram according X

C to Grid Codes is a frequency versus
time figure which is sometimes
specified. However, it is preferable to
have this information included in the
U/f/P/f-figure.
R3 Voltage rating Nominal system voltage should be V

specified if used for certain p.u or
A specifications. It should be observed per
that different systems typically use unit
slightly different nominal system
voltages.
B Absolute maximum system operating V

voltage (Umax,H) should be specified
in absolute value [kV] (not in p.u)
C Absolute minimum system operating V

voltage (Umin,L) should be specified in
absolute value [kV] (not in p.u.).
R4 Power rating The U/f/P/t-figure is specifying the X

degree of over-magnetization
A (Umax/fmin). The parameter is not
strictly necessary and should be
implicitly available through this U/f/P/t-
figure.
B Continuous rated power at minimum V

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 34
voltage (Pc/Umin) specifies the

minimum voltage at which it shall be
possible to deliver continuous nominal
active power.
C Maximum active power reduction W

during frequency drops specifies the
maximum allowable reduction in active
power during a frequency drop. Most
likely a figure is needed to specify the
characteristic of the frequency drop.
R5 Reactive power The steady-state reactive power X

rating capability shall be specified in a PQ-
chart. The PQ-chart shall be valid for
the full active power operating area.
If the intended requirement is not solely
clear from the PQ-chart only, the PQ-
chart shall be associated with a text
thoroughly explaining the requirement.
If part of the steady-state requirement
is required to be dynamical (fast) it shall
be stated also (example Alberta -
Canada).
The fact that the technical minimum
production varies for different
renewable generation unit types needs
to be considered in the specification.
The figures below are included for
example only to indicate the intention
with this parameter.
The reactive power capability versus

the grid operation voltage in the POC-
point including the effects of voltage
control shall be specified in a single
Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 35
UQ-chart.
If the intended requirement is not solely
clear from the UQ-chart in itself, the
UQ-chart shall be associated with a text
thoroughly explaining the requirement.
The figures are included for example
only to indicate the intention with this
parameter.
The figure below from the UK Grid

Code is included as example to indicate
the effect of slope modifications.
R6 Power quality Maximum steady state voltage V

parameters jump/step (ΔU) is the maximum shift in
voltage amplitude due to switching with
A reactive components e.g. a
transformer, cap-bank or shunt reactor.
B Maximum inrush current amplitude A

(Iinrush-max) is referred to any requirement
on the maximum inrush current
amplitude compared to rated plant
current.
C Damping of inrush current (Iinrush-damping) A

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 36
is of any requirement on the damping of

the inrush current.
D Short term flicker (Pst) shall be X

calculated according to IEC 61868.
Performance verification shall be
according to IEC 61400-21.
E Long term flicker (Plt) shall be X

calculated according to IEC 61868.
Performance verification shall be
according to IEC 61400-21.
F The maximum relative negative V

sequence voltage, at which the
renewable generation plant shall be
able to continuously operate with. The
way of calculation shall be as follows
G A table might be needed for specifying X

maximum individual harmonic voltage
distortion (Dn).
H The way of calculating total harmonic X

voltage distortion (THDu) shall be
stated. The maximum harmonic order
shall be specified (IEC 61000-3-6).
I The way of calculating total harmonic X

current distortion (THDi (TDD)) shall be
stated. The maximum harmonic order
shall be specified (IEC 61400-21).
Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 37
J The way of calculating discrete inter- X

harmonics shall be stated.
K Maximum DC-component in the load A

current.
HVDC aspects are expected to be

handled in a dedicated HVDC Grid
Code. This could be in a format similar
to the present document but with the
technical parameters adapted to HVDC
applications.
D Dynamic Frequency gradient and power ramp

performance rates
D1 Frequency Minimum positive frequency gradient Hz/

gradient (Minimum df/dtpositive) specifies the value s
at which the plant shall be able to
A withstand without tripping (positive:
situation with rising frequency)
B Minimum negative frequency gradient Hz/

(Minimum df/dtnegative) specifies the s
value at which the plant shall be able to
withstand without tripping (negative:
situation with falling frequency)
D2 Start–stop and Description of start and stop X

islanding with procedures.
load requirements
Signal to block against restart: The
A signal is used to prevent unintended X
start-up in connection with e.g. a power
system restoration after blackout or
other similar system emergency
situations.
B Reconnection time after trip/blackout: s

From time to time a maximum
reconnection time after a trip or
blackout is specified. Such a
requirement should be based upon a
commercial agreement (payment for
ancillary services) or otherwise based
upon ready for operation signal from
the plant owner. After a trip/blackout it
is fair that the plant owner has time to
inspect or to perform fault finding
before the plant is reconnected.

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 38
C Islanding with load requirement: This y/n

parameter specifies requirements in
relation to potential situations where a
renewable generation unit plant may
island with consumer loads connected.
D3 Control of Active Active power reference update rate H

power (received from outside): This parameter
is the update rate of the external active
A power reference. (In this respect this is
to be considered as the signal provided
from a TSO and not e.g. an internal
customer signal).
B Maximum start-up ramp rate (active W/s

power): This ramp rate defines the
maximum increase of MW/min (or per
10 min) during start-up.
C Maximum shut down-ramp rate (active W/s

maximum decrease of MW/min (or per
10 min) during shut-down (provided
occurrence of suitable wind / solar
intensity conditions).
D Maximum normal ramp-up rate (active W/s

minimum ramp-up rate to be required
during normal operation for remotely
controlled renewable generation plants.
E Maximum normal ramp-down rate W/s

(active power): This ramp rate defines
the maximum ramp-down rate to be
required during normal operation for
remotely controlled renewable
generation plants, provided suitable
wind or solar intensity or any other
renewable generating source
conditions.
F Active power limitation control mode: y/n

This is a special active power control X
mode. If this control mode is required,
functionality and parameters and any
interdependence to other required
control requirements shall be clearly
specified. The method of calculation of
actual production shall be well defined
(e.g. floating average, 1-minute, 10-

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 39
minute average and so on). The figure

is to be considered as an example only.
G y/n
H Active power balance control mode: y/n

This is a special active power control
mode. If this control mode is required, X
Functionality and parameters and any
specified.
I This mode is assumed to be identical to X

remote control of the plant according to
some schedule or the plant being part
of a frequency secondary control
arrangement.
The method of calculation of actual

production shall be well defined (e.g.
floating average, 1-minute, 10-minute
average and so on).
J The figure is to be considered as an y/n

example only.
X
K Active power gradient control mode: X

This is a special active power control
mode. If this control mode is required,
specified.


Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 40
average and so on).
The figure is to be considered as an

example only
L y/n
M y/n
Active power delta control mode: This
is a special active power control mode. X
If this control mode is required,
specified.

average and so on).
The figure is to be considered as an

example only.
N y/n
Other limitation modes: Any other

method other than the above describe
power control modes should be
described accordingly.
D4 Run back Minimum run-back ramp rate (active y/n

power): Run-back is a special pre-
A armed automatic system protection X
scheme (SPS) used to protect against

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 41
loss of thermal transfer capability or

transient angle instability. This type of
functionality is sometimes called a
‘remedial action scheme’ (RAS), i.e. it
has to be pre-installed and being fully
automatic the functionality shall be
guaranteed at any time. In such cases
a remote signal will order the plant to
run back the active power with a certain W/s
minimum ramp down rate to a %
predetermined power level, e.g. 50 %,
and stay there until the run-back signal
is cleared.
B If required, this parameter specifies the per

minimum ramp down rate of active unit/
power in pu/s based upon rated power s
per turbine.
C Maximum run-back starting point %

(active power): This parameter is the
maximum initial active power before a
run-back is ordered. This parameter will
normally be the rated power of the
renewable generation unit/plant, i.e.
100 %.
D Minimum run-back stopping point %

(active power): This parameter is the
lowest possible run-back level which
can be pre-programmed. This
parameter will normally in the order of
50-20 % based upon rated power of the
renewable generation unit/plant. This
parameter should not necessarily be
very low to assist the power system in a
proper way.
E Due consideration needs to be given to W

renewable generation unit technical
minimum production at any time, i.e.
independent of the wind speed / solar
intensity at any time (high wind speed
situations).
D5 Frequency control General description of functionality: X

Description of frequency control modes:
A Some Grid Codes have more than one
frequency control mode (UK is an
example).

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 42
B Frequency control requirement limit V or

(voltage level, MW level): This W
parameter specifies a minimum voltage
and/or a MW limit from which frequency
control has to be available.
C Frequency control parameters: X

Frequency control – definition of
performance parameters. Various
parameters shall be specified in a
figure. It shall be clearly stated whether
parameters refer to available or rated
power
D Active range for frequency control: Hz

Specifying the frequency range in
which the frequency control shall be
active
E Frequency measurement accuracy: Hz

Specifying the accuracy for the
frequency measurement.
F Frequency reference set-point range: Hz

Specifying the range of the frequency
set-point
G Frequency reference resolution: Hz

Specifying the frequency reference
resolution.
H Frequency control dead-band: Hz

Specifying the dead-band range.
I Frequency control power static / gain / Hz/

droop: The power static shall be s
specified. Note: appropriate terms and
corresponding units shall be used.
J Frequency control ramp rate: W/s

Specifying the minimum positive and
negative control speed (active power
output). This parameter might be
identical to the normal ramp rate.
K Maximum frequency control initial delay s

(dead time): Specifying the maximum
initial delay from the moment a
disturbance is initiated until the moment
that a response in the active power

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 43
output can been detected.
L Maximum frequency phase jump °/s

(robustness): Specifying a maximum
phase jump that the frequency
measuring shall be able to withstand
not giving wrong measurements
D6 Frequency control Specifying the range the power set- %

active power set- point shall be able to be curtailed, e.g.
point range 100 to 50 % of renewable generation
plant rated output. Attention shall be
given to limitations due to the technical
minimum production in high wind
speeds / solar intensity.
D7 Inertia response Inertia description: describing the X

functionality
Inertia control parameters: Parameters X

needed to specify inertia control
performance shall be defined
D8 Controls utilizing Description of the intended utilization of X

the reactive the renewable generation plant’s
power capability reactive power capability
of the renewable
generation Plant Three typical control schemes are
generally available:
- Power factor control (D9) y/n
- Reactive power control (D10) y/n
- Voltage control (D11) y/n
It shall be clearly stated which of these

schemes is applicable for the
renewable generation plant, e.g.
depending on
A - nominal voltage at POC y/n
B - fault level at POC y/n
C - installed capacity at POC y/n
Power factor control and reactive power

control modes should usually not be
required to provide the same dynamic
timescales as voltage control mode. If

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 44
voltage stability is a critical issue the

voltage control mode should be
considered by the TSO.
It should be noted that whilst voltage

control has a dynamic range of
seconds, power factor control typically
has a range of minutes, and reactive
(MVAR) control has a range in the
order of 15 minutes.
Switching between control modes: If X

switching between control modes is
requested, it shall be clearly defined
which mode shall be used under which
condition and how the transitions shall
be carried out.
D9 Power factor Description of power factor control: The X

control mode functionality shall be described.
D9 A Power factor control requirement limit V or

(voltage level, MW level, system state): W
This parameter specifies a minimum
voltage and/or a MW limit from which
power factor control has to be
available.
D9 B Reference point for power factor X

measurement: Specify information
regarding the reference point for power
factor measurement.
This point should ideally be free of

choice according to what might be the
most optimal solution.
D9 C Reference point for power factor X

control: This is the point in which the
power factor has to be controlled. This
should be identical to the POC unless
otherwise stated or agreed upon.
D9 D Power factor control accuracy: This %

parameter specifies how accurate the
average value (e.g.15 minutes) of
power factor shall be controlled under
defined operation conditions.
D9 E Coordination with step-up transformer X

OLTC´s: Coordination with step-up
Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 45
transformer OLTC´s is sometimes

asked for or allowed in Grid Codes. The
technical possibilities if available should
be clearly specified in this field.
D9 F Power factor calculation method: The X

frequency of measurements and the
averaging time shall be clearly defined.
D9 G Power factor measurement accuracy: %

This parameter specifies the power
factor measurement accuracy. The
signal might be provided by a second
or third party.
D9 H Power factor reference set-point range: %

This parameter specifies the power
factor set-point range, typical +/- 5% or
+/- 10 %.
D9 I Power factor reference resolution: This %

parameter specifies the resolution of
the power factor reference.
D9 J Power factor reference update rate Hz

(received from outside): This parameter
specifies the update rate of the voltage
power factor.
D9 K Maximum power factor control initial s

delay (dead time): This parameter
specifies the maximum time allowed
from the initiation of a step change until
a change in the output can be detected.
D9 L Maximum rise time (Trise-max): This s

parameter specifies the maximum
power factor rise time.
D9 M Maximum settling time (Tsettling max): This s

parameter specifies the maximum time
from a change in the power factor
reference set-point or a small signal
disturbance have occurred and until the
plant output is within the maximum
steady state error.
D9 N Maximum steady state power factor %

control error: This parameter specifies
the maximum allowable steady state

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 46
power factor error, typically 2% or 5 %.
D9 O For wind turbines:
Zero-power power factor control (no y/n

rotor movement): This parameter
specifies if power factor control also
has to be available during periods with
no rotor movement.
This may be relevant to meet power

factor requirements when the plant
consume auxiliary power from the grid
and thus behaves as a net load.
D9 P Requirement to switched discrete X

components: This parameter specifies
if there are requirements in relation to
switched discrete components like cap-
bank, shunt reactors (discharge times,
switching out, special control schemes
etc.)
D10 Reactive power Description of reactive power control x

control mode
Used for general description
D10 A Reactive power control requirement x

limit (voltage level, MW level, system
state)

reactive power control has to be
available.
D10 B Reference point for reactive power x

measurement
Specify information regarding the

reference point for reactive power
measurement.
This point should ideally be free of

choice according to what might be the
most optimal solution.
D10 C Reference point for reactive power x

control
This is the point in which the reactive

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 47
power has to be controlled. This should

be identical to the POC unless
D10 D Reactive power control accuracy %
This parameter specifies how accurate

the average value (e.g.15 minutes) of
reactive power shall be controlled
under defined operation conditions.
D10 E Coordination with step-up transformer x

OLTC´s
Coordination with step-up transformer

OLTC´s is sometimes asked for or
allowed in Grid Codes. The technical
possibilities if available should be
clearly specified in this field.
D10 F Reactive power calculation method Hz
The frequency of measurements and s

the averaging time shall be clearly
defined.
D10 G Reactive power measurement accuracy %
This parameter specifies the reactive

power measurement accuracy. The
signal might be provided by a second
or third party.
D10 H Reactive power reference set-point %

range
This parameter specifies the reactive

power set-point range, typical +/- 5% or
+/- 10 %.
D10 I Reactive power reference resolution %
This parameter specifies the resolution

of the reactive power reference.
D10 J Reactive power reference update rate s

(received from outside)
This parameter specifies the update

rate of the voltage reactive power.

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 48
D10 K Maximum reactive power control initial s

delay (dead time)
This parameter specifies the maximum

time allowed from initiation of a
disturbance until a change in the output
can be detected.
D10 L Maximum rise time (Trise-max) s

reactive power rise time.
D10 M Maximum settling time (Tsettling max) s

time from a change in the reactive
power reference set-point or a small
signal disturbance have occurred and
until the plant output is within the
maximum steady state error.
D10 N Maximum steady state reactive power %

control error

allowable steady state reactive power
error, typically 2% or 5 %.
D10 O Zero-power reactive power control (no x

rotor movement)
This parameter specifies if reactive

power control also has to be available
during periods with no rotor movement.
This may be relevant to meet reactive
power requirements when the plant
consume auxiliary power from the grid
resp. behaves as a load.
D10 P Requirement to on-off discrete x

components
This parameter specifies if there are

requirements in relation to on-off
discrete components like cap-bank,
shunt reactors (discharge times,
etc.)

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 49
D10 Q Review-approval x
This requirement should state clearly

how the review and approval of the
voltage control is to be performed.
D11 Voltage control Description of voltage control mode x

mode
D11 A Voltage control requirement limit V or

(voltage level, MW level) W

voltage control has to be available
D11 B Reference point for voltage x

measurement
Specifying information regarding the

reference point for voltage
measurement. This point should ideally
be free of choice according to what
might be the most optimal solution.
D11 C Reference point for voltage control x
This is the point in which the voltage

has to be controlled. This should be
identical to the POC-point unless
D11 D Coordination with step-up transformer x

OLTC´s
Coordination with step-up transformer

OLTC´s is sometimes asked for or
allowed in Grid Codes. The technical
possibilities if available should be
clearly specified in this field.
D11 E Voltage measurement accuracy %
This parameter specifies the voltage

measurement accuracy. The signal
might be provided by a second or third
party.
D11 F Voltage reference set-point range %
This parameter specifies the voltage

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 50
set-point range, typical +/- 5% or +/- 10

%.
D11 G Voltage reference resolution %
This parameter specifies the resolution

of the voltage reference.
D11 H Voltage reference update rate (received Hz

from outside)
This parameter specifies the update

rate of the voltage reference.
D11 I Slope reference set-point range %
This parameter specifies the slope set-

point range, typically 1-10 %.
An exact definition of the slope should

be given, for example in a figure.
The figure below from the UK Grid

Code is given as example only.
D11 J Slope reference resolution %
This parameter specifies the slope

resolution, typical 1 %.
D11 K Minimum equivalent open loop gain
If desirable this parameter can be used

as a type of indirect measure of the
maximum allowed steady state error.
Another way of specifying is by the
Reactive power calculation method.
D11 L Maximum voltage control initial delay s

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 51
(dead time)

time allowed from a disturbance has
initiated until a change in the output can
be detected.
D11 M Minimum small signal rise time (Trise-min- s

small-signal))
This parameter specifies the minimum

voltage rise time for small signal
disturbances.
D11 N Maximum small signal rise time (Trise- s

max-small-signal)

voltage rise time for small signal
disturbances.
D11 O Minimum large signal rise time (Trise-min- s

large-signal )
Definition of large signal to be included.

This parameter specify the minimum
voltage rise time for large signal
disturbances.
D11 P Maximum large signal rise time (Trise-max- s

large-signal)

voltage rise time for large signal
disturbances.
D11 Q Small signal settling time (Tsettling small s

signal)

time lapse from the moment when a
change in the voltage reference
setpoint or a small signal disturbance
has occurred until the moment that the
steady state error.
D11 R Large signal settling time (Tsettling large- s

signal)

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 52
time lapse from the moment when a

change in the voltage reference
setpoint or a large signal disturbance
has occurred until the moment that the
steady state error.
D11 S Voltage control response behaviour x
This parameter specifies the behaviour

of the voltage response to be of a non-
oscillatory nature. Figures with
examples that fulfil this and not fulfil
these criteria should be included in the
Grid Code. Alternatively, damping
criteria and calculation method shall be
stated.
D11 T Maximum voltage control overshoot V

allowable overshoot in the voltage to be
controlled.
The criteria or definition of overvoltage x

shall be clearly specified i.e. peak value
or exposed time duration above a
certain value. It shall be defined in
relation to the maximum initial voltage.
D11 U Maximum steady state voltage control %

error

allowable steady state voltage error.
D11 V Limiting of reactive output (excessive x

voltages)
This parameter might specify allowance

to perform some type of reactive power
run-back – e.g. if a overload capacity is
available. Seen from the grid it is better
to provide less reactive power on a
continuous basis than tripping from the
grid.
D11 W Shift of voltage control settings x
This parameter specifies if there is a

requirement to shift between two or

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 53
more sets of pre-programmed settings.
This parameter might also cover

requirements in relation to remote
transmitting voltage set-points and
slope settings.
D11 X Zero-power voltage control (no rotor x

movement)
This parameter specifies if voltage

control also has to be available during
periods with no rotor movement. It shall
be pointed out that such services
should be subject to payment for
ancillary services.
D11 Y Requirement to switched discrete x

components
This parameter specifies if there are

requirements in relation to switched
discrete components like cap-bank,
shunt reactors (discharge times,
etc.)
D11 Z Review-approval x
This requirement should state clearly

how the review and approval of the
voltage control is to be performed.
D12 Fault ride through Fault ride-through description x

FRT (or LVRT)
Used for general description. Statistics
of number and type of grid faults should
be specified, e.g. according to section
5.3.2 with a test plan.
See also Appendix D13 for Spanish

style FRT requirement parameters
D12 A FRT voltage profile for under voltages x

(LVRT)
The voltage / time FRT-profile (at POC) Y/n

for the lowest phase RMS voltage or
phase to phase RMS voltage shall be
available for both balanced and

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 54
unbalanced faults.
If voltages are specified in pu it shall be V

clear what 1 pu is referring to.
Furthermore, where applicable, the x

proceeding of the fault process from a
higher level system bus down to a
given POC-point – shall be clearly
specified.
D12 B FRT voltage profile for over voltages x

(HVRT)
The voltage/time FRT-profile (at POC) y/n

for the highest phase RMS voltage or
phase to phase RMS voltage shall be
available for both balanced and
unbalanced faults.
If voltages are specified in p.u. it shall V

be clear what 1 p.u. is referring to.
Furthermore, where applicable, the X

proceeding of the fault process from a
higher level system bus down to a
given POC-point – shall be clearly
specified.
In general this aspect is related to grid

strength, protection settings, insulation
coordination, voltage control, islanding
and the voltage level actual in a given
case.
D12 C FRT fault sequence x
The various fault sequences and

combinations are to be defined clearly
Special conditions related to radial

connected plants, shall be specified.
D12 D Reclosure x
Any reclosure sequence in use (1 ph, 3

ph, blocking) shall be specified for all
voltage levels covered by the Grid
Code.

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D12 E FRT short time interruption (STI) x
STI is to be considered as a special

FRT variant, used as one of the first
methods to cope with the FRT
requirement. STI normally means a
physical separation of the generating
unit from the grid.
STI shall be clearly specified by e.g. the

interruption criteria’s, FRT profile and
the active power recovery time.
D12 F Grid voltage before FRT event V
FRT shall be possible from any grid

voltage in the steady state range.
D12 G P/Q power production before FRT x

event
This parameter specifies plant P/Q

production before a FRT is initiated.
FRT shall be possible from any state in

the P/Q steady state range.
D12 H FRT active power recovery time s

allowed time from 90% voltage until 90
% of the pre-fault power level is
restored.
D12 I FRT – post fault oscillatory behavior W(t)

(active power)
This requirement specifies the

oscillatory behavior of active power
after fault clearing.
Figures with examples that fulfil this

and not fulfil these criteria should be
included in the Grid Code.
Alternatively, damping criteria and

calculation method shall be stated.
D12 J Maximum voltage phase jump °/s

(robustness)

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 56

phase shift the plant shall be able to
withstand without tripping
(phase jump robustness).
D13 Consumption Balanced faults (3 phase faults): y/n

para-meters
D13 AA Definitions of consumption parameters x
For each of the relevant consumption

parameters a clear specification shall
be given about calculation and
verification method.
D13 AB - Net consumption Q (power) VA
D13 AC - Net consumption P (power) W
D13 AD - Net consumption EP (energy) Ws
D13 AE - Net consumption EQ (energy) VAs
D13 AF - Net consumption IQ A
D13 AG - Average IQ/Irated p.u.
D13 BA Asymmetrical faults (1 and 2 phase y/n

faults with ground connection / without
ground connection):
D13 BB Definitions x
For each of the relevant consumption

parameters a clear specification shall
be given about calculation and
verification method.
D13 BC - Net consumption Q (power) VA
D13 BD - Net consumption P (power) W
D13 BE - Net consumption EP (energy) Ws
D13 BF - Net consumption EQ (energy) VAs
D13 BG - Net consumption IQ A
D13 BH - Average IQ/Irated p.u.

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 57
D14 Injection
parameters
D14 A Definitions of injection parameters x
A figure shall be available.
Voltage and current must be clearly

defined.
The reactive current / P-Q interrelation

shall be clearly defined especially for
very low voltages (e.g. below 10%
nominal voltage).
The figures below are to be considered

as EXAMPLES ONLY.
Spain:
Germany:
D14 B Maximum reactive current in-feed A

during FRT
This parameter specifies the maximum p.u.

reactive current in-feed in the POC-
point in p.u. based upon rated current.
If this requirement is not a fixed

requirement but is supposed to be
Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 58
optimized on a case by case basis the

criteria’s for optimization shall be
clearly specified
The reactive current / P-Q interrelation

shall be defined.
Voltage definitions should be

considered with care as the voltage can
drop close to zero.
D14 C Reactive current injection dead time s
This parameter specifies the time from

significant change in voltage until
measurable change of reactive current
output.
D14 D Reactive current injection rise time s
This parameter specifies the rise time

of the reactive current (10 to 90 %).
D14 E Reactive current injection settling time s
This parameter specifies the settling

time of the reactive current injection.
Currently this parameter is only seen in

Germany where it is under
consideration. The intention with the
parameter is to specify the ability to
maintain the required current when the
required level is reached.
D14 F Reactive current injection post fault s

support time
This parameter specifies the post fault

support time (current injection mode)
after 90 % of the pre-fault voltage level
has been reached.
D14 G Active current injection A
This parameter specifies the active

current injection during the fault time.
Stability in this transient situation may
limit the ability to inject active current,
e.g. depending on the location of the

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 59
fault.
Note: UK specifies in terms of active

power; Spain specifies in terms of
active current.
D15 Temporary over-

voltages - TOV
D15 A TOV description x
D15 B Maximum temporary over-voltage V

amplitude
This parameter specifies the absolute

maximum TOV amplitude to be
expected.
D15 C TOV time duration insulation withstand x

capability
The time duration insulation withstand

capability shall be specified in a figure.
D16 System and relay

protection
D16 A Description x
D16 B Under frequency protection – f<< Hz
Under frequency limit – the plant shall

or may trip dependent upon
requirement.
D16 C Over frequency protection – f>> Hz
Over frequency limit – the plant shall or

may trip dependent upon requirement.
D16 D Under voltage protection – U<< V
Under voltage limit – the plant shall or

D16 E Over voltage protection – U>> V
Over voltage limit – the plant shall or


Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 60
D16 F Other protection systems X
Any other protection systems

requirement if applicable shall be
specified here.
Int Communication x
and control
interface
Int 1 Communication and control interface x

requirement
Int 2 P production at PCC x
Int 3 Possible P production at PCC x
Int 4 Lost P production at PCC (time series) x
Int 5 Q production at PCC x
Int 6 Voltage at PCC x
Int 7 Main transformer tap position x
Int 8 Main transformer fault indication x
Int 9 Circuit breaker position indicator x
Int 10 Current measurement at PCC x
Int 11 Frequency at PCC x
Int 12 Status of compensation equipment x
P Plant status x
information
P1 Number of WT’s / …stopped due to high or low wind / x

solar modules… solar intensity
P1 A stopped due to maintenance x
P1 B stopped due to forced outage x
P1 C out of operation x
P1 D with limited capacity x
P1 E Relevant topology information – internal x

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 61
network
P1 F Relevant plant alarms x
P1 G Frequency response mode signal x
P1 H Frequency response mode status x

indication
P2 Meteorological Wind speed / Solar radiation x

information
P2 A Wind direction x
P2 B Ambient temperature °C
P2 C Atmospheric pressure Pa
P2 D Simulation models, certification / x

verification, commissioning and
performance verification
P2 E Integration and design simulation x

models
M Model Data and x

Descript-ions
M1 Type of model rms-type WTG model y/n
M1 A emt-type WTG model y/n
M1 B rms-type aggregated plant model y/n
M2 Simulation
platform
M2 A Simulation platform x
M2 B Minimum time step s
M2 C Maximum time step s
M3 Model
documentation
M3 A Black-box x
M3 B White-box x

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M3 C Model verification x
M3 D Updating requirement x
M4 System planning x
simulation models
M4 A Description x
M4 B Modelling description x
M4 C Modelling parameters x
M4 D Modelling documentation x
M4 E Model verification x
M4 F Updating requirement x
S Site specific X
Data
S 1 Plant short circuit data – POC-point VA
This field specifies the plant short

circuit data needed for plant
representation in system studies and
for relay protection setting studies.
C1 Certification/ Description x
verification
C1 A Plant simulation / fictive benchmark test x

circuit
C1 B Full scale test on individual turbine x

(container test)
C1 C Full scale plant test x
C2 Commissioning Description
C2 A Performance testing X
C2 B Description X
C2 D Transient fault recorder X
C2 E Performance testing: X

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C2 F - Rated power y/n
C2 G - Power factor y/n
C2 H - Power quality y/n
C2 I - Ramp rate y/n
C2 J - Frequency gradient y/n
C2 K - Limitation modes y/n
C2 L - Run-back y/n
C2 M - Reactive power control y/n
C2 N - Voltage control y/n
C2 O - Fault ride through y/n
C2 P - Maximum phase jump y/n
C2 Q - Frequency control y/n
C2 R - Inertia y/n
C2 S - Temporary overvoltage y/n
C2 T - System and relay y/n
Z Additional Definitions to be specified

and described
X Text, Test, Simulation, signal, amount, sketches or graphs etc.
s Seconds
y/n yes or no, decision only
V Volt
A Ampere
W Watt, active power
VA reactive power

Revision: 9, 2013-12-4 64

Technical Note For The Certification of Grid Code Compliance, Revision 9 (Pdf-Version) PDF

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Technical Note

Certification of Grid Code Compliance

Germanischer Lloyd Industrial Services GmbH

The latest edition of the General Terms and Conditions

2 General Requirements and Conditions for Assessment 8

3 Assessment of a Generation Unit 15

4 Assessment of a Generation Plant 18

Certification of Grid Code Compliance

Appendix – listing of GCC-parameters to be valued and ordered as criterion for certification

Certification of Grid Code Compliance

Certification of Grid Code Compliance

fg [Hz] Frequency Nominal grid frequency

S [VA] Apparent power 3 U  I

Pn Rated Power Rated power of the renewable generation unit

Un Nominal Voltage Nominal phase-to-phase voltage (RMS) according to manufacturer’s

Ug Nominal grid voltage Nominal phase-to-phase voltage (RMS) of the grid

Certification of Grid Code Compliance

1.3 GCC parameters (grid code requirement definitions according to Appendix)

Certification of Grid Code Compliance

2.3 Extent of certification

The different scopes are described in the following section.

2.3.1 Scope of certification

Certification of Grid Code Compliance

2.3.1.1 International Max Capability Approach

# REQUIREMENT DESCRIPTION SI VALUE ORDER

R1 See Appendix X, V, yes

Certification of Grid Code Compliance

R5 See Appendix See separate drawing to be provided See yes

D1 See Appendix Hz/s

A Minimum df/dtpositive 5mHz/s Yes

B Minimum df/dtnegative 5mHz/s Yes

Assessment will be performed according to chapter 3 as far as applicable.

2.3.1.2 Multi-National Grid Code Approach

new TSO 1 Country 1 New Grid Code 1 2017 0

Assessment will be performed according to chapter 3.

Certification of Grid Code Compliance

Assessment will be performed according to chapter 4.

2.3.2 National requirements

2.3.2.1 Legal requirements in the EU

2.3.2.3 Spain and Portugal

Certification of Grid Code Compliance

2.3.2.5 South Africa

Certification of Grid Code Compliance

Certification Report Certification Report Certification Report Certification Report Certification Report

Statement of Compliance Statement of Compliance Statement of Compliance Statement of Compliance

2.3.3.2 Statement of Compliance

2.3.3.3 Type Certificate (GCC)

2.3.3.4 Project Certificate (GCC)

Simulation according to section 3.7 is recommended.

2.3.3.5 Equipment Certificates

3 Assessment of a Generation Unit

3.2 Rating assessment

3.2.2 Rating assessment for rotating electrical machines

3.3 Power control range

Certification of Grid Code Compliance

3.3.1.2 Active power gradient (reconnection to the grid)

3.3.1.3 Frequency control and inertia response

3.3.2 Reactive power provision

3.4 Power quality parameters

3.5 Behaviour during faults

3.5.2.2 Short circuit current ratio

3.6 System and relay protection

3.7 Software model validation