The Czech Republic has experienced a rapid increase in the number of photovoltaic power plants in houses, to the extent that some distributors can no longer connect them to the grid. This has led to households being unable to resell any surplus energy, as distributors refuse them altogether or connect them gradually. The main reason for this issue is that the distribution system is not prepared to handle the high production and surpluses created by photovoltaics. As a result, the distribution network is starting to restrict the connection of local photovoltaics to the grid in some areas to regulate the demands.

Roman Leikeb, a commercial and technical specialist from Solid Sun, has noted that there are problems with connecting photovoltaic power plants in southern Moravia. The distributor, EG.D., does not give people connection contracts, and their domestic photovoltaics only work for the household. They cannot let the surplus into the grid. In contrast, north of Brno, the connection process is usually smoother, and there are fewer problems with this issue.

This problem is not widespread across the country, but if it is not regulated, it could lead to blackouts. It is advisable to build photovoltaic power plants for self-consumption rather than selling surplus electricity. However, many people buy systems with maximum output and are unwilling to accept that the distribution system will disconnect them from the grid at times of high production.

The rule for the connection of photovoltaic power plants is first come, first served. If there is insufficient capacity to connect a generating plant in a given location, the distributor proposes a phased connection of the generating plant to the distribution system. In the first stage, the plant will be allowed to connect to the grid without overflowing the generated electricity, and in the second stage, the surge will be allowed. The second stage is linked to the modification of the distribution system, such as reinforcement of the outlet or reconstruction of the line. The deadlines for making these modifications are individual and depend on the extent of the changes and the need for public and property law review.

Investments are being made to strengthen the grid’s capacity, but it will likely take a long time for these to take effect. Part of the connection process involves the replacement of the electricity meter, and some people receive a letter stating that the replacement will take nine months, but it could take even longer. Leikeb noted that he had the panels installed in a fortnight, but then he had to wait almost a year for the meter to be changed, and he was allowed to connect everything.

In conclusion, the Czech Republic needs to improve its distribution system to handle the increasing number of photovoltaic power plants in houses. It is advisable to build photovoltaic power plants for self-consumption rather than selling surplus electricity. The distributors need to regulate the connection of photovoltaic power plants to the grid to prevent blackouts. It is necessary to reinforce the outlet or reconstruct the line to handle the surge. Finally, it is essential to replace the electricity meter quickly to avoid delays in connecting the system to the grid.

Article by Prague Forum