Whitepaper
EMC Compliance for Renewable Resource Power Systems
This whitepaper details EMC considerations for various renewable resource power systems – biomass, geothermal, hydro, solar (PV & CSP), tidal, wave, and wind - ranging in scale from residential installations (~kW) to utility-scale plants (>MW). It outlines the unique electromagnetic characteristics of each system and their implications for regulatory compliance. The paper highlights that while large generating plants are often exempt from full EMC testing, critical internal control systems require immunity against industrial disturbances. Grid-connected systems must adhere to utility power quality standards. Specific standards mentioned include FCC regulations on RF emissions (US) and EU directives regarding immunity. Table 1 indicates the current global capacity and potential of these resources, showing solar PV at 21GW with a potential of 500TW and wind at 175 GW with 72 TW potential.