The IEEE has approved a standard that defines tests for equipment used to interconnect distributed resources (DRs), such as fuel cells, photovoltaics and wind turbines, with electric power systems. IEEE 1547.1, the Standard for Conformance Test Procedures for Equipment Interconnecting Distributed Resources with Electric Power Systems, includes specifications for the production and commissioning tests needed to confirm that the interconnection functions and equipment of a distribution resource meet the requirements in IEEE 1547.

Standard IEEE 1547 addresses the performance, operation, testing and safety of interconnection products and services. Other standards in the IEEE 1547 family are being developed:

• IEEE P1547.2 will provide technical background and application details to make IEEE 1547 easier to use.

• IEEE P1547.3 will offer guidelines for monitoring, information exchange and control among distributed generators interconnected by an electrical power system.

• IEEE P1547.4 will provide alternative approaches and good practices for the design, operation and integration of DR island systems with electric power systems.

• IEEE P1547.5 will provide guidelines regarding the technical requirements, including design, construction, commissioning acceptance testing, and maintenance and performance requirements for interconnecting dispatchable electric power sources with a capacity of more than 10 MVA to a bulk power transmission grid.

• IEEE P1547.6 will provide guidance for the interconnection of distribution secondary network system types of area electric power systems with DRs providing electric power generation in local electric power systems.

IEEE 1547 standards are sponsored by the IEEE Standards Coordinating Committee 21 for Fuel Cells, Photovoltaics, Dispersed Generation and Energy Storage.