Loss of Mains (LoM) is part of the/your generator grid interface protection and ensures that generators disconnect from the distribution system when there is a system event.
However, the historic LoM settings mean that in some instances generation disconnects unnecessarily resulting in both lost generation revenue and loss of generation support to the network, exacerbating the effect of the event. This is being rectified by the accelerated loss of mains change programme which applies to all generation that was connected under Engineering Recommendation (EREC) G59 before 1 February 2018. G59 connected renewable energy generators are those connected to the grid and generating more than 16 Amps per phase / 3.68kW per phase.
To implement the new LoM, the recommended process to follow has been outlined by the Energy Network Association and is reproduced in Figure 1.
Figure 1: Recommended process to follow for implementing the new LoM protection settings (taken from ENA)
How to check your LoM settings
If you have just one interface protection device, you should be able to access the specific LoM setting via the electronic user interface to make the necessary changes. If you have several protection devices, you will need to identify which is the LoM protection device and use the electronic user interface.
If you need help, contact the installer or operation and maintenance provider for your generator. Alternatively, this is a list of companies who have offered their services.
