Backup Power & Micro Generation
Permanent Emergency Generators
Some customers have installed permanently connected small
emergency generators. These units require installation by a
licensed electrician and must be inspected by the Electrical
Safety Authority (ESA). They are designed to operate separately from
VERIDIAN'S power system through the use of a transfer switch.
Thus some of your lights and equipment will be able to operate
either from VERIDIAN'S supply, or from the generator, but never
together.
These units allow continuous use of all or most of the
businesses power requirements depending on the size of the
generator installed. Properly done and maintained, these
installations offer safe reliable power. Units suitable for small
business use are available from many home building supply stores,
hardware stores, and electrical stores, and can be installed by
licensed electricians.
Never run extension cables across roadways or sidewalks. This
is a safety hazard and is against ESA rules. It might also cause
generator or equipment damage.
Portable Generators
Safe use of a portable generator requires care and planning.
Follow these sample tips - and read the generator’s instructions
carefully - avoid dangerous shortcuts.
- Gasoline-powered generators produce deadly carbon monoxide
fumes so always run portable generators outside the building.
Never run generators inside offices or garage warehouse space.
- Keep generators well away from open windows so deadly exhaust does not enter the building. You
can’t trust your senses for protection from carbon monoxide;
this deadly gas is invisible and odourless.
- Never connect a generator directly to your businesses
wiring. Power from the generator will "back feed" into utility
lines and with the potential to severely injure, or kill, a
neighbour or utility crew working to restore service. Damage to
or destruction of the generator is also possible.
- Plug equipment directly into the generator's outlet. Use
heavy-duty extension cords rated for outdoor use to place the
generator safely outdoors. Follow the manufacturer’s
recommendations for grounding the generator. If the equipment
has a three-prong plug, always use a three-prong extension cord.
What will a small generator run?
A small generator of about 3,000 watts can run a few lights,
fans and a personal computer and small photocopier all at one
time. If used to start and run only one item at a time, it can
run a ½ horsepower pump, or a small window air conditioner of
about 5,000 BTUs.
Each generator has a rated wattage, which provides a limit on
the appliances it will safely power. Follow the manufacturer's
recommendations for proper use and load. Overloading the
generator can result in damage to equipment it is powering.
Remember, you don't need to run everything at same time; rotating
larger items allows the use of a smaller generator which costs
less to buy and is easier to move.
Getting started
- Never refuel a hot generator or one that is running: hot
engine parts or exhaust can ignite gasoline.
- Turn off all connected equipment before starting your
generator.
- Turn connected equipment on one at a time, never exceeding
the generator’s rated wattage.
Get the most from your generator
- Save fuel by using equipment only as needed. If no equipment
is running, shut the generator off.
- Don’t leave a running portable generator unattended; turn it
off at night and when away from your business.
Micro Generation & Small Scale
Generation
Businesses who are considering installing a micro or small
scale generation facility and wish to have it connected to
VERIDIAN'S power supply
system can now do so in accordance with a prescribed process. A
Connection Agreement will be required with
VERIDIAN which sets out specific terms and
conditions relating to connection and access to the distributor’s
distribution system. The process and requirements that must be
followed do become more involved with the size of the unit. Four
size categories have been established covering the most common
requests:
Embedded Load Displacement Generation Facility Connection Agreements:
- Micro – for installations rated at 10 kW or less, for the customer’s
own use.
- Small - for installations rated at (a) 500 kW or less connected to
our system voltages of 13.8 kV or less; or, (b) 1 MW or less connected to our
system voltages of 27.6 kV or 44 kV.
- Mid-Sized - for installations rated at (a) more than 500 kW connected
to our system voltages of 13.8 kV or less; or (b) rated more than 1 MW but less
than 10 MW connected to our system voltages of 27.6kV or 44 kV.
- Large - for installations rated greater than 10 MW.
Complete details are available by downloading the information package for
Embedded Generation Facilities. Once you have completed the initial request form you
can e-mail it to
service@veridian.on.ca.
Or if you have any questions regarding generators you can call 1-888-445-2881 and
ask to speak to our Customer Services
Department. The links below will provide you
with the information you need to answer all your generator questions.
Micro Embedded Generation Facility Package
Small, Mid-sized, and Large Generation Facility Package
(> 10 kW)
|
Generator Information Package
