Situations in Which Powerwall 3 Stops Grid Forming

Some situations in which the Powerwall will not be allowed to grid-form are:
  • The Powerwall 3 On/Off switch is switched OFF.
  • An open circuit between any Powerwall and the Backup Gateway. Example: an open Powerwall AC breaker.
  • Excessive voltage drop between any Powerwall and Backup Gateway. Example: poor connections at AC wire terminals or wiring damage between Powerwall and Gateway.
  • Loss of communications between any internal system or meter (for instance loss of communication with Backup Gateway 2).

Earthing

When operating off-grid, the Backup Gateway 2 forms a local TN-S supply to the connected distribution board(s):

  • Relationship of power system to earth: T – Direct connection of one point to Earth – this is provided by the local earth, connected into the main earthing terminal
  • Relationship of the exposed conductive parts to Earth: N – Direct connection to the earthed point (neutral) of the power supply system - this is facilitated by the local N-PE bond created within the Gateway during off-grid operation
  • Arrangement of neutral and protective conductors: S - Separate conductors - separate neutral and protective conductors are connected between the Gateway and downstream distribution board(s)

Proper earth connection and Neutral-to-Earth (N-PE) bonding during on-grid and off-grid operation is required for safe operation of the Powerwall system and for compliance with local code requirements. For instruction regarding the switched earth connection, refer to Verify Neutral-Earth Bonding Scheme.

Warning IconA warning icon, calling your attention to a possibly risky situation
Warning
To ensure safe operation when operating off-grid, a local earth must be present on the site, such as by earth rod or ground electrode. During a grid fault it cannot be assumed that the DNO's Earth or PEN conductors are intact. Installation of earth rod must comply with local codes.