Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) demonstrates the successful operation of the SCADA system in the field, including software and hardware checks, HMI and alarm functionality, and controls.
In our previous article, we discussed SCADA Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), which takes place before the SCADA rack ships to the solar PV project site. The SAT occurs after the SCADA system has been installed onsite, all devices are connected and communicating, and the SCADA integrator has been able to test and tune the controls. This may be during or after site commissioning.
The best way to prepare for a SAT is to understand its purpose, expected outcomes, and process.
The SAT serves as the final testing for a SCADA system, demonstrating all functionality and providing an opportunity to note and address any punch list items prior to finalizing the project and providing closeout documentation. It is the culmination of the whole project from the SCADA perspective.
The SAT is done once the SCADA system is installed in the field to demonstrate that:
Controls testing can be simulated during the FAT but can only truly be performed under actual site conditions once the SCADA system has been installed onsite and is connected to the field and substation devices. This ensures that customer expectations and utility/ISO requirements are met.
The end goal of the SAT is that either the customer approves all of the functionality, or any deviations from expectations are noted in the punch list to be addressed.
It's necessary to have the SAT be customer witnessed and verified to ensure that all controls operate as expected, are represented properly on the HMI, and verified through accurate feedback from the site. The SAT is designed to make sure everyone agrees that the functionality is approved.
The standard SCADA system SAT verifies:
Prior PPC, HIL modeling using RTDS real-time simulator software can make this testing process easier. By simulating the exact devices that will be out in the field, it allows the SCADA integrator to test the controls more accurately and thoroughly prior to shipping the SCADA rack to the field. It is much faster and easier for the SCADA integrator to make adjustments to the controls while the rack is still in-house, and there are less likely to be lengthy adjustments and delays before finalizing the project.
EPCs facilitate SATs by:
EPCs are also responsible for coordinating overall site testing with the utility and ISO, to ensure that approval is gained prior to adjusting real and reactive power setpoints that would affect the grid. The AVR testing usually involves voltage setpoint changes, so it has to be approved and scheduled in advance.
Asset owners are welcome to witness the SAT, giving them an opportunity to ensure SCADA system functionality meets their expectations.
With over 14GW worth of successfully commissioned solar PV projects to date, Nor-Cal Controls provides SCADA systems that meet customer and ISO/utility requirements and deliver cost efficiency over the long term. Since our SCADA systems are based on open architecture hardware and software, our customers avoid proprietary data access fees and restrictive service contracts.
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