Point Of Interconnection And Voltage Levels

Where and at what voltage a generator connects shapes its cost, its grid role, and the studies it must pass.

Choosing the connection point

A generator can connect at distribution voltage, close to end users, or at transmission voltage, into the bulk system. The choice depends on the unit's size and its intended role. Larger firm units connect at higher voltage to move bulk power; units serving a local pocket may connect at distribution level, closer to the load.

The burner (MetroVolt) is designed to be flexible on this point because its output is conditioned by power electronics rather than a fixed synchronous machine. The inverter stage can be configured for the required voltage level and grid-code obligations at the chosen point of interconnection.

Trade-offs

A higher-voltage transmission connection reaches more of the system and supports larger export but requires more substation equipment and heavier interconnection studies. A distribution connection is simpler and better suited to serving a co-sited load such as a data center, but limits export and the size of unit that can connect.

Honest note

Voltage-level choices are project-specific and presume a defined unit. MetroVolt's final ratings are not fixed at the design stage, so the connection options here are illustrative of the flexibility the power-electronics interface is intended to provide.