Lucy Electric has been working with ELEXON to integrate P283 (COP4) tests into its standard factory assembly process to facilitate metering equipment commissioning

Whilst this has clear benefits for the Licensed Distribution System Operator (LDSO), the main quantifiable advantage is to reduce site visits by various parties during the installation and commissioning process. We will now offer a standard electronic CT data storage and retrieval service on IDNO adopted units with a view to complete this on behalf of all DNOs.

Why is the integration necessary?

Lucy Electric will be one of the first CT Chamber suppliers to eliminate the need for extra site visits by incorporating the P283 tests in-house. We’ll even provide the CT test information electronically at the point of supply to the LDSO. This is extremely beneficial from a commissioning perspective because it will increase accuracy and reliability. Prior to the P283 regulations, Meter Operator Agents (MOA) were solely responsible for the following:

  • Checking CT ratio
  • Checking CT polarity
  • Ensuring that the CT is correctly located at defined metering points
  • Recording test results

As CTs were often fitted by third parties prior to meter installation and a MOA’s CT performance data seldom matched up with the actual CTs they were commissioning, there was plenty of room for error.

What will change?

Our improved service will come at an additional cost but due to added advantages for customers, our distributors will be able to recover this. This is because the P283 regulations will reinforce the commissioning process by making certain demands. For example, the LDSO can access CT performance data on delivery of the metering chamber and information can be provided electronically.

What are the additional service benefits?

Lucy Electric’s already comprehensive factory test schedule, embodied in the birth certificate, currently includes the following:

  • Resistance testing from incoming connectors to outgoing connectors
  • Continuity tests between test terminal block and CTs
  • Busbar and primary/secondary fuse holder
  • Secondary fuse holder and test terminal block
  • Record of CT serial numbers

Thanks to the P283 (COP4) integration, customers will receive the following benefits:

  • Correct ratio and polarity of CTs installed in CTCO
  • Confirmation of the correct location of the metering equipment in relation to the defined metering point
  • Confirmation that the voltage and current ratios are correct
  • Confirmation of the CT burden

For more information on the P283 (COP4) regulations, click here.

Get in touch

If you’d like to discuss these changes and how they can benefit your business, please email info@lucyelectric.com.