Is the P20 PowerPlant capable of correcting inaccurate frequency on the main line?
For example, if the power company is sending 63hz instead of 60hz, will the P20 output 60hz?
No, the P20 is frequency locked to the incoming AC.
Keep in mind most utilities continually adjust the frequency of the grid during the day. Also for a utility to connect to the grid and operate in parallel, their frequency must match the grid frequency. Thus, while there may be some variation off of 60Hz (or 50Hz) the frequency is typically locked in.
The reason I ask, is because I am considering purchasing Tesla Powerwalls (battery backup) for my house. However, I am finding that when the utility power is out, and these batteries turn on, they do not always offer 60hz. Unfortunately, (through the dumbest, cheapest engineering ever) they will produce up to 65Hz, on purpose, in an attempt to shut down the solar panel inverters that charge the batteries. This only happens when the batteries are full, and don’t need to charge anymore. Once the batteries are depleted slightly, the frequency returns to 60hz and the solar inverters turn back on and start charging. I don’t understand why they don’t use a relay instead of pumping bad power through the whole house so that every, UPS, motor or sensitive electronic device has to be sacrificed.
I assume from the specs, that my P20 at 65hz will shut down in protection mode.
I have heard that Telsa, on request, will lower the frequency max to 62.9Hz to allow UPS devices to accept the power. I guess the real question is how bad is power at 63hz?
It should actually be fine and not go into protection. It’ll start to get a little unhappy as you approach 70hz though
1 Like
A very interesting application. Now I understand why you are asking. Neat.
1 Like
In general, how concerned should I be if the house is running at 63-65hz and jumping back to 60hz with regards to all electronics? Will my DC powered Rega turntable run at the wrong RPM? Will my clothes dryer overheat? Will my aquarium pumps burn out? Will the pot roast burn??
The largest concern is how far back in time you will go.
3 Likes
Well, I can tell you your coffee won’t taste right. 
If it’s using a DC motor, it’s regulating the speed from the PS, not the incoming frequency. As for most household items, they have a voltage and frequency tolerance. I can’t say for everything, but most things won’t mind 63-65hz.