selling excess power

[prwhungry]

I have an idea that could produce 500kw excess power
at times. How large (physicaly) would a generator of
that size be? How much would it cost? Can I use the
generator as a brake by varying the output load?
Would the r.p.m. need to be constant in order to match
phase with the utility? Are there any programs sponsored
by utilities (or anyone else) that would help
technically?, financialy? I think my idea is valid but
I don't have the resources to see it through.

 

[peterb]

I suggest that you search the web for generator data, there is a lot of information out there. Also, check your local utility's website or call them for specifics on any non-utility generation programs that they may have, also their policy on power purchase.
Just to give you a frame of reference for visuallizing what's involved, a 500 kW induction generator could be around the size of an office desk and weigh somewhere around 5-6000 lb, depending on the operating voltage.
When you operate in parallel with the utility grid, the speed is set by the grid frequency, the only influence that your generator will have is how much power (real and rective) you generate.
You will also need to consider whether you need a synchronous or induction type generator, which influences the interaction with the grid.

 

[busbar]

One example of interconnection requirements of an independent power producer and a utility is covered at:

http://www.pge.com/customer_services/business/tariffs/doc/ER21.doc

The requirements are fairly complex, but it’s done a lot in some areas. See:

http://www.energy.ca.gov/sitingcases/backgrounder.html

[Note that 500kW = 0.5MW]
An example of a the process with a US Government facility is at:

http://www.wapa.gov/interconn/intsteps.htm

 

[electricpete]

Lots of good info on the subject on the nema application guide page:

http://nema.org/engineering/icsstandards/generation.pdf

 

Thanks guys for the info & links, they will keep
me busy for a while!