A photovoltaic (PV) prefabricated substation is a containerized unit that combines a step-up transformer, medium-voltage switchgear, and low-voltage distribution equipment into a single, factory-assembled package. In solar farms, solar inverters produce low-voltage AC (typically 315V to 690V) that needs to be stepped up to medium voltage (35kV or 40.5kV) for efficient transmission to the grid connection point. The PV prefabricated substation performs this step-up function along with protection, metering, and switching — all in a compact, weatherproof container that's quick to deploy in the field. It's essentially a compact substation purpose-built for renewable energy collection systems.

Sizing depends on the total DC capacity of your solar array, the number and rating of inverters, and the desired oversizing ratio. As a rule of thumb, the transformer kVA rating is typically 80-100% of the total inverter AC output capacity. For example, a 5MW solar farm with 5MW of inverters might use a 5000kVA transformer, or multiple smaller units (e.g., two 2500kVA) depending on array layout. The LV voltage must match your inverter output (270V, 315V, 400V, 480V, or 690V). The HV side is typically 35kV/40.5kV for utility-scale plants. Send us your single-line diagram or inverter list and our team will recommend the optimal configuration, including whether to use one large or multiple smaller substations for better redundancy.

The main difference is in no-load (core) losses and cost. Amorphous alloy transformers have the lowest no-load losses — typically 30% lower than S11 series — making them ideal for applications where the transformer is energized 24/7 but load varies significantly (like solar farms, which produce no power at night). S20 series transformers also have very low losses, but use traditional silicon steel core material with optimized design. Amorphous alloy units have a higher upfront cost but better payback in high-utilization or variable-load scenarios. For solar projects, amorphous alloy is generally preferred because the no-load loss savings during overnight hours accumulate significantly over 25+ years. We'll provide a detailed energy loss calculation for your specific project.

Yes, absolutely. Our YBW series comes with integrated intelligent monitoring that supports the "four-remote" functions: telemetry (remote measurement), telesignal (remote signaling), telecontrol (remote control), and teleregulation (remote regulation). The unit communicates via standard protocols including Modbus RTU/TCP, IEC 61850 (optional), and proprietary protocols compatible with major SCADA/DCS platforms. You'll be able to monitor voltage, current, power, energy, temperature, switch status, and alarms remotely, as well as control breakers and adjust settings from your central control room. We can work with your system integrator to ensure seamless integration.

The unit arrives as a complete, factory-assembled container on a skid base. Transport is typically by flatbed truck — standard container dimensions make it compatible with standard trucking and shipping. On site, you'll need a prepared foundation (concrete pad or gravel base with load-bearing capacity), and then the unit is lifted into position by crane or rolled on skates. Installation work is minimal: connect HV cables, LV cables from inverters, ground/earthing, and communication cables. After insulation tests and commissioning checks, the unit is ready to energize. Total on-site time is typically 3-7 days, compared to weeks for a traditional built-up substation. We provide detailed installation drawings and can offer on-site commissioning support.

Our PV prefabricated substations include comprehensive protection tailored for solar applications. On the HV side: SF6 load break switch with fuses or vacuum circuit breaker with relay protection, including overcurrent, earth fault, and overvoltage protection. On the LV side: main circuit breaker with overload and short-circuit protection, plus surge protection (SPD) for lightning and switching surges. Additional options include: reverse power protection (anti-islanding), over/under frequency protection, DC injection monitoring, transformer temperature protection with alarm/trip, and arc fault protection. For utility-scale projects, we recommend the vacuum breaker configuration with full numerical relay protection for maximum protection and remote monitoring capability.