IEEE 1547 is a foundational standard for the interconnection and interoperability of distributed energy resources (DER)—such as solar PV inverters, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and other grid-tied power conversion systems—with the electric power system at the point of common coupling (PCC). It defines technical requirements so DER can connect safely and support stable grid operation.
What Is IEEE 1547?
IEEE 1547 establishes criteria and requirements for DER connected to an Area Electric Power System (Area EPS) and the associated interfaces. It is technology-neutral and focuses on how the DER behaves electrically and communicates for interoperability.
Why IEEE 1547 Matters for EV Charging
Most AC EV chargers are loads, so IEEE 1547 is not typically “the charger standard.” It becomes highly relevant when charging infrastructure includes grid-interactive or power-export functions, such as:
– Grid-connected storage (BESS) supporting a charging site
– On-site solar PV feeding the site and/or exporting to the grid
– Bidirectional charging use cases like V2G where an EV/export-capable system behaves like an inverter-based DER at the PCC
In these cases, IEEE 1547 helps determine required grid-support functions, protection behavior, and interoperability expectations.
Key Technical Areas Covered
IEEE 1547-2018 (the major modern revision) is widely referenced for requirements such as:
– Response to abnormal voltage and frequency conditions (including ride-through behavior)
– Voltage regulation capability via reactive power control (when enabled/approved by the grid operator)
– Anti-islanding behavior and interconnection protection concepts
– Interoperability expectations for settings, monitoring, and communications interfaces (where applicable)
IEEE 1547.1 and Testing
IEEE 1547 is supported by companion testing standards, especially IEEE 1547.1, which specifies type, production, and commissioning tests to demonstrate that interconnection functions conform to IEEE 1547 requirements.
IEEE 1547a-2020 Amendment
IEEE 1547a-2020 is an amendment to IEEE 1547-2018 that revises the allowable trip clearing time setting ranges for a specific abnormal operating performance category to provide more flexibility for adoption.
What It Means in Practice for Charging Sites
If an EV charging site includes PV, BESS, or bidirectional export capability, IEEE 1547 is often used (directly or via local grid codes and certification pathways) to define:
– Required grid protection and disconnect behavior at the PCC
– Allowed operating modes and parameter settings (as specified by the utility/operator)
– Commissioning tests and documentation expectations tied to interconnection approval
Related Glossary Terms
Grid-connected Storage (BESS)
Grid Synchronization
Grid Services
Microgrid
Anti-Islanding
Inverter
Point of Common Coupling (PCC)
V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid)
Power Quality
Commissioning Documentation