Introduction: Why Zero-Export Compliance Matters
With the rapid growth of distributed solar, many utilities in Europe, North America, and Asia are enforcing zero-export (anti-reverse) rules. That means PV systems cannot feed excess energy back into the grid. For EPCs, system integrators, and developers, this requirement adds new complexity to project design.
As a leading smart power meter manufacturer, OWON provides a complete portfolio of bidirectional Wi-Fi and DIN-rail energy meters that serve as the foundation for reliable zero-export (anti-reverse) PV solutions.
OWON’s Role in Zero-Export PV Projects
OWON’s smart meters (e.g., PC321, PC472, PC473, PC341, and CB432 relay meter) provide:
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Bidirectional measurement: Accurately detects both import and export power.
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Flexible CT ranges: From 20A up to 750A, covering residential to industrial loads.
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Multiple interfaces: RS485 (Modbus), RS232, MQTT, local API, cloud API.
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Local + remote integration: Works with inverters, gateways, and load controllers.
These features make OWON meters ideal for implementing anti-reverse power control, ensuring compliance while maximizing self-consumption.
System Architectures for Zero-Export
1. Power Limiting via Inverter Control
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Flow: OWON meter → RS485/MQTT → Inverter → Output limited.
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Use case: Residential or small commercial systems (<100 kW).
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Benefit: Low cost, simple wiring, fast response.
2. Load Consumption or Storage Integration
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Flow: OWON meter → Gateway/Controller → Relay (CB432) or Battery PCS → Consume extra energy.
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Use case: Commercial/industrial projects with fluctuating loads.
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Benefit: Prevents reverse flow while increasing self-consumption.
Product Selection Guide
| Scenario | Recommended Meter | CT Range | Interface | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential (≤63A) | PC472 DIN-Rail | 20–750A | Tuya/MQTT | Built-in 16A relay for local cut-off |
| Split-phase (North America) | PC321 | 80-750A | RS485/MQTT | Supports 120/240V split-phase |
| Commercial/Industrial (≤750A) | PC473 DIN-Rail | 20–750A | RS485/MQTT | Built-in dry contact output |
| Multi-circuit Buildings | PC341 | 16 channels | RS485/MQTT | Centralized energy & zero-export monitoring |
| Local Load Shedding | CB432 Relay Meter | 63A | ZigBee/Wi-Fi | Cuts in dump load when reverse power detected |
Case Study: Hotel Chain Deployment
A European hotel chain installed OWON smart meters with inverter integration.
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Challenge: Utility prohibited grid export due to transformer saturation.
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Solution: PC473 meters feeding Modbus data to inverters.
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Result: 100% compliance with zero-export rules, while energy bills decreased by 15% through optimized self-consumption.
Buyer’s Guide for EPCs and Distributors
| Evaluation Criteria | Why It Matters | OWON Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Measurement Direction | Detect import/export precisely | Bidirectional metering |
| Protocol Support | Ensure inverter/EMS integration | RS485, MQTT, API |
| Load Flexibility | Handle residential to industrial | 20A–750A CT coverage |
| Safety & Reliability | Avoid downtime | Relay cut-off & overload protection |
| Scalability | Fit single & multi-inverter projects | PC321 to PC341 portfolio |
FAQ
Q1: Can a smart meter alone prevent reverse power flow?
No. The meter measures and reports flow direction. The inverter or relay system executes zero-export control.
Q2: What happens if the internet goes down?
OWON supports local Modbus and API logic, ensuring inverters continue receiving data for zero-export compliance.
Q3: Does OWON support North American split-phase?
Yes. The PC321 is designed for 120/240V split-phase.
Q4: How about large commercial projects?
The PC341 multi-circuit meter provides branch-level monitoring with up to 16 circuits, suitable for industrial plants.
Conclusion
For B2B buyers, zero-export compliance is not optional—it’s mandatory. With OWON’s smart power meters, EPCs and integrators can build cost-effective and scalable anti-reverse PV systems. From small homes to large industrial sites, OWON provides the reliable metering backbone to keep your projects compliant and profitable.
Post time: Sep-07-2025