Connection of Solar or other Small Embedded Generators via an Inverter

Click on the links below to obtain further information:

• Introduction
• Requirements for Grid Connected Systems via an Inverter
• Solar Connection Form

Introduction

A customer intending to connect a generator to Jemena's network via an inverter with a rating of 10kVA per phase or less can connect using a streamlined connection process. This process can be used for most rooftop solar (photovoltaic) generators. The generator can be commissioned without written approval from Jemena or a signed connection agreement with Jemena however the system owner must nonetheless fully comply with Jemena's technical standards and applicable industry standards and must complete and submit the appropriate forms. The generator owner can then assume automatic approval is granted without Jemena reviewing the application if the installation satisfies these standards.

A feature of solar generating systems is their ability to export energy back into the electricity supply grid. Jemena encourages generation of electricity from renewable sources however it must place certain conditions on the generating systems to ensure that they do not compromise the safety or integrity of the electricity supply grid as a whole.

The connection to the electricity grid must be instigated through an Electricity Retailer of your choice. The following conditions must be met before connection can be made to the Jemena electricity grid.

Requirements for Grid Connected Systems via an Inverter

• The inverter and the inverter installation must comply with AS4777.
• The installation must comply with the Victorian Service and Installation Rules.
• The installation must comply with the Victorian Electricity Distribution Code.
• The installation must conform to Australian Standard Wiring Regulations AS3000 and any other relevant guidelines or instructions issued by EnergySafe Victoria (ESV).
• Compliance with AS3000 is confirmed by an Electrical Inspector appropriately licensed with EnergySafe Victoria to inspect solar embedded generation installations (must hold an ‘S’ class license).
• Supply a prescribed CES (Certificate of Electrical Safety) signed by the Electrical Inspector and the REC (Registered electrical Contractor) for the installer.
• Maximum size of the photovoltaic generator or any other small embedded generator to be connected to the low voltage grid will not exceed 10kVA per phase. The connection of larger generators must be individually assessed and approved by Jemena.
• The Solar Connection Form must be completed, signed by the customer and sent to Jemena before connection to the grid notifying Jemena of the type of system installed.
• The meter on your property will need to be upgraded to suit embedded generation to measure power flow into the supply grid. Your electrician or the installer of your system can arrange the correct meter to be installed. The meter change needs to be arranged via your electricity retailer. Charges for the meter installations may apply.

 

If all of the above conditions are met then the generator owner can assume they have approval to connect their embedded generator to the low voltage network.

The ongoing connection of the embedded generator to the electricity distribution network is dependent on the generator and associated equipment being maintained such that it continues to comply with the above conditions. Jemena reserves the right to disconnect from the electricity distribution grid any embedded generator at any time if it becomes aware of its non-compliance with the above conditions.

Jemena will not be responsible for any loss incurred by the generator owner resulting from its connection or disconnection to the electricity distribution network.

Solar Connection Form

The 'Solar Connection Form' is a document that must be filled out and signed by the customer and sent to Jemena before the system is connected to the distribution network. This provides important information that Jemena must collect to manage its distribution network. Click here to obtain a copy of the form.