Ausgrid and Endeavour Energy Dynamic Flexible Exports Guide

Key Takeaways

• Modern network modernization: As more businesses and households shift towards renewable energy, we're committed to providing a reliable and efficient infrastructure while modernising the electricity network for the future.
• Connection flexibility choice: When you (or a solar retaileron your behalf) apply to connect a new or upgraded solar system, you can now choose between a flexible export connection or a fixed export connection.
• Fast automated approvals for standard systems: Small residential solar systems that comply with standard requirements are automatically approved.
• Mandatory internet communications from late-2026: From late-2026, all new and upgraded systems must include a smart solar inverter that can communicate with the electricity network over the internet.
• Conservative fallback for offline properties: Your system will be approved to connect with a static export limit of 1.5 kW.

New South Wales distribution networks are transitioning from static export limits to flexible, dynamic export connections. Network service providers Ausgrid and Endeavour Energy are deploying dynamic operating envelopes to allow solar and battery owners to export up to 10 kW per phase when network capacity permits.

Meeting modern energy demand requires advanced distribution infrastructure. As Ausgrid confirms, "As more businesses and households shift towards renewable energy, we're committed to providing a reliable and efficient infrastructure while modernising the electricity network for the future."

Technical Connection Options & Documentation

Guidance for embedded generators is established through formal utility frameworks. The network operator provides "Information on how to connect small embedded generation systems."

When initiating a new connection or modifying an existing site, applicants now have greater flexibility:

• Connection Framework Selection: Under network rules, **"When you (or a solar retaileron your behalf) apply to connect a new or upgraded solar system, you can now choose between a flexible export connection or a fixed export connection."**
• Contractor-Led Lodgement: The administrative workflow is streamlined: "In most cases, your installer will manage the entire approval process for you. This includes submitting the connection application and any required technical details."
• Automated Streamlining: For compliant rooftop arrays, "Small residential solar systems that comply with standard requirements are automatically approved" through the online portal.
• Enquiry Timelines: For complex inquiries requiring manual technical engineering assessment, "If you haven’t heard from us within 10 business days, contact our Connections Support Team."

Metering & Internet Connectivity Mandates

Accurate energy flow measurement and internet communications are mandatory across NSW networks:

1. Bi-Directional Interval Metering: Under distribution connection standards, "Yes. All new and upgrading solar systems require a smart meter to accurately measure electricity use and solar exports."
2. Mandatory Inverter Telemetry: From late-2026 onwards, "From late-2026, all new and upgraded systems must include a smart solar inverter that can communicate with the electricity network over the internet."
3. Physical Connectivity Options: System communications are versatile: "Your installer will connect the solar inverter to your home internet over WiFi, using a plug-in Wi-Fi device, or a wired ethernet connection."

Offline Premises & Static Export Fallback

For properties without reliable broadband or cellular coverage, distribution rules maintain a robust technical fallback mechanism:

• Hardware Requirement: Even without connectivity, "Your new or upgraded system must still include a smart (CSIP-AUS compliant) inverter that is capable of communicating over the internet" to ensure future compatibility.
• Fallback Export Cap: In offline scenarios, "Your system will be approved to connect with a static export limit of 1.5 kW" to prevent uncontrolled localized overvoltage on rural feeders.
• Future Upgrade Pathway: If communications become established later, "If a reliable internet connection becomes available, you can ask your installer to reconfigure your solar system to connect with the internet and increase your solar exports."