TasNetworks Solar Connection Guide: Basic Micro-Embedded Generation in Tasmania

Key Takeaways

• TasNetworks is the electricity network service provider that sets connection rules for solar systems in Tasmania.
• Micro-embedded generation systems up to 10kW (single-phase) or 30kW (multi-phase) do not require pre-approval.
• Your solar system will automatically shut down during a power outage for safety, preventing back-feeding into the grid.
• If your system does not restart automatically after an outage, it may require a manual check or an accredited installer's assistance.

Connecting Solar to the TasNetworks Grid in Tasmania

If you are installing a new solar power system or modifying an existing one in Tasmania, you will need to comply with the connection standards set by TasNetworks. TasNetworks is the electricity network service provider responsible for the poles and wires that deliver electricity across the state. Their rules ensure the safe and reliable operation of the grid when private generation sources, like solar, are connected.

The process for connecting solar to the TasNetworks network depends on the size and type of your system. For most residential and small commercial solar installations, known as micro-embedded generation, the connection process is streamlined. Larger systems, or those with specific characteristics, may require additional approvals.

Understanding TasNetworks Micro-Embedded Generation Limits

TasNetworks defines specific capacity limits for micro-embedded generation systems that do not require pre-approval. These limits are based on the phase of your electricity supply:

• Single-phase connections: For properties with a single-phase electricity supply, micro-embedded generation systems can be no greater than 10kW.
• Multi-phase connections: For properties with a multi-phase electricity supply, micro-embedded generation systems can be no greater than 30kW.

If your proposed solar installation falls within these capacity limits, it is generally considered a standard modification to an existing connection. This means that pre-approval from TasNetworks is not required. The connection application typically proceeds as a modification to your existing service.

However, if your installation exceeds these limits, it is classified as "embedded generation" rather than "micro-embedded generation." For these larger systems, approval from TasNetworks is required to connect to the distribution network. Customers with installations larger than 10kW will also need to negotiate their feed-in tariff or power purchase arrangements directly with their energy retailer.

Solar System Behaviour During Power Outages

Solar power systems connected to the grid are designed with safety mechanisms to protect both your property and utility workers. One critical safety feature is the automatic shutdown during a power outage.

This safety feature ensures that your solar panels do not send electricity back into the grid when it is being repaired. Back-feeding could pose a serious electrocution risk to TasNetworks personnel working on the power lines. Once grid power is restored, your inverter should ideally restart automatically. However, some inverters may require a manual reset or may have a delay before resuming operation.

Metering for Your Solar Installation

The way your electricity consumption and solar generation are measured is changing in Tasmania. TasNetworks is overseeing a transition from basic meters to advanced meters across the state.

• Advanced Meter Rollout: It is expected that all existing meters in Tasmania will gradually change to an advanced meter by 2026.
• Metering Responsibility:
• • Your energy retailer is responsible for the installation, meter reading, and replacement of advanced meters. They also notify customers of power outages associated with meter replacement.
  • TasNetworks is responsible for reading and testing existing basic meters until they are replaced with an advanced meter.
• Triggers for Advanced Meter Installation: A new advanced meter installation can be triggered when your TasNetworks-owned meter requires replacement, you make a change to your tariff, there is a new connection (such as solar), or you request one through your energy retailer.
• Benefits of Advanced Meters: These meters offer increased electricity usage information, which can help you manage your electricity use. They also allow for remote meter readings, removing the need for a physical visit from a meter reader.

What You Can Check Yourself, and What You Cannot

As a homeowner with a solar system connected to the TasNetworks grid, there are a few basic checks you can perform, particularly after a power outage.

What you can check:

• Inverter status after an outage: After grid power is restored, check your inverter's display or indicator lights to see if it has restarted and is producing power. If it has not, consult your inverter's user manual for basic troubleshooting steps, which may include a simple reset procedure.

What you cannot and should not do:

• Change inverter settings: Grid-protection settings on your inverter are configured by an accredited installer to comply with Australian inverter connection standards and TasNetworks' connection requirements. Changing these settings yourself can breach your connection agreement and compromise grid safety.
• Work on electrical components: Never attempt to open your inverter, work on your switchboard, or modify any part of your solar electrical system. This work must only be performed by a licensed and accredited electrician.
• Bypass safety features: Do not attempt to bypass your solar system's automatic shutdown during a power outage. This is a critical safety feature.

If your solar system is not operating as expected, or if you have concerns about its connection to the TasNetworks grid, always contact your accredited solar installer or a qualified electrician.

What the Published Sources Do Not Tell You

While TasNetworks provides clear guidelines for micro-embedded generation connections, some specific technical details are not readily available in their public-facing documents:

• Specific technical requirements for Australian inverter connection standards compliant generators: Beyond the capacity limits, detailed technical specifications that inverters must meet are not published on their general connection pages. These are typically covered in broader industry standards like Australian inverter connection standards, which is a paid standard.
• Detailed application process for embedded generation requiring approval: For systems larger than 10kW per phase, the specific steps and documentation required for approval are not fully detailed in the general information provided.
• Approved inverter models or brands: TasNetworks does not publish a list of approved or disapproved inverter models or brands. Compliance is generally based on adherence to Australian standards.
• Current feed-in tariff rates: While TasNetworks manages the network connection, feed-in tariff rates are set by the Tasmanian Economic Regulator and provided by energy retailers like Aurora Energy, not by TasNetworks directly.
• Full policy documents: Several key documents, such as the "Negotiated Supply Contract for Micro-Embedded Generation," "Service and Installation Rules (SIR) V8.5," and the "Electricity Connection Contract - Standard Terms & Conditions," are referenced but not directly provided in the public information. These documents contain the full legal and technical framework for connections.