Tasmania TasNetworks Micro Embedded Generation Guide: Connecting Solar to the Grid
Updated 6 September 2026 · By SolarNevs Research Desk, Dealer surveys + verified sources · 4 sources · Method ↗
Key Takeaways
- Your solar system must comply with TasNetworks' connection requirements to operate in Tasmania.
- Solar systems automatically shut down during grid outages for safety, preventing power export to a de-energised network.
- Not all inverters automatically restart after a power outage; manual intervention may be required.
- Always consult an accredited installer for connection applications and system configuration to ensure compliance with TasNetworks' rules.
Connecting Micro Embedded Generation in Tasmania
If you are installing a solar power system, or any other form of micro embedded generation, in Tasmania, your system must comply with the connection requirements set by TasNetworks. TasNetworks is the electricity network service provider for Tasmania. This guide outlines the key considerations for connecting micro embedded generation systems up to 30kVA to the Tasmanian grid. For systems larger than 30kVA, a different connection process applies.
What is Actually Going On
When you connect a solar system to the grid, it becomes "embedded generation." This means it generates electricity that can be used on-site or exported to the TasNetworks grid. To ensure the safety and stability of the network for all users, TasNetworks has specific rules and technical guidelines that all embedded generation systems must follow. These rules cover aspects like system size, safety features, and how the system interacts with the grid.
Understanding System Behaviour and Safety
Your solar system is designed with safety features to protect both your property and the TasNetworks grid.
Symptom | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
Solar system cuts out during a power outage | This is a safety mechanism to prevent your system from back-feeding the grid during an outage. | Wait for grid power to be restored. Do not attempt to manually re-energise your system during an outage. |
Solar system does not turn back on automatically after a power outage | Not all solar inverters are designed to switch back on automatically after a power outage. | Consult your accredited installer or inverter manual for specific restart procedures. |
Zero kWh displayed in feed-in credits on quarterly bills with estimated readings | Estimated readings do not capture actual feed-in. | You will see your feed-in credits on the next bill once a true meter reading is obtained at your property. |
What You Can Check Yourself, and What You Cannot
As a homeowner, you can monitor your system's performance and be aware of its operational status. You can check your inverter display for error messages or status indicators. If your system is not operating as expected, or if it fails to restart after a power outage, you should contact your accredited solar installer.
You cannot, and should not, attempt to change any grid-protection settings on your inverter. These settings are configured by an accredited installer according to Australian inverter connection standards and TasNetworks' requirements. Changing them yourself can breach your connection agreement and compromise grid safety. Only an accredited installer is authorised to adjust these settings.
What the Published Sources Do Not Tell You
While TasNetworks provides general information on connecting solar, specific technical guidelines for standard connections, particularly regarding phase balancing requirements for micro embedded generation and explicit Volt-Watt settings, are not readily available in public documents. The "Service and Installation Rules" and "Electricity Connection Contract - Standard Terms & Conditions" are referenced as containing detailed requirements, but these are not publicly provided on the TasNetworks website.
This means that while the general limits for micro embedded generation (up to 30kVA) are clear, the precise technical specifications for inverter configuration, especially for grid support functions, are typically communicated directly to accredited installers or found within the detailed, often paywalled, standards like Australian inverter connection standards. Your installer will be able to confirm the exact configuration required for your system to comply with TasNetworks' network rules. ---
Frequently asked questions
Why does my solar system turn off during a power outage in Tasmania?
For your safety, your solar system will automatically cut out during a power outage on the grid your system is connected to, preventing back-feeding into the network.
Will my solar system automatically restart after a power outage in Tasmania?
Not all solar inverters are designed to switch back on automatically after a power outage. You may need to manually restart your system.
Why are there no feed-in credits on my estimated electricity bill in Tasmania?
Quarterly bills with estimated readings will show zero kWh for feed-in credits. You will see these credits on your next bill once a true meter reading is obtained.
What is the maximum size for a basic micro embedded generation system in Tasmania?
TasNetworks defines micro embedded generation as systems up to 30kVA. Larger systems require a different connection process.
Are advanced meters safe?
Advanced meters are manufactured and installed according to Australian Standards and comply with electromagnetic exposure limits developed by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency.
References
- TasNetworks: What type of connection do you require — accessed 26 August 2026
- TasNetworks: Solar energy explained — accessed 26 August 2026
- TasNetworks: Metering changes — accessed 26 August 2026
- Aurora Energy: Business Solar Products — accessed 26 August 2026
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