FAQ Results

Yes, our Network Capacity Map shows details about the local electricity network, including historical load, the amount of generation connected and the capacity of the network assets.

Whilst all individual connection applications are subject to our normal connection assessment, the map may indicate whether a site may have export restrictions applied. Refer to the "Information - About this Map" section for details on how to use the map and interpret the results.

Please note: This information is subject to change and may not be directly applicable to the customer's point of connection.

Customers (or their representatives) must ensure that operation of the inverter doesn't cause a voltage rise of more than 2% between the inverter and network coupling point.

This has been an issue particularly with larger single-phase systems on rural and acreage blocks. Problems have occurred with these systems disconnecting due to the overvoltage setting on the inverter.

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The standard has been developed to ensure safe and stable operation of the Small IES units at a premises. All battery Energy Storage Systems (ESS) installed at a premises and connected to the electricity grid must have a connection agreement.

Refer to Section 4.4.1 of STNW1170 Standard for Small IES Connections (PDF 862.0 kb) for the detailed requirements for the installation and connection of ESS.

Inverters must be set with volt–watt and volt–var response modes both enabled. Settings are found in STNW1170 Standard for Small IES Connections (PDF 862.0 kb) and are also available from Energy Networks Australia’s Power Quality Response Mode Settings document.

Failure to comply with these requirements can result in dangerous internal voltages, as well as contributing to voltages above statutory limits on the distribution network.

Where it is detected that incorrect power quality response modes have been set, an installer or person can be reported to the Electrical Safety Office and/or Clean Energy Council for non-compliance. It can also result in disconnection of the premises.

A new or replacement inverter needs to have certified compliance to AS/NZS 4777.2 and be listed as an approved inverter with the Clean Energy Council.

On 18 December 2020 a new version of AS/NZS 4777.2 was released. AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 came into effect 12 months from the release, on 18 December 2021. For more information about compliance requirements for inverters, visit our FAQs.

For inverters to receive dynamic limits as part of a Dynamic Connections under STNW3510 inverters will need to be capable of receiving information through the interoperability standard IEEE 2030.5 (SEP2). In November 2022, we released the SEP2 Utility Server compliance requirements in the SEP2 Client Handbook (PDF 991.6 kb) for inverter manufacturers or third-party providers.

The aggregation of micro-inverters (or small-scale inverters associated with individual panels) are subject to the same rules and conditions as any other IES.

A technical study is required to:

• determine the relevant safety and technical requirements that will form part of the connection offer
• enable the connection of all negotiated connections.

A technical study is not required for a connection that meets the requirement for a Model Standing Offer and STNW1170 Standard for Small IES Connections (PDF 862.0 kb).

The Connection Standard for Micro Embedded Generating Units (0-<30 kVA) can be found on our Small IES connections web page.

The revision of this standard has been a collaborative effort between ourselves and the PV industry.

An accredited person is a person accredited to the Clean Energy Council to design and/or install renewable energy systems. Categories of accredited persons include:

• Installers
• Designers
• Supervisors

In all instances, a person authorised under the Queensland Electrical Safety Act (2002) is required to certify the installation.