ACT Solar Power System Grid Connection Rules & Process

Something you’ll need to know you may not already – the main electricity distributor (an entity that owns and maintains an electricity network you’ll be connecting a system to) in the ACT is EvoEnergy, with Essential Energy providing services to a very limited number of customers.

The following table shows the inverter limits for both DNSPs and whether battery inverters count towards the limits. Information for the ACT is current as at August 31, 2021.

ACT Solar Grid Connection Process

The following focuses on EvoEnergy, detailing the steps required for installing a solar power system in Canberra and throughout the ACT. The grid connection process can look a little daunting, but don’t be put off by all this as your solar installation company should handle most of it.

1. Building Development Approval Needed?

Before committing to buying a system, first check to see if you will need a development approval – in most cases you shouldn’t.

2. Special Connection Request Form 

In the ACT, you or your proposed installer must complete a Special Connection Request Form for and receive approval from EvoEnergy before the solar installation can proceed.

3. Arrange Electricity Meter Change

Your solar installer will need to submit a completed Request for Service Form to your electricity retailer and make an appointment for meter installation. This occurs before installation but after EvoEnergy approval.

4. Solar Power System Installation

Your installer can then start on the solar panel system installation, but it will not be considered complete until the electricity meter is installed. The meter cannot be installed until after the solar panel system is.

7. Installation Of Meter

Once the meter is installed, your electricity retailer will make changes to your electricity plan so you can receive the solar feed in tariff. That’s the amount you’ll receive for the surplus energy generated by your system that will be exported to the mains grid.

8. System Commissioning  

The system can now be handed over to you and you can start reaping the rewards of your wise investment.

9. Certificate of Electrical Safety (CES) form

While the electrician can now leave the installation, he/she must submit a Certificate of Electrical Safety (CES) form within 14 days of the work to Access Canberra. The installation will then be inspected by the Access Canberra Electrical Inspections. The electrician doesn’t need to be present for this, but if you would like be around for the inspection, you should contact Access Canberra to arrange an appointment.