Solar support
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.
Installer resources
FAQs
Approval is required before solar or battery systems can be turned on.
In most cases, your installer will manage the entire approval process for you. This includes submitting the connection application and any required technical details.
How long it takes
- Small residential solar systems that comply with standard requirements are automatically approved
- Larger or more complex systems may take longer if additional checks are required
If you haven’t heard from us within 10 business days, contact our Connections Support Team.
Some connections may involve fees, particularly for:
- Larger systems
- Changes to an existing connection
- More complex installations
See solar charges for more information.
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.
Your choice of solar connection does not affect how much solar energy you generate, how much solar energy you consume, or when you consume it. It only determines how much spare solar energy you can export to the grid.
Find out more on the Solar Exporting page.
Yes. All new and upgrading solar systems require a smart meter to accurately measure electricity use and solar exports.
If a meter upgrade is required:
- Your electricity retailer will organise the upgrade
- Your installer can help coordinate the process
- Your installer or retailer can confirm whether your current meter is suitable.
From late-2026, all new and upgraded systems must include a smart solar inverter that can communicate with the electricity network over the internet.
This helps the electricity grid operate safely and allows you to make the most of your solar exports.
You have a reliable internet connection
- Your new or upgraded solar system must be connected to the internet.
- 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.
- Your solar installer will advise you on how to maintain connectivity (for example when you change a WiFi password or change your internet supplier)
If your inverter loses internet connection for an extended period, your solar exports will automatically be limited to 1.5 kilowatts (kW) as a protective measure to keep the electricity network secure.
Your system will still generate solar power for you to use, but exports to the network will be reduced. Once you reconnect your inverter to the internet, your system can return to normal export operation.
You do not have a reliable internet connection
- Your new or upgraded system must still include a smart (CSIP-AUS compliant) inverter that is capable of communicating over the internet
- Ausgrid will undertake a desktop assessment to validate the lack of connectivity at your premises
- Your system will be approved to connect with a static export limit of 1.5 kW
- Your installer will configure your solar system with this export limit
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.
Different systems work in different ways:
- Solar panels generate electricity from sunlight
- Batteries store energy for later use
- Backup generators provide power during outages
Most solar and battery systems require approval before connection.
Backup generators
- Backup‑only generators used only during outages usually don’t need approval
- Generators that can briefly connect to the electricity network do need approval
Your installer or electrician will confirm the requirements for your setup.
Apartment buildings may be able to install shared solar systems
In NSW, some Owners Corporations may be eligible for government grants to help cover installation costs.
Your building manager, committee or installer can help explore available options.
Yes. Always use an installer accredited by Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA).
An accredited installer:
- Is trained and qualified to install solar safely
- Follows all required electrical safety rules
- Provides a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work after installation
This certificate confirms your system:
- Has been installed correctly
- Meets all electrical safety requirements
Keep this document for your records.
Safety is our top priority. Some systems are inspected after they’re connected.
If a safety issue is identified:
- The system may be disconnected immediately
- You’ll receive clear instructions on what needs to be fixed
- The system can be reconnected once it’s safe
Start by checking your apps (solar inverter app, battery app and retailer app).
These apps provide live data about the operation and performance of your solar system and battery which may be helpful. They also provide historical data showing the solar energy you have generated, consumed, stored or exported to the grid.
It’s also worth checking that your solar inverter has not been disconnected from the internet, as this may affect solar exports.
If you remain concerned that your solar system or battery are not working as expected, please contact:
- Your installer – for system faults or performance issues
- Your electricity retailer – for billing or meter‑related questions
Yes, but changes usually require a new or updated connection approval.
Your installer can advise what’s needed before making upgrades.