Information for solar installers
What you need to know before installing solar or battery systems in Ausgrid’s network area
There are a number of requirements you must be aware of before installing a solar system. We’ve compiled the information below to assist you before you begin your installation.
Installer accreditation and licensing
To design or install solar or battery systems in Ausgrid’s network, you must:
- Hold current Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) accreditation
- Have a valid NSW electrical licence
- Follow any additional manufacturer training requirements for the equipment you install
If you don’t currently hold SAA accreditation but believe you meet the required training standards, contact us to discuss your situation: connections.technical.enquiries@ausgrid.com.au
Inverter installation
What to check before you install
Before purchasing or installing an inverter, make sure it:
- Meets AS/NZS 4777 requirements
- Is configured to Ausgrid’s required inverter settings
- Is listed by the Clean Energy Council, or has written Ausgrid approval
Installers are responsible for confirming compatibility before installation. Non‑compliant inverters may need to be replaced at the installer’s cost.
Detailed technical requirements are set out in NS194.
NSW Emergency Backstop Mechanism (from mid-2026)
From mid‑2026, new and upgraded solar systems in NSW must be backstop‑enabled.
What this means for installers:
- Install CSIP‑AUS compliant equipment
- Run a short commissioning test to confirm connectivity
- If internet is unavailable, apply a temporary low export limit until connectivity is provided
These requirements do not apply to:
- Existing solar systems
- Like‑for‑like replacements
- Embedded networks
Installers will be responsible for confirming compliance at installation.
Find out more about the NSW Emergency Backstop Mechanism.
Multi-tenanted sites
Before submitting a connection application, confirm whether the site is:
- A duplex
- Units, villas or apartments
- Retirement villages
- Small industrial or commercial complexes
These sites often share upstream infrastructure. Adding solar to one tenancy can affect the whole installation.
Before applying:
- Confirm the NMI is part of a multi‑tenant setup
- Consult the body corporate or asset owner if required
- Expect Ausgrid to assess network impacts at the shared connection point
Embedded networks
For embedded networks:
- Applications must be submitted by, or with consent from, the embedded network owner or operator
- Applications must include all existing and proposed generation connected under the parent NMI
Embedded networks are exempt from the NSW Emergency Backstop requirements, but installers will still need to use the CER Installer Portal once introduced.
Understanding exports and export limits
Approved export limits represent the maximum allowed export, not guaranteed output.
Actual export varies based on:
- Local voltage conditions
- Inverter behaviour under AS/NZS 4777
- On‑site self‑consumption
Voltage‑based export reduction is a normal and required feature to protect the network.
See Support for an existing solar system for more information.
Safety and compliance
As the installer, you’re responsible for:
- Completing electrical safety testing
- Submitting a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work (CCEW) within 7 days
Inspections
Ausgrid audits some installations after connection. These inspections may occur months after install due to volume. Unsafe systems may be disconnected immediately.
Common installation issues to watch for
Correct design upfront reduces delays, defects and rework. Installers should pay particular attention to:
- Voltage rise compliance
- Main switchboard suitability and compliance
- Battery placement requirements
- Additional protection requirements for large systems