We can help guide you when connecting alternative power sources to our network.
The following information is for the connection of larger embedded generator systems or larger battery energy storage systems.
Alternatively, if you are seeking information on the process to connect small solar and wind (inverter) systems up to 200 kW in size, you can review the Connection Process.
You can call us on: 1800 771 434.
Powercor Sub-transmission Generation Capacity
CitiPower and Powercor provide their network generation capacity information on the Energy Network Australia network opportunity maps which are available here.
For further information beyond the online maps please contact CitiPower on Powercor on 1800 771 434.
Registered Generators generally with a capacity greater than 5 MW:
The following provides information including the connection process under Chapter 5 of the National Electricity Rules (NER).
This process applies to registered embedded generators, those intending to become registered (that is, generators with a capacity greater than 5 MW) or those choosing to become registered (that is, generators with a capacity less than 5 MW).
Non-registered embedded generators less than 5 MW may elect to use this process. If you do not want to use the connection process under Chapter 5A of the NER, please refer further below.
Chapter 5 of the NER Connection Process
Preliminary Enquiry Stage
Detailed Enquiry Stage
Connection Application
The connection process involves separate stages with defined outcomes and timeframes.
Applications
The applicable application form for the preliminary and detailed enquiry is to be used when requesting a DNSP response. The form provides the minimum information required to be submitted at each stage to enable a response to be provided in the required timeframes.
- Embedded Generation – Preliminary enquiries can be made via mySupply
- Battery Energy Storage System – Preliminary enquiries can be made via mySupply
NB: The mySupply enquiry application portal does always function correctly with Internet Explorer.Consider the use of an alternative internet browser.
Typical Connection Costs
To assist your planning the following high level costs are provided for the provision of typical connection assets that may be required to connect an embedded generator to the electricity grid. Depending on the size of the embedded generator, the location in relation to existing distribution assets and the voltage level of the connection, some of the costs may be applicable.
Note: these do not include costs to remove a network constraint.
CitiPower | ||
---|---|---|
Item | Location | Cost |
11 kV UG extension | Urban | $1.7M per km |
11 kV UG extension | CBD | $3.5M per km |
66 kV UG extension | Urban | $2.3M per km |
66 kV UG extension | CBD | $4.0M per km |
Powercor | ||
---|---|---|
Item | Location | Cost |
22 kV OH extension | Rural/Regional | $0.2M per km |
22 kV UG extension | Rural/Regional | $0.9M per km |
66 kV OH extension | Rural/Regional | $0.3M per km |
66 kV UG extension | Rural/Regional | $1.2M per km |
66 kV Switching Station | Rural/Regional | $5.0M each |
Transmission Use of System (TUOS)
Embedded generators connecting under Chapter 5 may be eligible for avoided TUOS payments.
Contract / Agreement
The DNSP uses a negotiated connection contract for any work to extend the distribution assets or remove any network constraint to allow the connection. The connection of the embedded generator uses a generator deed agreement. The contract and agreement contains the terms and conditions between the customer and the DNSP for the service provided. Our template contract and agreement using Powercor as an example are provided for your review.
Technical Requirements
The DNSP has three customer guidelines and depending on the voltage level of the connection, one of the guidelines will be applicable for the connection of the embedded generator. The customer guidelines provide as a minimum the following information.
- Single line diagrams of the DNSP preferred connection arrangements
- Sample schematic diagrams of protection systems relevant to the connection of the embedded generator
- Protection systems and protection schemes
- Fault level management principles
- Reactive power capability and power factor correction
- Power quality
- Frequency and voltage disturbance
- Voltage control and regulation
- Remote monitoring equipment, control and communication requirements
- Earthing requirements and other safety requirements
- Commissioning and testing requirements
Customer Guidelines:
- Customer Guideline – HV Distribution Connected Embedded Generation
- Customer Guideline – Sub-transmission Connected Embedded Generation
Register of completed embedded generation projects
Details of completed projects may be found below under “downloads and related resources”. Please note, not all completed projects are recorded due to privacy concerns.