Western Power is committed to providing fair and equitable access to the network for all users on equivalent standard connections services. In 2021 we introduced consistent embedded generation (EG) system requirements to enable this.
The Basic EG Connection Technical Requirements has been revised to provide greater clarity on existing user obligations, inverter installation requirements and guidance on how different connection types and export limiting arrangements are managed to ensure a safe and secure electricity supply.
Below is an overview of these changes. Refer to the Basic EG Connection Technical Requirements for full details.
Small network customers – sole use transformer
Customers in rural and remote parts of the Western Power network are typically not able to access three-phase connections, but some have a transformer located within their properties that is for their sole use.
The updated requirements support larger single-phase systems to be connected for these situations. Refer to the new table " Maximum System Capacities for Small network category – Sole Use transformers " for guidance on this.
Shared connection services – connection capacity management and export limiting guidance
A shared connection service is characterised by one connection point shared by many customers via multiple master metering arrangements, such as lifestyle villages or strata complexes.
This connection type has a fixed connection capacity that is shared and allocated between each unit, resident, or business (sharing the connection point) by the developer/owners of the site. The addition of embedded generation systems, such as rooftop solar, at each customer point can significantly increase the potential for connection point capacity exceedance and likelihood for power interruptions and requires appropriate management and allocation of capacity.
The updated requirements clarify the responsibilities of the site owner, or their representative (i.e. strata company or management body), and the property tenant/owner for the ongoing management of the shared connection. Included also are the export limits for each unit, resident, or business.
Electric vehicles – terminology and definition update
Electric vehicles (EV) and EV supply equipment (EVSE) capable of bidirectional operation are considered a basic EG system and need to comply with the Basic EG Connection Technical Requirements. Details regarding this are available in the updated requirements.
Note: EVs and EVSEs that are only capable of charging from the grid are considered a load only and are still subject to the requirements of the WASIR.
Inverter settings - new and existing installations
Changes to or replacement of inverters for a customer may trigger changes to the applicable settings for the site. In most cases the inverter will need to comply with current settings.
The updated Basic EG Connection Technical Requirements Appendix A provides guidance for inverter settings for existing, replacement and new inverters installations.
To find out more, download the Basic Embedded Generation Connection Technical Requirements.