Solar and other distributed generation

Do you have solar panels, a small wind turbine or a mini-hydro system that you would like to connect to our network? We'd love to help.

Distributed generation is equipment used to generate electricity which is capable of supplying electricity back into our network.

If you have any queries about distributed generation please call us on 03 433 0065 or email service@networkwaitaki.co.nz

Application process

To apply for distributed generation please complete our online application form and we'll be in touch to guide you through the process: Apply for Distributed Generation Connection

The following documents relate to the connection and operation of distributed generation:

• For connecting Distributed Generation less than 10kW: Small scale generation connection standard

• For connecting Distributed Generation more than 10kW: Large scale generation connection standard
  
  
• Process guide for connecting Utility Scale Generation (more than 1000kW): Utility-scale distributed generation process guide

• Regulated terms (our standard connection contract): Regulated terms for connection of distributed generation
  
  
• View our "Generation Hosting Capacity Map for Large and Utility Scale Solar"

List of approved inverters

The list of inverters approved for use on our electricity network can be found here: Approved Inverters

If you have an inverter not listed here, you will need to provide a Certificate of Conformity / Suitability confirming compliance with AS/NZS4777.2:2020.

We also recommend reviewing the Gen Less Solar tool which is supported by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA): Gen Less Solar tool 

Congestion management

We need to know the maximum export power of any Distributed Generation connection in order to manage network congestion.

There are no specific locations or parts of our low voltage network currently known to be, or reasonably expected to become, subject to export congestion within the next 12 months: Congestion Management Standard

Network approved inspectors

Please contact our Electrical Services team on 03 433 0065 for a list of Network Approved Inspectors who can inspect your generation before connection.

Application fees

• Less than 10kW (streamlined process*) - $160
• Less than 10kW - $350
• More than 10kW but less than 100kW in total - $880
• 100kW or above in total, but less than 1MW - $1,770
• 1MW and above - $8,840

*streamlined process may be used when inverter is compliant with AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 and meets the requirements in our small scale generation connection standard.

Testing and inspection fee

• Less than 10kW - $90
• Above 10kW but less than 100kW in total - $200
• 100kW but less than 1000kW - $2,120
• 1000kW and above - Actual costs

Statutory, regulatory and safety requirements

Distributed generation must meet all relevant statutory and regulatory requirements and comply with all applicable safety standards. If you connect distributed generation to our network, safety equipment and procedures must be put in place to ensure safe interaction between your distributed generator and our network.

All inverter-based Distributed Generation must comply with standard AS/NZS 4777.1:2016 (installation requirements), which specifies the electrical and safety installation requirements for grid connected systems, and standard AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 (inverter requirements) which specifies set-points and limits, provisions for demand response and power quality response modes, electrical safety requirements and requirements for multiple mode inverter operation.

The Electricity Authority’s Regulated Terms from the Electricity Industry Participation Code Part 6.2 also apply. You can find out more on the Electricity Authority’s website.

All installations must also comply with the Electrical (Safety) Regulations published on the WorkSafe website.