I want to generate my own electricity

For single phase distributed generation applications, PowerNet is now accepting up to 10kW export capacity.

Customers with existing generation systems can now apply to have their 5kW export limits removed or raised. This may not be available for everyone, as it will be subject to network capacity checks.

You need to complete an application to change your limit, as this ensures we are aware of the increased allocation and can check network capacity. We’ve made this process as simple as possible:

• NO application fee for export-limit changes.
• A simplified process to apply.
• NO additional commissioner checks are required.

To support these changes, our Distributed Generation Standard has been updated and is now simpler and easier to read. You can read it here.

Application information

Customers must apply and receive final approval to have their distributed generation connected to the network. Applications are made using PowerNet’s Distributed Generation Application Form. The form is designed to capture the required information for a compliant application provided technical requirements are met.

Low voltage (230 V) inverter-based generation must be 4777.2 (2020) compliant (see approved inverter list here), be installed in compliance with 4777.1 (2016 or 2024) and have settings as specified in the technical requirements section of PowerNet’s Distributed Generation Standard. The distributed generation owner must provide PowerNet a copy of the Certificate of Compliance (CoC), typically provided by the installer, as soon as it is available but no later than 10 business days after the approval of the application.

For other generation systems we may need to work with you post application to gather information and determine specific requirements for connection to the network. The amount of information required will depend on the size and type of generation and shall remain confidential between the parties unless agreed otherwise.

Vehicle to Grid (V2G) installations are considered to be an inverter-based generation system. Please apply using the distributed generation application form and indicate V2G as the application type in the Inverter section of the form.

Application form

We’ve made our application form simpler for:

• Single‑phase systems up to 10 kW
• Requests to raise or remove export limits, using a simplified form that avoids collecting information we already hold (aside from essential identification and contact details)
• Vehicle‑to‑Grid (V2G) applications, which will be processed as inverter‑based generation systems, similar to solar installations

As before, export capacities above 10 kW may be available in certain situations where distribution transformer capacity – allocated equally among connected customers – permits higher export levels.

Congestion map

Our congestion map has been improved, which allows customers to check if there are any capacity constraints in their area or if they can qualify for fast track application.

The congestion maps shows network congestion as applies for up to 5kW exporting distributed generation applications.

Customers who make compliant distributed generation applications for any export capacity up to the limit shown for their network area, or a maximum of 5kW where no limit is shown, will be fast tracked for approval at a reduced fee.

Customers wanting larger distributed generation export capacity may still apply but are not eligible for fast tracking as capacity checks will be required – these applications will be processed under the default process for their application system size.

Simply zoom into your desired location and see if it falls into a highlighted area. If not, it’s likely you are not in a congested area (can input 10kW as export power threshold on the online application form).

Using the Map

The congestion map shows areas where PowerNet has identified congestion and the customer should navigate to their potential distributed generation connection location to check if this is within an area of network congestion.

• Red areas show the existing identified congestion areas and limits we will use for the next application received.
• Yellow areas show where the network is approaching congestion – applications in these areas will be processed subject to other customer applications and will be processed in the order received.

The map will only be updated when applications are approved.

Application process, timeframe and fees are dependent on the following generation size categories:

¹ Compliant low voltage inverter-based generation (e.g. roof top solar) applications up to a maximum export capability of 5kW or any lower limits specified on PowerNet’s congestion map may be fast tracked with a reduced fee.

PowerNet may need to perform further detailed investigative studies to identify any potential adverse effects the generation may have on the system. A fee will be chargeable for this; we will advise you before we approve the connection if this is required.

For more information:

Solar

Wind

Batteries

Inverters

Email: enquiries@powernet.co.nz