In September 2020 the South Australian government updated its solar regulations. The new directions are to ensure good and safe energy production. This helps prepare the network for any extreme events and avoid blackouts.
The key change is that you may require a “solar agent” to manage your solar system and the government requirements around export limits, automated disconnection and reconnection and inverter standards.
Who this affects
1. Customers who purchase a new solar system after September 2020
2. Existing solar customers who need to replace an out of warranty inverter (If you’re replacing another part of the system or your inverter is still in warranty, no agent is needed.)
How to appoint an agent
We can act as your registered agent. You can nominate Origin as your appointed agent on sign up of a new system or while you’re in discussion with us. Alternatively, you have the option to choose a registered agent from the SA government agent listing.
In this instance, you’ll just need to let us know the name of your chosen agent before we can set you up. We’ll ask you this while discussing your quote.
Agent fees may apply, so be sure to get an understanding of the full amount of costs for services from your agent.
About the solar system requirements
For all new installs and system updates in South Australia:
New solar customers will need to comply with new ride-through performance standards. This helps lower the risk of your solar system shutting down (i.e., a blackout) should any technical issues occur within the grid.
All new solar installations need to have the capability to be remotely disconnected and reconnected in an emergency.
Your net meter will now be guided by technical standards too, so they can measure and control solar generation and any controlled load from the electricity supply.
Export limit requirements are in place to ensure there’s enough network capacity. Therefore, there are some limitations to the size of solar and battery systems that can be installed. Our agents will walk you through this all.
Interested in going solar? Our solar calculator can estimate your system cost and from there you can request a quote from our team of solar experts.