Distributed generation
Distributed generation is generation located at a home or business which is connected to the local distribution network. These systems are capable of generating electricity which can either be used at the home or business, or exported into the Buller Electricity network and used by other homes and businesses.
Connecting distributed generation to our network
If you are interested in installing distributed generation and connecting it to our network, please refer to the New Connection Pre-Application Guide. For further details, you can also review our Distributed Generation Policy which provides a comprehensive breakdown of the requirements.
Two connection processes exist:
- For small-scale systems of 10kW capacity or less View form
- For large-scale systems of greater than 10kW capacity View form
Owners that have bought a property with an existing Distributed Generation system will need to complete and submit a Notification of Connection.
Statutory, regulatory, technical and safety requirements
Distributed generation must comply with relevant statutory, regulatory, technical and safety requirements. If you connect distributed generation to our network, systems must be in place to ensure the safe interaction between your distributed generator and our network.
We recommend that you familiarise yourself with the following information:
- Buller Electricity 'Network Connection Standard' View PDF
- AS/NZS 4777.1:2024 and AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 (incorporating Amendments No. 1 and 2) provide the requirements for inverter-connected distributed generation systems. For low-voltage inverter-connected systems, Australia A inverter settings apply unless Buller Electricity has approved alternative settings.
- Electrical Code of Practice AS/NZS 3000 – Electrical Installations (available from shop.standards.co.nz)
- Connection of distributed generation is regulated by the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010, Part 6 – Connection of distributed generation
Connection and injection fees
Buller Electricity aligns with the connection fees outlined in Part 6.5 of the Electricity Industry Participation Code.
Accepted inverters
Buller Electricity recognises inverter models listed on the current Clean Energy Council approved inverter list as evidence of compliance with the applicable inverter requirements.
Maximum export power
Under the Electricity Industry Participation Code, eligible distributed generation connections use a standard maximum export power threshold of 10kW per ICP unless Buller Electricity has determined that a lower limit is required for network safety or reliability. Applicants may also request a higher export limit or alternative inverter settings, which will be assessed in accordance with the Code.
Export congestion
There are currently no identified areas of export congestion on the Buller Electricity network. If Buller Electricity applies a maximum export power threshold below 10kW, the supporting network study and affected ICPs or network areas will be published here.
FAQ's
See our New Connection Pre-Application Guide for the next steps and contacts for your type of connection.
A standard connection is one where typically;
1) you do not need additional network studies to assess whether your needs can be met with existing network capacity,
2) you do not need a build of new network capacity, or
3) either
- you do not have flexibility options that could reduce your costs, or
- flexibility services are not available. Standard connections are typically faster and lower cost connections.
Examples of standard connections are:
- Single or a small number of new residential or business connections
- A modest increase in capacity at a site (where the network is not constrained)
- A small-mid sized commercial connection (where the network is not constrained)
A complex connection is one where network studies are usually needed to assess if there are additional investments or other activities required to meet your needs. These typically take longer and are higher cost connections.
Examples of complex connections are:
- A smaller connection where additional network alteration is required
- A large commercial or industrial customer
- A utility scale solar or battery customer
No. You may need to pay towards the cost of a network upgrade or to have Buller Electricity Limited equipment installed on your property to enable your connection. This is so that the additional costs of your connection are not paid for by other customers. However, the equipment will still belong to us, and we will be responsible for operating and maintaining the equipment we own. Other equipment on your property that you own e.g., your service line connecting to your building/s or equipment, you are responsible for maintaining.
Yes, your new chosen retailer will apply to your existing retailer for a switch.
Regulated terms
Definition of Regulated Terms are provided in Section 6.2 of the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010. The purpose of the terms are to ensure a successful venture between the distributor and the distributed generator.
For further information on distributed generation, please contact 03 788 8171 or email newconnections@bullernetwork.co.nz
Additional resources
Please refer to the ENA's Glossary for further information on terms and acronyms.