Large embedded generation

SA Power Networks allocate the tentative technical solution for your application when we issue a <5MVA Engineering Report or ≥5MVA Detailed Response. We will formally allocate the capacity for a generating system when we have received payment for 100% of the Connection Fees  . The allocation will only persist as long as the corresponding documents are valid.

Yes, it is critical that all existing generating systems, including their equipment details and operating philosophy, are included in your application. Applications for multiple generating systems on the same or adjacent titles will be subject to the cluster rule, which is outlined in our Cluster Rule for Generators Fact Sheet

The assessment portion of the application will follow timeframes detailed in NICC270. Indicative timeframes for the NER Chapter 5A process include:

1. High Level Feasibility Study – 20 business days from receipt of all information (including payment)
2. Engineering Report – 40 business days from receipt of all information (including payment)
3. Offer to Connect and Connection Agreement – 65 business days from receipt of all information (including payment and Engineering Report)

Timeframes for construction of any connection assets vary and are subject to the scope of works.

Yes, the process is different. You will need to submit the same application form, including additional information about the import and export capacity and operating philosophy for the proposed system. The load component of the system would be subject to SA Power Networks’ tariffs  and Connection Policy’s pricing formula, which may include Augmentation charges* (Incremental Cost Shared Network, ICSN) and may be eligible for a Rebate (Incremental Revenue Rebate, IRR).

*Where current rates are published in SA Power Networks’ Manual 18.

The indicative costs for making an application are outlined in Appendix 4 of NICC270. For example, and as a guide, for a typical generating system between 200kVA and less than 5000kVA, the process and related indicative costs are (all GST inclusive):

• High Level Feasibility Study – $2,101
• Engineering Report – up to $9,482
• Offer to Connect and Connection Agreement – $3,729

SA Power Networks’ construction costs are defined by the NER as a quoted service, please refer to Manual 18 table 4 for the published rates for SA Power Networks services. Actual grid connection and upgrade costs will vary on a per site basis and are not included in the application costs above.

Each step of the application process concludes with SA Power Networks’ provision of a time-sensitive document. You should be sure to proceed to the next step within the validity period (unless agreed) of each step, as per below:

• High Level Feasibility Study – No validity period
• Engineering Report – within 3 months
• Offer to Connect and Connection Agreement – within 45 business days
• Completion of Design and Construction – within 180 days as per SA Power Networks’ Construction Terms

If you do not proceed within the prescribed validity periods, SA Power Networks will void the application and you may be required to restart the assessment process.

Please contact LargeGeneration@sapowernetworks.com.au for a copy of a draft guide to using our DAPR to assist you in choosing a site. It is recommended that a High Level Feasibility study is completed to determine the suitability of any prospective site.

Appendix 5 of NICC270 includes a list of (typical) analyses that will be performed by SA Power Networks as part of your application. Common technical constraints:

• Steady State Voltages;
• Voltage Step Changes;
• Substation Transformer Reverse Thermal Rating;
• Distribution Line Conductor Thermal Rating; and 
• Short Circuit Ratio.
   

As per the Engineering Information iApply form, you will be required to submit the following:

• Site generation details and operating philosophy, including generator size, import and export requirements, Power Factor Control,
• Customer owned transformer and consumer’s mains size and impedances
• Site Single Line Diagram and Protection Single Line Diagram
• Datasheets for all proposed and existing generation and protection equipment
• Proposed site layout
• Should you need further guidance, clarification or information, please contact LargeGeneration@sapowernetworks.com.au
   

In addition to the technical documents required for SA Power Networks’ assessments, you will also be required to prepare the following documents to allow for witness commissioning of your system:

• Commissioning plan (template available on our website)
• Protection settings report
• Compliance and monitoring program (template available on our website)
• Electrical Certificate of Compliance
• Outline for Remote disconnection/reconnection technical solution
• Protection test results

You may also be required to provide input to a Joint Operating Protocol for the generating system if SA Power Networks require Remote Monitoring and Control.
 

Your connection is dependent upon the configuration of the local Distribution Network and the specifics of your proposed generating units. For generating systems with total AC rating up to 1.5MVA , you have the option to connect either at 3-phase low voltage, or at high voltage directly to the distribution network. For system’s with capacity greater than 1.5MVA, a high voltage connection will be required in every case.

Connection to SA Power Networks’ Remote Monitoring and Control network is required for all generating systems with the capability to export greater than 200kW through a single network NMI, or if a network constraint has been identified in the location of the generating system.