Amendments to the National Electricity Rules (NER), which commence on 18 December 2021 require all grid connected inverters to comply with AS/NZS 4777.2:2020.

Why do we need to change to a new version of AS/NZS 4777.2? 

In December 2020, Standards Australia released a new version of AS/NZS 4777.2 Grid connection of energy systems via inverters Part 2: Inverter requirements (AS/NZS 4777.2:2020). The update saw a range of changes to improve the performance of inverters on the electricity supply network.  These changes will support the continued increase of solar Photovoltaic (PV), batteries and electric vehicles. Inverter manufacturers have been working to update their products so they can undergo certification testing and listing with the Clean Energy Council (CEC) as 2020 compliant. 

Amendments to the National Electricity Rules (NER), which commence on 18 December 2021 require all grid connected inverters to comply with AS/NZS 4777.2:2020. 

When do I need to start installing AS/NZS 4777.2 compliant inverters? 

You can apply for a connection with a AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 inverter already. However, from 18 December 2021 it will be mandatory to install a AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 inverter. 

What region setting do I need to meet? 

The power quality settings in the new version are defined by region of installation: Australia A, B and C. Region Australia A needs to be selected for all inverters connected to network maintained by SA Power Networks. 

What other connection standards do I need to meet? 

In addition to AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 you must also comply with the National Electricity Rules (NER), Electricity Distribution Code (EDC), the requirements of SA Power Networks’ Service and Installation Rules and SA Power Networks Technical Standards: TS-129, TS-130 or TS-131 for small, medium or large Embedded Generation Technical Requirements respectively.  

How does this impact eligibility for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)? 

AS/NZS 4777.2:2015 compliant inverters installed from 18 December 2021 will not be eligible to receive STCs under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). For more information see the Clean Energy Regulator’s Website  

How does this impact eligibility for Large-scale Generation Certificates (LGCs)? 

AS/NZS 4777.2:2015 compliant inverters installed from 18 December 2021 will not be eligible to receive LGCs. For more information see the Clean Energy Regulator’s Website  

If I have a valid approval or contract in place for a 2015 compliant inverter before the 18 December, can I install after the 18 December? 

No, it will be mandatory requirement to install a AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 inverter after 18 December 2021. 

When is the last date I can apply for a 2015 compliant inverter? 

Applications can continue to be submitted until 17 December 2021 provided the 2015 inverter can be installed before 18 December 2021. Please be aware that SA Power Networks requires adequate time to process and assess application. For medium and large Embedded Generation the process may take up to 65 days depending on the complexity of the application. 

Can I still install a warranty replacement? 

An inverter compliant with an earlier version of AS/NSZ 4777.2 can be replaced under warranty where: 

• The replacement inverter is the same make and model (like-for-like) 
• The replacement is for warranty purposes 
• The inverter is set up to comply with the existing connection agreement. 

Warranty replacements must be approved by DNSPs before they are installed.   

Where the above requirements are not met an AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 inverter, compliant with the latest standards will be required. 

How do I know if an inverter is compliant with AS/NZS 4777.2:2020? 

SA Power Networks use the ‘Approved Inverter’ listing from the Clean Energy Council (CEC) website to verify Inverter Compliance and where relevant to populate the inverters listed in our Embedded Generation application forms. The CEC has added the suffix “(AS4777-2 2020)” to the model numbers for inverters to distinguish between 2015 and 2020 compliant inverters. Select an AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 compliant inverter from the list when you are submitting your application.   

For more information, please contact newenergyservices@sapowernetworks.com.au