Distributed Generation

What is distributed generation?

If you are generating energy via alternative sources - for example photovoltaic (solar panels), micro wind (turbines), gas, diesel and biomass (vegetation) - distributed generation allows you to connect to, and input any surplus power into the the WEL Network. This can be used for commercial distribution.

Distributed Generation connections of 10KW or LESS

We are pleased to see Waikato residents doing their part to look after our region by choosing to power their homes with renewable energy. This has resulted in WEL receiving an increased number of applications from customers wishing to install solar panels on their homes and businesses.

It is due to this increase that we are no longer able to absorb the cost of processing applications for Distributed Generation (solar) connections. From April 1 2020, WEL will introduce a $100 + GST application fee for all new Distributed Generation applications for systems 10kW or less, to recover the administration costs of processing applications. An invoice will be sent to the applicant for this fee once your application has been received.

If you are thinking about making the switch to solar please click here

Congestion

Congestion occurs when localised oversupply of power into the network has the potential to create reversed power flows impacting safety and power quality.

All areas of the WEL network are currently considered uncongested.

WEL Networks' policies and procedures regarding the application for, installation and connection of distributed generation are in accordance with the requirements of Part 6 of the Electricity Industry Participation Code (known as the Code)

WEL Connection and operation standards

• Section 2.6 of WEL's Network Connection Standard (Distribution Code) outlines our connection standards for distributed generation.
  • WEL's full Network Connection Standard (Distribution Code) can be found here.
  • Inverters used to connect energy systems to WEL's network must comply with AS/NZS4777 .2:2015 (preferred) or AS4777 .2:2005.
  • You may check your inverter AS/NZS4777 compliance here
  • For AS/NZS4777 complied inverters, key inverter set points shall be configured as per WEL's standard set points. Details are contained in the WEL-issued Test and Approval form for your system.

• WEL will continue monitoring the update on the new inverter regulatory requirements and will update the webpage accordingly.

• Safety is the priority for WEL Networks and any systems that compromise network safety may be disconnected without notice.

Regulated Terms

In the majority of distributed generation connections (once completed) the Electricity Authority's Regulated Terms from the Code Part 6.2 will apply. However WEL Networks and the distributed generator may enter into a connection contract at any time and these contract terms shall take precedence. If contracted terms cannot be negotiated and agreed within 30 days following notice to WEL Networks of the intent to form a contract then the Regulated Terms shall apply. Any changes to contracted terms shall be by mutual agreement.

• A copy of the Regulated Terms can be found here
• The full Code Part 6 can be found here

connections of more than 10KW

•  Information to Apply for a Distributed Generation Connection of More than 10kW

•  Initial Application Form for Generators of More Than 10kW

•  Final Application Form for Generators of More Than 10kW