A generator is the equipment used by customers to generate their own electricity (e.g. solar panels). Connecting to the electricity distribution network allows customers to sell any excess power generated back to their retailer. This is known as distributed generation (DG).

Anyone who meets the applicable safety, technical, operational and commercial requirements can connect to the MainPower network. We recommend that before you before you submit your application, you make contact with our Network Services Representative team to discuss your needs (0800 30 90 80 or nsr@mainpower.co.nz).

Download the information guide here. The guide contains important information about the application process.

Click here if you are ready to complete an application.

Resources

The code

Part 6 of the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010 sets out information regarding connecting distributed generation. Read the code online here on the Electricity Authority's website.

Technical Standards

When connecting generation to the MainPower network, the following technical standards apply:

  • AS/NZS 4777.1:2016

  • AS/NZ 4777.2:2020

  • AS/NZS 3000:2007

Inverters

If you are connecting through an inverter you will also need to comply with the following standards:

  • AS/NZS 4777.2:2020

Read the full list of approved inverters here.

For more information on these standards visit Standards New Zealand or SAI Global. Please note that you will be required to purchase these standards.

Safety Requirements

Even if your generation will not connect to MainPower's network (either directly or as part of a mains connected installation) it will still need to comply with the following requirements.

Please note that the above standards can be purchased from the links above.

Export constraints

The following export constraints are currently in place. If you think your application will be affected by these constraints, please get in touch with our Network Services Representative team to discuss your options.

  • Mt Cass Road - east of the confluence of Omihi Creek and the Waipara River.