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Solar & distributed generation

Distributed generation is the equipment used by customers to generate their own electricity e.g. solar panels. Connecting distributed generation to the MainPower distribution network allows customers to sell any excess power generated back to their retailer.

Anyone who meets the applicable safety, technical, operational and commercial requirements can connect to the MainPower network. 

We recommend that 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).

Important information

We recommend using an electrician/ installer to complete the forms

A good understanding of electricity is required to successfully complete forms, we recommend that you ask your electrician or installer to complete this form on your behalf.

Guide to Connecting Distributed Generation to the MainPower Network

Apply for a solar/distributed generation connection

Click below to get started

Are you looking for a solar/distributed generation connection?

For example, your property’s power will be generated by wind, solar, thermal or hydro power.

Relevant documents

Some information and agreements that you might need when you’re applying.

Guide to Connecting Distributed Generation to the MainPower Network

Make sure you read our Connection Agreement which outlines our relationship and roles and responsibilities when you connect to our network.

Users of our network must comply with our Network Connection Standards.

Part 6 of the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010 sets out information regarding connecting distributed generation.

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.

  • Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010 (particularly part 5)

  • AS/NZS 3000:2007

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

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.

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

Export constraints & curtailment

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.

 

MainPower reserves the right to interrupt the connection of any Distributed Generation to the Network, or curtail either the operation or output of Distributed Generation, or both, and may temporarily disconnect the Distributed Generation from the Network under the following circumstances:

(a) Whenever MainPower deems it reasonably necessary for planned maintenance, construction, or repairs on the network.

(b) In emergency situations or for the purpose of protecting or preventing danger or damage to persons or property.

(c) If the Customer modifies its Distributed Generation without obtaining prior authorisation from MainPower, and such modification has a material effect on the injection of electricity from the Distributed Generation into the network.

(d) As a consequence of obligations imposed on MainPower that, in MainPower’s opinion, could affect the operation of the Distributed Generation. This includes obligations imposed by Transpower New Zealand Limited, both as the owner of the National Grid and as the System Operator, obligations to an electricity retailer, or obligations arising in respect of other distribution networks, or imposed by law, including the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010.

(e) In the case of a prevalence or saturation of DG installations on any part of MainPower’s Network leading to operational issues, including but not limited to excessive voltage or compromising of protection equipment or settings.

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

We’re here to help. Get in touch if you need help. Or, check out our FAQs.

We’re here to help

If you need some assistance or advice, please get in touch with our team.

Outage notifications

MainPower Holiday Closure

MainPower offices will be closed from Friday 20th December to Monday 6th January.

We will still be attending faults during this period.

Is your outage not listed?

Troubleshoot your outage
Treat all lines as live during the outage period; power may be restored at any time. If you require further information, please call MainPower’s 24-hour fault line to report an emergency call 111.

Outage notifications

MainPower Holiday Closure

MainPower offices will be closed from Friday 20th December to Monday 6th January.

We will still be attending faults during this period.

Is your outage not listed?

Troubleshoot your outage
Treat all lines as live during the outage period; power may be restored at any time. If you require further information, please call MainPower’s 24-hour fault line to report an emergency call 111.

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