Schedule 6.1 of the Code sets out two processes under which a distributed generator may apply to a distributor to connect SSDG to the distributor’s network:

  • the slower process under Part 1 of Schedule 6.1, which does not specify a particular inverter standard for the SSDG
  • the more streamlined process under Part 1A of Schedule 6.1, which a distributed generator may use if its SSDG has an inverter that complies with the AS/NZS 4777.2 inverter standard.

On 18 December 2020, Standards New Zealand published a new inverter standard, AS/NZS 4777.2:2020.

This new standard is already current but will replace AS/NZS 4777.2:2015 on 18 December 2021 when AS/NZS 4777.2:2015 will stop being current.

AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 specifies minimum performance and safety requirements for the design, construction and operation of inverters intended for grid connection of energy systems.

The main changes in AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 from AS/NZS 4777.2:2015 are all of a detailed technical nature and are definite improvements to the design and operation of inverters that will assist with management of low voltage networks and grid support.

The changes are not expected to disturb feeder hosting capacity of distribution networks.

Section 39 of the Act requires that, before amending the Code, the Authority must publicise a draft of the proposed amendment, prepare and publicise a regulatory statement, and consult on the proposed amendment and the regulatory statement. 

However, the Act also provides that the Authority need not prepare and publicise a regulatory statement or consult on a proposed amendment and regulatory statement if the Authority is satisfied, on reasonable grounds, that the nature of the amendment is technical and non-controversial.

For the following reasons, the Authority considers it does not need to prepare and publicise a regulatory statement or consult on the proposed amendment because it is technical and non-controversial:

  • the proposed amendment will not impose any new obligations on participants. The amendment will only update the standard to which an inverter must conform if a distributed generator wishes to apply to connect their SSDG using the streamlined process under Part 1A of Schedule 6.1
  • adopting AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 as the new inverter standard for connecting SSDG under Part 1A would not prevent a distributed generator with an inverter that conforms to a different inverter standard from connecting SSDG using the application process under Part 1 of Schedule 6.1
  • the new inverter standard (AS/NZS 4777.2:2020) is a joint standard (recognised in New Zealand and Australia) that sets technical requirements relating to the design, construction and operation of inverters. Standards New Zealand has allowed a 12 month period from standard publish date to assist the industry to transition between inverter standards.