FAQs for a DG connection above 10kW
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The types of Distributed Generation connections that are above 10kW are usually commercial, industrial and utility installations, but can also apply to some large residential connections.
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For DG connections above 10kW the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010 requires that the process is undertaken in two stages.
You'll need to complete an application for each stage prior to installation and connection of your DG.
In the first stage you'll need to complete the initial application form below so we can scope your requirements and identify any works required to facilitate connection to our network.
In the second stage you'll need to complete a final application form and include technical information so we can consider, cost and approve the connection of your DG to our network. We'll send you a link to the final application form.
For very large DG connections, typically those of utility scale, a significant network upgrade may be required with associated costs and lead times.
Before lodging an application please also ensure you have read WEL's Network Connection Standard that outlines our connection standard for Distributed Generation.
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For generators above 10kW please ensure you're aware of the technical information requirements listed here.
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- A WEL smart meter will need to be installed if the installation address for the distributed generation doesn't currently have a WEL smart meter.
- A retailer will determine the revenue meter supplier (MEP), but in all cases the meter board will also need to contain a WEL smart meter.
- WEL will cover the installation cost of the WEL smart meter. If there isn't enough space on the meter board for the WEL smart meter, the meter board must be enlarged at the customer's expense. Please refer to the minimum required space here.
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The following charges apply:
- Application for DG above 10kW in total but less than 100kW in total - $500, GST exclusive.
- Application for DG of 100kW or above in total but less than 1MW in total - $1000, GST exclusive.
- Application for DG of 1MW or above in total - $5000, GST exclusive.
- If WEL needs to perform an inspection for DG above 10kW in total but less than 100kW in total - $120, GST exclusive.
- If WEL needs to perform an inspection for DG of 100kW or above in total - $1200, GST exclusive.
We may also charge you if we need to carry out additional investigative studies necessary to identify any potential adverse effects on the system resulting from the proposed connection.
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Once we've received your initial application form we'll contact you to discuss your application and payment of the application fee.
Once we've received payment we'll then, within 30 business days, provide you with information you'll need to progress your DG connection, such as network and design requirements, constraints and operational procedures.
At this stage, if you wish to proceed with the connection, you'll need to submit a final application form within 12 months of receiving the information we provide.
After receiving your final application we'll then advise you, in writing, if your application has been approved and any conditions of connection, no later than the following timeframes:
- DG that will have a nameplate capacity of less than 1MW - 45 business days.
- DG that will have a nameplate capacity of 1MW or more but less than 5MW - 60 business days.
- DG that will have a nameplate capacity of 5MW or more - 80 business days.
We may require you to enter into a Generation Connection Agreement to address certain connection conditions and charges that may apply.
Under Part 6 of the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010, parties have 30 business days to enter into such an agreement, with an extension possible if agreed by the parties. If an agreement is not able to be reached the regulated terms in Schedule 6.2 of Part 6 of the code will apply.
Application processing
Please submit your application soon if you'd like it processed this year. Applications received after Friday, 13 December are unlikely to be processed until the new year.
Congestion Management
Important DG information for network faults and the management of congestion