Are you a Queensland homeowner looking to install solar panels but feeling confused about the Ergon Energy connection process? You’re not alone. While your solar installer will handle most of the technical details, understanding what happens behind the scenes can help you navigate the journey more confidently.
This guide explains everything you need to know about connecting your residential solar system to Ergon Energy’s distribution network – from initial application to final activation.
Why Do You Need Ergon Energy's Permission to Install Solar?
Before diving into the process, let’s understand why your solar system needs approval from Ergon Energy in the first place.
The Role of Electricity Distributors vs. Retailers
In Queensland’s electricity system, there are two key players:
- Electricity retailers: These are the companies that bill you for your electricity usage (like AGL, Origin Energy, or other retailers).
- Electricity distributors: These companies own and manage the physical infrastructure (poles, wires, and transformers) that delivers electricity to your home. In regional Queensland, Ergon Energy Network is the distributor.
It’s worth noting that Ergon Energy Queensland is a retailer, while Ergon Energy Network is a distributor – they are separate entities with different roles, though they share a similar name.
When you install solar panels, you’re essentially connecting a small power generator to Ergon’s electricity grid. This connection must be properly assessed and managed to ensure:
- The safety of the electrical network
- The safety of Ergon’s field staff who work on the lines
- The quality of power supply to you and your neighbours
- Protection of your solar system and home appliances
The Solar Connection Process: Step by Step
Let’s break down what happens when you decide to install solar panels at your home.
1. Initial Consultation with Solar Installer
Your solar journey typically begins when you consult with a solar retailer or installer. They’ll assess your energy needs, roof space, and recommend an appropriate system size. At this stage, they’ll also:
- Check your eligibility for solar connection
- Provide information about potential export limitations in your area
- Explain the connection process and timeframes
Pro tip: Ask your installer about their experience with Ergon Energy connections and their typical timeframes for approval.
2. Pre-Installation Application
Before any physical installation begins, your solar installer must submit a connection application to Ergon Energy. This is done through Ergon’s online portal.
What Information Goes Into the Application?
- Your property details and NMI (National Meter Identifier)
- Proposed solar system specifications (size, inverter type, panels)
- Whether the system will export electricity to the grid
- Technical compliance information
Timeline: Basic residential applications are typically processed within 10 business days, though this can vary depending on your location and system size.
3. What Ergon Assesses in Your Application
When reviewing your application, Ergon Energy evaluates:
Network Capacity
Ergon checks whether the local network in your area can safely accommodate another solar system. In some areas with high solar penetration, there may be limitations on:
- The maximum size system you can install
- How much excess electricity you can export to the grid
- The type of inverter technology required
Technical Compliance
Your proposed system must comply with Australian Standards and Ergon’s technical requirements, including:
- Inverter standards (AS/NZS 4777.2)
- Protection settings
- Power quality parameters
Safety Considerations
Ergon ensures the proposed installation won’t create safety hazards for:
- Your property
- Neighbouring properties
- Network maintenance staff
4. Connection Approval
Once your application is approved, Ergon Energy will issue a “Connection Agreement” (for basic connections, this is often called a “Consent Notice”). This document outlines:
- Approved system size and specifications
- Any export limitations
- Technical requirements and conditions
- Next steps in the process
Important: Your installer should not proceed with the physical installation until this approval is received.
5. Meter Considerations
Many existing homes have older-style meters that aren’t compatible with solar systems. Here’s what you need to know:
Why Do You Need a New Meter?
Your meter needs to be able to:
- Record electricity flowing in both directions (from grid to house AND from house to grid)
- Record how much excess electricity your solar panels send back to the grid (for feed-in tariff payments)
- Meet current technical and safety standards
Who Arranges the Meter Change?
This is a common point of confusion. The meter change is NOT arranged by Ergon Energy Network or your solar installer. Instead:
- Your electricity retailer (the company that bills you) is responsible for arranging meter changes
- Your installer will typically notify your retailer that a meter change is required
- Your retailer will then arrange for their metering provider to install the new meter
Timeline: Meter changes can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on your retailer and location. This is often the most time-consuming part of the solar connection process.
6. Physical Installation of Your Solar System
Once approval is received, your installer will proceed with the physical installation of your solar system, including:
- Mounting the panels on your roof
- Installing the inverter and safety equipment
- Completing all electrical wiring
- Setting up monitoring systems (if included)
Important safety note: Even though the panels are installed, your system must remain SWITCHED OFF until the final connection and inspection process is complete.
7. System Inspection and Certification
After installation, your system requires:
- Inspection by a licensed electrical contractor (usually your installer)
- Certification that the installation meets all relevant standards and requirements
- Submission of an Electrical Work Request (EWR) to Ergon Energy
Why Can't You Turn Your System On Immediately?
Your system must remain off until:
- The appropriate meter has been installed
- All necessary inspections are complete
- Final connection approval has been granted
This is because:
- Operating without a proper bi-directional meter could result in incorrect billing
- The system needs to be verified as safe and compliant
- Connection to the grid must be managed properly to maintain network stability
8. Final Connection and Activation
The final step involves:
- Your installer submitting completion paperwork to Ergon Energy
- Ergon processing the paperwork and updating their records
- Your installer returning to commission and activate your system
Once all these steps are complete, your solar system can be turned on and will begin generating electricity for your home and potentially exporting excess to the grid.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
Understanding these common pain points can help you prepare and avoid delays:
1. Export Limitations
In some areas with high solar penetration, Ergon may limit how much electricity you can export to the grid, or may require a zero-export configuration (where your solar only powers your home and doesn’t send excess to the grid).
Solution: Discuss potential export limitations with your installer early in the process. They can design your system to optimise self-consumption if export restrictions apply.
2. Meter Installation Delays
As mentioned earlier, meter installation is often the main bottleneck in the process.
Solution: Contact your electricity retailer early in the process to understand their timeframes for meter changes. Consider choosing a retailer with a good track record for prompt meter installations in your area.
3. Technical Non-Compliance
Sometimes applications are rejected because the proposed system doesn’t meet Ergon’s technical requirements.
Solution: Work with experienced, reputable installers who understand Ergon’s requirements and have a history of successful connections.
Special Considerations for Larger Systems
While this guide focuses on typical residential installations (under 30kVA), larger systems follow a more complex process. Let’s briefly explore how the process differs for systems above 30kVA.
Approval Requirements for Systems >30kVA
For systems larger than 30kVA:
- The application is processed by Ergon’s Major Customer Group or Solar and Renewables Team rather than through the standard residential connection process
- A more comprehensive technical assessment is mandatory (not just a basic assessment)
- Detailed planning studies may be required to assess network impact
- Application fees are higher and based on the specific requirements of your project
- The application timeline extends significantly (typically 65 business days or more)
- Systems may require High Voltage (HV) connection rather than Low Voltage (LV)
- Export limitations are more likely to be imposed
Post-Installation Requirements for Larger Systems
After installation of systems >30kVA:
- More rigorous testing and commissioning processes are required
- RPEQ (Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland) certification is mandatory
- For HV connections, additional witness testing by Ergon Energy is typically required
- A formal inspection audit may be conducted rather than standard inspections
- Detailed compliance reporting must be submitted and approved
- Systems may require remote monitoring equipment to be installed
- Ongoing compliance with operational protocols might be necessary
These larger systems typically fall under different technical standards (STNW1174 for LV connections >30kVA or STNW1175 for HV connections) with more stringent requirements than residential installations.
If you’re considering a system larger than 30kVA for a business or large property, working with an experienced commercial solar provider who understands Ergon’s Major Customer Connection process is essential.
Conclusion: Navigating Your Solar Journey
While the connection process may seem complicated, remember that your solar installer should handle most of these steps for you. Your primary responsibilities are:
- Choosing a reputable, experienced installer
- Understanding the general process and timeframes
- Being proactive with your electricity retailer about meter changes
- Ensuring you have all necessary approvals before your system is activated
By understanding the process, you can better communicate with your installer and have realistic expectations about timeframes and requirements.
Remember that while the connection process may take some time, the long-term benefits of your solar system – reduced electricity bills, increased energy independence, and environmental benefits – make it well worth the effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the entire process take from application to activation?
A: For typical residential systems, the process usually takes 4-8 weeks, with meter installation often being the most time-consuming part.
Q: Can I install a system larger than what Ergon approved?
A: No. Installing a larger system than what was approved violates your connection agreement and could lead to disconnection, voided warranties, and safety issues.
Q: What if Ergon rejects my application?
A: Your installer can usually modify the proposed system design to meet Ergon’s requirements and resubmit the application.
Q: Do I need to inform Ergon if I want to add more panels or upgrade my system later?
A: Yes. Any changes to your approved system require a new application and approval process.
Q: Who do I contact if there are delays in the process?
A: For application status questions, your installer should be your first point of contact. For meter delays, contact your electricity retailer.
By following this guide, you’ll be better equipped to understand and navigate the solar connection process with Ergon Energy, leading to a smoother and more predictable installation experience.
