Powerco Distributed Generation Policy

Powerco Approved - Qualified Independent Auditor's

Distributed generators, also known as 'embedded generators', are generators located at a home or business which are capable of generating electricity for that home or business's own use. They may also be capable of putting surplus generation back into our network.

Typically distributed generation is made up of:

• small systems with capacity of 10 kilowatts or less - small systems are likely to be installed in residential sites and are typically solar panels. They may also be wind powered, micro-hydro systems or fuel cells.
• larger systems with more than 10 kilowatts of capacity - larger sized systems are typically installed at industrial, commercial or rural sites and can be dedicated hydro generation or wind farms.

Powerco promotes the safety of staff and contractors who may be working on its networks. We also need to ensure safety of the general public and the integrity of the network at all times.  Accordingly, Powerco must know where all distributed generation is located, and have the ability to isolate the generating plant from the relevant network from time to time for operational and maintenance purposes.

If you intend to install distributed generation that is capable of exporting any excess energy from the generator into our network (even if this seems unlikely), then you will need to involve us in the process as early as possible. Each distributed generation situation is different and needs to be discussed with us.

Once you have finalised your distributed generation design, Powerco will need to review the design before we will allow the generation to connect to our network. As with any new or altered electricity connection, Powerco will need to see a certificate of compliance for the installation before it can be connected.

When connecting distributed generation to our network there may be costs associated with design and reinforcement of the existing network. If network reinforcement is required, the design and schedule for this project work will need to be factored into your installation planning.

Large generators (above 1MW) may be subject to Electricity Governance Rules or require interface with the System Operator (Transpower). The generator owner will be responsible for ensuring compliance with these requirements.

You can view further information about distributed generation on the Electricity Commission's (PDF) web site.

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