We are updating communication and control requirements for embedded generators connecting to the High Voltage (HV) network to support the NSW Government’s Emergency Backstop Mechanism and prepare for updated licence requirements. These changes will help maintain a safe, reliable and stable electricity network.
Who this applies to
The updated requirements apply to HV embedded generation projects signing a Connection Agreement on or after 1 January 2027.
Projects with a signed Connection Agreement before 1 January 2027 are not affected by these updated requirements.
Upgraded licence conditions
The NSW Government is amending electricity distribution licence conditions for NSW distribution network service providers, including Essential Energy, to introduce the Emergency Backstop Mechanism. These conditions require networks to be able to temporarily reduce solar exports or pause generation during rare emergency conditions, and only when directed by the Australian Energy Market Operator.
Affected systems must be able to receive and respond to operational limits during Minimum System Load events to help protect power system security.
For HV embedded generation, Essential Energy is applying these obligations through SCADA communication and control requirements.
What is changing?
HV embedded generation systems will need to include a SCADA solution using an Essential Energy-owned remote terminal unit installed at the customer’s premises.
The customer’s generator controller must be able to receive limits from the SCADA remote terminal unit and respond within the required timeframe. Alternative communications such as CSIP-AUS may be considered for smaller systems, subject to Essential Energy approval.
How to prepare for the change
If your application is already in progress: contact the Connections Co-ordinator assigned to your project to discuss timing and whether any design changes may be required.
For future applications: consider these requirements during design development and include SCADA remote terminal unit communications where applicable. For detailed technical requirements, refer to Technical Standard CEOS7903, Embedded Generation - SCADA Connection and Emergency Backstop Requirements.
