HV Connections and Large Embedded Generators

HV Connections and Large Embedded Generators

Connecting to the High Voltage (HV) electricity network is a different process from connecting to the Low Voltage electricity network. CEOP8079: Connection Process Guideline outlines the end-to-end process for any connection onto Essential Energy’s High Voltage network.

HV Connection Types:

Chapter 5A - Generators less than 5MW (AEMO registration exempt)
Chapter 5 – Generators greater than 5MW (AEMO registration required)
Loads - Greater than 1.5MVA or modifications to existing HV connections
HV connected premises with zero-export behind the meter generation.

All enquiries for connection to the HV network are submitted within the Essential Connections Portal. All Connection Applicants must register for access to the Essential Connections Portal as a High Voltage Customer (Registering as a user for Major Connections projects). Registrations will be processed within five business days. Refer to Guide to registering to use Essential Connections - Major Network Connections.

Once registered with the Essential Connections Portal, Connection Applicants will need to submit a Preliminary Enquiry. This includes specific company and project connection information. Refer to the User guide: How to submit a Preliminary Enquiry.

A Preliminary Enquiry Response will be provided by Essential Energy with further connection details. Further information can be found in the Chapter 5A Information Package.

The Preliminary Enquiry key objective is to determine a single preferred connection option. Once the Connection Applicant chooses their preferred connection option, Essential Energy will respond with a Detailed Connection Enquiry (Chapter 5) or Connection Investigation Response (Chapter 5A) providing greater detail and specific network augmentation requirements.

A Connection Applicant may request Essential Energy to provide a Detailed Response under clause 5.3A.8(c) of the National Electricity Rules (NER) to its enquiry.

A price guide for the cost associated for this are listed within CEOP8079 Connection Process Guideline Annexure A – Connection Services Charges.

On submission of the Preliminary Enquiry, we recommend that Connection Applicants communicate with Essential Energy through the Essential Connections Portal.

Approximate Timeline is shown below, noting time and cost is greatly dependent upon the experience and qualifications of consultants engaged.

Process stage	Activity	CHAP 5A	CHAP 5
Stage 1	Connection Application Preliminary Enquiry	1 month	1 month
Stage 2	Detailed Connection Enquiry / Connection Investigation Response	2 months	2 months
Stage 3	Connection Application – Network Studies	6-9 months	10-15 months
Stage 4	Contract Development	4-6 months	10-15 months
Stage 5	Delivery - Detailed Design / Construction	9-12 months	9-15 months
Stage 6	Commissioning / Energisation	2-3 months	2-4 months
Stage 7	Operations and Maintenance	Ongoing	Ongoing
Overall timeline	Estimated end-to-end duration	2-3 years	3-5 years

Steps to take prior to submitting your enquiry

Review CEOP8079 prior to starting the connection process (ensure you review the associated connection application cost).
Familiarise yourself with Essential Energy’s Network by accessing the Network Information Portal - Electricity Network Maps.
Seek advice from the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) or AEMO | Australian Energy Market Operator. There are rules governing embedded networks set out in the National Energy Retails Rules - NERR Version 46 Summary - AEMC Energy Rules.
If required engage with a suitable, experienced and qualified ASP to assist with your project. A list of ASPs is maintained by the Office of Energy and Climate Change at Installing or altering electricity supply to your property | NSW Climate and Energy Action.
Ensure that an experienced and qualified consultant is engaged for your project - The connection applicant must conduct their own due diligence, particularly regarding local network characteristics and Essential Energy’s High Voltage connection process.
Land and easement requirements can significantly affect your project’s viability, so make sure you are familiar with all necessary details as outlined in Easements.