nicc270 connection of large embedded generation

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NICC270 Connection of Large Embedded Generation

SA Power Networks


Published: 19 Aug 2020

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NICC270 Connection of Large Embedded Generation Issued - 19 August 2020 The use of this document is subject to the conditions stated in SA Power Networks disclaimer at the front of this document.

© SA Power Networks 2020 Page 1 of 19

Revision Notice:

Date Details Author Authorised

16 January 2015

Section 22 added. Wording in section 7, 8.1, 14, 15 and 18 modified. Appendix B.1 deleted and other Appendix B item numbers modified accordingly.

A. Lee J. Ali

27 February 2015 Section 7 updated. Appendix B1, B2, B3, B4, B5 & B6 added.

A. Lee J. Ali

20 June 2018 Rewritten to reflect new requirements and clarify SA Power Networks’ process.

A. Lee J. Ali

05 July 2019 Updated Appendices 4 and 5 A. Lee M. Napolitano

19 August 2020 Updated Appendix 4 A. Lee M. Napolitano

SA Power Networks: SA Power Networks, ABN 13 332 330 749, a partnership of:

Spark Infrastructure SA (No.1) Pty Ltd, ABN 54 091 142 380 Spark Infrastructure SA (No.2) Pty Ltd, ABN 19 091 143 038 Spark Infrastructure SA (No.3) Pty Ltd, ABN 50 091 142 362 each incorporated in Australia CKI Utilities Development Limited, ABN 65 090 718 880 PAI Utilities Development Limited, ABN 82 090 718 951 each incorporated in The Bahamas

1 Anzac Highway, Keswick, South Australia, 5035.

SA Power Networks Disclaimer: 1. The use of the information contained in this document is at your sole risk. 2. The Information within this document is subject to change without notice. 3. SA Power Networks, its agents, instrumentalities, officers, and employees:

3.1. Make no representations, express or implied, as to the accuracy of the information contained within this document.

3.2. Accept no liability for any use of the said information or reliance placed on it; and 3.3. Make no representations, either expressed or implied, as to the suitability of the said information

for any particular purpose. 4. SA Power Networks and its agencies and instrumentalities do not endorse or in any respect warrant any

third-party products or services by virtue of any information, material or content referred to or included on, or linked to this document.

SA Power Networks Copyright©2020: This publication is copyright protected. SA Power Networks reserves to itself all rights in such material. You shall not reproduce any content of this document by any process without first obtaining the SA Power Networks permission, except as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968. All rights reserved.

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Contents

1. Purpose ............................................................................................................................. 4

2. Overview ........................................................................................................................... 4

3. Technical Standards and Information ............................................................................... 4

4. Generation Enquiries > 30kW and ≤ 200kW ...................................................................... 5

4.1 Connection Enquiry .............................................................................................................. 5

4.1.1 SA Power Networks Response to Connection Enquiry............................................ 5

4.2 Indicative Timeline and Process............................................................................................ 5

5. Generation Enquiries >200kW and <5MW and all rotating generating systems <5MW.... 6

5.1 Connection Enquiry .............................................................................................................. 6

5.1.1 SA Power Networks’ response to connection enquiry ............................................ 6

5.2 High Level Feasibility Enquiry ............................................................................................... 6

5.2.1 SA Power Networks response to a High-Level Feasibility Enquiry ........................... 6


6. Generation Enquiries ≥ 5MW ............................................................................................ 7

6.1 Preliminary Enquiry .............................................................................................................. 7

6.1.1 SA Power Networks Response to Preliminary Enquiry............................................ 7

6.2 Detailed Response ............................................................................................................... 8

6.2.1 SA Power Networks Response to a Detailed Enquiry .............................................. 8


7. Application to Connect and Connection Offer ................................................................... 9

8. Building and Commissioning ........................................................................................... 10

8.1 Monitoring ......................................................................................................................... 11

8.2 Witnessing the Commissioning of the Generating System .................................................. 11

8.3 Ongoing Compliance Monitoring and Maintenance ............................................................ 11

8.4 Notice of Alteration to Approved Design ............................................................................ 11

8.5 Joint Operating Protocols ................................................................................................... 11

8.6 Commissioning Report ....................................................................................................... 12

9. Other Considerations for the Proponent ......................................................................... 12

9.1 Essential Services Commission of South Australia (ESCOSA) Licencing ................................ 12

9.2 Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) Registration ................................................... 12

9.3 Office of the Technical Regulator ....................................................................................... 12

9.4 Revenue Metering ............................................................................................................. 12

9.5 Energy Purchase................................................................................................................. 12

9.6 Battery Energy Storage Systems ......................................................................................... 13

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Appendix 1 – Embedded Generation Process (IES >30kW and ≤200kW) .................................. 14

Appendix 2 – Embedded Generation Process (IES >200kW and <5MW and all rotating generation <5MW) ..................................................................................................................................... 15

Appendix 3 – Embedded Generation Process (≥5MW) ............................................................. 16

Appendix 4 – SA Power Networks Large Embedded Generation Request Timeframes and Charges ........................................................................................................................................ 17

Appendix 5 – Large Embedded Generator Parameter Analysis ................................................ 18

Appendix 6 – Definitions .......................................................................................................... 19

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1. Purpose This document has been developed to assist proponents of embedded generating system in understanding the process and requirements associated with connecting inverter energy systems greater than 30kW and all rotating generation systems to the SA Power Networks distribution network.

Generally, large embedded generating system enquiries will fall into one of two categories:

1. Embedded generating systems (5MW and above) that must comply with Chapter 5 of the NER; or

2. Embedded generating systems (below 5MW), that must comply with Chapter 5A of the NER.

For process guidance relating to small Inverter Energy Systems (IES) enquiries up to and including 30kW please refer to the SA Power Networks website Solar and embedded generation.

2. Overview The SA Power Networks connection process of large embedded generating systems is summarised in the flowcharts in Appendices 1, 2 & 3. In general, the process comprises a Preliminary or Connection Enquiry Response followed by a Detailed or High-Level Feasibility Response, Application to Connect, Connection Offer, construction, commissioning, contracts and operating protocols. The endeavored timeframes for SA Power Networks to provide a response are in the appendices attached.

Given the diversity of SA Power Networks’ distribution network and the nature of the constraints the connection of embedded generating system may impose, it is extremely difficult for SA Power Networks to forecast those potential areas to which embedded generating systems may connect without restriction or limitation.

It is prudent for the proponent not to acquire equipment or engage in construction works until the Engineering Report and Connection Offer have been issued and executed. SA Power Networks accepts no responsibility for costs incurred by the proponent that is out of its control.

SA Power Networks’ response at each stage of the process will be commensurate with the size of the proposed generation relative to its potential effect on the network.

All generating systems covered by this document are considered negotiated connection services under the NER. As such, depending on the size of the proposed generating system and whether Chapter 5 or 5A of the NER applies, the Preliminary or Connection Enquiry response will incur no charge from SA Power Networks, however subsequent stages of the process will incur charges to allow SA Power Networks to recover its reasonable costs incurred in processing the connection enquiry.

The timely provision of all requested information will allow processing of the application by SA Power Networks.

3. Technical Standards and Information SA Power Networks has developed a series of technical standards relating to the connection of embedded generating systems to the distribution network. These technical standards have been prepared to provide designers, contractors, and consultants with an understanding of SA Power Networks’ technical connection requirements for large embedded generating systems. The proponent must comply with the technical standards and protocols outlined in the following documents as appropriate:

https://www.sapowernetworks.com.au/centric/customers/solar_and_embedded_generation.jsp

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TS129 Small EG Connections - Capacity not exceeding 30kW A description of the technical connection requirements for inverter energy systems of a capacity up to 30kW.

TS130 Inverter Energy Systems (IES) above 30kW and up to or equal to 200kW A description of the technical connection requirements for inverter energy systems of a capacity up to and including 200kW.

TS131 Inverter Energy Systems (IES) above 200kW or Any Size Rotating Generating System A description of the technical connection requirements for inverter energy systems above 200kW or any rotating generating system of any size.

Background information, NICC (this document), technical standards, enquiry form and other information are available on the SA Power Networks’ Embedded Generation website Solar and Embedded Generation.

SA Power Networks annually produces a Distribution Annual Planning Report (DAPR). This report may assist proponents in selecting the location for siting a generating system. The aim of the DAPR is to inform National Electricity Market regulators, market participants and stakeholders about existing and forecast system limitations on the distribution network, when and where these limitations are expected to arise within forward planning periods.

4. Generation Enquiries > 30kW and ≤ 200kW The following process applies to embedded generation enquiries using inverter energy systems from 30kW up to and including 200kW.

4.1 Connection Enquiry

The Connection Enquiry process will commence upon the receipt of the completed Application to Connect Form - Large Solar above 30kW and up to or equal to 200kW.

Where information is incomplete or more information is required, SA Power Networks will advise the proponent within five (5) business days.

4.1.1 SA Power Networks Response to Connection Enquiry

The Connection Enquiry Response will include:

• Details of the processing fee for submitting an Application to Connect

• A contact at SA Power Networks

A proponent may continue the process by submitting an Application to Connect at which point the proponent will be invoiced the Application to Connect Fee. SA Power Networks response to an Application to Connect request is detailed in section 7 Application to Connect and Connection Offer.

4.2 Indicative Timeline and Process

The following graphic illustrates the indicative processing timelines for embedded generation requests for 30kW up to and including 200kW.

Proponent

Proponent Proponent

https://www.sapowernetworks.com.au/public/download.jsp?id=9561



https://www.sapowernetworks.com.au/centric/customers/solar_and_embedded_generation.jsp

https://www.sapowernetworks.com.au/connections/solar-other-generators/


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5. Generation Enquiries >200kW and <5MW and all rotating generating systems <5MW The following process applies to embedded generation enquiries using inverter energy systems from 200kW up to 5MW and all rotating embedded generating systems less than 5MW.

5.1 Connection Enquiry

The connection enquiry process will commence upon the receipt of the completed Enquiry Form Large Embedded Generation over 200kW.


5.1.1 SA Power Networks’ response to connection enquiry

The connection enquiry response will include:

• Details of the processing fees and indicative timeline for the processing of either a request for a High-Level Feasibility Response or an Application to Connect, together with a recommendation of which the proponent should request.

• A contact at SA Power Networks.

A proponent may proceed directly to an Application to Connect or may request additional information from SA Power Networks before proceeding to this stage by requesting a High-Level Feasibility Response. SA Power Networks response to an Application to Connect request is detailed in section 7 Application to Connect and Connection Offer.

Please note, if you choose multiple options or multiple locations for your enquiry, we may negotiate a variation in fees and response times.

5.2 High Level Feasibility Enquiry

The purpose of this stage is to provide the proponent with further analysis of the proposed project allowing the proponent to make an informed decision whether to progress to an Application to Connect. The High-Level Feasibility Enquiry is an optional step that the proponent may request, and this service will incur a fee which will have been disclosed in the initial Connection Enquiry Response. Please note, if you choose multiple options or multiple locations for your enquiry, we may negotiate a variation in fees and/or response times for any of the stages above.

5.2.1 SA Power Networks response to a High-Level Feasibility Enquiry

Upon receipt of a High-Level Feasibility Enquiry, SA Power Networks will assess the request and determine what augmentation or changes (if any) are required to be made to the distribution network to allow connection of the proponents proposed generating system.

A High-Level Feasibility Response will provide the proponent with the following:

• High Level assessment of any network augmentation works together with the extension and/or connection works that may be required

• An indicative estimate of SA Power Networks works

• A high-level assessment of the impact of the proposed connection on the network

• General comments in relation to the proposed connection

• Assumptions made by SA Power Networks in relation to the proposed connection



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• Description of the required proponent works

• Next steps in the process

• Processing Fees for an Application to Connect

A proponent may then submit an Application to Connect. SA Power Networks response to an Application to Connect request is detailed in section 7 Application to Connect and Connection Offer below.


The following graphic illustrates the indicative processing timelines for embedded generation requests involving IES >200kW but less than 5MW and all rotating generating systems less than 5MW.

6. Generation Enquiries ≥ 5MW The following process applies to all embedded generation enquiries greater than or equal to 5MW irrespective of the generating technology. All such generating system connection enquiries shall follow the process detailed within Chapter 5 of the NER.

Such embedded generating system connections will be subject to registration with AEMO and will therefore incur additional modelling and analysis requirements, and charges. Depending on the size and/or location of the proposal, additional requirements may be imposed by the likes of ESCOSA, OTR and ElectraNet.

6.1 Preliminary Enquiry

The purpose of the Preliminary Enquiry phase is to provide general information to the proponent of an embedded generating system proposal that is greater than or equal to 5MW.

The Preliminary Enquiry process will commence upon the receipt of the completed Enquiry Form Large Embedded Generation over 200kW.


6.1.1 SA Power Networks Response to Preliminary Enquiry

Where the proponent has requested a Preliminary Response for an embedded generating system greater than or equal to 5MW, SA Power Networks will provide a response including the following:

• An indication of the potential scope and an indicative estimate of SA Power Networks network augmentation, extension and/or connection works that may be required

• Identification of any proponent works

Proponent

Proponent Proponent Proponent



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• A list of additional information that will be required to be submitted by the proponent to enable preparation of a Detailed Response

• Identify other parties involved, such as, Essential Services Commission of South Australia (ESCOSA), Office of the Technical Regulator (OTR), AEMO, ElectraNet (typically where ≥10MW), and an indication of any applicable fees for relevant assessment of the proposal by those individual parties

• A contact at SA Power Networks

• Processing fee for proceeding to a Detailed Response

• Application fees that are payable to SA Power Networks upon submission of an Application to Connect

6.2 Detailed Response

The purpose of this stage is to provide the proponent with a more detailed analysis of the feasibility of the proposed project allowing the proponent to decide whether to progress to an Application to Connect. The provision of a detailed response by SA Power Networks will incur a fee which will have been disclosed in the Preliminary Response.

A Detailed Response is only applicable for embedded generation enquiries greater than or equal to 5MW according to the NER Chapter 5 process, or where a proponent eligible to be treated under the Chapter 5A process has elected to follow the Chapter 5 process.

Where it has been requested within the enquiry form that the proponent wishes to go directly to a Detailed Response, SA Power Networks will first issue the proponent with a Connection Enquiry Response advising the fee applicable for a Detailed Response and requesting confirmation to proceed.

6.2.1 SA Power Networks Response to a Detailed Enquiry

Where a proponent has requested a Detailed Response, SA Power Networks shall:

• Perform network studies to confirm concept design of connection works

• Provide a scope and estimated cost of the connection works

• Advise the extent of any SA Power Networks’ network augmentation, extension and/or connection works that may be required

• Identify any proponent works

• Provide a list of additional information that will be required to be submitted by the proponent to progress to an Application to Connect

• Provide indicative processing fees for progressing to the Application to Connect including charges from external parties involved

• Advise proposed project milestones

Following receipt of the detailed response, should the proponent wish to proceed, the proponent may then submit an Application to Connect. SA Power Networks’ response to an Application to Connect request is detailed in section 7 Application to Connect and Connection Offer below.


The following graphic illustrates the processing timelines for embedded generating systems requests greater than or equal to 5MW

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7. Application to Connect and Connection Offer

An Application to Connect form must be submitted by the proponent with the information requested in previous stages. An application fee invoice will be issued to the proponent and must be paid for the Application to Connect to progress. This stage of the process is applicable to all embedded generation requests over 30kW.

The Connection Offer will encompass both the technical and commercial aspects of the connection, address the access standards, minimum technical requirements and specify the terms and conditions of connection to the network. It will include the connection charge and quality of supply requirements in accordance with applicable regulations.

SA Power Networks will provide the proponent with a Connection Offer containing the following information (if not already provided):

• Part 1 - Connection Offer Details – setting out certain key terms of the Offer such as the price payable to have SA Power Networks establish a new connection and the works that both the proponent and SA Power Networks must undertake

• Part 2 - Acceptance form – must be signed and returned to SA Power Networks for the Offer to be accepted

• Part 3 - Connection Charges – the amount payable for the connection and any network augmentation works to be undertaken by SA Power Networks. This is to be read in conjunction with the Construction Terms booklet

• Part 4 - Payment Terms, Security, and other matters

• Part 5 - Quality of Supply and Power Factor requirements

• Part 6 - Tariff Summary Sheet – sets out the tariffs that will apply to the generation system

• Part 7 - Technical Standards for embedded generators

• Part 8 - Ongoing Connection & Supply Contract

• Part 9 - Construction Terms Booklet (if applicable)

• Part 10 - Engineering Report (applicable for all IES Systems >200kW and all rotating generation systems)

The Engineering Report will provide the proponent with the following:

• The findings of the detailed network studies

• Technical feasibility and requirements to enable the proposed generating system’s connection

• High level scope of Connection Works

• Description of the proponent works

Proponent

Proponent Proponent Proponent

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• If applicable, Connection Interface document

• Design Drawing (if applicable)

• For projects ≥5MW

o Dynamic study, analysis, and findings o Review of Generator Performance Standards o AEMO assessment

• For projects ≥10MW;

o Dynamic Study, analysis, and findings o Review of Generator Performance Standards o AEMO assessment o ElectraNet’s transmission network due diligence report

• A timeframe for SA Power Networks to complete the design and construction of our portion of the works

8. Building and Commissioning Upon acceptance and return of the Connection Offer by the proponent SA Power Networks will commence the detailed design and planning of construction works as outlined in the Connection Offer. The proponent can commence their own works for installation of the generation system.

The following are some of the activities that will need to be undertaken during the building and commissioning phase. The Connection Offer will explain the requirements of this phase in more detail.

1. Preliminary Works - these are works that are set out in the offer which must be completed by the proponent prior to SA Power Networks commencing its works.

2. Civil works - are works to be conducted at the supply address to enable

SA Power Networks to undertake its works in relation to its electricity infrastructure. Unless SA Power Networks otherwise agrees in writing, the proponent must undertake these works.

3. Proponent Works - are works on the proponent side of the connection point

that the proponent must complete (as per the Construction Terms provided with your offer).

4. Contestable Works - are works able to be performed by either the proponent or

SA Power Networks. The proponent may engage SA Power Networks to undertake the Contestable Works but must nominate SA Power Networks to these works at the time of the connection offer acceptance.

5. Non-Contestable Works - are works that only SA Power Networks may undertake.

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8.1 Monitoring

Either a Network Monitoring Unit (NMU) or SCADA system must be installed at the connection address by SA Power Networks dependant on the size and location of the generating system in accordance with the requirements of TS131 and the Engineering Report.

The NMU will allow the generating system to be retrospectively monitored and provide raw power and energy readings of the generating system at half hour increments.

The SCADA system will allow the generating system to be monitored and controlled remotely in real time to enable the safety and the integrity of the network to be maintained.

NMU or SCADA will be installed in accordance with the requirements specified in TS131. Where these requirements cannot be applied or achieved specific requirements will be provided in the Engineering Report and Connection Offer.

8.2 Witnessing the Commissioning of the Generating System

Proponents wishing to connect their embedded generating system to SA Power Networks’ distribution network have an obligation to permit SA Power Networks (and AEMO where applicable) to witness the inspection, testing, and commissioning of the generating systems’ facilities. These requirements are outlined in NER Clause 5.7 - Inspection and testing and Clause 5.8 – Commissioning. The proponent should make themselves familiar with these requirements.

The testing and commissioning processes are outlined in the following documents;

• TS130 Inverter Energy Systems (IES) above 30kW and up to or equal to 200kW; and

• TS131 Inverter Energy Systems (IES) above 200kW or Any Size Rotating Generating Systems.

8.3 Ongoing Compliance Monitoring and Maintenance

The proponent must develop a compliance monitoring program (including an agreed method by which the proponent can demonstrate ongoing compliance and continued operation of the generation system), in accordance with good engineering practice and the applicable regulations.

The requirements of the proponent’s compliance monitoring and maintenance program are outlined in the following documents;



8.4 Notice of Alteration to Approved Design

The proponent must not alter the generating system, or its protection settings, from the approved design without the prior written consent of SA Power Networks. If at any time the proponent wishes to propose an increase in the agreed nameplate capacity or alter the form of generation used by the generating system, the proponent must submit a request for such an increase in writing to SA Power Networks.

Upon receipt of such a written request, SA Power Networks will advise the proponent if it is necessary for further or additional network analysis to be undertaken, to ascertain the operational constraints of the revised generating system as a result of the proposed changes. This analysis will be at the proponent’s expense.

8.5 Joint Operating Protocols

Joint Operating Protocols are required to ensure coordinated management of the operation and dispatch of generation capacity. Where required, the Joint Operating Protocols will be developed in conjunction with the proponent prior to connection of the generating system to the network.

Further information regarding Joint Operating Protocols are outlined in the following documents;





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8.6 Commissioning Report

The proponent will provide a copy of the commissioning report stating the compliance, or otherwise, with the requirements of the Engineering Report to SA Power Networks for review within 20 business days of undertaking the commissioning tests. This report should include details such as personnel involved in testing, timeframes of testing, requirements to be tested for compliance, steps being carried out to demonstrate compliance, issues encountered, and remedial actions undertaken post commissioning.

9. Other Considerations for the Proponent

9.1 Essential Services Commission of South Australia (ESCOSA) Licencing

It is the responsibility of the proponent to liaise with ESCOSA to apply for a generation licence or seek an exemption for all generating systems >100kW.

It is the proponent’s responsibility to ensure that they have the required generation licensing or exemption (as applicable) in place at the time of connection to the distribution network. Any penalties incurable by proponents for failure to have suitable licensing arrangements or exemptions thereof in place, shall be borne entirely by the proponent.

Further details of the licencing requirements are available on the ESCOSA website.

9.2 Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) Registration

Where registration with (or exemption from) AEMO is required, evidence of either shall be provided to SA Power Networks prior to connection to the network.

Further details of the AEMO registration requirements are available on the AEMO website.

9.3 Office of the Technical Regulator

For all generating systems greater than or equal to 5MW, the development approval process requires prior approval from the Office of the Technical Regulator (OTR). It is the responsibility of the proponent to ensure they meet the technical requirements as specified by the Office of the Technical Regulator before seeking development approval.

Further details of the OTR technical conditions and development application process are available on the OTR website.

9.4 Revenue Metering

Every site is required to have installed revenue metering which must comply with the requirements of the National Electricity Rules and any other specific requirements of the proponent’s retailer. The proponent is responsible for ensuring metering equipment is installed at the supply address.

9.5 Energy Purchase

It is the responsibility of the proponent to enter into a contract with either an electricity retailer to manage the purchasing of electricity generated by their system or where registered as a market generator, AEMO. A retailer will also be required for the purchase of any electricity from the grid for the proponent’s generation site.

Depending on the generator registration arrangements with AEMO, it may also be possible to dispatch generation capacity into the network and gain revenue directly from the National Electricity Market.



http://www.escosa.sa.gov.au/

http://aemo.com.au/

https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/energy-and-environment/electrical-gas-and-plumbing-safety-and-technical-regulation/compliance-and-enforcement/generation-applications

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SA Power Networks has no role in the purchase of generated electricity. This is a matter between the proponent, the electricity retailer and/or AEMO.

Due to changes in the National Electricity Rules’ metering arrangements, retailers are now responsible for installing all new and replacement meters for those proponents not registering as market generators.

For those generating system proponent’s wishing to trade directly on the national grid as a registered market participant, they will need to register as such with AEMO and ensure that they have the appropriate trading / market bidding systems to enable them to do so, in place. SA Power Networks is not responsible for ensuring that such arrangements are or are not in place and cannot be held liable for any loss of revenue at any time or circumstance by the proponent.

9.6 Battery Energy Storage Systems

Any battery energy storage system installed on site will be considered as part of the overall generating systems’ capacity of the site. Any battery energy storage system will be treated as an IES generating unit during export and as a load during charging (or import).

If a battery energy storage system is to be a stand-alone generating system, then subject to when the proponent wishes to recharge the battery energy storage system, network charges may be applicable. Alternatively, permissive signaling may be used by SA Power Networks to limit when the battery energy storage system may be charged.

Initial connection fees and export arrangements will be confirmed within the Connection Offer.

The operating philosophy of the battery energy storage system will be considered within the Engineering Report.

Any utility scale battery energy storage system with a nameplate capacity ≥ 5MW will be required to be registered as both a market scheduled generator and a market customer with AEMO. Further information regarding AEMO’s treatment of utility scale battery energy storage system can be found on their website (AEMO).

http://aemo.com.au/

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Appendix 1 – Embedded Generation Process (IES >30kW and ≤200kW)

Proponent

Submit Generation Connection Enquiry Form

>30kW and ≤200kW

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Appendix 2 – Embedded Generation Process (IES >200kW and <5MW and all rotating generation <5MW)

Proponent

Close out-

Provide SAPN

• Signed commissioning plan

• Post commissioning report


>200kW and <5MW

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Appendix 3 – Embedded Generation Process (≥5MW)

Proponent

Close out-

Provide SAPN

• Signed commissioning plan

• Post commissioning report

Proponent Proponent


5MW

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Appendix 4 – SA Power Networks Large Embedded Generation Request Timeframes and Charges

SA Power Networks will apply the following approximate timeframes and charges when assessing a large embedded generation enquiry. Please note that these timeframes are dependent on the proponent providing all requested information in a timely manner.

The following fees are GST exclusive, and do not include the cost of design/construction of network alterations or connections.

Large Embedded Generation timeframes and charges for relevant generation capacity range

>30kW and

≤200kW

>200kW and

≤1.5MW

>1.5MW and <5MW ≥5MW and ≤10MW

>10MW

Connection Enquiry Response

No charge

Within 10 business

days Within 5 business days

High Level Feasibility Response

n/a $1,910

n/a Within 20 business days

Preliminary Response n/a No charge

Within 15 business days

Detailed Response n/a $12,050


Engineering Studies

Engineering Report

n/a

$6,180 $8,620 $250,000 to $500,000

(indicative only) (including dynamic studies)

Within 30 business

days Within 40 business days

AEMO n/a $80,000 to $100,000

(indicative only)

Timeframe to be advised

ElectraNet n/a

$100,000 to $150,000

(indicative only)

Timeframe to be advised

Application to Connect

Connection Offer

Refer Manual No. 18^

$3,390 $30,000 to $35,000

(indicative only)


(including the Engineering Report) Timeframe to be advised

Design and Construction Timeframes and costs to be advised in Connection Offer

^Manual No. 18 SA Power Networks Connections & Ancillary Network Services is published on our website with charges

for embedded generation connections ≤200kW.

Please note, if you choose multiple options or multiple locations for your enquiry, we may negotiate a variation in fees for any of the stages above. These fees are reviewed annually.

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Appendix 5 – Large Embedded Generator Parameter Analysis

The following table lists the analysis that is performed for different ranges of embedded generation capacity.

>30kW and <200kW

≥200kW and

<1.5MW

≥1.5MW and <5MW

≥5MW and <10MW

≥10MW

Steady State Voltage ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Voltage Step Changes ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Reactive Requirements/ Power Factor

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Fault Level Increase

✓

(rotating engines

only)

✓

(rotating engines

only)

✓ ✓

Thermal Ratings ✓

✓

✓ ✓ ✓

ElectraNet Stability study ✓

(Site specific)

✓

(site specific)

✓

(site specific) ✓

Protection Review ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Losses & Distribution Loss Factors

✓

Telco review ✓

(rotating engines only)

✓

✓ ✓ ✓

SCADA review ✓

(rotating engines only)

✓

✓ ✓ ✓

Power Quality (Harmonics)

✓

(post connection)

✓

(site specific & post connection)

✓ ✓

Short Circuit Ratio ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

AEMO Registration ✓ ✓

Network Connection Agreement

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Dynamic Study ✓ ✓

Existing Connection Consideration

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

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Appendix 6 – Definitions

AEMC Australian Energy Market Commission

AEMO The Australian Energy Market Operator

DAPR Distribution Annual Planning Report

Distribution network/system

Has the meaning given to that term in the Electricity Act 1996, namely the whole or a part of a system for the distribution of electricity. For the purposes of these rules references to Distribution Network means the network poles, wires, underground cables, transformers, substations etc., operated by SA Power Networks, which transports electricity from the transmission system to a proponent’s Connection Point.

ElectraNet The company which owns and operates the transmission system in South Australia and is registered with AEMO as the transmission network service provider for the South Australian transmission system

Embedded generating unit

A generating unit connected within a distribution network and not having direct access to a transmission network.

ESCoSA Essential Services Commission of South Australia

Generating system All embedded generating units and the associated control and protection equipment that is located on the proponent’s side of the connection point.

Generating unit The actual generator of electricity and all related equipment essential to its function as a single entity.

IES Inverter Energy System

Nameplate capacity The maximum continuous output or consumption in MW of an item of equipment as specified by the manufacturer, or as subsequently modified.

NER National Electricity Rules. Copies of the NER can be obtained from the AEMC website https://www.aemc.gov.au/regulation/energy-rules/national-electricity-rules/current

OTR Office of the Technical Regulator. Responsible for the electrical, gas and plumbing safety and technical regulation in South Australia.

Proponent Person applying for access to the SA Power Networks network. Materials referenced may also refer to this role as the proponent.

PV Photo voltaic. The generation of electrical power by converting solar radiation into direct current electricity.

Retailer The holder of an electricity retail licence granted under the Electricity Act, 1996, who is contracted to sell electricity to the proponent at the Supply Address.

SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. A technology enabling remote control and real-time monitoring of network devices.

Transmission network ElectraNet’s electricity transmission network

https://www.aemc.gov.au/regulation/energy-rules/national-electricity-rules/current

https://www.aemc.gov.au/regulation/energy-rules/national-electricity-rules/current

nicc270 connection of large embedded generation

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