Updates introduced to generation application process
We have introduced a series of updates to our generation application system to improve clarity, streamline information requirements and support customers seeking changes to their export limits.
This follows the Electricity Authority’s announcement expanding the allowable voltage range from ±6 percent to ±10 percent, which enables greater export potential across low voltage networks.
These enhancements include updated terminology, clearer guidance on the information we require and a dedicated field for export limit requests. Together, these refinements will help us process applications more efficiently and make it easier for you to keep us informed about on‑site changes.
Export limit increase process
Your ability to export more than 5 kW per phase will depend on a combination of what your equipment can support and the capacity of our network in your area. After assessing your application, we will confirm what export level can be approved. This will not always be the full 10 kW per phase.
Once you receive written approval to increase your export limit, you may proceed with the changes. We will require a photo showing the inverter settings, set to the prescribed levels, within 10 days of the change being made.
No fee to change generation details
There is no fee to apply for changes to existing generation.
We have introduced a new field specifically for applicants who wish to request an export limit change without altering equipment. Please select “Yes” only if you are requesting an export limit change alone.
If equipment changes are also being made, we ask that you provide full details of the installation as it will appear once the work is complete. This must include:
- Number and size of panels before and after the change.
- Make, model and size of any inverter being replaced.
- Make, model and kWh rating of any battery being replaced.
- Details of any decommissioned equipment, including the date it was removed.
As our system does not yet allow you to apply for multiple inverters or batteries, please include any additional equipment in the Notes/Comments field in the General section.
New area type and updated terminology
We have added a new area type labelled Metro, which applies to locations within Christchurch’s central city four avenues.
For solar generation, we have replaced the term arrays with panels. Applicants must now also document the size of their panels in the Notes/Comments field under the General section of the application.
Protection settings now mandatory for larger systems
For systems over 15 kW and under 1 MW, we now require protection settings to be completed. This information is essential for us to be able to approve applications and assess the impact on our network.
These updates represent our first step toward expanding export limits across our network. We will continue to refine and improve our approach, and we encourage you to check our website regularly for updates.