Inverter capacity limits
Residential single-phase property: maximum 10 kVA inverter output.
Residential three-phase property: maximum 30 kVA inverter output (10 kVA per phase).
Larger systems require a full Network Connection Agreement and may attract export limits to protect the local distribution network.
The 10 kVA single-phase limit is why 6.6 kW solar with a 5 kW inverter is the most common Adelaide setup. To go to 10 kW solar comfortably, three-phase is usually required.
Flexible Exports (mandatory since 1 July 2023)
New SA solar systems must support Flexible Exports - SAPN can remotely curtail (reduce or pause) the system's grid export during periods of network stress.
Key details:
- Curtailment is partial (typically capped at 1.5-5 kW per home), not full.
- Reported to be infrequent in practice - typically affects 1-3% of annual generation.
- Customers are not financially compensated for curtailed energy.
- Existing pre-2023 systems are unaffected unless modified.
The Flexible Exports infrastructure runs on AS4777.2:2020 inverter standards. Most modern inverters support it natively.
Smart meters and import/export metering
All new SA solar requires a smart meter. SAPN installs the meter at customer cost ($0-$300 depending on existing meter). Reads are bidirectional (grid imports + solar exports tracked separately).
If your home still has a legacy accumulation meter, the installer organises the SAPN meter swap as part of the solar commissioning.
SEG application timeline
- Installer designs system to SAPN spec.
- Installer lodges Small Embedded Generator (SEG) application via SAPN portal.
- SAPN approval: typically 2-15 business days.
- Installation occurs after approval.
- Installer commissions system and submits final connection notification.
- SAPN updates the customer's retailer registration so feed-in tariffs apply.
- Customer receives confirmation letter.
Total lead time from contract to fully connected: typically 3-6 weeks.