CER compliance Program - a shared responsibility

As more customers install solar, batteries, EV chargers and other Customer Energy Resources (CER), every connection to the distribution network matters regardless of system size. CER is helping reshape the energy system and giving customers more choice in how they generate, store and use electricity. But to deliver those benefits safely and reliably, systems must be connected correctly from the outset. As installers and consultants, you are on the front line of South Australia’s energy transition. What happens on one site can affect not only the customer, but also neighbouring customers, local network performance and the broader power system.

Why it matters

If CER is connected incorrectly, without approval, or outside the approved design, the consequences can include:

• safety risks
• voltage and power quality issues
• overloaded local assets
• reduced reliability for other customers
• extra costs, delays and rework
• constraints on future connections

What installers and consultants need to do

Installers and consultants play a critical role in making sure CER connections are completed the right way. That means:

following the correct connection and approval process
ensuring the installation complies with applicable technical and regulatory requirements
making sure the installed system matches what was approved
verifying settings, controls and protection before energisation
providing accurate connection information and documentation

In short: non-compliance on one site can create problems well beyond that site.

If you are unsure about the correct connection or approval process for your customer or wish to find more information on CER compliance please refer to the solar and EV connections page on our website or contact us on 131 261.
 

Additional considerations for larger and more complex CER connections with a total capacity above 500kVA

As the energy system changes and larger embedded generation connections become more common, maintaining compliance remains important.

For Large Embedded Generation (LEG) connections, compliance does not end at commissioning. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure systems continue to operate in accordance with approved connection conditions.

We’re continuing to work with industry to explore opportunities that support good compliance outcomes in this space.

The bigger picture

Customers are relying on CER to reduce energy costs, improve energy independence and take part in the energy transition. For some larger embedded generation customers, CER also creates opportunities to earn revenue through exports to the market. At the same time, the system relies on compliant connections to keep the network safe, stable and fair for everyone. Ensuring every installed system meets CER compliance requirements is critical to enabling South Australia’s energy transition and supporting continued connections across the network.

Getting it right protects:

• your customer
• other customers nearby
• workers and emergency responders
• the integrity of the low voltage and high voltage network

That is why compliant CER connections matter — for customers, for industry, and for the system.