Help & support
Here's an overview of the Smart Connect Solar application process, commonly asked questions and how to get technical support.Solar ready reference number
Once the customer is ready to connect, they'll need to provide you with a Smart Connect Solar reference number to include with their application. They can get this by logging in to MyAccount.
Application to connect
Submit the Renewable Energy System Connection application, ensuring it contains the Smart Connect Solar reference number and complies with our technical and inverter requirements.
Receive the SGD device
Once your application to connect to the Horizon Power network has been approved, we'll notify you in writing and deliver the device (SwitchDin Droplet Plus) to your nominated address.
Installation day
Commission the SGD during daylight hours to confirm the solar generation controls can be tested as part of the installation process. Consult our troubleshooting guides or contact SwitchDin for technical support.
Internet connectivity is a mandatory technical requirement for all solar installs and essential to successfully commissioning the SGD. It's crucial to ensure there's an active internet connection at the property before installation day. Otherwise, the customer may not be able to connect their system to the network.
Installation day
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How do I get the Secure Gateway Device (SGD)?
Once your application to connect to the Horizon Power network has been approved, we'll deliver the device (SwitchDin Droplet Plus) to your nominated address.
Don't forget to inspect the contents of the box to ensure all parts are present and there are no signs of physical damage.
If any parts are missing or damaged, please contact SwitchDin helpdesk via email:
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Which inverters are Smart Connect Solar compatible?
Smart Connect Solar is currently compatible with some inverter models from manufacturers like Fronius, SMA, GoodWe, GroWatt, Ozton, SunGrow, and Sofar Solar. Horizon Power and our partners are actively working to expand compatibility with additional manufacturers and inverter models.
View the latest list of compatible inverters here. -
Can I use an inverter that isn't compatible with Smart Connect Solar?
Not for Basic EG connections (up to 30 kVA). The solar inverter needs to be compatible with our DER Management system (DERMS). The good news is, this list will grow in size over time.
Low Voltage EG connections (greater than 30 kVA) can use any solar inverter from the Clean Energy Council's approved list of solar inverters. -
Will the customer’s system be energy managed immediately after the installation?
Yes, your customer's solar system will be energy managed upon commissioning the installation via the Stormcloud application.
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Do I need to change inverter settings before I can commission the SGD?
Yes, inverter settings will need to be configured to ensure controls are received via Modbus, as well as set generation fail safe levels. Instructions for configuring inverter settings are aviable on the SwitchDin website.
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Does Smart Connect Solar affect battery installations?
Smart Connect Solar only impacts the operation of DC batteries connected to a hybrid inverter. It may limit the batteries’ ability to export during certain times of the day.
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Why must I commission the SGD in daylight hours?
Commissioning of the SGD needs to be carried out during daylight hours. This is to successfully confirm the solar generation controls can be tested as part of the installation process.
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Which port on the SGD do I connect the internet cable to?
Only USB Port 3 on the SGD supports internet access, an Ethernet to USB adaptor is included in each SGD box.
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Should I check internet connectivity before an installation?
Yes, it is crucial to ensure there is an active internet connection at the site before the installation. Internet connectivity is essential to commission and complete the solar installation.
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Will I need to provide a separate internet connection to both the SGD and inverter?
No, once the SGD is connected to the internet and the inverter, both devices can use the hard-wired LAN connection to access the internet.
What to tell your customer
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If I applied before Smart Connect Solar is rolled out, but I plan on installing after, what happens?
Your application and approval will include the conditions your installation must comply with. Please refer the “Offer to Connect” conditions we provided with your application approval.
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What is the impact to my customer's payback period due to Smart Connect Solar?
The impact to the payback period for your customers solar system can vary depending on factors such as location, system, and installation costs. On average, you can expect approximately 10% energy management over a typical year. Please see our solar calculator for more information and estimated savings.
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Are there changes to the connection request process?
Yes. Customers will need to request a Smart Connect reference number via their MyAccount. They just need to accept the Terms & Conditions and will be issued a unique reference number to forward to you.
You will need this reference number before you can start the application to connect form. -
What if my customer has an issue with Smart Connect Solar?
Initially, customers may contact you first if they encounter any issues with their solar system. If you suspect an SGD fault, please:
- consult SwitcheDin's technical and troubleshooting guides;
- confirm with your customer if they're connected to the internet: and
- ask them to power cycle both their SGD and inverter.
If these steps fail to resolve the issue, your customer should contact Horizon Power.
Help & support
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Who do I contact if I have an issue during installation?
For detailed fault-finding processes, please consult our troubleshooting guides on the SwitchDin website.
If further assistance is required, please contact SwitchDin for technical support: -
What if my customer has an issue with Smart Connect Solar?
Initially, customers may contact you first if they encounter any issues with their solar system. If you suspect an SGD fault, please:
- consult SwitcheDin's technical and troubleshooting guides;
- confirm with your customer if they're connected to the internet: and
- ask them to power cycle both their SGD and inverter.
If these steps fail to resolve the issue, your customer should contact Horizon Power.
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Where can I find more help and support
For detailed fault-finding processes, please consult our troubleshooting guides on the SwitchDin website.
If further assistance is required, please contact SwitchDin for technical support:
Related pages
Connect solar, battery, EVTechnical requirements
Smart Connect Solar
> Help & support
Solar rebates
Technical support
Check our troubleshooting guides on the SwitchDin website or contact SwitchDin technical support.
Request to connect a renewable energy system to the network
It only takes around 5 to 10 minutes to complete - we'll let you know if there's available capacity along the way.
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