Smart Connect Solar

Smart Connect Solar uses internet connected solar technology that enables us to effectively manage high levels of solar energy on the network, whilst maintaining a safe and reliable power supply for the community.

With more and more rooftop solar installed, we will sometimes need to turn down the amount of electricity Smart Connect solar systems generate in each town. The new technology resolves the technical challenges that currently exist with balancing energy flows across your community.

Learn more about how solar and energy management works

As more and more customers access solar, it's harder to maintain a stable electricity network because they are designed for one way flow of electricity.  Smart Connect Solar means more solar can be connected to the network without impacts to its stability.

No, once a town is Smart Connect Solar enabled hosting capacity limits won’t apply. That means more customers can access the benefits of solar, sooner.

You need a building permit for solar installations, unless exempt. So, check with your local Shire to ensure you meet all regulations before installing your rooftop solar system.

Your solar installer can often assist with the Building Permit application process. If your installer is handling this on your behalf, please request a copy for your own records.

If you're unsure who to contact, this online Local Government Directory may help.

Smart Connect Solar requires a small communication device that connects your solar inverter to Horizon Power's energy management system. This is called a Secure Gateway Device (SGD). We will supply and maintain the SGD free of charge. Any costs to install and connect the SGD will be at your installer's discretion.

Yes, you’ll still be generating a significant amount of your own solar energy with your Smart Connect Solar enabled system, even though we may need to turn the solar generation down from time to time across the town.

Yes, you’ll need to have a hard wired internet connection for Smart Connect Solar to work. That's because we need to communicate securely with your solar energy system to turn it down from time-to-time.

You will need to log in to your My Account and complete the online Solar Ready application. After this application is submitted you will receive a reference number that you will need to provide to your chosen installer.

If you require assistance with My Account registration or completing the online Solar Ready application, please call us on 1800 267 926.

Your installer will need your NMI to commission your Smart Connect Solar system. You can find your NMI on your electricity bill, or by logging in to My Account, selecting More, and then Self Service.

If you already have a solar system, nothing changes. Smart Connect Solar applies to new solar installations only, including applications to upgrade an existing system.