Solar Energy

Are any electricity companies experiencing difficulties in dealing with electricity being fed into the grid from home solar panels; if so, what is the nature of the difficulties.

Mr Martin Ferguson: The answer to the honourable member's question is as follows:

The Government is aware of media reports that some electricity distribution companies have expressed concerns about high concentrations of photovoltaic systems connecting to distribution grids.

A concentration of solar photovoltaic systems can impact the ability of distribution companies to manage network voltage. A range of technical options are available to distribution companies to manage network voltage and any other impacts of solar photovoltaic deployment related to power supply quality.

Distribution companies operate within national energy laws and rules. Should distribution companies find barriers in the rules to delivering efficient management of issues that might arise from photovoltaic systems, the Australian Energy Market Commission rule making process provides an avenue for network businesses to propose rule changes.