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Smart Connect Solar: Help & advice

Keen to learn more about Smart Connect Solar? Get answers to some commonly asked questions below.
  • What is 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

  • Why do we need Smart Connect Solar?

    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.

  • Will hosting capacity limits still apply?

    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.

  • How do I apply for Smart Connect Solar?
    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.
  • Where can I find my NMI?
    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.

  • Will my solar installation cost more?
    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.
  • Will I still save with a Smart Connect Solar enabled solar system?

    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.

  • How much will Smart Connect Solar impact my solar savings?
    This will vary depending on your location, the type of system installed, and local weather conditions. Over a year, you may see up to a 10% reduction in savings - due to energy management.
  • Will I need an internet connection to connect with Smart Connect Solar?

    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.

  • If I already have solar, what happens?

    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.

Energy management

Secure Gateway Device (SGD)

Technical

  • What happens when the Secure Gateway Device (SGD) can't access my internet?
    The Secure Gateway Device relies on a hard-wired LAN connection to an internet modem. If the device cannot access the internet, it will go into fail safe mode and your system will stop generating electricity.
  • What if my Smart Connected Solar system isn’t generating any electricity?
    If you’re experiencing any issues – try these simple steps first:   
    1. Check the blue ethernet cable is securely plugged into your modem and you can access the internet.
       
    2. Power cycle the SGD and solar inverter.  
      1. Turn off the external switch to your SGD located near your inverter and  
      2. Power cycle your inverter by following the manufacturer’s guidelines; 
      3. Wait 30 seconds, and then turn them back on.

    In some cases, it may take up to 15 minutes for the SGD to come back online. If the above steps have not resolved the issue, you can contact us.

    If your solar inverter is displaying an error code or your system isn't generating electricity, it may be due to an issue with your inverter or solar panels, if that’s the case you will need to contact your installer or a licensed electrician.

  • If the Secure Gateway Device (SGD) fails, how long will it take to be fixed or replaced?
    If the troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the issue with your SGD, our Technical Engineers will attempt to resolve the issue remotely within 5 business days. In the unlikely event that the device needs to be replaced, we'll contact you to arrange a suitable time to carry out a replacement within 15 business days from ordering a replacement.

We're here to help

If you have any questions about Smart Connect Solar, please get in touch. Call us Monday to Friday (8am - 5pm) or send us a message.

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Why is my system energy managed?

As more renewables connect to the network, it becomes harder to maintain a stable power supply. Smart Connect Solar means more rooftop solar can be connected without impacting network stability. 

Watch the video to see how it works

Explore the benefits of solar

Use the calculator to see how much you could save each year with solar. Find out if you can connect solar in your town or if you’re eligible for any solar rebates.

 

Calculate your solar savings potential

Choosing an installer

When you're talking to a solar retailer or installer, here’s a few things to consider to help you make the best decision for your home.
Smart choice checklist

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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this website may contain images, names or voices of deceased people.