Distributed Generation
This page provides information to assist you with connecting distributed generation to Centralines electricity network.
Centralines provides this information in accordance with Part 6 of the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010.
What is distributed generation?
Distributed generation (DG) is a term used in the electricity sector to describe small scale generation sources selling electricity back to the national grid.
In New Zealand, the most popular types of small scale distributed generation (SSDG) include solar panels and wind turbines which are commonly installed to reduce the property owner's need to purchase electricity from a retailer. For example, a home owner might install solar panels on their roof to supply electricity to their home, thus reducing their monthly power bill.
By connecting the SSDG to our network using, the same home owner could also sell any excess electricity generated through their solar panels back to their retailer, effectively gaining a credit on their power bill.
At Centralines we manage DG connections in accordance with the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010, Part 6 (the Code), which categorises distributed generation into two groups:
- Connections of 10kW or less (generally residential), and
- Connections above 10kW (generally commercial/industrial).
Connection terms for distributed generation of 10kW or less
For small scale distributed generation of 10 kW or less the regulated terms contained in Schedule 6.2 of Part 6 of the Code apply subject to the generator satisfying the requirements of Centralines' Network Connection Standard.
Export Limit for Single-Phase Solar
From November 2025 Centralines has increased the maximum export limit for single-phase distributed generation installations that may apply to connect through Centralines fast track DG1 process from 5 kW to 10 kW. This change makes it simpler and faster for customers wanting to connect larger DG installations.
To connect through the fast track DG1 process at this higher limit:
- Your inverter must comply with AS/NZS 4777 part 1 and part 2, ensuring it meets all operational, performance, and protection requirements for safe connection to Centralines network.
- While export of up to 10 kW is permitted for single-phase configurations, the actual amount able to be exported at any given time will always depend on the available capacity of the local distribution network. If the network cannot safely accommodate a 10 kW export level at that time, the amount able to be exported may be reduced to match its capacity at the time.
- The power quality modes (Volt/Watt and Volt/Var) as per ASNZS4777.2 must be enabled with profiles as specified in the Centralines connection standard.
This approach ensures we maximise opportunities for customers while maintaining the safety, reliability, and performance of the network for everyone.