Western Australia consults on draft standard to legalise plug-in solar

Western Australia is seeking public comment on a draft technical standard that would regulate plug-in solar and battery systems. The proposal, reported by pv magazine, classifies these plug-in units as ordinary electrical appliances rather than grid-connected installations.

The move is designed to broaden access to solar power for residents who currently cannot install rooftop systems, specifically targeting renters and apartment dwellers. By treating plug-in units as standard appliances, the draft standard opens them up to renters and apartment dwellers.

Technical specifications

• Adapted from the German standard DIN VDE V 0126-95
• Modified for local conditions, including Australian plug types and wind loading requirements
• Maximum combined solar and battery output capped at 2 kW (DC)
• Inverter capacity restricted to 800 VA (AC)
• No upper limit set for plug-in battery storage capacity
• Battery chemistries limited to lithium iron phosphate or sodium-ion
• Only one plug-in system permitted per household
• Use prohibited at homes with existing fixed installations, such as rooftop solar

Consultation process

The Department of Energy and Economic Diversification (DEED) heads this consultation, collaborating with the Building and Energy Division of the Local Government Information and Reporting System (LGIRS). These two entities are currently formulating modifications aimed at enhancing accessibility for tenants. The finalized Technical Bridging Standard is expected to consist of two distinct components, covering product-specific requirements and installation requirements respectively.

Industry response

Heidi Lee Douglas, CEO of Solar Citizens, described Western Australia’s announcement as the start of a "race to the top." She urged the federal government to adopt a nationally coordinated approach by July next year. Douglas also supported Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen announcing a legal sale date. Plug-in solar systems are already legally available in the UK, Germany, and ten US states.

Regulatory alignment and safety protocols

The proposed Technical Bridging Standard (TBS) prevents households with existing fixed setups, like rooftop solar, from switching to plug-in configurations. Although the draft sets no ceiling on battery storage volume, it confines permissible chemistries to lithium iron phosphate or sodium-ion. DEED and LGIRS are coordinating with safety specialists, other state and territory administrations, and the Australian federal government to guarantee the finalized TBS conforms to AS/NZS technical documents. The completed TBS is expected to comprise two distinct sections, covering product-specific requirements and installation requirements respectively. The departments are additionally addressing other modifications potentially required to facilitate renter access to these systems upon their release.

What to watch

Expressing pride in the state's national leadership on the matter, Western Australia’s Minister for Energy and Decarbonisation, Amber-Jade Sanderson, highlighted the region's progress. The upcoming stage requires the conclusion of the public consultation. Subsequently, the Department of Energy and Economic Diversification and the Building and Energy Division will finalize the two-part Technical Building Standard.