Information for solar retailers and installers

There are a number of requirements you must be aware of before installing a solar system. We’ve compiled the information below to assist you before you begin your installation.

From November 2026, new and upgraded solar systems in NSW must be backstop‑enabled.

What this means for installers:

• Install CSIP‑AUS compliant equipment (all new and upgraded solar systems)
• In the NSW CER Installer portal, submit an installation notificatoin and CCEW
• Run a short commissioning test to confirm connectivity
• If internet is unavailable, apply a temporary low export limit until connectivity is provided

These requirements do not apply to:

• Existing solar systems
• Like‑for‑like replacements
• Embedded networks
• AC Coupled batteries
• Sites where home internet or mobile internet has not been established

Installers will be responsible for confirming compliance at installation.

Find out more about the NSW Emergency Backstop Mechanism.

The NSW Emergency Backstop Mechanism requirements will be phased in from November 2026, in parallel with the launch of the NSW Government’s Consumer Energy Resources (CER) Installer Portal, through which all new and upgrading solar systems will be registered and commissioned.

Endeavour Energy has updated its Permission to Connect for solar installations to manage the phased transition of incoming requirements. Solar installers are responsible for installing rooftop solar systems in accordance with the approved Connection Contract and the Schedule of Site-Specific Conditions, which include:

• Installing equipment that is compliant with the Australian Standard ‘Common Smart Inverter Profile – Australia’ (CSIP-AUS >=v1.2).
• Conducting a short capability test at the time of installation, confirming connectivity to Endeavour Energy's utility server via the internet. The test is conducted using the NSW CER Installer Portal.

These requirements will not apply to existing rooftop solar systems. Exemptions will also apply to embedded network customers or those seeking a like-for like replacement (e.g. under a manufacturer’s warranty).

If internet connectivity isn’t available during installation, the system must still be registered and complete the required CSIP-AUS testing. In these cases, a temporary 1.5 kW export limit will be applied until a reliable internet connection is available. This applies to sites with poor connectivity and new developments awaiting internet services. Where registration cannot be completed because no internet, hotspot, 4G or 5G connection is available, an exemption pathway may apply. For more information, see the government factsheet.

For embedded networks:

• Are exempt from other NSW Emergency Backstop requirements
• Multi-tenant sites may be considered if it is managed by a Solar Site Controller (SSC) such as Solshare

Approved export limits represent the maximum allowed export (for a flexible export connection or a fixed export connection), not guaranteed output.

Actual export varies based on:

• On‑site self‑consumption
• The customers’ choice of a flexible export connection or a fixed export connection
• Participation in a third-party Virtual Power Plant (VPP)
• Loss of internet connection to the solar inverter
• Inverter behaviour under AS/NZS 4777
• Local voltage conditions
• Inverter capacity and phasing

Voltage‑based export reduction is a normal and required feature to protect the network.

As the installer, you’re responsible for:

• Completing electrical safety testing
• Submitting a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work (CCEW) to the Building Commission NSW within 7 days of completing the installation. Please note that Endeavour Energy does not retain Solar CCEWs and does not require a copy to be submitted to us.

Inspections

Endeavour Energy audits some installations after connection. These inspections may occur months after install due to volume. Unsafe systems may be disconnected immediately.

To design or install solar or battery systems in Endeavour Energy’s network, you must:

• Hold current Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) accreditation
• Have a valid NSW electrical licence
• Follow any additional manufacturer training requirements for the equipment you install

If you don’t currently hold SAA accreditation but believe you meet the required training standards, contact us to discuss your situation: connections.

Correct design upfront reduces delays, defects and rework. Installers should pay particular attention to:

• Internet connectivity
• Voltage rise compliance
• Main switchboard suitability and compliance
• Battery placement requirements
• Additional protection requirements for large systems