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The emergency backstop mechanism is only applicable in areas where we have AFLC available for signalling.
As a general guide, Ergon Energy Network’s isolated communities, Single Wire Earth Return (SWER) network and some other fringe of grid areas do not have AFLC capability. We have developed a NMI Check search form so you can determine if a site has AFLC capability or not.
In addition, when submitting connection applications via the Electrical Partners Portal, a pop-up message will appear as a guide when an application triggers the requirement to install a GSD.
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Yes, our Emergency Backstop Mechanism Factsheet (PDF 618.0 kb) provides general information on the background and operation of the initiative, and how it may impact customers installing new or replacement IES.
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No. Under our Connection Standards, for example STWN1170 Standard for Small IES Connections, Electricity Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) is considered as an energy storage system and therefore excluded from the need to install a GSD.
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Yes, the Emergency Backstop Mechanism requires applicable inverters to disconnect from the electricity network, including zero export systems. It is not associated with export to the grid, but rather connection to the grid.
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When the Demand Response Mode (DRM) 0 has been activated
As soon as the grid supply is off (and the power supply to the GSD is interrupted), the GSD will release the DRM0 in the inverter. Once DRM0 is released, if the inverter has energy storage connected, the inverter will be able to offer the same outcome (back-up power) to the customer as it is capable during a network outage.
When the local grid supply is re-instated and the GSD receives power supply, it will go into the same DRM state it was before the power interruption i.e. DRM0 in this case. If the network event is over, a signal will be sent to re-instate the inverter to normal operation.
When power supply to the GSD is interrupted during normal operation
Where power supply to the GSD is interrupted by a grid supply outage, when the inverter is not in any DRM0 mode, there will be no additional impact on the inverter as the inverter will cease operation under the standard anti-islanding function built into all inverters. When grid supply is restored, the inverter will return to normal operation.
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No. The GSD is not a network device, it is part of the customer installation.
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The GSD utilises the existing connection available for the demand response mode function – this is via an external port or internal terminal block, depending on the make and model of the inverter.
For technical requirements and general guidance on installing the GSD, please refer to section 8.10.2 Emergency Backstop Mechanism of the Queensland Electricity Connection Manual (PDF 19.8 mb).
For installation of the GSD:
- Connection may vary depending on inverter manufacturer but is typically via the RJ45 port or 8 pin round communications port or internal terminal block
- In some cases, the settings in the inverter may also need to be configured to ensure it is enabled for 'DRM 0' mode
- The GSD manufacturer(s) will provide generic instructions on installation of the device. We are aware that previously printed versions of the manufacturer’s instructions may differ from the QECM supplement in relation to where the GSD can be mounted and the requirement to have a GSD for each inverter. Where there is a difference, the QECM Supplement should be followed
- Inverter manufacturers may also provide model specific instructions for connection and activation of the 'DRM 0' function, with some inverters requiring an extra module to be purchased to enable 'DRM 0' mode.
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The commissioning check should ensure the correct and safe installation of the GSD in compliance with the DNSP standards and manufacturer instructions. Where the GSD has been installed correctly and the inverter configured correctly:
- The removal of the RJ45 plug from the DRM mode port on the inverter, or disconnection of the GSD from the terminal block, will trigger the DRM 0 functionality to cease generation as per clause 3.2.2 (d) of AS/NZS 4777.2
- Another option to check that the DRM 0 mode has been configured correctly is to use a test module as described in Appendix D in AS/NZS 4755.1.
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We are continuing to work toward the implementation of the Dynamic Customer Standard. We see this as an essential solution for the future and stability of the network whilst enabling greater levels of Consumer Energy Resources (CER) to be adopted, including solar PV.
However, dynamic limits are designed to maximise the interaction of inverters with the electricity network and will be applied independent of the emergency backstop mechanism.
Importantly, an emergency backstop mechanism signal will have priority over any dynamic limits and will only be used in circumstances where all other mechanisms have failed to support the security of the electricity network.
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The requirement to install a GSD applies to all applicable connection offers accepted, or executed, on or from 6 February 2023, regardless of when the connection application was submitted or the connection offer was issued.
Please be aware that we can not make any assurances regarding processing times outside what is provided for under the energy laws.
Any relevant applications that have not received a connection offer, or the offer has been issued but not accepted or executed before 6 February 2023, must comply with the requirement to install a GSD.