1 November 2024

The Victorian Emergency Backstop for Solar

On October 1^st, the Victorian Emergency Backstop for Solar (VEBM) was introduced. 

But, you’re probably asking yourself, “What is it? And what does it mean for the nearly 800,000 Victorians who own a solar system?”

The introduction of the VEBM is in reaction to the very high uptake of solar on residential homes in part due to the popularity of solar, which was then further exacerbated by the Solar Victoria rebate program.

The Effect of Solar Surplus

The amount of solar power being generated on clear sunny days creates a significant surplus of power if the homeowner is not consuming the energy their solar system is generating, which means it is being sent back to the grid.

Now, if everyone is doing the same thing, this can cause headaches for the people who are trying to look after the stability of the network the Distributed Network Service Providers or DNSPs.

How the VEBM Protects the Network

The VEBM provides a way to save the network from instability before it turns into chaos and we start experiencing blackouts and damage to the network infrastructure.

In basic terms, the DNSPs (in our area it is Ausnet) have the authority from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) to “dial down” your inverter to reduce the amount of surplus energy being sent to the grid. They won’t stop your inverter from supplying the loads in your home or prevent you from charging your battery or EV. 

But, if things get really dire, then they will switch off your inverter altogether. After the instability has abated, they will send a signal to restore your inverter to normal.

How Does the VEBM Affect You?

Your installer should be all over this, but your inverter will need to be connected to the internet. It will also need to be approved by the DNSP, and it must support Common Smart Inverter Profile Australia (CSIP-AUS.)

This only applies to new solar installations, so no need to worry if you have had a system installed prior to October 1^st. But, any system upgrades in the future may need to be included, depending on the upgrade. It does not apply to repairs or warranty replacements when it is a “like-for-like” inverter.

Although it is hard to say how much this is likely to impact your electricity bill, most experts expect it will be minimal. But, it will certainly make the case for a battery storage system more compelling than ever.