How much does a solar system anti-islanding test cost?
It depends on the system, so we price each one before we test it. One inverter is less work than two inverters and a battery with a backup main switch: each inverter is tested and recorded, and a backup system gets two more tests and another page of the declaration.
"The licenced electrician can provide a quote before the testing is undertaken."
The test must be done by an ACT licensed electrician. Evoenergy does not do the test, so the quote comes from the electrician who does it.
What changes the price of an inverter test?
How much testing, paperwork and time your system needs. These are the things that change it:
- How many inverters you have. Evoenergy's procedure requires a separate form for each inverter. The exception is micro inverters of 1 kVA or less connected to the same inverter main switch, which can share a form.
- A battery with a backup main switch. Tests 2a and 2b are added at the backup main switch, with their own page of the declaration.
- Daylight and the weather. For inverters with panels connected, a valid test needs the system to be producing more than 20 per cent of the rated output of the PV array or the inverter, whichever is less. If it is not, the test has to wait until it is, so we book around the forecast.
- What we find. Evoenergy's FAQ says the test may take longer if problems are found.
- A failed test. If an inverter fails, the equipment has to be repaired or replaced and then retested. That work, and the retest, are separate from the first test. What happens after a failed test is covered on our Evoenergy inverter test page.
Does a battery change the cost of the test?
It can, because a battery system can need more tests and more set-up. In the words of Evoenergy's procedure, "For battery inverters with backup circuits, two tests may be required depending on the site-specific arrangement."
Where a battery system contains both an inverter main switch and a backup main switch, tests 2a and 2b are done at the backup main switch as well as tests 1a and 1b at the inverter main switch. Before the backup tests we explain that backup circuits could lose power, and we go ahead only with your consent. Some systems also need set-up so an export can be measured: other PV inverters switched off, or for a hybrid with panels connected, the DC battery supply disconnected with appropriate shutdown procedures.
How each battery arrangement is tested is set out on our battery and backup systems page.
What does the test include, and what doesn't it?
Our quote covers Evoenergy's periodic test for your system and its paperwork:
- tests 1a and 1b at each inverter main switch, and tests 2a and 2b at the backup main switch where there is one
- Evoenergy's Inverter anti-islanding test declaration: we complete it, keep the original, give the owner a copy and email a copy to Evoenergy, pass or fail
A system health check, a panel inspection, cleaning and repairs are not part of Evoenergy's periodic test. If a component needs replacing, your installer needs Evoenergy's approval before the work is done.
How the tests themselves work is explained in what an anti-islanding test is.
How do I get a quote quickly?
Send us the details that decide the work. Use the booking form or call 0400 331 705, and tell us:
- your suburb, and a photograph of your Evoenergy notice if you have one
- how many inverters there are, with the make and model of each, or a photograph of each one
- whether you have a battery, and whether it can supply part or all of your home during a power outage
- where the inverter and switchboard are, so we know whether someone needs to be home to let us in
We confirm what is on site, then quote. Our hours and other ways to reach us are on the contact page.
What else do people ask about the cost?
Does it cost more if I have more than one inverter?
It can. Each inverter is tested and recorded, and Evoenergy's FAQ says the test may take longer when there is more than one inverter to test.
How long does an inverter test take?
Evoenergy's FAQ says the test is normally quick and should take around 15 to 30 minutes. It may take longer if problems are found, or if there is more than one inverter to test.
What happens if my inverter fails the anti-islanding test?
You arrange for the equipment to be repaired or replaced and then retested, and Evoenergy's FAQ suggests reviewing your warranty with the installer. The declaration still goes to Evoenergy, pass or fail. The full process is on our Evoenergy inverter test page.
Do I need Evoenergy approval to replace a failed inverter?
Yes. Evoenergy's technical requirements say all replacements require its approval, and its Solar and battery page says your installer must receive that approval before completing the work.
I'm renting. Who is responsible for the inverter test?
The property owner. Evoenergy's FAQ says that if you're renting, inverter testing is the responsibility of the property owner, and the procedure gives the owner of the installation a copy of the declaration.