getting solar credits showing on your bill

[Kyliejc]

How long does it take for the credit of power sold back to the grid after a new solar installation has been viewable on the app. My SolarX app shows we have sold over $140 back but the AGL app says only $5 (from our old system). Do we need to notify AGL?

[SYED_AGL]

Hi @Kyliejc 

Thank you for reaching out.

I recommend waiting until you receive your bill and comparing it with your “sold to grid” data, as live data can sometimes be inaccurate when processed back to the grid. If you still notice any discrepancies after reviewing your bill, please contact us directly so we can investigate further 

We are here to help! 

SYED 

[Kyliejc]

Great thank you

Kylie Christison

[Lester]

Kylie, I would be a little more proactive, in case your system is not registered, or still waiting for, your DNSP final recognition / retailer set up.

Many solar companies drag their heels with this aspect of installs, but the solar company should be taking care of this for you in general, making sure your solar is pre-approved and post install all recorded correctly with your power provider, and also with your retailer AGL.

There is paperwork that needs to be completed and sent to the DNSP, if this is delayed, it can mean no solar credits are being registered.

Your main duty is to make sure you were aware of how this might affect your plan and tariff options, and get onto the best plan for how you use power . . . though I also believe solar tcomapnies should discuss this with solar consumers, as it is as important as getting the right solar system for your needs.

Many are taken off single rate tariff, and put on TOU (time of use) which changes the whole way power should be used.

Some might even apply demand tariff as well in some states / regions, so be careful what you end up on, you should still have a choice.

Did you get a battery too ? Or just solar ?

All the best with getting that confirmed and the best from your new solar.

[Kyliejc]

Thanks so much for your time. Yes we got a battery as well. They didn’t
inform me about letting my provider know so I will follow up.

Thanks


Kylie Christison

[Lester]

It is your solar / battery companies job to do that, only they can do some of the processes.

They afoten batch them, or even use a throd party 'contractor' to do this, and they can be slow sometimes.

Your provider (DNSP) can usually be contacted, and with your meter number (and some other details most likely) they might be able to confirm if any status is reached, approval given pre install, etc . . . certainly I have had info shared to help me with a few issues in the past couple of years calling SAPN in SA.

[Lester]

Kylie, just posted this to another similar thread post, and thought it might help you see the processes involved after solar is installed . . . Google AI response to > whats the process with dnsp and retailer once solar is installed

Hope this helps you go through the steps and see if there is a stall point . . .

AI Overview

After your solar panels are physically installed, the process involves

a series of administrative and technical steps with your Distributed Network Service Provider (DNSP) and electricity retailer to legally connect to the grid and start receiving solar feed-in tariffs. While your installer manages most of this, it is crucial to understand the steps. 

1. System Commissioning and Safety Check (Immediately After Install) 

• Installer Action: The installer completes final electrical work, tests the system, and sets it to safe parameters.
• Documentation: The installer will provide a Certificate of Electrical Safety (CES) or equivalent.
• Important: You cannot turn your system on for exporting until the meter is changed, though you may be able to use the power it produces for yourself immediately (depending on local regulations). 

2. Network Notification (DNSP Approval) 

• Installer Action: The installer submits a final "Notice of Completion" or "Small Embedded Generator" form to the DNSP (e.g., SA Power Networks, Citipower, Western Power).
• Purpose: This tells the DNSP that a new source of energy is connected to the grid and allows them to approve the export. 

3. Meter Replacement/Reconfiguration (Retailer Action)   (EDIT BY LESTER, pretty sure sometimes this happens before or during the process, or it can.)

• Process: Your solar installer notifies your energy retailer of the approved installation, initiating a request to upgrade your old meter to a "bi-directional" (smart) meter.
• Timeline: This step often takes 5-15 business days, though it can take longer in some areas.
• Cost: There may be a fee for the meter installation, which is often billed through your retailer. 

4. Final Activation and Tariff Setup (Retailer Action)

• Finalization: Once the smart meter is installed, the retailer updates your account to include a solar feed-in tariff (FiT).
• Monitoring: The installer should walk you through using your monitoring app to track production. 

Key Takeaways

• Don't switch it on yet: Do not leave your solar system permanently turned on until you have been given the "green light" by your installer, as it may cause issues with old meters.
• Check your bill: Monitor your energy bill after the first 1-2 months to ensure you are being credited for the feed-in tariff.
• Keep documents: Keep the Certificate of Electrical Safety and warranty documents safely. 

What if I'm in a hurry? The slowest part of this process is usually the meter upgrade, which is controlled by your energy retailer. Ensure your retailer has received the necessary paperwork from your installer. 

[Tguy]

What is the best solar system for your needs like single rate tariff and so on can you help