For batteries, the regulator’s rule is that the system is installed by an SAA accredited installer with a battery endorsement. A stand-alone power system adds design responsibilities, because the installer is designing the whole supply, not adding storage to a grid-connected home.
Accreditation
The existing guides battery installer accreditation and SAA battery accreditation requirements explain how accreditation works. For SPS work, check with SAA that your accreditation covers stand-alone systems, not only grid-connected battery installation. Practices differ between categories of work, and the scope on your certificate is what counts.
Standards
AS/NZS 5139 governs battery installation, including location, clearances and protection. Stand-alone systems also bring in inverter and generator integration, load calculations and, in most states, an electrical safety certificate. See AS/NZS 5139 battery installation.
The off-grid claim evidence
On the STC side, the new item is the off-grid test. Per the regulator at the time of writing, within 1 km of the grid the battery should be VPP capable. Beyond that, you need written evidence that connection would cost more than $30,000. File:
- A connection cost quote or letter from the network.
- The premises address and NMI, if it has one.
- Confirmation the property has no existing connection.
Installer checklist
- SAA accreditation scope covers SPS and battery work.
- Product is CEC listed on the installation date and between 5 and 100 kWh usable.
- Design and load calculations kept in the file.
- AS/NZS 5139-compliant location, photographed.
- Serial numbers, label and system overview photographed to the battery photo guide.
- Off-grid evidence on file.
- Assignment form signed by the actual owner.
Finally, do not forget the state side. Several states have their own requirements for SPS design, notification and electrical safety certificates, and some have run separate stand-alone power system programs. Confirm what your state requires before commissioning, and keep each certificate with the claim file.
What this means for installers
A smaller group of crews does SPS work, so the claims are noticeable to a reviewer. A complete file, clearly photographed, reduces back and forth. See top STC claim rejection reasons and the battery submission guide. Our own compliance desk pre-checks claims against this kind of list before lodgement; see how it works.
What this means for homeowners
If you are remote, choose an installer who can show SPS experience and who explains the off-grid test in writing. For the eligibility side, read off-grid battery rebate eligibility. Overview at battery STCs, rates on pricing, and start trading for installers.