Solar system basics

kW (kilowatts)


This is how much electricity your solar system can generate at any moment.
 From a network perspective, it shows how much power your system may draw from or supply to the grid at a point in time.

kWh (kilowatt-hours)


This is the total amount of electricity your home uses or your solar system exports over time.
For the network, this helps measure overall energy flowing through the grid and what you’re billed for.
 
kVA (kilovolt-amperes)


This is the maximum capacity your inverter or connection can handle safely.
 From a distributor perspective, it’s important because it determines how much load or solar export your connection can support without affecting network safety or reliability.

Panels, inverters and batteries

Solar panel


The equipment installed on your roof that captures sunlight and produces electricity in direct current (DC) form.

Inverter


A device that converts the DC electricity produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that your home and the electricity network can use.

Battery (solar battery)


A storage device that stores excess solar electricity for use later, such as at night or during power outages, depending on system design. Battery capacity is measured in kWh.

Battery capacity (kWh)


The total amount of electricity a battery can store. A higher number means more stored energy is available.

Electricity flow and safety terms

AC (Alternating Current)


The type of electricity used in homes and supplied by the electricity grid.

DC (Direct Current)


Electricity that flows in one direction. Solar panels and batteries produce DC electricity before it is converted by the inverter.

Isolator / circuit breaker


A safety switch that allows part of the electrical system—such as solar panels or an inverter—to be safely turned off.

Network and metering terms

Distribution network (the grid)


The local poles and wires that deliver electricity to homes and businesses and carry exported solar electricity to other customers.

Distribution Network Service Provider (DNSP)


The company that owns and operates the local electricity network. In Jemena’s electricity areas, this is Jemena Electricity Networks.

Smart meter


A digital electricity meter that measures electricity flowing both to and from your home. Smart meters are required need to be solar configured for rooftop solar connections.

Export


Electricity generated by your solar system that is sent into the electricity network for use by other customers.

Export limit


A cap on how much solar electricity a system can export to the network at any one time. Export limits may apply in some areas to keep the network safe and reliable.

Curtailment


When a solar inverter temporarily reduces output, usually to comply with export limits or network safety requirements.

Billing, tariffs and market terms

Feed‑in tariff (FiT)


The rate your energy retailer pays (or credits) for electricity your solar system exports to the grid. This is set by retailers and market rules, not distributors.

Tariff


The pricing structure that determines how you are charged for electricity, including usage rates and feed‑in tariffs.

Energy retailer


The company that sells you electricity, sends your bill and manages your tariffs and feed‑in credits.

Programs, standards and abbreviations

CER (Consumer Energy Resources)


Small‑scale energy assets owned by customers, such as solar panels, batteries and electric vehicles.

CEC (Clean Energy Council)


An industry body that accredits solar installers and approves solar products for use in Australia.

STCs (Small‑scale Technology Certificates)


Government certificates that reduce the upfront cost of eligible rooftop solar systems. Usually handled by the installer or retailer as part of installation.

VPP (Virtual Power Plant)


A program that connects many customer‑owned systems (such as solar and batteries) so they can operate together to support the electricity system. Participation is optional and managed by retailers or third parties.

Ownership and lifecycle terms

Commissioned system


A solar system that has been installed, tested and approved for connection to the electricity network.

Transfer of ownership


The process of updating system monitoring, retailer accounts and equipment access when a property with solar is sold or ownership changes.

Decommissioning


The permanent disconnection and removal of a solar system from a property and the electricity network, usually carried out by a licensed installer.