Victoria’s Emergency Backstop Mechanism for Solar: What You Need to Know

As rooftop solar becomes more popular across Victoria, the state government is taking steps to ensure the continued safety, reliability, and stability of the electricity grid. One of these critical steps is the Emergency Backstop Mechanism—a regulation that applies to new and upgraded solar installations.

Why Is the Emergency Backstop Mechanism Needed?

During mild, sunny days—especially on weekends and public holidays—solar systems can produce more electricity than the grid needs. This can lead to Minimum System Load (MSL) events, where the surplus solar energy risks destabilising the grid.

To avoid such scenarios, the Emergency Backstop Mechanism allows the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) to temporarily limit or shut down rooftop solar exports during these rare events. Importantly, this does not affect power supply to the home—only the energy being exported to the grid.

How Does the Emergency Backstop Work?

The mechanism is being implemented in two stages:

• Stage 1 – Large Solar Systems (>200 kW):
  Effective from 25 October 2023, all new, upgraded, or replacement systems over 200 kW must include remote curtailment capabilities.
• Stage 2 – Small and Medium Solar Systems (≤200 kW):
  From 1 October 2024, this requirement extends to all small-scale rooftop solar systems (200 kW or less).

Systems must have internet connectivity and be backstop-enabled, allowing for remote export management during grid emergencies. Where this isn’t possible, a reduced export limit may apply.

What Does This Mean for Solar Customers?

If you’re planning to install or upgrade your solar system after 1 October 2024, your system must:

• Be equipped with an inverter that supports emergency backstop functionality
• Be internet-connected to communicate with the distribution network
• Allow for remote management in rare emergency events

These requirements help ensure the grid remains stable while continuing to support widespread solar adoption.

How Tech Solar Battery Supports You

At Tech Solar Battery, we are committed to full compliance with all current and future solar energy regulations in Victoria. We ensure that every solar and battery system we design and install:

• It is Emergency Backstop Enabled
• Uses CEC-approved inverters with remote export capabilities
• Meets the requirements of your Distribution Network Service Provider (DNSP)
• It is installed by our in-house accredited professionals

We also provide our customers with detailed guidance on how the Emergency Backstop Mechanism works and ensure seamless internet connectivity for remote management compliance.

Your peace of mind is our priority.

Benefits of the Emergency Backstop Mechanism

• Maintains Grid Stability: Prevents blackouts by managing excess solar generation during low demand
• Supports Continued Solar Growth: Enables more homes to go solar without compromising the grid
• Encourages Smart Technology: Lays the foundation for dynamic export control and a flexible future grid

Further Support and Resources

The Victorian Government provides detailed information, including:

• Customer Factsheet (PDF)
• Industry Guidance for Installers (PDF)
• Official Government Page

Get in Touch

Ready to install a system that meets all government requirements—now and into the future?

Contact Tech Solar Battery today
📞 0426 156 262
📧 info@techsolarbattery.com.au
🌐 www.techsolarbattery.com.au

Together, we’re building a cleaner, safer, and smarter energy future for Victoria.