Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Technical Specification
We have published the new draft Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Technical Specification for consultation with our stakeholders, particularly installers, developers, equipment manufacturers and suppliers.
These draft specifications provide BESS installers and owners with key technical specifications, processes, information and guidance for connecting to and interfacing with Power and Water’s low voltage power networks.
Review
We invite you to:
- review the draft Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Technical Specification documents,
- share your comments via our feedback survey and
- ask questions you would like us to consider.
Initial consultation has been extended to Monday, 9 March 2026.
How the specifications apply
These documents apply to installers, developers, and owners of new BESS low voltage connections and modifications to existing BESS. They apply where the connection consists of a permanent BESS installation with a total inverter nameplate capacity of between 0 kVA and 2MW, with or without generation or electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE).
The scope of these technical standards does not include:
- photovoltaic, wind, or other generation sources connected via Integrated Energy System (IES) off-grid charging equipment
- electric vehicle supply equipment, excluding electric vehicle supply and discharge equipment (EVSDE)
- portable equipment.
How to provide feedback
- Download the draft Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Technical Specification documents and review.
- Share your feedback and questions with us by 9 March 2026, via the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Technical Specifications consultation online form.
- Register your interest to attend the online consultation forum (date to be advised). We will discuss the draft specifications and address any points and concerns raised.
We collect your feedback to help improve the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Technical Specifications and our stakeholder engagement. Personal information will be handled in line with our privacy policy.
Draft Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Technical Specification documents
Basic Battery Energy Storage System Technical Specification (0-30kVA)
Draft technical requirements for connecting small-scale battery energy storage systems (0–30kVA) to Power and Water’s low voltage network, including connection process, network studies, functional and fire safety requirements, cybersecurity, and operations and maintenance.
Negotiated Battery Energy Storage System Technical Specification (30kVA – 2MW)
Technical requirements for negotiated connections of battery energy storage systems (30kVA–2MW) to Power and Water’s low voltage network, including standards, application and assessment process, safety, cybersecurity and ongoing operational obligations.
Our consultation plan
Engaging with and consulting our stakeholders is important. We want to gather, consider, and include stakeholder feedback into our specifications. As part of our consultation, we are:
- publishing specifications and gathering feedback online. This initial stage of consultation will close on 9 March 2026.
- emailing stakeholders directly
- hosting an online consultation forum in March - April 2026 (date to be advised) to discuss the new specifications with stakeholders.
Once feedback is considered and where appropriate included, the updated specification will be published and come into effect.
Consultation timeline
December 2025
Release draft Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Technical Specifications for consultation.
9 March 2026
Draft Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Technical Specifications initial consultation closes.
March - April 2026
Discuss the draft Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Technical Specifications with stakeholders.
May - June 2026
Following consultation and feedback review.
Background
The BESS technical specifications support our Future Network Strategy by:
- assisting us to safely adapt our networks and maintain safe and reliable services
- supporting the evolving needs of our customers and the community.
Consultation documents and related resources
Share your feedback on the draft Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Technical Specifications consultation
Use this form to share your feedback on the draft Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Technical Specification. We’re particularly interested in hearing from installers, developers, equipment manufacturers, suppliers and system owners about how the draft requirements may impact design, installation, operation and safety, and where further clarification may be helpful.
Register your interest in an online Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Technical Specifications information session
We are exploring whether there is interest in holding online information sessions about the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Technical Specifications. These sessions would provide an opportunity to hear more about the proposed changes, ask questions, and share your feedback directly with our team. Please complete this quick form to let us know if you would like to take part.
Battery Energy Storage System Connection Technical Specification - Basic Installation 0-30kVA – PDF, 0.92 MB
Draft technical requirements for connecting medium-scale battery energy storage systems (30kVA–2MW) to Power and Water’s low voltage network, including connection process, network studies, functional and fire safety requirements, cybersecurity, and operations and maintenance.
Battery Energy Storage System Connection Technical Specification - Negotiated Installation 30kVA-2MV – PDF, 1.7 MB
Technical requirements for negotiated connections of battery energy storage systems (30kVA–2MW) to Power and Water’s low voltage network, including standards, application and assessment process, safety, cybersecurity and ongoing operational obligations.