Generate Your Own Power with HomeGen

31 January 2018

What is HomeGen (Distributed Generation)?

Distributed Generation (or “DG”) most commonly refers to solar PV, however it can also be for wind or micro-hydro. At Genesis, we call it “HomeGen”.

Power is generated, used, and exported in real time. If you aren't using the power in your home it is sent to the grid - you can't store it unless you have a battery. When it is sent to the grid through an import/export (or “two-way”) meter, we can pay you for your exported electricity!

Who is HomeGen for?

Residential customers who have home generation equipment installed (Solar, Wind, Hydro or other, we do not endorse or recommend any particular technology or supplier).

• Solar panels generate electricity.
• Excess Electricity is passed from your meter through to the power lines company
• The Electricity is sold on the wholesale market.
• Electricity sold via HomeGen shows as a credit on your Genesis bill.

How does it work?

 

What are the rates for HomeGen Exported Electricity?

Genesis will pay 8 cents per kWh (excluding GST)* for your export. (GST registered customers will be paid 8 cents per KWh plus GST for their exported electricity). Your import rates (what you pay us for your electricity bought from the grid) remain the same, unless you are changing your tariff/plan when we install the import/export meter. There is no prompt payment or other discounts on HomeGen credits.

What do I need for HomeGen?

You will need to have your Electricity supplied by Genesis, and an import/export meter to be installed. To get your meter changed, you will need to complete the application form and send us a copy of your approved network application for Distributed Generation. You can approach your local lines company directly to request this. The cost to change your meter is $100.00 (including GST).

Send your completed application form to: [email protected].

Genesis are able to offer three different tariff options for import/export meters: Anytime/Export, Composite/Export, or Night/Day/Export. Availability of these tariffs is determined by your local network company, please contact us to discuss your options if you are unsure.

Please see our HomeGen terms and conditions.

*For systems up to 50 kW in size. For systems larger than 50 kW please contact us to confirm pricing.

 

FAQs

How does having a multi-phase supply affect solar?

Multi-phase (2 or 3 phase) properties may require a multi-phase solar PV system. With a multi-phase solar PV system there may be instances when you will import energy on one phase while exporting energy on another phase. This is because all phases operate independently of one another, you can think of them like separate energy systems. You may want to ask your installer to check the load on each phase before installing the system.

Why is the buyback rate so much lower than my import rates?

The amount we pay you ("buyback rate") is ​​based on the average wholesale rate (which is around 7 cents per kWh).​ The Electricity Authority has more information on what retail prices are made up of, versus the cost of wholesale (or 'raw') electricity.

I have solar hot water, do I need an import/export meter?
No. Solar hot water is different to solar PV, and it does not export electricity to the grid, so you do not need an import/export meter.