Consultation on plug-in generation and distributed generation connection improvements

The Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko (Authority) is seeking feedback on how New Zealand's electricity regulatory framework can support emerging technologies and improve access to distributed generation.

Together, the proposals aim to support greater consumer participation in distributed energy resources while maintaining the safe, reliable and efficient operation of electricity networks. The consultation covers two related areas.

First, the Authority is seeking views on how the Electricity Industry Participation Code (Code) should apply to plug-in generation if other regulators make changes enabling it. While plug-in generation is not currently permitted in New Zealand, the Government is reviewing that position and the Authority wants to ensure the regulatory framework can support efficient uptake if the technology becomes available.

Plug-in generation could provide a new pathway to self-generation for consumers who are currently unable to install traditional distributed generation like rooftop solar, including renters and apartment owners. More accessibility can increase the amount of distributed energy resources available to the electricity system, supporting long-term system efficiency and resilience. It can also displace higher-cost generation, lowering costs for all consumers.

The Authority is seeking feedback on matters such as network impacts, consumer information requirements, export arrangements, and whether additional measures such as device registration may be appropriate.

The second part of the consultation proposes a series of Code amendments to improve the efficiency of small-scale distributed generation connection processes and clarify export limit setting processes.

The proposals build on export limits-related changes introduced in May 2026 and seek to ensure intended consumer benefits are realised from distributed generation connections. They include measures to improve consumer access to increased export limits, protect consumer choice, streamline distributed generation application processes and provide greater clarity for distributors and applicants.

The Authority encourages consumers and groups and industry participants to provide feedback.

View consultation