EXPLORE KNOWLEDGE BASE
-
CERI Knowledge Base
-
About the CERI knowledge base
-
Introduction to Australia’s electricity markets
-
Australian consumer insights
-
CER technical and interoperability standards
-
Connecting a customer to an electricity network
-
Connecting a generator to a distribution network
-
Utility interconnection (CSIP-AUS)
-
Dynamic network export and generation control schemes
-
Network load control schemes
-
Network tariffs and network support services
-
Participating in the National Electricity Market
-
Participating in a frequency control market
-
Participating in the RERT
-
Participating in the Wholesale Electricity Market (Western Australia)
-
Participating in the I-NTEM (NT)
-
Cyber security and data privacy arrangements
-
Consumer protection frameworks
-
Basic connection service
Last Updated on 24 July 2026
SUGGEST AN EDIT
LIKE THIS PAGE?
What is a basic connection service?
A basic connection service is the easiest pathway for establishing an electricity supply for residential and small business customers in the NEM. It applies to customers where the connection:
- is to the low-voltage distribution network,
- meets the Small Customer threshold under NER Chapter 5A, and
- does not require network augmentation or bespoke technical negotiations.
Why does this matter for CER?
While CER product developers do not generally get involved with basic connection applications, this connection type has implications for power transfer limits at the network connection point that CER must work within and can help to manage. For example, when helping consumers electrify their homes, CER can assist with load and generation balancing within network-specified power transfer limits. These limits are set out in the section Connecting a generator to a distribution network.
How are basic connection services regulated?
In NEM jurisdictions, a basic connection service is governed by Chapter 5A of the NER, and technical requirements specified by jurisdiction-specific SIRs or equivalent documents. In non-NEM jurisdictions such as Western Australia and the Northern Territory, comparable processes are defined under state legislation, technical codes, and DNSP manuals.
How does the basic connection process work?
The connection process is generally streamlined, low-complexity, and characterised by:
- Minimal network impact (no augmentation or bespoke studies required)
- Fast turnaround times (e.g. DNSPs must provide a basic connection offer within 10 business days under the NER)
- AER-approved fixed costs providing cost certainty
- Typically applied to residential and small business premises connecting to an LV network
What requirements are set by DNSPs?
While the overarching regulatory frameworks such as the NER and jurisdictional instruments provide the structure for connection obligations, the detailed requirements of basic connection services are typically at the discretion of the individual DNSP. Each DNSP may define the specific technical, procedural, and operational parameters in accordance with their policies and obligations under the AER’s connection frameworks and the performance standards applied to each DNSP.