Are stand-alone power systems regulated in Australia?

Yes, and the framework is now reasonably settled after several years of reform. The key elements:

• The AEMC’s distributor-led SAPS rules establish how a DNSP may replace a network connection with a stand-alone system while the customer retains the protections of a network customer.
• The AER publishes guidance on the interaction between its ring-fencing guideline and distributor-led SAPS, and maintains the instruments applying to regulated SAPS.
• AEMO maintains market frameworks including the Market Stand Alone Power System Resource Provider (MSRP) registration category for larger systems.

On the technical side, the design references most commonly applied are:

• AS/NZS 4509.1 and 4509.2 for stand-alone power system safety, installation and design
• AS/NZS 5033 for the PV array
• AS/NZS 3000 as the base wiring standard
• AS/NZS 5139 for battery system safety, where the installation falls within its scope That last qualification is important and widely misunderstood, see the next question.