We’re excited to share that GSES recently travelled to Manila, Philippines, to deliver a two-day advanced solar masterclass for New Energy Academy (NEA), one of the Philippines’ leading solar training providers. The event, part of NEA’s Training Partner Development Programme (TPDP), brought together solar training partners from across the country for an intensive programme of […]
Category: Blog
Battery Arc Flash Hazard Signage – Is it Required?
In short, if you are able to apply for STC’s with your battery installation and that battery has in-built overcurrent protection, then battery arc flash hazard signage is not required (at the time of writing this article). If you want to know why, feel free to continue reading. According to Table of 3.1 in AS/NZS5139:2019, […]
TS 5398: Key Updates For Modular Battery Compliance in Australia
For a full overview of the standard update, read our dedicated article here. The SA TS 5398:2025 key updates for modular battery compliance build on concepts introduced under the Battery Best Practice Guide (BPG), but it introduces more structured requirements that directly affect how battery equipment compliance is assessed, particularly for modular and stackable battery […]
Consumer Energy Resources and Harmonic Distortion on the Grid
As the power grid evolves to accommodate more electronic, decentralised, and energy-efficient technologies, it gains flexibility and resilience—but also faces new technical challenges. A key concern emerging from this shift is harmonic distortion, particularly as it relates to the widespread use of Consumer Energy Resources (CERs). In this article, we explore what harmonics are, how […]
Solar PV System & Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Thermal Imaging
Thermal imaging, also known as infrared imaging, is a powerful diagnostic tool in the inspection of Solar PV systems and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). It captures and visualises temperature variations on a surface, allowing inspectors to identify hot spots, hot joints and irregular heat signatures that could signify electrical faults, failing components, or degraded […]
Repowering Solar PV: When and How to Replace Aging Systems
As Australia’s solar fleet matures, many older systems installed 15–20 years ago are showing signs of decline — panel degradation, inverter failure, and reduced energy yield. In response, asset owners are increasingly turning to repowering solar PV systems: the process of replacing or upgrading aging solar infrastructure to improve performance, ensure compliance with updated standards, […]
Preparing Your Solar and Battery System for Extreme Weather Events
With Cyclone Alfred making its way toward Queensland, many homeowners with solar battery systems are concerned about the impact of the storm on their installations. While cyclones and severe storms can pose challenges, it is important to note that modern solar battery systems are designed with protective measures to withstand harsh weather conditions. Taking the […]
Earth Faults in PV Systems: Identification, Safety, and Repair Strategies
Earth faults can be a frequent issue for any size solar PV installation and may occur intermittently or persistently. Earth faults can impact system health and reduce productivity but can also cause serious damage to property and put human lives at risk. Every solar technician needs to know what they are, how to find them, […]
Updates to Signage Requirements from AS/NZS 4777.1:2024
The signage requirements of AS/NZS 4777.1:2024 build on those of the 2016 standard, introducing new elements such as EV labels and IPSD labels that were not previously included. While key requirements for shutdown procedures, multiple supply warnings, and accurate labelling of circuit breakers (CBs) and isolators remain largely unchanged, the 2024 update introduces important new […]
RCD Requirements for Backup Power from Solar PV Inverters
Some solar PV inverters offer a backup circuit that can be used even without the presence of batteries. This backup circuit offers the ability to power a small load, when the PV system is generating energy and when the grid is unavailable. Examples of these inverters include the following: 1. Fronius GEN24 Plus (with “PV […]