How voltage drop cable sizing works for solar and battery systems Voltage drop cable sizing for solar PV and battery systems is one of the most consequential parts of system design yet it’s also one of the most frequently misunderstood. If a cable is inappropriately sized, best case scenario it is an overpriced commodity. However, […]
Category: Technical Articles
To maintain our position as the preferred knowledge network for the industry and commerce of renewable energy innovation & technology, GSES communicates factual, up-to-date and evidence based information for publication. These include information on the issues surrounding DC circuit breakers, earthing fundamentals, how to sell solar, and information on isolator enclosures.
What the CER’s Latest STC Update Means for Solar Battery Installers
The Clean Energy Regulator (CER) has released an update on Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC) applications under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), and it contains some important compliance reminders for solar battery installers and inspectors operating in Australia. What the Update Covers The CER’s latest solar battery inspection results point to recurring issues in two […]
Worked Example for Cable Sizing Correction Factors: AS/NZS 3008.1.1:2025
Our recent technical article on AS/NZS 3008.1.1:2025 Updates for Solar Cable Design outlined the key changes introduced in the updated standard which included dedicated DC cable tables, revised HF-110 values, and the terminology shift from “derating factor” to “correction factor.” For solar designers and installers, understanding how to apply cable sizing correction factors under the […]
AS/NZS 3008.1.1:2025 Updates for Solar Cable Design
We published a working example on cable sizing correction factors here. Technical Update for Solar Designers and Installers The selection and sizing of cables are fundamental to the safety and performance of any electrical installation. In the solar industry, where solar cable sizing across Australian installations must account for high currents and harsh environmental conditions, […]
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 […]
TS 5398 Overview: Australia’s New Battery Safety Framework
SA TS 5398:2025 overview establishes a new technical framework for battery equipment safety in Australia. As part of this shift, TS 5398 battery equipment safety Australia now plays a central role in shaping compliance pathways for battery OEMs. Why TS 5398 Matters Battery energy storage systems are rapidly becoming a more common feature of Australian […]
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 […]
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, […]