Use of standby power systems in domestic situations

The demand for portable generating sets and requests for the installation of standby power systems increases during periods of power outage. This bulletin provides information about risks associated with the installation of standby power systems.

Standby power systems when installed correctly can be a useful asset especially during the wet season. However, if installed incorrectly, they can be deadly!

There are a number of requirements you the homeowner and your electrical contractor will need to meet if you intend to install a standby power system on your property:

  • All electrical work completed in the Northern Territory must be undertaken by a Licensed Electrical Contractor
  • All standby power systems which are intended to be connected to an installation supplied by Power and Water Corporation must comply with the Power and Water Corporation Installation Rules, specifically Clause 5.37
  • Your electrical contractor must issue a Notice of Intention to Work to Power and Water with a sketch of the proposed wiring arrangement. Approval of the proposed wiring arrangement must be obtained in writing from Power and Water prior to the connection of the new standby power system
  • Work on standby power systems must be carried out to comply with AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules Clause 7.3.8 and AS/NZS 3010:2017 Electrical Installations – Generating Sets. Australian Standards are available from Standards Australia http://infostore.saiglobal.com.
  • Upon completion of the electrical work your electrical contractor must complete and issue a Certificate of Compliance, this certifies that the electrical work has been inspected and tested and proven to comply with Northern Territory Legislation, Power and Water Rules, and Australian Standards.

Further information

PowerWater Corporation

Contact us

For further information please contact us on 1800 019 115, via email at ntworksafe@nt.gov.au or go to the NT WorkSafe website at www.worksafe.nt.gov.au

Document type:
Information bulletin
Topics:
Electrical safety
Last updated:
13 October 2022
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