Industry Partners: What the WA Government's announcement means for you

The WA State Government, alongside the Australian Federal Government, has announced new initiatives to support the uptake and installation of household rooftop solar and battery storage solutions, helping more Western Australians transition to a renewable energy future.

Meeting Synergy’s DER functionality requirements is a condition of the WA Residential Battery Scheme eligibility, which has implications for technology providers, equipment retailers and installers.

To meet these eligibility requirements:

  • Technology providers and inverter manufacturers must ensure their solutions meet Synergy’s DER Functionality Requirements and Utility Interconnection Handbook. Solutions must also be tested and approved for inclusion on our Supported Solutions List under the ‘DER-storage’ category.
  • Equipment retailers must register with Synergy and ensure customers are provided with eligible equipment.
  • Installers will need to follow updated installation and commissioning requirements, complete system capability testing, and register with Synergy.

To support your readiness, we've created a dedicated industry support page with tailored resources, technical information and frequently asked questions covering:

  • The adoption of Common Smart Inverter Profile (CSIP-Aus) standards
  • The process of applying for inclusion on Synergy’s Supported Solutions List, including the staged approach to meeting the technical requirements
  • How equipment retailers can register with Synergy
  • Access to installer training
  • Technical documentation
  • Frequently asked questions and relevant resources

For more information about the WA Residential Battery Scheme, visit the WA State Government website.

Supported Solutions List (SSL)

Synergy’s Supported Solutions List details approved equipment that meets remote management requirements as specified in the DER Functionality Requirements and Utility Interconnection Handbook. This Supported Solutions List is regularly updated.

All listings under the 'DER storage' category on the SSL meet the DER Functionality Requirements and Utility Interconnection Handbook technical requirements for the WA Residential Battery Scheme.

A green shaded listing indicates the solution is ready to be activated under a VPP program. Every listing is progressing toward being activation ready as part of the commitments made by listed Technology Providers, to enable customers to access VPP program benefits as part of the scheme eligibility.

Important note
The SSL provides information on the capabilities of individual assets. In scenarios where multiple assets are installed (including retrofit of AC-coupled battery inverters to a site with existing PV inverter/s), the DER Functionality Requirements stipulate that the solution must achieve whole-of-site compliance. 

The equipment retailer and installer are responsible for ensuring all assets onsite:
• are included on the Supported Solutions List, or able to be managed via a device on the Supported Solutions List 
• are installed in a configuration that meets whole-of-site compliance requirements. 

General FAQs

Why is CSIP-Aus being implemented in WA?

Synergy is focussed on aligning its implementation with other jurisdictions in Australia. We’re actively supporting the national consolidation of remote DER management approaches to streamline processes and minimise impacts for our technology providers.

The remote management capability, enabled through CSIP-Aus, provides a robust solution for managing the rapid growth of DER. It ensures system stability while unlocking new value for customers through innovative and future-ready DER products.
What are the benefits of CSIP-Aus?
CSIP-Aus enables broad coverage of required capabilities for remote monitoring and control of DER through a standardised pathway. It further supports national alignment and simplifies connection to multiple jurisdictions for technology providers. It also offers a consistent pathway for future third party integrators to align with Synergy market services within the SWIS.
What is ‘whole-of-site compliance’ and how can it be achieved for homes with existing solar which are adding a battery, including for AC coupled installations?

Whole-of-site compliance applies when new DER are added to a site with existing DER. In such cases, all systems, both new and existing, must meet the DER Functionality Requirements, and be listed on Synergy’s Supported Solutions List (SSL) that is being updated on a regular basis.  

During system design and pre-sales activities, DER equipment retailers and installers are responsible for ensuring that both new and existing systems achieve whole-of-site compliance. This involves checking the compliance of existing equipment, selecting new systems from the supported solutions list and confirming whole-of-site compliance of the communications system.  

For AC systems, this means the new AC-coupled battery must be interoperable with the existing PV system.  

Whole-of-site compliance can be achieved through the two pathways, as illustrated below.  

Example 1

 

Example 2

 
What is Common Smart Inverter Profile – Australia (CSIP-Aus)?
CSIP-Aus is a national standardised communication protocol that simplifies interoperability between DER assets and our remote management server. It was created through the collaborative efforts of Australian energy sector businesses from across the supply chain, including retailers, distribution networks, equipment manufacturers and aggregators.
What does the WA Government’s announcement mean for industry?
The announcement outlines key settings for the WA Residential Battery Scheme and defines the eligibility and technical requirements that technology providers, equipment retailers and installers must meet in order to participate.

Technology providers and inverter manufacturers FAQs

What is required to be provisionally listed on Synergy's Supported Solutions List?

Provisional listing on Synergy's Supported Solutions List (SSL) requires: 

  1. Submission of an application form
  2. An existing CSIP-AUS client solution (v1.1). 
  3. A simple cyber security attestation aligned with SAPN’s requirements. 
  4. Complete minimal integration testing in Synergy’s testing and certification environment. 
  5. A commitment to implement the storage extensions before the end of 2025, confirmed in an agreement with Synergy.
Where is Synergy's Supported Solutions List (SSL) published?

Synergy's Supported Solutions List (SSL) is available here.   
How frequently will the Supported Solutions List (SSL) be updated?

Synergy’s Supported Solutions List (SSL) will be updated as changes occur. Updates will only be made when new solutions are added or when the status of existing solution is modified.
Are AC-coupled batteries able to be listed on Synergy's supported solutions list?

AC-coupled batteries can be listed on Synergy's Supported Solutions List (SSL). If a specific solution is currently not listed, apply for inclusion here.
If full Virtual Power Plant (VPP) integration or storage extension development cannot be completed by 1 July, will there be a grace period during which systems can still be sold while OEMs continue working towards full VPP integration?

By applying for provisional listing on Synergy's Supported Solutions List (SSL), technology providers agree and commit to taking action to ensure their solutions meet the minimum control capability required by 1 July 2025. Following this date, technology providers will be required to achieve full VPP integration requirements by Synergy by an agreed date.
Our solution is not on the existing CEC software with communications client list. How can our solution be listed on Synergy's supported solutions list?

You can apply for inclusion on Synergy's Supported Solutions List (SSL) here.
What is the integration pathway for new solutions?

Technology providers seeking to have their systems added to Synergy's supported solutions list must apply on Synergy's website regardless of existing listing on external solutions lists. Visit our industry resources page for technology providers for more information.
Will Synergy provide technical support for integration?

Yes, Synergy will provide technical support it considers reasonable as part of the onboarding process. Visit our industry resources page for technology providers for more information.
How will Synergy support technology providers during this transition?
Synergy recognises that some capabilities, including the storage extensions to CSIP-Aus, are new to many technology providers. To support a smooth transition, we have introduced a staged approach that allows providers to obtain a provisional listing while capabilities are being delivered and tested.

Achieving a provisional listing requires minimal integration testing and submission of a formalised delivery plan outlining how remaining requirements will be met. This approach enables technology providers to participate in the scheme promptly while progressing toward full compliance at a manageable pace.
As a technology provider, how do I get my products listed for inclusion in the scheme?

The process for inclusion on Synergy’s Supported Solutions List is outlined in detail on our website.

Technology providers must apply through our website to have their products listed on the Supported Solutions List. Following submission of your application, we will contact you to discuss the next steps and provide access to the testing environment for our CSIP-Aus utility server.
What are the eligibility requirements for technology providers to participate in the WA residential battery scheme?
Technology providers and inverter manufacturers must provide solutions that conform to Synergy’s DER Functionality Requirements and Utility Interconnection Handbook. Solutions must be tested and approved for inclusion on Synergy’s Supported Solutions List under the ‘DER-storage’ listing category.

Equipment retailers and installers FAQs

As a retailer, how can I participate in Synergy’s Virtual Power Plant (VPP) products?
Synergy will be providing specific product information on its new VPP products to equipment retailers and installers in coming weeks. For updates and further details, please visit our VPP product information page.
Do customers who install batteries without receiving the WA Residential Battery Scheme rebate still need to comply with VPP requirements?
Yes. Customers who install batteries without accessing the WA Residential Battery Scheme rebate are not obligated to join a VPP, however must still comply with the DER Functionality Requirements. Visit our industry resources page for technology providers for more information on Synergy’s functionality requirements.
How are sites with existing solar able to be compliant with the DER Functionality requirements when adding an AC coupled battery and inverter?
The DER Functionality Requirements require whole of site compliance. To achieve this, possible options include upgrading existing components, using a compatible approved gateway device or ensuring that new equipment has communication compatibility with existing equipment. Visit our industry resources page for technology providers for more details.
Is VPP participation mandatory to access the WA Residential Battery Rebate?
Yes. Households will be required to participate in a VPP to be eligible for the WA Residential Battery Scheme. Visit the Energy Policy WA website for further information on VPP requirements for the rebate and loans.
What benefits do customers receive from participating in a VPP program?
Synergy’s VPP program, Battery Rewards, incentivises eligible customers to make the most of their household battery. Learn more information here.
How will Synergy’s DER Functionality Requirements apply to new and upgraded installations?
Synergy’s DER Functionality Requirements will be implemented progressively and will eventually apply to all new and upgraded inverter-connected DER systems with an aggregate capacity of 30kVA or less. For sites where new assets (such as PV or storage) are added to existing installations, the entire system, including existing assets, must be made compliant through a single control solution.
Is training available to help installers meet Synergy’s DER Functionality Requirements?
To support compliance with Synergy’s DER Functionality Requirements, an installer training module will be available from early June. This training will guide installers through the updated installation, commissioning and capability testing processes, including the use of Synergy’s Installer Test Tool.

Completion of this training will be required for all installers working on systems participating in the WA Residential Battery Scheme.
What are the key requirements for installers under Synergy’s DER Functionality Requirements?
Installers must follow Synergy’s installation and commissioning instructions, register installations and complete capability testing for all new and upgraded systems subject to the DER Functionality Requirements. This includes using Synergy’s Installer Test Tool to verify compliance.
What are the eligibility requirements for equipment retailers to participate in the scheme?
EPWA and the scheme administrator will confirm full requirements related to equipment retailers and installers. Visit EPWA for more information.

As part of this broader set of requirements, to participate in the scheme, equipment retailers must register with Synergy and ensure they supply customers with eligible equipment listed on Synergy’s Supported Solutions List under the ‘DER-storage’ listing category.

Retailers are also responsible for ensuring their installers, whether direct employees or subcontractors, have completed Synergy’s installer training module and comply with the required installation, commissioning, and capability testing standards.
We are not able to meet compliance, what are our options?
If you have explored all options outlined above, please contact Synergy using our DER general industry enquiry form for further guidance on available solutions.
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Synergy acknowledges the Traditional Custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, water and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders past, present and emerging.