What is and SSEG

[Tradie]

I think we should start here... what is an SSEG?

Only when we understand what is an SSEG can we start discussing registrations and codes. Lets hear what you think is an SSEG and if need to register it.

Chat gpt response :

An SSEG usually refers to a Small-Scale Embedded Generator.

It’s a term often used in the context of electricity supply, especially in countries like South Africa and the UK. Here’s what it means:

• Small-Scale → The system is relatively small compared to utility-scale power plants (typically rooftop solar PV, small wind turbines, or micro-hydro).
• Embedded → It’s connected within a distribution network (often at a customer’s premises), rather than at the large transmission level.
• Generator → It produces electricity, usually from renewable sources like solar PV.

So, an SSEG is a generation system (like rooftop solar) installed on a property, connected to the local grid, and primarily used to offset the customer’s own electricity consumption.

Some key points:

• Many municipalities/utilities require registration and approval for SSEGs.
• They can be grid-tied with export (feeding surplus electricity back into the grid), grid-tied without export (no feed-in, only self-consumption), or off-grid.
• Regulations often dictate safety, metering, and tariff structures.

Would you like me to explain how an SSEG interacts with the grid and metering (like feed-in tariffs and reverse power flow), or more on the technical setup (inverters, protections, etc.)?

[Tradie]

The next question will be, if I have an inverter and a battery but no solar panels, connected to the elctrical installations, is it an SSEG?

If I have a mobile inverter and battery plugged into the wall is it an SSEG?

At what point does it go form being a small mobile power supply to an SSEG?

At what point do you require the services of a registered elctrical contractor to connect and issue a COC, test report and alternate test report ?

So many questions, this is the place to ask them.

We need a lot more open discussions around these topics, considering I have been in this industry for a long time and I am still asking questions, dont be shy to post your question.

There too many "clever" people in the solar industry, but it is good to see people who know what they are doing are starting to get involved and share their knowledge, I have found a few lightning protection and bonding articles created by people who seem to know what they are talking about, which also covers why there should be a calculated gap between .the roof edge and the panel frames, metal roof top and panel frame bonding etc.