The new AS/NZS 4777.1:2024 standard introduces a key change: interface protection now replaces central protection. This update is crucial for commercial and industrial PV systems, especially for those under 200 kVA. By raising the threshold and focusing on interface protection, the standard offers several clear benefits:

Easier Compliance for Smaller Systems

Smaller systems were previously burdened with needing central protection for any system larger than 30 kVA. This put more complexity on them and higher costs. In the update of 2024, all systems less than 200 kVA will not have interface protection requirements. These changes are significantly reducing the complexity in compliance and lessening the regulatory burden for small-scale installations.

Reduced Installation Costs

This update reduces the installation cost since there is no need to provide interface protection for small systems. Where the interface protection was required, businesses had to bear additional equipment and installation costs. The cost of initial setup is cheaper, and the long-term maintenance costs are low. In fact, simpler installations can ensure faster installations, and businesses can begin the use of their PV systems much earlier than before.

Boosting PV Adoption

Besides, the reduced regulatory burden on small-scale systems encourages more enterprises to apply PV technology. To PV systems, lower cost and less complicated compliance are desirable features; therefore, their adoption would mean the achievement of sustainability and the increase in generation of renewable energy.