In Australia’s evolving energy landscape, connecting new generation assets to the National Electricity Market (NEM) involves more than just technical readiness — it requires strict compliance with AEMO’s (Australian Energy Market Operator) frameworks. For project developers, EPCs, and asset owners, understanding AEMO’s commissioning procedures and GPS submission requirements is critical for achieving a smooth and timely connection.
At Nettlefold Projects, we support generation clients across solar, wind, battery, and gas technologies to navigate this complexity — delivering compliant, efficient, and reliable generator integration from design through to energisation.
What is a GPS Submission?
A Generator Performance Standard (GPS) is a formal agreement between a generator and the Network Service Provider (NSP), outlining how the generator will perform under a range of operating conditions. This includes:
- Frequency and voltage tolerance
- Reactive power capability
- Fault ride-through requirements
- Protection systems and response times
- Control system behaviour during disturbances
GPS submissions are assessed by both the NSP and AEMO to ensure the asset will not compromise grid stability or security. Without an accepted GPS, a generator cannot legally export power to the grid.
At Nettlefold Projects, our engineers work with asset owners from early-stage design to ensure GPS parameters are achievable — and that all modelling, including PSS®E, PSCAD, and RUG (Registration User Guide) requirements, are correctly packaged for submission.
The Commissioning Process: From First Energisation to Full Output
Commissioning is the process of validating that a new generator performs in accordance with its agreed GPS and is ready for reliable operation in the NEM. AEMO’s commissioning framework is meticulous, structured in key stages:
1. Pre-Commissioning
- Submission of all relevant GPS and R2 (registration) documentation
- Confirmation of SCADA telemetry, protection settings, and compliance test plans
- Interface coordination between AEMO, the NSP (e.g. Transgrid), and the Generator
2. First Energisation
- Live voltage is introduced to the generator’s terminals
- Observations are made under controlled conditions
- No export to grid occurs during this stage
3. First Synchronous Generation
- Initial testing of synchronous generation or inverter start-up
- Monitoring of voltage support, ramp rates, and stability
4. First Export
- Controlled export to the grid, often at low capacity
- Testing reactive power response, voltage control, and frequency regulation
5. Full Commercial Operation
- Progressive ramp-up to full nameplate capacity
- Completion of model validation and testing reports
- AEMO sign-off and market registration completed
Each of these steps requires meticulous planning, documentation, and real-time coordination with AEMO and the NSP. Delays in testing, telemetry issues, or non-compliance with agreed GPS can result in months of lost generation revenue.
Why It Matters
Grid compliance isn’t just a regulatory hurdle — it’s a technical and commercial milestone. Poorly defined GPS submissions, gaps in testing data, or last-minute design changes can set projects back by weeks or even months.
At Nettlefold Projects, we ensure:
– Early alignment between design and AEMO/NSP expectations
– Accurate system modelling and simulation using industry-leading tools
– Real-time support during live commissioning stages
– Seamless communication with AEMO, NSPs, and OEMs
Our multidisciplinary experience across renewables, synchronous generation, and high-voltage infrastructure means we can anticipate problems before they arise and drive projects to successful commercial operation with confidence.
Engineering Confidence into Every Connection
Whether you’re developing a utility-scale solar farm, integrating a BESS, or bringing a gas turbine online, AEMO compliance and commissioning success is non-negotiable. At Nettlefold Projects, we bring clarity, discipline, and deep expertise to every stage of the process.
Let’s power the future — the right way, the first time.
Need support with your GPS submission or commissioning strategy?
Get in touch with our team to learn how we can help ensure your next generator connection is efficient, compliant, and built to perform.
