As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping our customers informed, we would like to make you aware of upcoming network testing that electricity distributors will be conducting under the Victorian Government’s Emergency Backstop program.
These tests are designed to help maintain grid stability as more Victorian households transition to clean, solar-powered energy.
📅 When the Testing Will Occur
Powercor
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Wednesday, 26 November 2025
CitiPower/Powercor
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Wednesday, 3 December 2025
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Wednesday, 10 December 2025
United Energy
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Wednesday, 10 December 2025
👉 At this time, no testing has been scheduled for AusNet or Jemena regions.
🔎 What Is the Emergency Backstop Program?
As of 1 October 2024, all new or upgraded solar systems in Victoria must include remote export control functionality. This allows distributors to reduce or stop solar exports temporarily when the grid is experiencing excess solar generation and low energy demand.
This program is designed to protect the stability of the network.
Key points:
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Your home will continue to use your own solar energy first.
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Export reduction is only used when directed by AEMO.
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Turning off solar generation completely is a last resort.
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Your solar inverter must have a stable internet connection for the Emergency Backstop to function properly.
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This testing will not affect your normal power supply.
⚡ What Will Happen During the Tests?
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Your distributor will temporarily reduce exports from eligible solar systems to zero.
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Each test will run for up to 90 minutes.
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Your system will automatically resume normal operation when the test ends.
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Only systems installed or upgraded after 1 October 2024, and configured for remote export reduction, will be affected.
💡 Your normal electricity supply will remain completely unaffected.
✔️ What You Need to Do
To ensure your system responds correctly during the test:
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Keep your solar inverter switched on
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Ensure your system has a stable internet connection
If your system does not return to normal operation after the testing period, please contact your distributor:
📞 1800 772 940
🔗 More Information
☀️ Summer Is Just Around the Corner — Is Your Solar System Ready?
As temperatures rise, your solar system works harder than ever.
A system health check and professional panel clean can be one of the best ways to maximise performance, efficiency, and long-term reliability heading into the summer season.
A system health check and professional panel clean can be one of the best ways to maximise performance, efficiency, and long-term reliability heading into the summer season.
If you’re interested in booking a service or would like advice on preparing your system for peak summer demand, give us a call:
📞 03 9117 6185
The team at Specialized Solar & Electrical is always here to help.
