WA’s Building and Energy division has released an important update for electricians installing residential Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). A new compliance video, accompanying fact sheet, and eNotice requirements reinforce expectations for commissioning multi-mode inverter systems in back-up configurations.
For McKercher Corporation electricians working across PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse projects, this is essential reading. Compliant BESS installations protect your customers, your licence, and our team’s reputation.
Why this matters
Battery storage adoption is accelerating across Western Australia. With more households adding BESS to existing or new solar PV installations, the importance of safe, standards-compliant installations has never been greater. A correctly installed and tested BESS ensures the system operates safely and protects homeowners from potential hazards, including electrical faults, fire risks, and equipment damage.
Building and Energy’s latest guidance specifically targets the testing of multi-mode (hybrid) inverters operating in partial or full back-up mode — a configuration that is becoming standard in residential battery installations throughout the Perth and Bunbury regions.
Both resources are designed to walk electricians through the steps required to achieve a compliant BESS installation, with particular focus on the testing procedures mandated under AS/NZS 4777.1.
Key testing requirements under AS/NZS 4777.1
When a multi-mode inverter is configured for partial or full backup mode, Section 8.3.3 of AS/NZS 4777.1 specifies the testing that must be completed and documented. This includes proving the continuity of neutral conductors, a critical safety check that ensures the system’s earthing and protection arrangements function correctly when the inverter transitions between grid-connected and stand-alone operation.
These tests are not optional. They form part of the compliance verification process and must be documented in your test reports.
eNotice obligations
Building and Energy’s eNotice system now requires all Notices of Completion (NoC) to confirm that multi-mode inverters operating in back-up mode have been tested in accordance with AS/NZS 4777.1 Section 8.3.3. Specifically, when lodging a NoC, electricians must:
- Confirm that continuity of neutral conductors has been proven
- Upload the relevant test reports and supporting documentation using the existing fields in the NoC
This applies to all residential BESS installations where the inverter operates in partial or full back-up mode. Ensuring your NoC is complete and accurate avoids delays, re-inspections, and potential compliance issues.
What this means for our team
At McKercher Corporation, compliance is embedded in how we operate. For electricians working on PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse projects, this update reinforces existing best practices:
- Watch the new Building and Energy video before your next BESS installation.
- Review the fact sheet on hybrid inverter testing requirements
- Verify that all NoC submissions include the required confirmations and uploaded test reports
Staying ahead of compliance requirements protects homeowners, supports industry standards, and maintains the trust that our customers place in McKercher Corporation businesses.
Further resources
For previously published information and additional guidance from Building and Energy on battery storage installations, visit: Testing Requirements for Grid-Connected Multiple Mode (Hybrid) Inverters
Source: WA Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety — Building and Energy Division
Published by McKercher Corporation for PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse electricians.
