Grid guide
Emergency Solar Management (ESM)
In rare grid emergencies, the system operator can briefly limit how much solar your home sends to the grid. It keeps the network stable. It does not switch off your home.
ESM at a glance
- How often
- Rarely
- Only in grid emergencies. Not every week.
- What it limits
- Your exports
- Temporarily, and only when directed.
- Who agrees to it
- New or upgraded systems
- Often part of getting connected.
What ESM does (and doesn't do)
- It does limit exports temporarily when directedYour panels send less to the grid for the length of the event.
- It doesn't drain your battery for no reasonESM is about what goes out to the grid, not emptying your battery.
- It doesn't operate every weekIt is for rare grid conditions only.
- It works alongside a VPPYou can be in a VPP and have ESM. Both aim to keep the grid reliable.
Where ESM fits in WA's connection levels
Since 1 May 2026, new and upgraded systems connect at one of three levels. ESM is level 1.
| Level | Internet link | Export limit | Paid for exports (DEBS) | VPP / Battery Rewards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 0: FixedNo remote connection | Not needed | 1.5 kW | No | No |
| Level 1: ESMEmergency control only | Needed, 95% uptime | 5 kW per phase | Yes | No |
| Level 2: VPPFull remote management | Needed, 95% uptime | Changes with the grid | Yes | Yes |
Export limits are what the network lets you send. DEBS pays only if your solar inverters add up to 5 kW or less (a 6.6 kW array on a 5 kVA inverter counts as 5 kW). Your approved limit is on your connection offer.