The Australian Energy Market Commission today started consultation on a rule change request which aims to establish a regulatory framework for embedded electricity networks so that consumers within these networks are able to access to electricity retail market offers.
Embedded electricity networks are most common in large developments such as shopping centres, retirement villages, apartment blocks, office buildings and airports where all the tenants within the complex are connected to a single metered point. Typically tenants secure their electricity service through the owner of the network.
The rule change request proposes to require embedded network owners and operators to appoint an embedded network manager – a new type of accredited service provider under the National Electricity Rules – to be responsible for managing embedded network customers in the National Electricity Market.
The embedded network manager would be responsible for:
- compliance with processes for transfer of customers between retailers;
- setting up and maintaining data for the embedded network within the National Electricity Market systems; and
- ensuring that data on life support customers within the embedded network is maintained and communicated to market participants.
If made, the rule would allow consumers within embedded networks to access retail market offers, similar to other consumers.
The rule change request was submitted by the Australian Energy Market Operator and flows from the AEMC’s Power of Choice review which set out a market-wide reform program to increase consumer participation in the National Electricity Market.
The consultation paper released today summarises the rule change request and identifies a number of issues for consultation.
Submissions on the consultation paper and rule change request close on 2 July 2015.
For more information contact
Media: Prudence Anderson, Communications Manager, 02 8296 7800