The AEMC has extended the date for publishing a draft determination on the Generator technical performance standards rule change request. The draft determination will now be published on 5 June 2018, with a final determination to be published by 2 October 2018.
This rule change request from AEMO proposes to tighten the technical performance standards for generators seeking to connect to the electricity grid, and the process for negotiating those standards.
As set out in our consultation paper published in September 2017, the request raises a large number of issues that are complex and interrelated. Many of the proposed changes to access standards for generators connecting to the power system have implications for investment decisions and operating costs for new generators, as well as long term implications for the security of the power system. Through the consultation process, stakeholders have identified a range of additional issues that require detailed consideration.
Power system security will not be affected by this extension. Under existing arrangements, AEMO can refuse to approve the connection of generators at levels of performance below the automatic access standards if this would adversely affect power system security or the quality of supply for other network users.
In addition, AEMO has a range of operational tools available to it to manage the power system in a secure state, such as the ability to apply constraints to the power system and issue directions to market participants, including generators.
Media: Prudence Anderson, 0404 821 935 or (02) 8296 7817
Background
Generators must have certain technical capabilities to help AEMO maintain the power system in a secure and safe operating state, even when there are disruptions. The minimum technical capabilities that generators must meet before they can connect, such as voltage and power control and disturbance ride through, are set out in the National Electricity Rules.
This rule change relates to a recommendation made in the Finkel review for the AEMC to review and update connection standards in the National Electricity Rules. It forms part of the AEMC’s broader package of system security work which includes a range of measures to help AEMO and networks manage a transforming power system with reduced inertia and system strength.