The Commission has extended the deadline for submissions to its draft determination on integrating distributed energy resources like household solar and batteries into the power system.

Stakeholder submissions on this rule change are now due on 27 May 2021. 

We will also hold a virtual public forum on 20 May 2021 to outline the proposals in our draft determination, which is designed to connect more solar for homes and businesses and pave the way for batteries. We will explain how the reforms are designed to work and answer questions from interested stakeholders. Registrations close on 18 May 2021. 

There has been strong interest in these important and complex reforms. The extension will give stakeholders more time to thoroughly consider the proposed changes and provide timely feedback.  

Consultation process so far 

This package of reforms follows a nine-month process of working with stakeholders as part of ARENA’s Distributed Energy Integration Program. The program was led by a steering group of consumer representatives, industry association and energy market bodies. As a result of that work, the St Vincent de Paul Society, the Total Environment Centre, the Australian Council of Social Services and South Australian Power Networks requested the AEMC change the rules. 

The rule change process to date has also included extensive engagements with a range of stakeholders. As well as considering the issues raised in submissions to our consultation paper, the Commission formed a technical working group to consider key issues in advance of making our draft determination. We will continue consulting with stakeholders to inform the thinking for our final determination in July 2021.

Media: Kellie Bisset, Media and Content Manager M: 0438 49004

More information on these reforms can be found on the project page.