The derogation sought to modify the frequency ranges applicable to AETV under clause S5.2.5.3(c) of the Rules to those frequency ranges that will apply in Tasmania once the new Tasmanian frequency operation standards, as modified by the Reliability Panel on 18 December 2008, commence.

On 27 May 2009, the Commission gave notice under sections 102 and 103 of the National Electricity Law (NEL) making the National Electricity Amendment (AETV Participant Derogations to Allow Operation of a New Power Station) Rule 2009 No. 12 and the corresponding Rule determination. This Rule was made under an expedited process in accordance with section 96 of the NEL.

The Rule change modifies the frequency ranges applicable to AETV under clause S5.2.5.3(c) of the Rules to those frequency ranges that will apply in Tasmania once the new Tasmanian frequency operation standards, as modified by the Reliability Panel on 18 December 2008, commence.

The Rule commences operation on 28 May 2009.

Background

On 3 April 2009 the Commission received a Rule change proposal for a participant derogation from Aurora Energy (Tamar Valley) Pty Ltd (AETV). Included with the proposal were a letters of advice from NEMMCO and Transend. Subsequent to receipt of the Rule change proposal, additional information was sought from AETV as to the expiry date of the proposed participant derogation.

The derogation seeks to modify the frequency ranges applicable to AETV under clause S5.2.5.3(c) of the Rules to those frequency ranges that will apply in Tasmania once the new Tasmanian frequency operation standards, as modified by the Reliability Panel on 18 December 2008, commence.

On 16 April 2009, the Commission published a notice under sections 95 and 96 of the NEL commencing consultation on this Rule change proposal and advising of its intention to expedite the Rule process on the ground that it is non-controversial, subject to the receipt of written objections. The Commission is of the view that the proposed Rule is unlikely to have a significant effect on the National Electricity Market as the proposed Rule will only operate for a short period of time, will only apply to AETV and will bring forward arrangements that will become effective across Tasmania by the end of 2009 in any case.

In relation to the Rule change proposal:

• Written objections to expediting the Rule change process under section 96 of the NEL closed on 30 April 2009; and
• Submissions closed on 15 May 2009.

No objections were received.