On 22 October 2015, the AEMC made a final rule to support continuing market operations in the Declared Wholesale Gas Market (DWGM) through the production and publication of feasible operating schedules by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).

The final rule is consistent with AEMO’s proposed rule, such that it provides AEMO with greater flexibility in terms of the modelling approach that it is required to utilise to produce operating schedules, as well as clarifying the process that AEMO must follow to produce feasible operating schedules for all circumstances. The final rule also includes a consequential amendment for the purpose of standardising the language in the rule provisions for producing operating schedules and pricing schedules.

The rule is likely to contribute to the achievement of the National Gas Objective by promoting regulatory certainty and transparency by clarifying the process AEMO must follow in order to produce and publish DWGM operating schedules. In doing so, the rule is expected to benefit consumers in the long term by promoting the efficient operation of natural gas services.

The final rule will commence on 5 November 2015.