On 17 December 2024, the AER received an initial ring-fencing waiver application from CitiPower, Powercor, and United Energy (collectively referred to as CPU) for a waiver from clauses 3.1(b) and 4.2 of the Ring-fencing guideline (electricity distribution) to allow them to provide and maintain kerbside EV chargers (electric vehicle charging infrastructure – or EVCI) in their distribution areas. The full waiver application was received in March 2025.
On 22 October 2025, the AER granted a time-bound, limited scope ring-fencing waiver to CPU to conduct a kerbside electric vehicle charging trial at sites that meet specific criteria in Victoria until mid-2031, with strict conditions to safeguard market competition.
The waiver, from clauses 3.1(b) and 4.2 of the guideline, will allow CPU to install up to 100 EV chargers (which must include at least 5% vehicle-to-grid chargers) to test, analyse and publicly report on how EV charging can be used to manage local network constraints, improve voltage stability, and shift demand away from peak periods.
The AER has imposed 9 waiver conditions, including obligations for CPU to ensure an even playing field for third‑parties.
The waiver will expire on 30 June 2031, unless varied or revoked sooner.