Review of options to address gaps in transmission ring-fencing framework

On 1 March 2023, the AER published its Ring-fencing guideline (electricity transmission) (Version 4) following a substantive review of the transmission ring-fencing arrangements. During the review, some stakeholders raised concerns about the ability of electricity transmission network service providers (TNSPs) to discriminate against competitors in providing contestable connection services due to their monopoly role in providing the non-contestable elements of a connection. The AER is exploring options to limit any ability of TNSPs to discriminate when providing transmission connection services

Consultation

On 12 March 2023, the AER published a consultation paper seeking stakeholder feedback on whether changes to the National Electricity Rules are required to limit any ability of TNSPs to discriminate in favour of themselves or an affiliate when providing connection services. Submissions close on 9 June 2023 and should be emailed to AERringfencing@aer.gov.au.

The AER is also conducting a survey of market participants who have connected, or are in the process of connecting, to the transmission network. The purpose of the survey is to identify any actual or potential discrimination by TNSPs during the connections process. The survey closes on 9 June 2023.