The AER is seeking written submissions on both Ergon Energy's and Energex’s ring-fencing waiver applications, which seek to waive clause 3.1 of the Ring-fencing Guideline (electricity distribution) ('the guideline') to install six battery energy storage systems.
On 2 May 2025, Ergon Energy submitted a waiver application under clause 5.2 of the guideline to allow Ergon Energy to install six battery energy storage systems.
On 8 May 2025, Energex similarly submitted a waiver application under clause 5.2 of the guideline to allow Energex to install six battery energy storage systems.
If granted, the waivers would allow Ergon Energy and Energex to deploy the battery energy storage units at strategic locations on their networks where they have identified that there is high probability of network constraints due to increased uptake of distributed energy resources. Details on the proposed locations for these batteries is available on the Talking Energy website. These waivers would also allow Ergon Energy and Energex to lease part of the battery capacity to a third-party for participation in the wholesale energy market. These batteries are funded under the Stage 3 of Energy Queensland’s Local Network Battery Plan.
The waivers are both proposed to be valid until 30 June 2040.
Stakeholders are invited to provide submissions by Friday, 22 August 2025.
