Independent Panel Report - AER Draft Rate of Return Instrument 2022 - July 2022

The Independent Panel to review our draft Rate of Return 2022 is:

• Pat Duignan (Chair)
• Carol Austin
• Professor Ian Cooper
• Geoff Frankish
• Tony Smith

This is a highly capable group with extensive experience and standing in their fields. The objective of the Independent Panel is to support the AER make the best possible instrument by reviewing the draft Instrument and the information available to us in drafting the Instrument.

We have asked the Panel to consider two  questions:

• In the panel’s view, is the draft instrument supported by evidence and reasons, taking into account competing factors such as accuracy, consistency, accessibility and transparency?
• In the panel’s view, is the draft Instrument likely to contribute to the achievement of the National Electricity Objective and National Gas Objective?

On 28 July 2022 the Independent Panel provided its report to the AER.