The AER is currently considering a trial waiver application from VIOTAS.
VIOTAS, a global company providing demand response services to commercial and industrial (C&I) energy consumers, lodged an application for a trial waiver to enable participation in the Wholesale Demand Response Mechanism (WDRM) of loads that have multiple, electrically interconnected connection points. Currently, only large C&I sites with one connection point to the grid are eligible to participate in wholesale demand response.
Specifically, VIOTAS seeks a trial waiver of up to 5 years from clause 2.3.6(m)(1)(i) of the National Electricity Rules (NER), which prohibits participation in the WDRM of loads which have multiple, electrically interconnected connection points.
Through the proposed trial, VIOTAS seeks to enable greater WDRM participation with loads from up to 20 trial sites (all large C&I customers) which have multiple connection points to the grid. The specific number and type of sites, which are yet to be determined, may be located in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria.
Visit the Energy Innovation Toolkit website for more information about the trial waiver application