Type
Communications
Sector
Electricity
Segment
Wholesale
Issue date
Contacts
Energy Innovation Toolkit

Today the AER released a consultation notice seeking stakeholders’ views on VIOTAS’ application seeking a trial waiver through the regulatory sandboxing framework.

VIOTAS seeks a temporary waiver from provisions of the National Electricity Rules to enable participation in the Wholesale Demand Response Mechanism (WDRM) of loads that have multiple, electrically interconnected connection points. Sites for the trial may be located in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria.

The consultation notice outlines the application, details of the proposed trial, and questions for stakeholders to consider. 

 

Background

The WDRM is a mechanism that enables electricity users to help balance the power grid by using less electricity when prices are high. The WDRM lets large energy users reduce their demand and get rewarded for it, while also lowering prices and keeping the grid stable during peak times, which benefits all electricity consumers.

The trial waiver function is part of the AER’s commitment to regulatory sandboxing, which aims to help energy innovators and start-ups navigate complex regulatory frameworks and enable the trial of new products and services.