AER - Explanatory Statement – draft NSW Electricity Infrastructure Fund Contribution Determination Guideline – 22 July 2026

We are proposing targeted amendments to our NSW Electricity Infrastructure Fund Contribution Determination Guideline and associated Contribution Determination Model. The draft amendments are intended to improve the operation, transparency and predictability of the contribution determination framework as the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap evolves.

The proposed changes are intended to provide greater clarity on:

• the methodology for calculating the minimum prudent cash balance for the Electricity Infrastructure Fund;
• the methodology for calculating the percentage of the contribution determination that relates to generation long-term energy service agreements under clause 36 of the Electricity Infrastructure Investment Regulation 2021 (NSW);
• additional process steps for Consumer Trustee engagement on the Scheme Financial Vehicle's minimum prudent cash balance proposal;
• the roles and responsibilities of scheme entities, including the information they are required to provide to support annual contribution determinations;
• how non-disclosure claims relating to contribution determinations will be handled; and
• minor administrative updates to improve clarity and reflect legislative amendments.

The Guideline is currently in draft form, and we are seeking stakeholder feedback on the proposed amendments.