Public Consultation
On 2 September 2024, the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) released a public consultation report (Report) on the technical requirements for the connection of 200 kW to 5 MW distributed energy resources (DER) to the National Energy Market (NEM). The Report seeks industry feedback on AEMO’s proposed changes to existing technical performance requirements and regulatory scope for DERs connected to the NEM.
Current approach to DER connections
The creation and management of DER connection requirements have historically been left by AEMO to the remit of individual distribution network service providers (DNSP). This was because the effect of DERs on the NEM was generally understood to be limited to local distribution networks, and not reasonably able to influence transmission networks or neighbouring distribution networks. This approach has resulted in a de-centralised approach to DNSP DER connection requirements, with AEMO exercising little control, resulting in a lack of uniformity across the NEM.
AEMO Report recommendations
As the number of DER assets connected to distribution networks has grown, AEMO aims to ensure that the cumulative impact of multiple DERs do not negatively affect the NEM. The Report details that AEMO considers the following technical requirements as important for DERs to support the operation of the NEM:
- Frequency ride-through;
- RoCoF ride-through;
- Voltage excursion ride-through;
- Active power curtailment by remote signal;
- Phase angle shift ride-through;
- Ramp rate limit;
- Frequency response (with deadband);
- Remote monitoring; and
- Protection settings to maximise capability beyond ride-through requirements (subject to DNSP requirements).
Invited consultation
AEMO has invited consultation on its recommendations within the Report. Specifically, AEMO has invited consultation on the following areas to support AEMO in understanding the:
- Scope of technical requirements: whether the scope of technical requirements is clearly defined, supported by appropriate reasoning, and whether it should be expanded to consider additional requirements.
- Proposed performance requirements: whether the proposed performance requirements are clearly outlined, and what stakeholder perspectives are on the proposed settings and frameworks to give effect to the performance requirements; and
- Implementation approach: the most appropriate implementation pathway for any recommended performance requirements.
Stakeholders wanting to participate in the consultation should contact futureenergy@aemo.com.au and provide responses to the Report by 30 October 2024.
If you would like further information or assistance with the consultation process, please contact the Hamilton Locke New Energy Team at new.energy@hamiltonlocke.com.au.
The Hamilton Locke team advises across the energy project life cycle – from project development, grid connection, financing, and construction, including the buying and selling of development and operating projects. For more information, please contact Matt Baumgurtel.
