The rule change proposal is being initiated by the AEMC to correct minor errors and make non-material changes to the National Electricity Rules (NER), and the National Gas Rules (NGR) to improve their quality.  As with previous AEMC initiated rules, these minor corrections and non-material changes make the rules clearer to stakeholders.

In particular, the draft rules seek to:

• introduce new naming conventions in Chapter 11 of the NER to assist with readability. This is the first step in the process of making Chapter 11 more accessible;  
• amend clause 11.159.4 of the NER to clarify the applicable access standards for an application to connect;    
• delete clause 7.8.2(f)(4) of the NER, on the basis it has become redundant.  Clause 7.8.2(f)(4) currently contains requirements for new accumulation metering equipment for non-market generating units; 
• make a differential rule for clauses 5.3.1A(c) and 5.3A.1(c)(1) of the NER, as they apply in the Northern Territory.  This is to preserve the numbering of the modification to these clauses arising from the Northern Territory Modification Regulations;   
• correct minor formatting and typographical errors, including punctuation, numbering levels, indentation and italicisation; 
• ensure consistency of references to provisions throughout the NER and the NGR; 
• correct minor errors in definitions and cross-references; and
• remove duplication.

Submissions to the rule change proposal close on 10 August 2023. 

The Commission intends to undertake an expedited process for this rule change proposal as it is considered non-controversial. Under an expedited rule making process, a final rule determination must be made within eight weeks of the initiation of the process under the uniform energy rules. The AEMC will assess the draft rules under the expedited rule making process if it does not receive a written request and substantive reasons not to do so from any person by 27 July 2023.