The Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) has published a final determination and more preferable final rule on the ‘Changes to normal voltage’ rule change proposal, submitted by GDF Suez (formerly International Power).

The purpose of the final rule is to improve transparency around requests to change the normal voltage level at electricity transmission or distribution connection points. This would assist registered participants to make more informed and efficient investment and operational decisions.

Under the AEMC’s final rule, the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) would be required to publish a notice to notify registered participants that it has received a request to change the normal voltage level at a connection point. AEMO would then be required to publish a further notice to notify registered participants of the nature and reasons for any change in the normal voltage level.

The final rule will commence on 7 March 2013.