AEMO review of technical requirements for connection (NER clause 5.2.6A)

Outcomes

Final report

In December 2023, AEMO published a final report making recommendations to address 44 issues in NER Schedules 5.2, 5.3, and 5.3a. Final recommendations, if given effect through a rule amendment process, will realise a range of benefits including:

• aligning standards with best power system performance;
• improving power system resilience;
• streamlining the connections process; and
• accommodating new technology associated with large loads, grid-forming inverters, synchronous condensers, and HVDC links.

Rule change proposals

In April 2024, AEMO submitted two initial rule change proposals to the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) requesting amendments to the NER giving effect to the final Review recommendations. AEMO requested the AEMC consider the fast-track process for preliminary rule changes arising from the Schedule 5.2 and 5.3a recommendations. A standard rule change process was sought to address other recommendations. Stakeholders are encouraged to get involved with the AEMC rule change process. AEMO rule change proposals and associated documentation can be accessed at the AEMC website: ·

• Fast track request

• Standard process request

Further reviews

AEMO has identified three areas for further review:

1. Load technical requirements - The Review has indicated that the technologies for very large load projects in hydrogen production, which are most likely to impact power system security, are experiencing a period of rapid development. This requires a more detailed understanding of their potential capabilities in close collaboration with developers. AEMO intends to use the Schedule 5.3 recommendations as a starting point to develop more detailed technical requirements suitable for a Rule change proposal submission in 2025.

2. Connection of grid-forming (GFM) technology – AEMO has focussed initial recommendations for GFM connections on amending relevant technical requirements to ensure they do not inadvertently hinder the connection of GFM technology. AEMO acknowledges the importance of further work to develop core requirements to support the connection of GFM technology, which requires a prudent level of validation and testing. The further work will leverage the outcomes of lessons learnt and knowledge sharing material developed through the ARENA funded grid forming initiative to develop more detailed technical requirements suitable for a Rule change proposal submission in 2025.

3. AEMO’s role in smaller connections – AEMO is not presently recommending a size threshold on AEMO advisory matters, largely based on feedback opposing the change. However, AEMO considers there to be value in examining this question further, to consider more broadly AEMO’s role in efficiently supporting NPSs on power system security matters related to both individual and cumulative impacts of smaller plant on the operation of the power system. The timing for this review is still to be decided.

Documents