On 4 March 2025, Ergon Energy applied to the AER to renew a similar, existing waiver, the AER granted on 18 December 2017 and is due to expire on 30 June 2025. Ergon Energy is seeking a waiver from clauses 3.1(b) and 4.2 of the Ring-fencing Guideline (Electricity distribution) (the guideline).
This waiver would allow Ergon Energy to continue providing distribution and generation services in non-NEM connected isolated communities, in remote areas of Queensland. These services are provided by 33 isolated power stations, currently predominantly diesel-fired, which support 39 communities. Ergon Energy also has 35 stand-alone networks that provide distribution services for isolated communities. Ergon Energy has provided a complete list of isolated networks in its application.
We are seeking stakeholder views on Ergon Energy's waiver application, particularly the opportunities and risks of Ergon Energy continuing to provide these services. We invite stakeholders to provide submissions by close of business on 12 May 2025.