On 28 February 2011, SP AusNet submitted its Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Revised Budget Application seeking to vary its Approved Budget for 2009-11. The Application proposes variations to the costs previously approved by the AER in October 2009 for costs associated with the AMI program, including, but not limited to, the supply and installation of advanced interval meters (smart meters). The application by SP AusNet sought to increase the approved budget for the current period by $13m.
On 29 April the AER provided its final determination on SP AusNet’s AMI Revised Budget Application for 2009-11 to SP AusNet. The AER’s final determination rejects several aspects of SP AusNet’s Application. Instead, the AER has determined the variations to SP AusNet's previously Approved Budget for 2009-11. This results in a reduction of the approved 2009-11 budget of around $4.6m.