The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has today released its final decision to approve Ergon Energy’s ring-fencing waiver application to allow it to own and operate photovoltaic (PV) installations on its office buildings and depots.
On 16 March 2011, Ergon Energy applied to the AER for a waiver under the Queensland Ring-Fencing Guidelines. These guidelines prevent Ergon Energy from producing electricity. Given that PV installations produce electricity, Ergon Energy was required to seek a waiver to the guidelines to be able to own and operate such installations.
On 21 April 2011, the AER published its draft decision to approve the waiver application. One submission to the draft decision from Ergon Energy was received by the AER.
The AER’s final decision is to allow a waiver to the guidelines in respect of Ergon Energy’s PV installations. This waiver is limited to a total generation capacity of 300 kilowatts for all PV devices installed (or to be installed) on Ergon Energy’s office buildings and depots.