The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) is beginning a program of work to develop standardised models for electricity distribution determinations. The first of these models relate to standard control services (SCS) capital expenditure (capex).
The standardised SCS capex model will streamline the resources and consultation required between the AER and distributors to review and manage the SCS capex models, as well as increase consistency across electricity distribution regulatory proposals. The standardised model will provide distributors with greater transparency in our expectations about the modelling assumptions and functionality.
Today we have published an issues paper setting out key areas of consideration in developing a preliminary standardised SCS capex model.
The AER now invites feedback and written submissions to its issues paper.
The development and implementation of the standardised models follows our commitment in the AER Strategic Plan 2020–2025 to explore ways to develop and shape systems to help deliver efficient regulation.
Further to the standardised SCS capex model, we are developing standardised models for ancillary network services, public lighting and metering services. We will consult with stakeholders on these models through a separate process.
Invitation for submissions
We are now seeking submissions from interested stakeholders on the preliminary standardised SCS capex model by close of business on Monday 30 August 2021. Submissions should be emailed to standardSCScapexmodel
aer [dot] gov [dot] au (subject: Attention%3A%20Sebastian%20Roberts%2C%20General%20Manager%2C%20Expenditure%20-%C2%A0SCS%20capex%20model) (standardSCScapexmodel[at]aer[dot]gov[dot]au) with the subject line: Attention: Sebastian Roberts, General Manager, Expenditure - SCS capex model.
Alternatively, written submissions can also be sent to:
Mr Sebastian Roberts
General Manager, Expenditure
Australian Energy Regulator
GPO Box 3131, Canberra ACT 2601
We will take into account submissions in developing the model. The AER prefers that all submissions be sent in an electronic format in Microsoft Word or other text readable document form and publicly available, to facilitate an informed, transparent and robust consultation process. Accordingly, submissions will be treated as public documents and posted on the AER's website, unless prior arrangements are made with the AER to treat the submission, or portions of it, as confidential. Those wishing to submit confidential information are requested to:
- clearly identify the information that is the subject of the confidentiality claim; and
- provide a non-confidential version of the submission.