On 1 March 2023, the AER published its Ring-fencing guideline (electricity transmission) (Version 4) following a substantive review of the transmission ring-fencing arrangements. During the review, some stakeholders raised concerns about the ability of electricity transmission network service providers (TNSPs) to discriminate against competitors in providing contestable connection services due to their monopoly role in providing the non-contestable elements of a connection. The AER is exploring options to limit any ability of TNSPs to discriminate when providing transmission connection services
On 12 March 2023, the AER published a consultation paper seeking stakeholder feedback on whether changes to the National Electricity Rules are required to limit any ability of TNSPs to discriminate in favour of themselves or an affiliate when providing connection services. The AER published the submissions received.
On 18 July 2023, the AER submitted a rule change request to the AEMC requesting the inclusion of negotiated transmission services within the scope of the Transmission Ring-fencing framework.