Essential Energy submitted a ring-fencing waiver application under clause 5.2 of the Electricity Distribution Ring-fencing Guideline. The waiver application was made to allow Essential Energy to continue using its premises and staff to provide limited mandatory training to private electrical contractors, as required by the NSW contestable works scheme.
In assessing this application, the AER considered that the relevant training services provided by Essential Energy contribute to meeting the NEO. The AER also considered the expected costs and benefits of the waiver being granted.
On 13 February 2024, the AER granted the waiver to Essential Energy, limited to locations specified in the decision. The waiver will expire at the end of the next regulatory period for Essential Energy, 30 June 2029.